Strap On Cowboy
There's nothing quite like the American Wild West. From vast plains, rugged mountains, and majestic horses, it's no wonder thousands of people are itching for their own cowboy-themed vacation. Whether you're planning a Western-themed trip or simply want to get lost in the wilds of America, here are 20 dude ranches many agree are the best around.
1. C Lazy U Ranch, Granby CO
Located in the secluded Colorado mountains, the family-owned C Lazy U Ranch is full of exciting activities and beautiful scenery. The accommodations have gorgeous fireplaces and a Western-inspired decor, while the outdoors are nothing short of breathtaking. The ranch is open year-round and offers a wide range of exciting summer activities, as well as skiing and snow tubing during the winter.
2. Alisal Ranch, Solvang CA
Alisal Ranch is a family-owned luxury ranch located in the backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains. With over 70 private cottages, more than 100 horses trained to ride over 50 miles of trails, there’s no lack of fun activities and cozy settings. One of the biggest attractions of Alisal Ranch is the water activities, which include fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the lake.
Daniel Lloyd Blunk-Fernández on Unsplash
3. The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch, Shell WY
One of the most relaxing locations in all of Wyoming is The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch. This all-inclusive riding ranch has incredibly cozy log cabins that will make you feel more connected with nature, with daily activities being very focused on riding horses and working with cattle. If you are planning on making a trip here, make sure you book in advance, as the owners only host about 25 people a week for a six-night stay at a time.
4. White Stallion Ranch, Tucson AZ
A visit to the White Stallion Ranch leaves a lasting sense of excitement and wonderful new experiences. While there are lots of activities to take part in, such as rock climbing, archery, and horseback riding, there’s also evening entertainment that takes place at the end of every day, accompanied by amazing food. If this ranch looks familiar to you, that’s probably because it was the filming location for a great number of Western films and television series.
5. The Bar W Guest Ranch, Whitefish MT
Just 30 miles from Glacier National Park lies the scenic family-owned Bar W Guest Ranch. Whether you enjoy lake activities, hiking into the wilderness, playing lawn games, or learning how to throw a hatchet, this ranch has got you covered. You can also enjoy your evenings around the campfire while listening to the cowboys sing songs.
6. Western Pleasure Guest Ranch, Sandpoint ID
The Western Pleasure Guest Ranch sits on land owned by the same family since 1940. The experience at this ranch is one you won’t soon forget, including amazing country gourmet meals, horseback rides, Dutch oven cookouts, and songs around the campfire. The ranch also has a great educational program for kids between the ages of 8 and 18 that teaches them horse husbandry skills and equipment care.
7. Brush Creek Ranch, Saratoga WY
Brush Creek Ranch offers a more luxurious all-inclusive experience when compared to most other ranches. With over 30,000 acres of land, there’s an abundance of activities to take part in, some of which include wine tasting, spa treatments, cooking classes, ATV rides, rope courses, and most interesting of all, goat yoga. This ranch is also great for a romantic getaway, as it includes amazing amenities for couples.
8. Drowsy Water Ranch, Granby CO
This family-owned and operated ranch in Granby, Colorado has been offering an authentic Western experience to their guests for well over 90 years. The ranch is open from June to September and offers a great number of activities, some of which include a full-day float trip on the Colorado River, hayrides, guided hikes, and much more. If you love horses, the Drowsy Water Ranch has got you covered with activities such as horse brushing, horseback riding, and horse shows.
9. Red Horse Mountain Ranch, Harrison ID
The Red Horse Mountain Ranch is a breathtaking location for a weeklong vacation. In addition to the wonderful mountain lodging, the rates include chef-prepared meals, complimentary drinks for adults, guided adventures through the mountain, and of course, horseback riding. With incredible views, relaxing private hot tubs, and a plethora of activities, this ranch might be exactly what you were looking for.
10. The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg MT
The Ranch at Rock Creek offers a luxury experience for anyone looking for a historic Western getaway. Open all year long, the ranch features an incredible 36 activities and adventures that are sure to leave you wanting more. On top of the incredible lodging, views, and activities, The Ranch at Rock Creek has a world-class cuisine menu that will leave a lasting impression.
11. Rainbow Trout Ranch, Antonito CO
The authentic Wild West experience is exactly what the Rainbow Trout Ranch promises and delivers every single time. From the rustic log cabins to the historic Grand Lodge, you can relax and let all your worries disappear. Your stay at this ranch is all but guaranteed to be filled with fun and excitement, as well as soothing views and relaxing ambience.
12. Tanque Verde Ranch, Tucson AZ
The Tanque Verde Ranch is located on the historic property bordering both Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest. There are 69 luxury accommodation options that feature traditional Southwestern architecture and decor. Aside from many outdoor activities and amenities, some of the things to look forward to are the cowboy cookouts and the evening entertainment.
13. Nine Quarter Circle Ranch, Gallatin Gateway MT
Family-owned for the third generation so far, the Nine Quarter Circle Ranch offers an authentic Western experience of days spent riding horses and a look back into how the cowboy life used to be. The views and scenery are absolutely stunning and filled with wildlife and nature. When you are done with a day full of fun, excitement, and taking in the outdoors, you will be greeted with a home-cooked meal you won’t soon forget.
14. Lost Valley Ranch, Sedalia CO
Lost Valley Ranch gives guests a Rocky Mountain-style experience full of exciting adventures and activities. This family-owned ranch has made sure that every room is equipped with all the amenities you will need to feel cozy and relaxed. During the spring and summer, guests can take guided horseback rides to enjoy the scenery, as well as more hands-on activities like archery, pickleball, or trapshooting.
15. Flathead Lake Lodge, Bigfork MT
Flathead Lake Lodge is a family-owned ranch on the shores of Flathead Lake. The mountain-inspired ambience and gorgeous log cabins will make you feel cozy and comfortable during your entire stay. On top of the classic ranch pastimes, Flathead Lake Lodge also offers some more unique activities, such as sailing and kayaking, giving you a great blend of ranch and lake activities.
16. Wildcatter Ranch & Resort, Graham TX
Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Wildcatter Ranch & Resort will provide you with a rustic and fun-filled experience. With amenities like an infinity pool, hot tubs, roping, archery, and a spear range, there is an activity for everyone. The cabins have wooden beds and stone fireplaces that will make you feel cozy and relaxed during your stay.
17. 320 Guest Ranch, Gallatin Gateway MT
The 320 Guest Ranch is one of the most beautiful and charming ranches in Montana. The cabins offer a cozy lodging experience inside log cabins that will make you want to stay there forever, especially with the delicious breakfast served in the morning. One of the biggest attractions at this ranch is the world-class fly fishing, as well as soapmaking.
Christopher Zarriello on Unsplash
18. Vista Verde Guest Ranch, Steamboat Springs CO
Vista Verde Guest Ranch offers a luxury all-inclusive experience to anyone who visits. Located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, it’s home to 100 horses and a getaway vacation you’ll never forget. The ranch offers gourmet meals, incredible amenities, and the absolutely breathtaking wilderness all around the location.
19. Mountain Sky Guest Ranch, Emigrant MT
Since it was opened back in 1929, the Mountain Sky Guest Ranch has been providing guests with nothing but the best when it comes to their services and ranch activities. Combining the rustic Western charm with modern-day amenities, this ranch offers a variety of luxury activities while being in the middle of breathtaking wilderness. The ranch staff is dedicated to making every guest feel special and enjoy their stay as much as possible.
20. Darwin Ranch, Jackson WY
The Darwin Ranch is the most remote guest ranch in the United States, offering some of the most beautiful views and scenery out there. You are sure to find peace and quiet while enjoying your stay here, which will be accompanied with some of the most delicious food you’ll ever taste. While being cozy and eating well is one of the more attractive things about this ranch, it does not lack in activities, some of which are fly fishing, hiking, and of course, horseback riding.
