Let us help you find a Ranch to Match Your Dreams
Enjoy a taste of the authentic American West where horses, hats, history and hospitality abound. With over 100 carefully chosen member ranches, the Dude Ranchers' Association (DRA) has one to match your dream vacation – perfectly, all while protecting lands, parks, forests and wildlife.
Our Dude, Resort and Working Ranches are in the most picturesque regions of the USA and Canada near historic sites and national parks for a photographer’s heyday! Each has its own unique history, incredible horseback riding tailored to the rider’s age and ability, and exciting outdoor adventures like white water rafting, paradise fishing on scenic rivers, fun hay rides, hikes, golfing. Blue skies, starry nights and the sounds of silence are also included in your dude ranch vacation. Lounge in a hammock until the dinner bell rings and then breathe pure clean air as you rediscover the brightest shining stars peaking out from Heaven.
Want to gaze into a crackling fire instead of a computer screen? Then, it’s time you discovered the majestic beauty of the land and got reacquainted with your family and friends. Join us anytime of year for genuine western hospitality. Prices, programs and activities vary. We guarantee the lodging industry’s highest standards whether staying in a rustic cabin or top end ranch resort. Once you’ve had a taste of a dude ranch, you may never want to go anywhere else on vacation again.
Contact our members today to reserve your perfect dude ranch getaway, or go to http://www.duderanch.org/ for our vacation guide. What a vacation it can be!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
There is still time to book your summer dude ranch vacation!
The selection of savings on a family dude ranch vacation this summer are as varied as the ranches themselves. With the array of added value programs and specials at these ranches ranging from Alberta, Canada to Wyoming - there is no better time to pack up the family and head west for that vacation you have been dreaming of:
Why Vacation at a DRA Dude Ranch?
All inclusive packages: meals, lodging, housekeeping, activities at the ranch, horse and tack for the duration of your stay are included in the package.
FAMILY REUNIONS, COUPLES, FAMILIES & SINGLES ALL WELCOME: It make perfect sense! It frees everyone up to have a good time. The cooks, housekeepers and support staff necessary to provide a restful and meaningful event are all provided.
There is something for everyone:
You can choose between a variety of activities: riding, taking a leisurely walk, getting a relaxing massage, sitting on the porch reading a book all the while feeling the stress and tension of everyday life slip away. You do not have to worry about your spouse and the kids or the other guests because they are off having a great time riding, roping, white water rafting, fishing, team penning, swimming, playing tennis, trap shooting , going on hay rides and much much more. By evening everyone is in for a treat. While dinning on down home cooking or feasting on gourmet fare you know there are no dishes to be done. Close the evening out with western dancing, camp fire sing along, a game of billiards or relaxing in the Hot Tub.
Each year families, couples and those traveling alone, are experiencing the wonderful hidden value of the simpler, caring way of life found on a dude ranch. They are learning that dude ranches are extra friendly places for kids and families to re-discover each other, and the single traveler. The new adventures and exciting experiences that fill dude ranch days and enable us all to weather the more difficult times in life.
Why Vacation at a DRA Dude Ranch?
All inclusive packages: meals, lodging, housekeeping, activities at the ranch, horse and tack for the duration of your stay are included in the package.
FAMILY REUNIONS, COUPLES, FAMILIES & SINGLES ALL WELCOME: It make perfect sense! It frees everyone up to have a good time. The cooks, housekeepers and support staff necessary to provide a restful and meaningful event are all provided.
There is something for everyone:
You can choose between a variety of activities: riding, taking a leisurely walk, getting a relaxing massage, sitting on the porch reading a book all the while feeling the stress and tension of everyday life slip away. You do not have to worry about your spouse and the kids or the other guests because they are off having a great time riding, roping, white water rafting, fishing, team penning, swimming, playing tennis, trap shooting , going on hay rides and much much more. By evening everyone is in for a treat. While dinning on down home cooking or feasting on gourmet fare you know there are no dishes to be done. Close the evening out with western dancing, camp fire sing along, a game of billiards or relaxing in the Hot Tub.
Each year families, couples and those traveling alone, are experiencing the wonderful hidden value of the simpler, caring way of life found on a dude ranch. They are learning that dude ranches are extra friendly places for kids and families to re-discover each other, and the single traveler. The new adventures and exciting experiences that fill dude ranch days and enable us all to weather the more difficult times in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Since every ranch is a direct reflection of the family operating it, there are no two ranches alike. The 100+ DRA member ranches offer a very wide variety of vacations. The ranches go from really luxurious to rustic, with everything in between. The great news is... there really is a ranch for every one's dreams.
For our first time guests, we've created a list of basic questions.
• How do we get there?
• Where are most ranches located?
• Who takes ranch vacations?
• Are there ever discounted or special rates?
• When should we make our reservations?
• When are they open?
• What are the rates and what is included?
You will find the answers to all these questions and more on our website.
We encourage you to visit the ranch web sites and call or e-mail the ranches that you are interested in and ask them to help you. If they don't offer everything you're looking for, they will recommend a ranch that does. Association ranches work together in a spirit of cooperation to insure that your next vacation is your best vacation!
For our first time guests, we've created a list of basic questions.
• How do we get there?
• Where are most ranches located?
• Who takes ranch vacations?
• Are there ever discounted or special rates?
• When should we make our reservations?
• When are they open?
• What are the rates and what is included?
You will find the answers to all these questions and more on our website.
We encourage you to visit the ranch web sites and call or e-mail the ranches that you are interested in and ask them to help you. If they don't offer everything you're looking for, they will recommend a ranch that does. Association ranches work together in a spirit of cooperation to insure that your next vacation is your best vacation!
Testimonial of the Week
Vee Bar Guest Ranch
"This trip was a life changing event for us. It made us think of the rat race we are living and to slow down a bit. We had a great week and loved our horses, the guests and the staff. Thank you Vee Bar. We will return with more of our friends." -Dani & Shane
"This trip was a life changing event for us. It made us think of the rat race we are living and to slow down a bit. We had a great week and loved our horses, the guests and the staff. Thank you Vee Bar. We will return with more of our friends." -Dani & Shane
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
2009-2010 Scholarships Awarded
In today’s tough economic times it is harder and harder to fund a quality college education. The Educational Trust was set up to do just that. The Educational Trust began in 1988 by Mark Grubbs. Mark and his wife, Amy, were co-executive directors and former dude ranch owners. Mark’s dream was to establish a fund to give scholarships to young people who wanted to be in the Dude Ranch industry. The scholarship fund has been administered by our Executive Director (s) and the Educational Trust Board of Directors from it’s inception to the present. Each year the DRA Educational Trust awards scholarships to students who will perpetuate the dude ranch industry.
The Educational Trust Board awarded 8 scholarships worth a total of $12,000 for the 2009/2010 school year. The recipients are:
Darcey Anthony - Colorado, Haley Chesser - New Mexico, Spencer George - Colorado, Susannah Jackson - Massachusetts, Kameron Kelsey - Montana, Haley May - Colorado, Kelly Rich - Montana, Steven True - Arizona.
Congratulations!
Since the first scholarship was awarded for the 1990-1991 school year, the Educational Trust has awarded a total of $149,000.
The Educational Trust Board awarded 8 scholarships worth a total of $12,000 for the 2009/2010 school year. The recipients are:
Darcey Anthony - Colorado, Haley Chesser - New Mexico, Spencer George - Colorado, Susannah Jackson - Massachusetts, Kameron Kelsey - Montana, Haley May - Colorado, Kelly Rich - Montana, Steven True - Arizona.
Congratulations!
Since the first scholarship was awarded for the 1990-1991 school year, the Educational Trust has awarded a total of $149,000.
“Welcome!” to North Fork Ranch & Fishing Lodge!
“Home” of the newest addition to the Colorado Orvis Endorsed Lodge Program. Our diverse program, intimate size and personal attention set us apart from being just a fishing lodge. Settle in, you’ll quickly realize there is a magic here, a place that feels as good as home.
Only footsteps off the back porch rests 2.5 miles of Dwight D. Eisenhower’s favorite fishing, the North Fork of the South Platte River. Teeming with an amazing abundance of Rainbow, Brown, Cutbow, Snake River Cutthroat and Brook Trout, whether out for the first time or a seasoned angler, you are in for an experience of a lifetime. Orvis guides offer fly fishing instruction in addition to half and full day guided trips. Conveniently located 50 miles southwest of Denver with transfers available. While others are still traveling, you’ll be wetting a line in the Colorado Rocky Mountains breathing in the fresh, mountain air.
If fishing is your passion, our combination is the perfect fit. Join Kevin Gregory; the ranches personal fly fishing guide with over 20 years of experience. His easy personality and contagious laugh will complete your day of fishing. Whether you choose the warmth of the summer with clear blue skies, our spectacular fall with crisp, clear air, or a winter wonderland, you will enjoy this jewel of a property.
North Fork Ranch offers something to please every interest. Our summer “Dude Ranch” package provides activities for families of all ages. Join us in the corral and meet one of our terrific horses that is sure to take care of you whether you choose a full day, lunch, brunch, bushwhacking or loping ride. So many other options to fill your days such as: whitewater rafting, hiking in spectacular alpine meadows, bow & arrow, and target shooting. After a busy day, refresh in our heated pool or hot tubs along side the river and let’s not forget to enjoy a therapeutic massage. The aroma of bread baking and cookies straight from the oven will certainly entice your appetite. Guests boast about our dining with a gourmet flare! Your day is not finished when the sun goes down; enjoy fun filled evenings with campfire & cowboy ballads, hayride, square dance, & an authentic Mountain Man! So many options; don’t forget to sit back, relax and rejuvenate on your front porch counting stars or enjoy a glass of wine in front of a crackling fire in your cozy cabin. You too have discovered a secret hideaway.
With Great pride, we welcome you into our home. The May’s, Dean, Karen and their children, Hayley & Tyler, have been your hosts since 1985. We enjoy getting to know each and every one of our guests. Hospitality is our passion, whether you spend a day or a week, you will quickly absorb that comfortable feeling. You will arrive as our guest and depart as our friend.
From all of us, it is our pleasure to extend an invitation to join us where time is measured by clear blue skies, the arc of the sun, and shimmering shadows on the river mountain sides.
Article in Orvis Sporting Traditions Newspaper, Volume XLII Number 1, January/February 2009 Issue, pg. 14
Only footsteps off the back porch rests 2.5 miles of Dwight D. Eisenhower’s favorite fishing, the North Fork of the South Platte River. Teeming with an amazing abundance of Rainbow, Brown, Cutbow, Snake River Cutthroat and Brook Trout, whether out for the first time or a seasoned angler, you are in for an experience of a lifetime. Orvis guides offer fly fishing instruction in addition to half and full day guided trips. Conveniently located 50 miles southwest of Denver with transfers available. While others are still traveling, you’ll be wetting a line in the Colorado Rocky Mountains breathing in the fresh, mountain air.
If fishing is your passion, our combination is the perfect fit. Join Kevin Gregory; the ranches personal fly fishing guide with over 20 years of experience. His easy personality and contagious laugh will complete your day of fishing. Whether you choose the warmth of the summer with clear blue skies, our spectacular fall with crisp, clear air, or a winter wonderland, you will enjoy this jewel of a property.
North Fork Ranch offers something to please every interest. Our summer “Dude Ranch” package provides activities for families of all ages. Join us in the corral and meet one of our terrific horses that is sure to take care of you whether you choose a full day, lunch, brunch, bushwhacking or loping ride. So many other options to fill your days such as: whitewater rafting, hiking in spectacular alpine meadows, bow & arrow, and target shooting. After a busy day, refresh in our heated pool or hot tubs along side the river and let’s not forget to enjoy a therapeutic massage. The aroma of bread baking and cookies straight from the oven will certainly entice your appetite. Guests boast about our dining with a gourmet flare! Your day is not finished when the sun goes down; enjoy fun filled evenings with campfire & cowboy ballads, hayride, square dance, & an authentic Mountain Man! So many options; don’t forget to sit back, relax and rejuvenate on your front porch counting stars or enjoy a glass of wine in front of a crackling fire in your cozy cabin. You too have discovered a secret hideaway.
With Great pride, we welcome you into our home. The May’s, Dean, Karen and their children, Hayley & Tyler, have been your hosts since 1985. We enjoy getting to know each and every one of our guests. Hospitality is our passion, whether you spend a day or a week, you will quickly absorb that comfortable feeling. You will arrive as our guest and depart as our friend.
From all of us, it is our pleasure to extend an invitation to join us where time is measured by clear blue skies, the arc of the sun, and shimmering shadows on the river mountain sides.
Article in Orvis Sporting Traditions Newspaper, Volume XLII Number 1, January/February 2009 Issue, pg. 14
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The DRA will be at QuarterFest in Murfreesboro, Tennessee
QuarterFest is a three-day, education-packed celebration of the American Quarter Horse Association’s 68th anniversary where AQHA members and horse enthusiasts from around the world will gather May 1-3 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for fun, entertainment and festivities to honor the world’s most versatile horse – the American Quarter Horse. Our sponsors – Tractor Supply, B&W Trailer Hitches, John Deere, Justin Boots, Merial, Nutrena, Professional’s Choice, Bank of America, Montana Silversmiths, Farnam and Wrangler – share our passion for horses and are an integral part of QuarterFest.
Colleen Hodson, Executive Director of the Dude Ranchers' Association will be at the QuarterFest in the Dude Ranchers' Association booth. David & Jane Van Berkum from the Rainbow Trout Ranch will be helping out with the kids riding programs during the weekend event. If you are at the event, stop by the DRA booth.
Everyone is welcome – come for the fun and bring the family. Learn more about all the QuarterFest activities by visiting www.aqha.com/quarterfest. Hurry, tickets are going fast!
WIN YOUR SUMMER VACATION AT THE AQHA's QUARTERFEST EXTRAVAGANZA!
America’s Horse, April 27, 2009 – Got any summer vacation plans? You might if you attend the QuarterFest Extravaganza May 1 and 2 and win a trip to a Dude Ranchers’ of America dude ranch in Arizona or Colorado.
The Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, and Tarryall River Ranch in Lake George, Colorado, are just itchin’ to host the winners from the QuarterFest Extravaganza, www.aqha.com/quarterfest/allstar_extravaganza.html.
Nestled among the majestic natural beauty of the Rincon Mountains between Saguaro National Park and the Coronado National Forest, the Tanque Verde dude ranch, in business since 1868, is set on 60,000 acres of unspoiled southwest landscape surrounding plush accommodations, unparalleled amenities and a diverse menu of daily rides and activities. Guests are invited to take part in a variety of horseback adventures, hit the trails on a mountain bike, or hike, fish, swim and just play at the Tanque Verde.
The winners of the Colorado dude ranch vacation will be welcomed to the Tarryall River Ranch by the Tesch family. At the Tarryall, you can fish, hike or spend the entire time horseback. You’ll appreciate the wranglers and the thorough instruction provided. Beginners will be made to feel comfortable on the most gentle of horses, while intermediate and advanced riders will be matched with a horse that will perfectly compliment their abilities. With the choice of half-day or all-day rides, you’ll also be able to chose the ride you want: touring beautiful spots, instructional rides to sharpen your skills, leisurely rides or more advanced rides in groups or with your family. An overnight pack trip is available, too. There is also opportunity to work in the arena, team-penning or practicing for the ranch rodeo.
The vacations, which must be used during the 2009 season, are both four-night packages for two people and are based upon availability. Airfare is not included, and some restrictions may apply. Again, one dude ranch vacation will be given away each night – May 1 and 2 – at the QuarterFest Extravaganza. No purchase necessary. Must be 18 to win. Complete contest rules available at www.aqha.com/quarterfest/media/extravaganza_DR_Rules.pdf.
The Tanque Verde Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, and Tarryall River Ranch in Lake George, Colorado, are just itchin’ to host the winners from the QuarterFest Extravaganza, www.aqha.com/quarterfest/allstar_extravaganza.html.
Nestled among the majestic natural beauty of the Rincon Mountains between Saguaro National Park and the Coronado National Forest, the Tanque Verde dude ranch, in business since 1868, is set on 60,000 acres of unspoiled southwest landscape surrounding plush accommodations, unparalleled amenities and a diverse menu of daily rides and activities. Guests are invited to take part in a variety of horseback adventures, hit the trails on a mountain bike, or hike, fish, swim and just play at the Tanque Verde.
The winners of the Colorado dude ranch vacation will be welcomed to the Tarryall River Ranch by the Tesch family. At the Tarryall, you can fish, hike or spend the entire time horseback. You’ll appreciate the wranglers and the thorough instruction provided. Beginners will be made to feel comfortable on the most gentle of horses, while intermediate and advanced riders will be matched with a horse that will perfectly compliment their abilities. With the choice of half-day or all-day rides, you’ll also be able to chose the ride you want: touring beautiful spots, instructional rides to sharpen your skills, leisurely rides or more advanced rides in groups or with your family. An overnight pack trip is available, too. There is also opportunity to work in the arena, team-penning or practicing for the ranch rodeo.
The vacations, which must be used during the 2009 season, are both four-night packages for two people and are based upon availability. Airfare is not included, and some restrictions may apply. Again, one dude ranch vacation will be given away each night – May 1 and 2 – at the QuarterFest Extravaganza. No purchase necessary. Must be 18 to win. Complete contest rules available at www.aqha.com/quarterfest/media/extravaganza_DR_Rules.pdf.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Western Dude Ranch Rejuvenates & Boosts Health of Each Guest.
According to experts, taking a vacation is good for your health. Despite this fact, Americans and Canadians tend to shortchange their vacation time, often leaving earned time on the table or taking a day here and a day there instead of a week or more at one stretch. Since 1926 the Dude Ranchers’ Association shaped and established the highest quality standards in the guest ranch industry. A DRA (as it’s known,) guest ranch is the epitome of a Western holiday and providing both the time and environment to foster good health. Surrounded by spectacular beauty, far from the noise and crowds of fast-paced cities, serenity comes easy to each guest.
According to the career website, Workopolis, “Psychologists say that it takes five to seven days to de-stress from work, so doing it piecemeal can be counter productive. Most of the studies show people need about two weeks in one block a year to feel the benefits of a vacation.” During summer the majority of DRA guest ranches operate in week-long increments, allowing guests the time to unwind, settle in and savor the experience.
In addition to horsemanship, ranches offer activities satisfying the recreational and social needs of each generation. Tennis clinics, mountain biking, rock climbing, zip-lining, bird watching, crafts, hiking, whitewater rafting, and golf; each can be enjoyed during a Western ranch vacation. Some ranches also offer known stress reducers like yoga, meditation, massages and other soothing spa treatments.
Dude ranches are ideal places for kids and families to re-connect. Without the typical distractions of TV, phones, computers and electronic games, families spend quality time together sometimes just hanging out on the porch swing or sitting around the campfire.
There are more than 100 members of the Dude Ranchers’ Association in the Western US and Canada. Each is a little different but each DRA dude ranch vacation is the most potent tonic to combat the stress caused by the uncertain times we live in.
According to the career website, Workopolis, “Psychologists say that it takes five to seven days to de-stress from work, so doing it piecemeal can be counter productive. Most of the studies show people need about two weeks in one block a year to feel the benefits of a vacation.” During summer the majority of DRA guest ranches operate in week-long increments, allowing guests the time to unwind, settle in and savor the experience.
In addition to horsemanship, ranches offer activities satisfying the recreational and social needs of each generation. Tennis clinics, mountain biking, rock climbing, zip-lining, bird watching, crafts, hiking, whitewater rafting, and golf; each can be enjoyed during a Western ranch vacation. Some ranches also offer known stress reducers like yoga, meditation, massages and other soothing spa treatments.
Dude ranches are ideal places for kids and families to re-connect. Without the typical distractions of TV, phones, computers and electronic games, families spend quality time together sometimes just hanging out on the porch swing or sitting around the campfire.
There are more than 100 members of the Dude Ranchers’ Association in the Western US and Canada. Each is a little different but each DRA dude ranch vacation is the most potent tonic to combat the stress caused by the uncertain times we live in.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Guest Testimonial of the Week
63 Ranch
"It is nearly one year since I came to stay at your Ranch in Montana. I wanted to write and tell you that I dont think another holiday could ever match the week i spent at the 63 Ranch. Even after all this time I often still think about the great times, the horses, the staff, the scenery and all the fantastic people I met in that week. I have seen many places all over the world but I dont think anywhere is as beautiful as Montana." -Tina W
"It is nearly one year since I came to stay at your Ranch in Montana. I wanted to write and tell you that I dont think another holiday could ever match the week i spent at the 63 Ranch. Even after all this time I often still think about the great times, the horses, the staff, the scenery and all the fantastic people I met in that week. I have seen many places all over the world but I dont think anywhere is as beautiful as Montana." -Tina W
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Help for Travel Agents
Your time is valuable! Let us help you find the dude ranch vacation of your client's dreams!
Tools To Help You Find the Right Ranch At www.duderanch.org
Search for your "dream dude ranch vacation” with the New & Up-To-Date Activities & Amenities Search at www.duderanch.org/ranches.cfm? Find out quickly which ranches pay travel agent commissions with the new "WORKS WITH TRAVEL AGENTS” option. (The majority of DRA Ranches do.)
Have a specific dates of travel, questions or special needs for your client’s vacation? You can have direct and quick contact with member ranches by using the “Request Brochure” Feature. Fill out the contact form, select a state or states, and ask your question. This one email will go to each ranch in the states that YOU select. Quick & Easy!
Free 2009 Dude Ranch Directories are available upon request. Call, Email or fill out the "Request A Brochure" from online to get your copy. (Look for the link to request your copy at the right of this blog!)
As always, if you would like to talk to someone directly, please call the DRA office toll free at 866-399-2339.
Why Choose a DRA Ranch?
When you book a vacation at a member ranch, you can be assured of genuine, western hospitality combined with the lodging industry’s latest standards. Membership in the Association is not automatic. Dude ranches applying for membership go through a rigorous two year inspection and approval process. The Dude Ranchers' Association has been preserving western ranch vacations by establishing and maintaining strict standards, while protecting the land and wildlife for over 80 years - We encourage you to “Ride the West with the Best!”
Tools To Help You Find the Right Ranch At www.duderanch.org
Search for your "dream dude ranch vacation” with the New & Up-To-Date Activities & Amenities Search at www.duderanch.org/ranches.cfm? Find out quickly which ranches pay travel agent commissions with the new "WORKS WITH TRAVEL AGENTS” option. (The majority of DRA Ranches do.)
Have a specific dates of travel, questions or special needs for your client’s vacation? You can have direct and quick contact with member ranches by using the “Request Brochure” Feature. Fill out the contact form, select a state or states, and ask your question. This one email will go to each ranch in the states that YOU select. Quick & Easy!
Free 2009 Dude Ranch Directories are available upon request. Call, Email or fill out the "Request A Brochure" from online to get your copy. (Look for the link to request your copy at the right of this blog!)
As always, if you would like to talk to someone directly, please call the DRA office toll free at 866-399-2339.
Why Choose a DRA Ranch?
When you book a vacation at a member ranch, you can be assured of genuine, western hospitality combined with the lodging industry’s latest standards. Membership in the Association is not automatic. Dude ranches applying for membership go through a rigorous two year inspection and approval process. The Dude Ranchers' Association has been preserving western ranch vacations by establishing and maintaining strict standards, while protecting the land and wildlife for over 80 years - We encourage you to “Ride the West with the Best!”
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