Dude Ranch Vacations
Although there are a number of options available when it comes to finding that perfect family vacation, it is important to consider all aspects of a vacation before arranging and committing to your choice of adventures. If your family is interested in a unique experience this year, and would like to enjoy the adventures of cattle drives and campfires, a dude ranch vacation might be just what you are looking for.
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What is a Dude Ranch?
A dude ranch is a ranch that is designed to cater to the needs of paying guests. The history of dude ranches began in the late 1800’s when paying “dudes” would vacation at ranches to experience the adventures of the Old West. As the years progressed, the romantic ranches that were designed to depict the Old West became a more attractive vacation site for men, women, couples and families as a way to reunite with nature. These days, there are a variety of types of dude ranches available that are intended to meet the needs of vacationers from all income levels and lifestyles.
What Types of Dude Ranches Exist Today?
The dude ranches of today vary from working ranches that demonstrate the life of the Old West to more luxurious ranches that simply allow guests to enjoy the atmosphere and peace of the outdoors, to pretty much everything in between.
In most cases, people who are guests at working dude ranches are expected to work alongside the ranchers while herding cattle, gardening, and performing other chores that are common in the day-to-day life of a rancher. Some ranches focus on activities such as horseback riding and working in the arena, hunting of both native and imported animals, or simply enjoying the campfire sing-a-longs and peace as guests reunite with nature.
Preparing for a Dude Ranch Vacation
In the event that you decide to take a dude ranch vacation, it is important to consider the type of experience you wish to enjoy. If you prefer a busier style of vacation with realistic veiws of the true West, you might wish to check more deeply into working dude ranches and what they have to offer. More adventurous vacationers might enjoy a ranch that focuses on hunting or horseback riding. If you are simply looking for a luxurious or romatic experience, a ranch that offers more amenities and focuses on the comfort of their guests might be for you.
Some dude ranches are only open to guests during certain seasons or holidays, while others remain open throughout the year. If cost is of importance to you, you might consider investigating the options of an off season vacation, which is typically more personal while offering lower rates.
How to Find Out More Information About Dude Ranches
There are a number of organizations that provide helpful information about the dude ranches and guest ranches, as well as other types of family vacations. Check with area visitor’s centers and Chamber of Commerce facilities for more in depth information.
Jonathon Blocker is very familiar with information about how to find the ideal family vacations. Jon refers to The C Lazy U Guest Ranch & Resort for the best Colorado vacations at a reasonable price.
