Cattle Drives – A Truly Western Experience

Step into the saddle and become a part of the Old West on a working cattle drive vacation.

Cattle drive experiences differ from ranch to ranch, ranging from seasonal drives to daily cattle activities.

Cattle drives have been an integral part of the American West’s ranching heritage for centuries. While the specifics of each drive may vary, the fundamental objective remains the same: to safely relocate cattle from one location to another, minimizing losses along the way. Under the guidance of seasoned wranglers, participants in cattle drives assume critical responsibilities, including: – Maintaining the cohesion of the herd – Retrieving stray animals – Navigating challenging terrain. Multiday cattle drives offer an unparalleled adventure for those seeking an authentic Western experience. These expeditions often involve river crossings, mountain riding and range roaming. As the herd travels miles across the rugged landscape, participants develop a deeper appreciation for the resilience and determination required of cowboys and ranchers. After a long day of riding, evenings are filled with leisure activities, such as fly fishing, card playing, and relaxation around the campfire. The synergy of combining physical labor with recreational pleasure creates an unforgettable experience, allowing participants to connect with the natural world and the rich history of the American West.

For those seeking a shorter, yet still immersive experience, some dude ranches offer alternative cattle activities, including daylong cattle drives as well as gathering and doctoring cattle.  These hands-on experiences provide a glimpse into the daily lives of cowboys and ranchers, fostering a deeper understanding of the skills, traditions, and values that define the American West.

Ready for a Cattle Drive?

At Hidden Hollow Hideaway Cattle & Guest Ranch cattle work is a year-round endeavor, and they offer cattle drive experiences throughout the summer months. Allowing their herd of 200 Red Angus cattle to roam freely in the mountain pastures. While the larger cattle drives typically take place in June and July, when they first move the cattle to the mountains. They also conduct smaller cattle drives throughout the summer as the herd is rotated between grazing areas.

Located on 70,000 acres in Wyoming, Kara Creek Ranch is a working ranch where cattle roam free. Activities on the ranch are tied to the actual needs of the ranch and vary based on season. Guests can participate in seasonal activities like brandings, cattle round-ups, and drives to summer or winter pastures. In addition to cowboy activities, visitors can enjoy traditional Western cooking, scenic walks, and exploring Native American rock engravings. With a focus on personalized experiences, the ranch accommodates up to 20 guests. Spring and fall seasons offer the full cowboy experience in the Sprin it’s branding calves and driving cattle to summer pasture, In the Fall round-ups, sorting cattle, and moving herds to winter pastures.

Nestled in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains in Wyoming, Klondike Ranch is a working ranch with 200 cow/calf pairs and 30 replacement heifers on 1,000 scenic acres. Imagine spending your days riding through breathtaking landscapes, working cattle, and camping under starry Wyoming skies. At Klondike Ranch, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the authentic West, with 90% of our cattle work done on horseback. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just looking for a new adventure, you’ll love riding with a purpose. And when you’re not working cattle, you can enjoy historical tours, fishing, and other unforgettable experiences.

Experience the thrill of a real cattle drive in the scenic mountains of Idaho with McGarry Ranch. As a guest on the ranch, days are spent scattering cattle on the range, doctoring cattle, packing salt, and trailing cattle to new pastures. Riders explore breathtaking landscapes on one of the ranch’s trusty Quarter Horses, and enjoy hearty meals and comfortable accommodations at the end of each day. The cattle drive is a real working operation, not a staged show. Guests become an integral part of the team, working alongside the ranch’s cowboys to get the job done. McGarry Ranch invites all to join in on an unforgettable cattle drive experience.

Tucked away in the northwest corner of Montana, Mcginnis Meadows Cattle & Guest Ranch offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of a real cattle drive. With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, this authentic working cattle ranch is the perfect setting for an adventure of a lifetime. As you ride through the rolling hills and mountainous terrain, you’ll be immersed in the ranch’s Buck Brannaman-style horsemanship program. With a focus on individualized attention and a low guest-to-wrangler ratio, you’ll receive personalized instruction and guidance every step of the way.

Your Cattle Drive Vacation with the DRA

For more information about a working cattle drive, other unique features of a dude ranch vacation, or to request a brochure, email or call The Dude Rancher’s Association at info@duderanch.org and 307-587-2339.