Published: 6/25/2018 9:16:00 PM
Summer is finally here which means school is out and the days are longer as well as warmer. People everywhere are looking for that perfect destination for their summer vacation. The possibilities are endless. You could choose a beach or lakeside resort, travel overseas or go camping. All these popular options fit the bill but why not do something a little different this year…something a little more adventurous? Think Guest Ranch Vacation!
Great food, spectacular scenery, friendly hosts, and a plethora of activities to choose from are just some of the reasons why you should consider booking a guest ranch stay. Imagine evenings gathered around a campfire under a star-studded sky and days spent outdoors riding, fishing, kayaking or learning a new skill like shooting or archery. There are many reasons why a guest ranch vacation should be your vacation choice this year but here are just a few.
(photo courtesy of Western Pleasure Guest Ranch)
Dude Ranches Offer All-Inclusive Value
Most dude ranches offer all-inclusive vacation packages which makes your vacation stress-free. Comfortable accommodations, meals, snacks and many activities are all included in your upfront costs.
Dude Ranch Vacation Packages
Dude ranches aside from offering basic all-inclusive packages also offer customizable vacation packages. If you want to experience the life of a cowboy for a week you could choose a working ranch and help rustle up the cows, participate in a rodeo and saddle-up your own horse. Or if you prefer a more laid-back approach you could book a spa package available at several ranches and spend the week being treated to relaxing treatments and incredible views. There are so many options to choose from to make your dude ranch vacation tailor-made just for you.
(photo courtesy of Echo Valley Ranch & Spa)
Saddle up and Ride
Horseback riding aficionados will of course be delighted by the idea of a guest ranch vacation; however, those who are new to the sport will also find great joy in saddling up and experiencing the connection that develops between horse and rider as they ride through breath-taking scenery guided by experienced wranglers. Classes are readily available at most guest ranches to help first-time riders feel more comfortable before mounting up and hitting the trail or for those intermediate riders who would simply like to hone their riding skills. Regardless of your skill level you are sure to have an exhilarating time in the saddle and bond with your new equine friend.
(photo courtesy of Klondike Ranch)
Reconnect with Nature & Your Loved Ones
We have never been more “connected” than we are now technologically speaking; however, this “connectedness” comes at a heavy price. We are far too often glued to our PCs, laptops, and smart phones even after office hours or while on vacation. We have forgotten what it is like to be truly present in the moment and to be completely focused on the people that are most important in our lives. Many guest ranches are off the grid so to speak, although the majority of them do offer WiFi in their main lodges for those that simply can’t go cold turkey.
Guest ranches provide a great opportunity to reconnect with nature. They are often situated in places that feature majestic mountainous backdrops, lush green forests or arid deserts that boast incredible sunsets and otherworldly landscapes. It is almost impossible not to feel the grandeur of nature or be awed by the natural beauty that envelops you while staying at one of these amazing locations.
(photo courtesy of Hawley Mountain Ranch)
Learn New Skills
It is always fun to learn a new skill or revel in a sense of accomplishment as you master an activity that is unfamiliar or perhaps even challenging to complete. Guest ranches offer lots of exciting activities to choose from like archery, skeet shooting, rock climbing, rifle shooting, roping, fly fishing, white water rafting and zip lining to name a few. There are countless activities to try that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Many guest ranches feature specialized activities owing to their terrain or resident expert on hand that add to their guests’ enjoyment.
(photo courtesy of Red Reflet Ranch)
Stargazing
Perhaps stargazing isn’t something that immediately comes to mind when planning a vacation, but when was the last time you were able to gaze up into the night sky and be dazzled by hundreds of twinkling stars and constellations overhead, uncluttered by the profusion of city lights and dense pollution? Due to their often-remote locations, guest ranches provide a unique opportunity to appreciate not only incredible scenery by day, but to be able to reflect upon the vastness and infinite beauty of the skies above. Starlit evenings like these are cherished moments to share with those dear to you.
(photo courtesy of Stagecoach Trails Ranch)
Accommodations
Depending on which guest ranch you book you can choose to stay in either cozy, western decorated themed rooms, spacious chalets, cabins or even luxury camping tents. It all comes down to personal preferences.
There are dozens of reasons why a guest ranch destination should be on your summer vacation to do list. Whether you are organizing a family reunion, a vacation with your immediate family, a getaway with friends or just some alone-time with that special someone a guest ranch vacation will not disappoint!
( photo courtesy of Bar W Guest Ranch)
Let RanchSeeker help you find your unforgettable summer vacation. We represent guest ranches all over the USA as well as in Canada,
Happy Trails!
