Just "Dude" it!

New DRA Website with Blog

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 16:31:00 +0000

It’s done…it’s live…After working for months on a new look, The Dude Ranchers’ Association is announcing their brand new website at www.duderanch.org. It was developed with you the vacationer in mind.

Along with adding new features, new searches and many cool things to the new site we have also moved our Just "Dude" It blog and have placed it inside. We will be discontinuing using and updating the blog in blogger...so please continue to follow us at http://www.duderanch.org/blog/.

Come check out the great variety of options on riding, food, accommodation and activities. You decide what will make your vacation special to you. Let us help you choose the ranch for your next Original Western Vacation. There is a little cowboy in all of us…come find yours!

Casting For Recovery at North Fork Ranch, Colorado

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 17:03:00 +0000

Check out this link to a very powerful and encouraging video on behalf of Casting For Recovery, a breast cancer survivor retreat that took place at the North Fork Ranch in Shawnee, Colorado. The Casting For Recovery offers free, 2½ day retreats for 14 participants at a time. Fly-fishing instruction is the means used to help women gain skills to cope with recovery from breast cancer. Their goal is helping one survivor at a time focus on the road to recovery.

The first time you click on the link, it may cover some random news story or something for approximately two minutes. Please just wait for the story to finish and then the Casting For Recovery story will play. Watch Video It is worth watching.

Vote For Ranch Rider’s Colorado Horse-nality Of The Year & Win A 7-Night Family Holiday At The Lost Valley Ranch.

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 23:26:00 +0000

The X-Factor might still be grabbing the headlines, but this Autumn ranching holiday specialist Ranch Rider is teaming up with Colorado Tourism to launch a western themed talent contest: trusty steeds from across the US state, battling it out for the esteemed title of Colorado “Horse-nality (personality) of the Year”. Riding and ranching fans will be able to vote for their favorite mounts from October through December 2010, all of the four legged contestants appearing on the tour operator’s dedicated blog (http://bit.ly/bLg1pW). A major incentive to participate, every vote will be entered into a random draw, the winner trotting off with a 7-night Ranch Rider summer holiday (for two adults and two children) at the Lost Valley Ranch in Deckers, Colorado.

According to Tony Daly, Managing Director of Ranch Rider, “Wherever families decide to ranch, it’s always the friendly mounts that make the holiday, and that’s why we’ve decided to showcase the west through the eyes of Colorado’s trusty steeds.” Irrefutable proof that the Centennial state is a hotbed of trail-blazing talent, the contest will feature every Colorado ranch in the tour operator’s portfolio. And, to ensure voters have all the fodder at their fingertips, Ranch Rider has even enlisted the assistance of “Hondo,” as its “Horse-nality of the Year” mascot. A gelding with a mischievous side, Hondo will be giving voters the low down on all things ranching, whether he’s chewing the bit over his favorite trail ride, introducing the next contestant or spilling the beans on the wonders of the Lost Valley Guest Ranch, his permanent residence. A steed with a celebrity following, Hondo has arranged his own weekly slot on PONY Magazine’s blog (http://www.ponymag.com/) – the first post went live on Friday 8th of October.

An added reason for parents and kid’s to vote, the UK’s number one horsey teen mag is also giving away a year’s subscription to the title. Not forgetting those all important ranch hands, Ranch Rider has even rounded up a few of the state’s cowboys and cowgirls. They’ll be sharing the best of the west on the “Horse-nality of the Year” teen blog, and “on the hoof” horse-bites, plus tips and twips will appear on the riding specialist’s Facebook® and Twitter® pages throughout the three-month contest. To vote, simply send the name of the horse you are voting for, your full name, age, daytime telephone number and email address to competition@ranchrider.com.

Of course, Ranch Rider is aware that the charismatic Hondo will compel many an adventurer to book a stay at the Lost Valley Ranch. Interested guests can join him on the homestead’s daily trail rides or partake in an endless list of pursuits including, river tubing, hiking, fishing and square dancing. The homestead also features a weekly rodeo where budding wranglers can showcase their new found western skills and there are three separate kid’s programs for children aged 3-5, 6-12 and teens.

Entrants can vote once, for one or ALL of the horses featured in Ranch Rider’s Colorado “Horse-nality of the Year” contest. Voting is open globally and there are no age restrictions. All entrants should email the name of the horse they are voting for, along with their full name, age and email address (and parents name and email address if under 13 years) to competition@ranchrider.com Parents who are voting should include the number and ages of their children. For the full list of Terms & Conditions please see http://www.ranchrider.com/.

Thank You To Our Veterans

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 22:39:00 +0000

This Veteran's Day, we salute and honor those who have so bravely served this country yesterday, today and tomorrow. America is founded on the principle of freedom, justice, and liberty for all. Our nation's soldiers serve every day to protect our country and its ideals. This Veteran's Day, take a moment or two to remember the freedoms we have because of their sacrifice.
This quote says it best...
“For it has been said so truthfully that it is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us the freedom of the press. It is the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It is the soldier, not the agitator, who has given us the freedom to protest. It is the soldier who salutes the flag, serves beneath the flag, whose coffin is draped by the flag, who gives that protester the freedom to abuse and burn that flag.”

Thank you to all our many veterans!

The DRA Will Celebrate the 85th Annual Convention

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 23:49:00 +0000

The Dude Ranchers' Association will celebrate the 85th Annual DRA Convention in 2011. The Convention is being held in Tucson, Arizona at the Tanque Verde Guest Ranch, January 19th - 23rd, 2011. The Associations' ranch members, Associate members and many great vendors attend this event..the largest attended DRA Event of the Year.

The Association's original membership of thirty-five ranches from the Yellowstone area has now grown to 100 +member ranches in 12 western states and two Canadian provinces. In spite of this growth, the Association today remains dedicated to preserving the beauty, natural resources, and the original western ranch experiences that attracted the first visitors. Within this context, the Association has produced industry standards, a common means for promoting dude ranch vacations, and a single source for the exchange of ideas and information.

True to its roots, The Dude Ranchers' Association is still a diverse group, composed of cattle ranches who accept paying guests and mountain top lodges that offer a ranch atmosphere. All preserve the open warmth and hospitality of the first ranches and allow for the original western ranch experience by requiring an extended stay. The formation of lasting bonds and memories still brings families back to ranches generation after generation. This is truly a living testimony to the timelessness of the values and standards of the original dude ranchers. Today, as it did over a century ago, the western dude ranch experience offers relief for both the body and spirit of those seeking refuge from the pressures and routine of modern life. A Dude Ranch Vacation is....the Original Western Vacation!

The 85th Annual Convention Highlights:

3 Day Convention with 2 Day Vendor Show
Build lasting relationships with all DRA Members!
Seminars
Round-Table Discussions
Marketing Tips & Trends
State of the Association
Ranch To Ranch Discussion
Casino Night with Coaches for Charity
The White Stallion Team Penning Calcutta and Competition
Horse Safety Courses on Wednesday & Sunday
The Infamous Pigeon Rolling
More Entertainment
20+ Vendors
Food, Family, Friends & FUN!
Annual Educational Trust Banquet & Auction

For more information please contact the DRA office at info@duderanch.org or 866-399-2339!

Price Canyon Ranch Video

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 19:08:00 +0000

Choosing a Guest Ranch Like the Echo Valley Ranch & Spa

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:19:00 +0000

Choosing a guest ranch for an upcoming vacation has some important considerations to research before you decide.

Accommodations at a Guest Ranch

If you are planning a vacation, one crucial thing is getting good accommodations. The choice mostly depends on what you want in your vacation. Various types of guest ranch accommodations are available. If privacy is what you are seeking, you can choose a guest ranch that offers private cabins otherwise you can choose lodge accommodations to get along more easily with other guests. At Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, you have the option of both.

Activities at a Guest Ranch

There are plenty of activities available at a guest ranch vacation. If a real cowboy experience is what you are looking for then a working ranch would be ideal. If your Preference is horseback riding, skiing, river rafting or skeet shooting; you can choose a guest ranch that offers these kinds of activities. Evening activities are also another important factor, if you want a massage or facial, you can choose a ranch resort spa such as Echo Valley Ranch & Spa. If singing songs around a campfire, playing games, dancing, watching movies or just relaxing is your idea of fun, in that case, you can choose those guest ranches that offer various nightly entertainments.

Guest Ranch Vacations for Families

If your vacation plan is for the whole family, you should choose a ranch that offers entertaining activities for the kids. Choosing a guest ranch that offers a full kids program would be wise. There are many guest ranches available that offer accommodations for family groups and contain an array of activities for the kids.

Seasons

The season and weather also play an important role in your vacation decisions. Depending on your preferences about summer and winter activities you can choose the season you want to book your guest ranch vacation. However, you will find many ranches that are open year round and will offer different entertainment opportunities depending on the season. Echo Valley Ranch & Spa is open year round currently. Please contact us for the various activities offered depending on the season.

Horseback Riding

No matter whether you are an experienced rider looking for a riding adventure or a novice looking for lessons, you will surely find guest ranches that will offer exactly what you want about horseback riding. Echo Valley Ranch & Spa has over 30 horses so there is a good selection for riders of all levels. Our wranglers will also hone your skills in the saddle with horseback riding lessons and guided horseback rides.

Dining at a Guest Ranch

Food is another factor that will influence your selection of guest ranches. If you want special cuisine, you can notify the guest ranch earlier as most ranches can prepare special food on demand. Normally you will get quality food as well as special items like BBQ’s or other items on theme nights. At Echo Valley, we have a gourmet chef on staff who prepares a variety of healthy gourmet organic meals. There is also a variety of Thai cuisine on the menu.

Vacation Cost

Budget is another thing that will influence your vacation. Guest ranch vacations vary in price depending on the season and type of accommodations. Usually the vacation package will cover all meals and most of the activities. The total cost will usually depend on the rating of the ranch. Guest ranches are rated from 1 star to 5 star accommodations. You will find accommodations from basic single rooms to luxurious cabins for bigger groups. Choosing extra activities will sometimes cost you some more money. It would be wise to check out the costs of various ranches before selecting one.

Location of Guest Ranch

You will find guest ranches in almost all the states and provinces of US and Canada. Where you want to go depends on your preference. You can choose one that is remotely placed or you can choose one near a major city or national park.

You should thoroughly evaluate all these areas before booking for your next guest ranch vacation. This way, you will be able to find a destination that fits your expectations the most.

Echo Valley Ranch & Spa is a 4.5 star luxury guest ranch with onside spa. Please visit us at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa

Author: Christine789

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1791158_29.html

Cattle Drives - A Truly Western Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 19:21:00 +0000

For a truly memorable vacation, nothing beats a Western cattle drive. Straight from the big screen, these working cattle drives, offered through various members of the Dude Ranchers’ Association, transform a movie moment into a real-life vacation experience unlike any other.

The cattle drive experience varies from ranch to ranch, with some ranches providing only two drives (one in the spring and one in the fall) while others offer cattle activities every day. The purpose of the drives, however, is universal—move cattle from one location to another without losing any animals along the way. Guided by expert wranglers, cattle drive participants shoulder important responsibilities as they keep the herd together, chase down stragglers, and stay on the move. Days-long cattle drives fill the urge for the more adventurous to taste the true Western experience. These drives often include river crossings, mountain riding, and range roaming as the herd travels miles from one location to another. Of course, long days of riding are rewarded with evenings of fly fishing, card playing, and other rest and relaxation—just like in the days of the real cowboy. The exhilaration of combining real work with real pleasure is impossible to ignore, and nothing beats riding herd in the broad expanse of the Wild West.

For just a taste of the real cowboy life, dude ranch visitors can participate in other cattle activities. Moving cattle for the day or gathering and doctoring are just a couple of the “real” experiences while saddling up with the hired hands.

For more information about a real working cattle drive or any of the other unique features of a dude ranch vacation, or to request a brochure, call 1-307-587-2339 or visit http://www.duderanch.org/.

Horseback Riding Ranches in Arizona | eHow.com

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 16:56:00 +0000

This is the time of year to make your winter holiday plans...how about an Arizona Dude Ranch Vacation. There are 11 great dude ranches in the state of Arizona, two in New Mexico, and they are ready to saddle a horse for you. Check out the special offerings a the Flying E Ranch in Wickenburg.

Flying E Ranch is offering a Dec 20/20 discount rate. 20% discount on lodging the first 20 days of Dec. for this year.

They are also offering the 4th Annual Cowgirl Hideout Weekend Jan 6th – Jan 9th 2011. Fun is included in this package just for cowgirls. Trail rides, team penning, line dancing, breakfast cookout and ranch style home cooked meals. Ride, Relax and Rejuvenate! (The perfect Christmas present for the special cowgirl in your life.) Rates $650.00 - $675.00 all inclusive for the weekend package.

Here is an article on some of the other DRA Ranches in Arizona...Check it out.

Horseback Riding Ranches in Arizona eHow.com

For more information about all the Southwest Ranches go to http://www.duderanch.org/!

Dude Ranch Vacations for Singles | eHow.com

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 19:46:00 +0000

Check out the article about Singles weeks on eHow.com...

Although a dude ranch is not typically associated with singles activities, a healthy, invigorating outing somewhere in the big-sky country of the American west can bring people together just like any other shared interest. Dude ranches also foster social activity with amenities such as trail rides, a hot tub, sauna or community-style meals. Although most dude ranches cater to families, there are a number that reserve special weeks for adults only or singles.

Read more: Dude Ranch Vacations for Singles
Dude Ranch Vacations for Singles eHow.com

Ride The West With The Best

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 21:26:00 +0000

The Elkhorn Ranch, Arizona

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 21:51:00 +0000

Fifty-one miles southwest of Tucson, Arizona, in its own valley, where mountains and desert meet, lies the Elkhorn Ranch. Owned and operated by the Miller family since 1946, the 3rd generation of Charley and Mary Miller and Tom and Anne Miller now holds the reins.

In October, the Millers welcome their crew to get the ranch ready for opening day on November 14, 2010. Being a winter season ranch, families tend to come during the holidays and school vacation weeks with more of an adult crowd visiting during Arizona's sunny winter season. The Elkhorn offers exceptional riding and comfortable living for thirty-two guests.

With seventy head of horses, riding is the main interest with gentle or loping rides through the desert and more vigorous trips along the many mountain trails. Charley visits with everyone at breakfast and lunch to talk about riding plans. With 6 guides, the rides are small and tailored to your interests and abilities.

Elkhorn's 3rd annual Digital Photography and Natural History workshop, led by Stewart Aitchison and Ann Kramer, will take place January 23 - 30, 2011. Come and enjoy the ranch for this great workshop.
With Easter arriving in late April for 2011, Elkhorn has spring vacation dates available in March, when you have a chance to see lovely desert wildflowers. The Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and Easter holidays are quite full already, but the Millers hope you will call to see if there's a spot for you!

When you are not in the saddle, you can enjoy Elkhorn's heated swimming pool, wintering birds, tennis, hiking and relaxation beneath the Arizona sunshine. The Miller's favorite near by attractions are the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and Kitt Peak National Observatory, or for shopping a visit to Tubac and Tumacacori the San Xavier del Bac Missions. For more information please go to http://www.elkhornranch.com/

Mountain Sky Guest Ranch Video

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 22:20:00 +0000

Wyoming Dude Ranch Vacations

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:26:00 +0000

This article was published on the USA Today Travel Tips by by Jennn Fusion, Demand Media. Its worth reading....

Wyoming dude ranch vacations date back to the 1880s when people visited city slicker friends who had retreated to wilderness horse and cattle ranches. The railroads brought weary travelers through Wyoming, prompting entrepreneurs to charge room and board. Dude ranch vacations offer "get away from it all" relaxation in a unique setting. At first glance, they appear expensive, but prices include meals, accommodations, horse riding and entertainment -- making it easier for families to budget. Click here to read the rest of the article and see the top picks...

How to get all the Wranglers to spend their Saturday Night Playing Horseopoly with your Five-Year Old

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 17:43:00 +0000

This blog article came from Serena the "Sassy Chicago Mama" that vacationed at the Covered Wagon Ranch this summer with her family. With her permission I am sharing it with you...enjoy...

First of all, yes, there is a version of monopoly called “Horseopoly.” And no, you don’t need to rush out and buy it. Not only is it confusing, but the horses on the box look slightly demented and creepy. But when you are staying on a Dude Ranch in Montana and your 5-year-old son finds it in the game closet, you clearly need to play it.

What was surprising to me was that he somehow “wrangled” all the professional wranglers into playing it with him.

For those who don’t know what a wrangler is, let me explain–they are these fantastic people who spend their lives working outside and doing anything and everything that is needed for the horses. Which can consist of:

a) Feeding, cleaning, brushing, and exercising horses
b) Cleaning up their poop
c) Leading packs of people who say they have riding experience and really don’t on 3-hour riding trips in the mountains of Yellowstone

d) Tirelessly leading your 5-year-old around the ranch on “his” horse Joseph and insuring that Joseph wins the “horse race” (i.e. when the horses run up the mountain to take their Sunday pasture breaks) by personally riding and pushing him ahead of all the other horses that are probably 5 times younger AND faster than him.

Needless to say, those wranglers clearly need a break on Saturday nights. And yet, they stuck around after our communal dinner to play Horseopoly with us. How did G accomplish this, I wonder? I like to think it is because he is a good kid that people just like to hang around because they are so unaccustomed to 5-year-old children who don’t whine, throw tantrums, wear silly clothes with Disney characters on them, or glue themselves to some horrid hand-held video game. Or maybe because John and I are SO funny, we were the only entertainment those hard-working wranglers needed that night.

In reality, it is probably just because they are such good sports and secretly knew that ending our trip with a rousing game of Horseopoly with the wranglers would be the cherry on top of the sundae for G and that it would make his trip complete.

Which it did.

So I thank you Boone, Erin, Chris, and Kirbee (who had to actually get up from the table and do her best galloping impression of a horse in order to not get sent to the “stable” or what us Monopoly players know as “jail) for making the last night of our stay memorable. I am positive it is not how you wanted to spend your night, but it is a night a little 5-year-old boy will remember forever.

And for those of you who have always dreamed of going to a Dude Ranch in Montana like I did, look no further: The Covered Wagon Ranch

We had the time of our lives and when I asked G if he would rather go back to (gulp) Disney World or come back to The Covered Wagon Ranch, he didn’t bat an eye and picked the ranch. So I guess one could say, “Go to The Covered Wagon Ranch! Children like it better than Disney World!”

AQHA -- DUDE RANCH TRIP GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:41:00 +0000

If you're an American Quarter Horse fan, we've got all the connections to get your name in the drawing for a five-day stay at an Arizona dude ranch!

America's Horse -- If you're an American Quarter Horse fan, we've got all the connections to get your name in the drawing for a five-day stay at an Arizona dude ranch!

AQHA is proud to join forces with AQHA Alliance Partner the Dude Ranchers Association and AQHA Corporate Partner Tractor Supply Co. to offer you a chance to win this exclusive contest on Discover Horses.com. Discoverhorses.com and AQHA are partnering to offer you the most up-to-date and behind-the-scenes coverage of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Since 1946, the Flying E Ranch has specialized in authentic Western hospitality, with great horses for every rider, good food and a comfortable place to relax at the end of the day. Whether you choose to ride, help out on the ranch, see the sights or just kick back in the pool or hot tub and allow the magic of the desert to relax and inspire you, the ranch hands will make your Flying E Ranch vacation a true Western experience.

Sound like a vacation getaway you can't refuse? Then register at www.discoverhorses.com/sweepstakes.html for this dude ranch trip giveaway. The trip includes airfare, meals and a five-day stay for two at the Flying E Ranch in Wickenburg, Arizona. Trip dates are subject to availability; trip must be used between November 1, 2010, and May 1, 2011. Entry deadline is September 30, 2010.

Al Roker visits the Box R Ranch

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 21:18:00 +0000

Thought I would share this great and funny video with you...its worth the watch!!

Fishing to Heal at the Upper Canyon

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 22:20:00 +0000

The first week in August the Upper Canyon Ranch came alive with "Pink " as we sponsored a Casting for Recovery retreat. All of us at Upper Canyon Outfitters (UCO) were privileged to experience the weekendwith such a powerful group of ladies. The CfR retreat lodging and meal costs for a group of twenty-four women was sponsored by the Mt. Outfitters and Guides Association, through the "Big Hearts under the Big Sky" program. The group kept busy learning the fundamentals of fly casting, entomology, knot-tying and equipment basics, but most importantly, they spent time on the water practicing catch-and-release fishing. Casting for Recovery, founded in 1996, is a national non-profit support and educational program for breast cancer survivors.The retreat is tailored to promote and support mental and physical healing through shared
experiences and the learning of new skills. To learn more about this fantastic weekend go to the Upper Canyon Outfitters website!

Kids in Cowboy Action at the Latigo Ranch Colorado

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 22:53:00 +0000

Dude Ranches Highlighted in Los Angeles Times - Travel

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 17:15:00 +0000

Here is a great article from the Travel section of the Los Angeles Times written by Rosemary McClure.

The story posted 2010.08.08 at 11:37 AM PDT

Reporting from Philipsburg, Mont.-- Nearly two decades have passed since tough-as- nails trail boss Curly Washburn hurled insults at the three "City Slickers" who invaded his turf, a Colorado cattle ranch, in search of a Wild West adventure.

The 1991 movie, which earned Jack Palance a supporting actor Oscar for his portrayal of Curly, the crusty cattleman, spurred an increase in dude ranch vacations as urban and suburban cowboys tried their hands at riding, roping and herding cattle.

I thought I might like riding the range too. But my interest waned when I realized I'd have to sleep in the dirt — and pay for the privilege.

Fast-forward to 2010: Dude ranches have come a long way. READ MORE...

Guest Testimonial of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:08:00 +0000

Here are a few great guest reviews that we found on TripAdvisor that I thought I would share with you...

Price Canyon Ranch Arizona

“Welcoming service, beautiful accommodations, awesome views, great rides!”

Mar 19, 2010
Trip type: Friends getaway

The moment we drove up the winding road to this jewel of a ranch, my buddies and I knew we had picked the right place for a de-compression week from the stress of the business world! Greeted warmly by Price Canyon's staff, we began 4 phenomenal days of rides, relaxation, great meals and camaraderie. Though the trip was made some time ago, my ribs still ache from the laughter we enjoyed - not just amongst ourselves, but with the ranch's host, cook and cowboys - all of whom went out of their way to make us feel like family. Among our four guys were riders of varying experience, but Randy found ways to ensure everyone of us could enjoy the challenge - whether it was navigating thick brush, climbing rocky peaks, driving cattle, loping in wide-open pastures, or barrel racing in the rodeo pen. You can bet that all of us were well-tired at the end of each day. But none would miss the fabulous dinner that awaited us every evening (the third of three hearty, delicious meals each day)! Of course, there's nothing better than an open fire-pit around which to regale the days events, especially with the Chiricahua mountain range and billion-star sky as the backdrop. If you live in the city or suburbs, you have no idea what a REAL starry sky looks like until you experience this one! None of us had ever seen anything like it!! Slowly, we acknowledged that we must get some sleep, so off we went - usually one by one - to our own beautifully appointed rooms, each tastefully decorated as if it were a suite at a 5-star resort! Then up again, bright and early for breakfast and morning rides. As you might imagine, we hated to leave - and we'll definitely be back. Kudos and thanks to the Kemmerly family and their team for creating this rare treat!

Date of stay October 2008
Visit was for Leisure
Traveled with With Friends

“I cried when I left...but was back four months later for more PC bliss”

Rancho de los Caballeros Arizona

“More than We Expected!!!”

Wow! I think that is a good way to start. I suprised my wife with a two night; three day stay at the Ranch thinking that we would get bored if we stayed any longer...I was wrong. We vacation two to three times a year and I have to say this was one vacation that I wished I would have booked more time on.
From the moment we arrived we were greeted like regular guests and we found the location; amenities and activities outstanding. We did the all inclusive meals and we stayed in the large suites. The suite was very spacious and centrally located to all the activities. The breakfast; lunch and dinners were very good. The pool area is clean and the water is kept a a refreshing and crisp temperature. We did the 10:00 am 2 hour horseback ride through the desert. The views from all around are outstanding. The guide was very hepful and we were able to gitty-up on the horses through several spots throughout our desert ride.

My wife had a massage at the SPA which she really enjoyed. I played 9 holes on the golf course. The course layout is great; holes are challenging and the views are spectacular! We hung out at the Saloon in the evenings after dinner to chat with the locals and the bar staff. Music played and we had a great evening each night. We also hiked the Vulcher moutain peak and did the trap shooting with Cowboy Bob.

We are going back soon with our two kids. The trip from Phoenix Airport is a smooth 1 hour and 15 minutes. You will not be disappointed with this place.

Echo Valley Ranch & Spa British Columbia, Canada

June 6, 2010
Trip type: Family

The Echo Valley spa is one of those places you want to tell everyone about, but at the same time hope that it keeps its charm as a secluded getaway. The ranch is located in a gorgeous valley of the Southern Chilcotin region. The views from all around are breathtaking. The amenities are exceptional. The architecture is amazing (especially the authentic Ban Tai spa with exquisitely detailed carved moldings. The food is out of this world! Delicious! - prepared by their own multi-award winning chef.

The ranch also has its own 'battalion' of well-mannered border collies, who will befriend you and attend to you on your walks around the ranch. And, as if this were not enough, the staff are without exception, some of the friendliest most welcoming people you will ever meet.

Date of stay June 2010
Visit was for Leisure
Traveled with Family with Young Children

Tanque Verde Guest Ranch....

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 21:36:00 +0000

Adventure Out Of The Traditional Conference Environment And Into The Great Outdoors.

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 17:25:00 +0000

Ranch life is comfortable and casual by nature - relaxed, informal, but highly productive. A Dude Ranch provides outdoor western adventure with a focus on group problem solving that will enhance communication skills, encourage cooperation and build self-confidence. Your staff will discover how to improve their efficiency as a team. It's all about trust, communication, teamwork, reciprocal learning, coaching, training, and feedback.

Whether your intention is to motivate a group, improve focus, strengthen relationships, or celebrate success, the Ranch setting can provide the inspiration and the environment. Corporate groups have found Dude Ranches to be an all- inclusive destination capable of handling their accommodations, meals, activities, and meeting requirements for a successful team building or strategic planning retreat. Making adjustments to fit a corporate group’s needs is usually available. Bring your group to a Ranch for a retreat that will both challenge them and leave them with fond memories.

See a list of Ranches that may offer a great setting for your next meeting or conference!

LMR Outdoor Youth Adventures on Facebook

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 22:57:00 +0000

Lone Mountain Ranch Outdoor Youth Adventures (kids camp) is now on Facebook! This is the place to find out about our kids activities, adventures and cool happenings at Lone Mountain Ranch. A day in Lone Mountain Ranch’s Outdoor Youth Adventures may include canoeing, horseback riding, a kids rodeo, mountain biking, climbing wall, pony rides (under 6 years), pizza parties, high and low ropes, camping, backpacking, ice cream socials, archery, leather crafting and many other fun activities! We invite you and your family to “like” our page and learn more about the family fun at Lone Mountain Ranch!

Check it out!!!

Happy 4th of July!

noreply@blogger.com (Katie @ The Dude Ranchers' Association) — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 18:26:00 +0000

Have a very safe and happy 4th of July!

"In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved" -Franklin D. Roosevelt

Read more at Suite101: 4th of July Quotes and Sayings: Words for an Inspirational Independence Day http://americanhistory.suite101.com/article.cfm/4th_of_july_quotes_and_sayings#ixzz0sYCsHZbu