Dude Ranch 101
When the kids get back on the bus it’s time for parents to get back in the saddle for a classic Western getaway. From the latter part of August through October, dude ranches are a couples’ best bet to rekindle romance and replenish spirit. And the price is right too!
The height of summer finds most ranches filled to capacity with families. In fall couples have their pick of dude ranches with September traditionally a time for adults only. No need to break the bank for airfare, car rentals or a dozen tanks of gas, since for many American’s and Canadians, a ranch is found within less than a day’s drive. And with rates including meals, riding, other activities, and accommodations, it becomes an even more attractive getaway.
To narrow the search and ensure high quality standards, consider only ranches belonging to The Dude Ranchers’ Association. There are more than 100 DRA, as it’s known, ranches in the Western US and Canada. Since 1926, the DRA has kept the bar raised high for the industry. Travelers can be assured of an authentic Western experience and high standards of quality at any DRA ranch.
Spectacular dude ranch scenery is at an all time high in autumn when aspens sport yellow cloaks and icy mountain streams swirl with fat trout. These are the conditions found at Northern California’s Hunewill Ranch. Just East of Yosemite National Park, couples have their pick of packages this fall. There’s the “Escape to the Ranch” weekend package in early September, or in the latter part of the month an “Autumn Getaway.” For those with a little more time the “Fall Color Ride,” September 27 – October 1 is a dramatic adventure.
The only traffic passing Waunita Hot Springs Ranch is an elk or two. Perched high in the Colorado Rockies, surrounded by Gunnison National Forest land, time is measured only by shadows cast by the sun. Add to the remote location an immense swimming pool, bathhouse and hot tub fed by natural hot springs and any cares or worries melt away. The remote retreat caters to adults only August 25 – September 28.
“An outpost of unpretentious comfort” is how folks describe the Spotted Horse Ranch in NW Wyoming. An Orvis affiliate, and host to a trout fishing school, The Spotted Horse draws riders and angler from all over the world. Sixteen miles from the Western resort town of Jackson Hole, it’s far enough away from the action that guests can enjoy solitude, but get a taste of city amenities like art galleries, fine shopping and sizzling nightlife. In September and October this Wyoming paradise is reserved for adults only.
The Dude Ranchers’ Association was formed in 1926 to preserve this special way of life and the wonderful environment in which dude ranching takes place. When you vacation at a Dude Ranchers’ Association Dude Ranch, you can be sure of a quality vacation. Membership in the Association is a rigorous two year inspection and approval process, to assure that guests are treated to genuine western hospitality combined with the lodging industry’s highest standards. Our Dude Ranches offer all-inclusive vacations that are perfect for everyone, from the littlest rancher to Grandpa and Grandma. Horseback riding, hiking, petting zoos, swimming holes, rodeos, fishing, games, skeet shooting, archery, art classes, cooking classes and more await your discovery on your next Dude Ranch Vacation. Horses, Hats, History and Hospitality – they’re the foundation of every ranch. There is a little cowboy in all of us… come find yours…
