RanchSeeker Blog

For many couples, February 14th is a special day set aside to rekindle the spark of romance that flames a relationship. Whether a new couple, or long-time soul mates, a romantic get away at a guest ranch can without a doubt be a memorable experience whereby you ignite not only campfire flames, but a passion for the life you share together. There are several things to consider when selecting which guest ranch would be your perfect, romantic winter destination. With an abundance of options for accommodation styles, activity levels and interests you may have as a couple, you will need to do some research when planning. Below are just three guest ranch Valentine’s Day Specials to get you started:

Southern Cross Guest Ranch, considered “One of America’s Best Dude Ranches” by Travel + Leisure Magazine, features quality All-Inclusive vacations in a horse lover’s paradise. The ranch is best known for its exceptional hands-on horseback riding program with unguided riding opportunities and is also home to well over 150 quality Paint and Quarter horses. Conveniently located in Central Georgia’s Historic Heartland and within an hour’s drive from Atlanta the ranch prides itself in providing good old southern hospitality, delightful accommodations, delectable cuisine and stimulating activities all year round. Here you will rediscover life’s more simple pleasures.

Whose relationship doesn't need more play time? Spend a romantic weekend with your special loved one 'Horsing Around' this Valentine's Day at Southern Cross Ranch.

Horses & Romance Couple's Package - February 14-17

-All meals (3x daily) with unlimited snacks and beverages

-Matching couple's Southern Cross Souvenirs

-Incredible Sweetheart Dinner with Champagne and Roses

-2 Tickets to Stefan Thomas Museum of Art 

-2 Tickets to the movies

-One 2 hour ride for two daily 

(one for each night staying)

2 nights* from $289 pp (arrive Fri or Sat**)

3 nights from $379 pp (arrive Thursday or Friday) 

*Only 5 rooms available for 2 night bookings

**No Sweetheart dinner available for Saturday arrival

Please click here to request quote and availability. 

Horseplay for Couples - February 14th

Two Hour Horseback Ride for Two

Sweetheart Dinner with Champagne and Roses

Feb 14th - $199/couple

Expiration date: 01/31/2020

See original offer HERE 

The Ranch at Rock Creek, in stunning Montana, is offering a stress-free couple’s adventure this year.

Big Sky Love Celebration

STAY 4 NIGHTS, RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY 5TH NIGHT

Valentine's & President's Day Weekend | February 13 - 17, 2020

Retreat to wild Montana for powder-filled days and fireside nights. Embrace lofty luxuries like all-inclusive skiing with our Ski Concierge, two daily guided activities, Relais & Châteaux pairing menus and celebration events – like a Champagne and caviar social hour, art in nature class with our artist-in-residence and a romantic sleigh ride through our pristine winter landscape. 

Warm up with artisan hot cocoa or toddies in our Great Room, named one of the world’s best hotel bars by the Forbes Travel Guide Verified List and book a couple’s treatment in the Granite Nature Spa. Whether you cuddle up in a cozy cabin, a hybrid glamping tent or a Granite Lodge suite, one long weekend at the world’s first Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star ranch will forge lifelong memories.

Celebration Details:

• Our all-inclusive rates include luxury accommodations, all gourmet meals, snacks, premium wine, beer and spirits (excluding reserve wines and liquor), on-ranch activities, daily children’s activities, guides, gear and round-trip ground transportation to and from Missoula, Butte and Anaconda airports upon request.

• Rates start at $1,800 per accommodation, per night, based on standard occupancy, plus 20% Ranch Fee.

• Stay restrictions may apply, based on availability.

See original offer HERE  

And finally, for those of you who live in Ten Sleep area in Wyoming Red Reflet Ranch is offering a Valentine's Dinner Special

Bring your sweetheart to the Red Reflet for Valentine's Day and enjoy the romance of the Bighorn Mountains with gorgeous views of our red rock cliffs in sunset while experiencing a special Valentine's dinner complete with champagne and wine pairings.

For more information about this special and to make a reservation click HERE

Red Reflet  is both a working ranch and luxurious Guest Ranch/Resort, that utilizes over 25,000 acres of land which range from 4,200' to 8,300' in elevation, and encompassing many spectacular landscapes.

If you’re are looking to have a Valentine’s Day or winter break together that is full of adventure, then a guest ranch vacation may be a wonderful fit. If your ideal escape is a more laid back, relaxing and tranquil environment, it is easy to find a guest ranch offering serenity and beautiful surroundings as well. Some couples share special interests such as photography, food and wine tastings or specific types of horse-riding experiences. 

With a little advance planning, these can all be incorporated into your romantic getaway for two. Getting away together to celebrate the love you share, while enjoying an incredible guest ranch experience is nothing short of fantastic.So, this year why not consider booking a romantic getaway with that special someone at a guest ranch? 

Happy Trails!

Let Ranchseeker’s easy and free dude ranch search engine help you to find your perfect ranch vacation.

If the ultimate ranch vacation would include the perfect balance of luxury, beautiful surroundings and a spirit of the Old West, then The Ranch at Rock Creek  exceeds these standards by a mile. Located in Montana, the surrounding mountains are the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable western experience.

When booking a ranch stay many guests opt to stay in the Granite Lodge, a spectacular blend of authentic western style, with the polished elements of today’s luxurious amenities. The Lodge is also the base location for the dining room, great room, bar, pool and spa.

The Ranch also offers two other incredible lodging styles; glamping and private log homes. Glamping is above and beyond traditional tenting, although the canvas roofed homes provide an element of being part of the natural surroundings. Each unique glamping cabin offers comfortable, private accommodations, while not losing the elements of an outdoor experience. At the Ranch, they also offer 10 unique, upscale, private log homes that cater to couples or families looking to truly enjoy a luxury ranch feel, with incredible scenic views from every lookout.

An important part of any vacation is the food. The meals served at Rock Creek are nothing short of inspiring. Carefully selected menus are expertly prepared daily, using fresh local, organic ingredients. Paired with fine wine and drinks, guests can enjoy sumptuous meals in the dining room, or Silver Dollar Saloon. A favorite meeting place is also the Blue Canteen, where fresh brew and morning baked goods, light lunches and other snacks are served in their canvas sided canteen.

When thinking of booking a guest ranch vacation horseback riding is what usually jumps to mind; however, aside from experiencing life from atop a horse there are always lots of other fun activities to choose from as well. The Ranch at Rock Creek also offers various enticing ranch specials throughout the year like the following:

See the original source offer HERE

Find your homestead away from home in a luxury log cabin or lodge suite tucked into a pristine winter wonderland. Discover our natural wonders as you enjoy over 20 included winter activities, including downhill skiing, skating and snowshoeing. We’ve planned a week of festive events designed to make this a once-in-a-lifetime winter adventure for families, couples or groups of friends who want to escape the city for a stress-free and quintessential country Christmas at the world’s first Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star guest ranch.

December 21-25, 2019

Make treks through new-fallen snow this Christmas as you escape lift lines and city crowds in favor of a true winter wonderland. Our week of holiday events balances Montana’s natural winter wonders with the quintessential comforts of a country Christmas.

Families and couples revel in a stress-free holiday where we provide transportation, gear, guides and over 20 included activities, such as downhill skiing and snowboarding. Enjoy a fireside drink in a luxury log cabin next to your ranch-harvested Christmas tree or a cozy lodge room filled with the smell of fresh-baked cookies and pastries.

Celebrations at the world’s first Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star guest ranch always feature elegant ranch-to-table dining, festive social hours and first-class homestead hospitality. The mountains are calling this December, and Santa is sure to answer. Will you? 

Celebration Details:

Our all-inclusive rates include luxury accommodations, all gourmet meals, snacks, premium wine, beer and spirits (excluding reserve wines and liquor), on-ranch activities, daily children’s activities, guides, gear and round-trip ground transportation to and from Missoula, Butte and Anaconda airports upon request.

Twice daily winter activities include downhill skiing and snowboarding at Discovery Ski Area with Ski Concierge, gear and transportation.

Rates start at $3,000 per accommodation, per night, based on standard occupancy, plus 20% Ranch Fee.

Stay restrictions may apply, based on availability.

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation today.

Open meadows, tall ponderosa forests and an abundance of wildlife awaits you at this New Mexico guest ranch. Horseback riders or hikers will marvel at the deep canyons and crystal-clear streams that are all part of the Gila National Forest. While you explore the area, you will have the opportunity to learn about the rich history associated with the region. Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch is a small ranch (only 4 cabins) so guests are guaranteed a truly personal atmosphere.

3 Tips for the Best New Mexico Horseback Riding Adventure

For the original blog post click HERE 

There’s no denying that horses played a powerful role in shaping American history. To this day, these mighty, compassionate animals hold a special place in the heart of New Mexico. We welcome all riders to experience one of the last strongholds in the American West on the New Mexico horseback riding adventure of a lifetime! Read on for three essential tips that will prepare you for your journey. For an even more personalized vacation, our ranch owner, Meris, will send you a free guest ranch itinerary. Submit your preferred travel dates and how much you’d like to ride, and we’ll create a customized trip for you within the next 24 to 72 hours!

3 Tips for Your New Mexico Horseback Riding Adventure

1. Get to Know Your Horse

Horses aren’t just a part of history. They are an important part of life to this day on many ranches like Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch! By taking the time to get to know your horse, you will gain a new respect for your equine partner as they carry you on their back through the rugged terrain of the Gila National Forest. Unlike many dude ranches, we get to know our guests on a personal level so that we can match everyone with their ideal horse. Your hosts and wranglers, Meris and Seth will be happy to give you pointers along the way to improve your riding and your relationship with your horse. You’ll also have plenty of one-on-one time with your horse, so you can brush and feed them if you’d like!

2. Ride in Comfort

Before you ride, come prepared with the proper clothing and gear. The last thing that you want is to get too hot, cold or uncomfortable during the middle of your ride. Because of varying elevation and daily temperature swings in the mountains of the Gila National Forest, we recommend wearing light layers. Long sleeves are good protection from the strong sun. You’ll want to wear comfortable jeans and riding or cowboy boots with a heel and a smooth sole. We also recommend pantyhose or padded bike shorts to help prevent chafing. The proper clothing always makes for a much more enjoyable ride.

3. Choose Your Ranch Wisely

When it comes to planning your guest ranch vacation, remember that not all ranches offer the same level of western hospitality and personalization. Always verify that the ranch is a member of the Dude Ranchers’ Association , like Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch. Membership in this association means that a ranch meets the highest standards of excellence in the dude ranch vacation industry. See what some of our guests have said about their experience on Trip Advisor.

Enjoy Unlimited Riding at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch

After a day exploring the region’s history and culture by horseback, extend your cowboy adventure into the night. Join us for an authentic Western meal and a campfire beneath the stars. With the beautiful surroundings of the Gila National Forest, you’ll never experience anything more dazzling than how brightly the stars shine at our ranch. Unlimited horseback riding in the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forest, three home-style meals a day, and comforting amenities are always included with your stay.

Learn more about Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch 

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation today. 

The following blog was written by our good friends over at Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch 

Every Autumn, the skies of Albuquerque put on one of the most enchanting displays in the world. You’ll never experience anything like Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, so if you have yet to attend this magical event, then don’t put it off any longer. Read on to learn more about the 2019 festival. Before or after Balloon Fiesta, enhance your visit with an unforgettable New Mexico road trip. Located in the heart of Gila National Forest, there is no place in The Land of Enchantment quite like Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch! Enjoy horseback riding, home-style cooking, hiking, history, and more. Check our availability and reserve your cabin, below.

RESERVE YOUR CABIN 

How to Plan the Best Trip to Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

About the Festival

The Albuquerque International Balloon Festival is a beloved autumn tradition. Each year, thousands of people from around the world gather to watch hundreds of hot air balloons take flight and paint the skies of New Mexico. This nine-day celebration features hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes. You can look forward to everything from your favorite cartoon characters to glowing balloons by night! Yet, there is more to this international fiesta than its amazing and artistic balloons. Here are a few special events that you can enjoy!

Mass Ascension

Mass Ascension is the most popular event of the festival! For many, this fantastic display is the highlight of their trip. Beginning at 7:00 a.m., all participating balloons launch into the skies. The launches take place in two waves, typically over a two-hour period. Get there early! This amazing event takes place shortly after Dawn Patrol.

Dawn Patrol

Early birds, you are in for a treat! Dawn Patrol typically begins at 5:45 a.m., depending upon the weather. During this time, a special choreographed inflation and launch takes place, complete with music. Glowing balloons fly in the dark sky until it is light enough for pilots to see their landing sites.

The Fireworks Show

End your festival experience with a bang! The festival’s brilliant fireworks show is always a treat. You can look forward to a kaleidoscope of colors brightening the night’s sky, along with spectacular glowing balloons. Please keep in mind that this event is weather dependent!

Tips for Your Trip to the 2019 Hot Air Balloon Festival

The events above are only a few highlights of the 2019 festival! Visit the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival website for a full list of calendar events.

The 2019 festival dates are October 5 through October 13. You can save money on your trip by purchasing your tickets in advance! Special ticket pricing is available now.

Make the Most of Your Trip at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch

Before or after celebrating at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival, pack your bags for the trip of a lifetime. Our guest ranch is surrounded by the boundless beauty of Gila National Forest, making it the perfect place to rest and relax after the excitement of the festival! Unlimited horseback riding, hiking, and three home-style meals are included with your stay. We always fill up quickly during fiesta weeks, so check our availability and plan your trip today. We can’t wait to host you at Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch!

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation today.

If you haven’t read part 1 of this blog series be sure to check it out first before learning more about Double G Ranch. 

Aside from lots of summer activities to enjoy during the warmer months Double G is also a great place to visit when the temperatures drop.

WINTER

Colorado is a veritable winter wonderland during the colder months of the year. Guests experience abundant sunshine, Champagne Powder and low humidity while staying at Double G Ranch.

Hiking, Snowshoe-Walking and Cross-Country Skiing

The BLM (Bureau of Land Management) as well as the Middle Fork of the Cimarrons, Owl Creek Pass, Dry Creek, Black Canyon, Gateway Canyon and many other areas provide endless beautiful trails to explore and enjoy nature and wildlife.

Ice climbing

During the winter Bear Creek Falls, Ames Wall and Ouray Ice Park are in a word simply breathtaking!  If you have ever wanted to try your hand at ice climbing, then these locations are the ideal place to learn.

Snowmobile-Tours, ATV-Quad and Jeep-Tours

The trails around the ranch as well as the surrounding open State Park lands nearby are perfect for the adventurous people in your group seeking off-road fun! Upon request the ranch can hook you up with various rental agencies to suit your needs.

Downhill-Skiing (with and without Heli-Drop)

A short forty-five-minute drive from the ranch will have you skiing down the slopes at Telluride in no time which is considered one of the best ski resorts in Colorado. Aspen, just 3 hours away, as well as Vail, Breckenridge and Deer Valley are also skiing trips that you could combine with your ranch vacation. For those looking for the ultimate ski adventure Double G Ranch can organize a helicopter ride that will drop you off on challenging ski routes coupled with awesome powder conditions. Day trips include orientation, six runs and après ski and they can organize Heli-assisted and guided backcountry ski-tours as well.

Biking

Test your fitness level fat biking on frozen lakes and trails. You’ll spend many unforgettable hours outdoors under the Colorado sun.

Throughout the year there are lots of activities and events that guests can enjoy while staying at Double G Ranch.

Surrounding Activities

• Lakes:

Ridgway-, Silver Jack – and Blue Mesa Reservoir

• Rivers:

Uncompahgre-, Gunnison-, Colorado-, Rio Grande- and Animas River

• Waterfalls:

Chipeta Falls, Box Canyon-, Cascade-, Middle Fork- and Bridal Veil Falls

• Gold Mines:

Bachelor-Syracuse-, Old Hundred Gold- and Pride of the West Mine

• Cities:

Montrose, Ridgway, Cimarron, Ouray, Silverton and Telluride

• Canyons:

Black Canyon, Gateway Canyon and Box Canyon

• and more:

Moab Desert (Utah), Mesa Verde (caves of the Native Americans), Hovenweep (Pueblo buildings), the One-Million-Dollar-Highway, the Great Sand Dunes in South Colorado and the Garden of the Gods

Nearby Double G Ranch you can enjoy plenty of attractions varying from weekly farmer markets to many live concerts. There is always an event going on: from beer-festivals to rodeos as well as marathon-runs.

For more information:

• Ridgway 2019:

During the summer every Thursday  you’ll find Live Concerts and in September Rodeos and many more events.

• Ouray 2019:

Starting from the beginning of June every Thursday you’ll find the Mountain Air Music Series and many other events.

• Montrose 2019:

On July 4th there’s the Independence Day Parade & Fireworks as well as the Annual BBQ and the Black Canyon Quilt Show as well as many more events

• Telluride 2019

In August Telluride presents a big jazz festival as well as the Chamber Music Festival and in September the Blues and Brews Festival takes place as well as many more events  

As you can see no matter what time of year you visit Double G Ranch you are sure to have the vacation of a lifetime!

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation today!

Situated on 40 acres of land in the heart of Western Colorado the Double G Ranch features a completely renovated main building as well as two RV spots and horse accommodations. Located nearby you’ll find open public land which consists of approximately 3000 acres plus a State Park, and two reservoirs which are ideal for fishing, sailing, stand up paddling (SUP), and white-water rafting. The Divide Golf & Country Club as well as four other golf courses close by in Montrose and Delta are perfect for the avid golfer in your group. 

Since the ranch is only a short twenty-minute drive from Montrose guests can take advantage of a variety of shopping and restaurant offerings as well as several convenient connecting flights. United Airlines or American Airlines have direct flights from Denver, Dallas, Houston, Phoenix, Chicago, Los Angeles and Newark. Ridgeway is also only a twenty-minute drive from the ranch. This picturesque “cowboy city” boasts many different restaurants as well as interesting art galleries. Here you will find everything that you need during your holiday.

The ranch’s six newly renovated rooms and suites are furnished in a stylish mix of comfortable “Colorado Country Life” and chic “New York Loft Style” accommodating up to twelve guests in total. Four open fireplaces create a warm and cozy atmosphere for moments of relaxation after a fun-filled day spent outdoors. During the evening relax in their spacious open living/dining area as well as in the separate guest-lounge area complete with a bar, pool-table and open fireplace. A special highlight of the ranch is their expansive deck with easterly and southerly views of the stunning Colorado mountains. A large hot tub combined with mountain vistas, three hundred days of sunshine and wildlife viewing opportunities make for truly memorable moments. 

Mealtimes are always an event unto themselves to be looked forward to while on any vacation. In the morning the delicious aroma of German and American breakfast options attract hungry guests to congregate around the kitchen island. Lunch, upon request, (lunch boxes for the daily trips and rides are provided), are served in the open kitchen/dining/living area or during the summer months on the outside deck. Dinner (priced separately) is served on an inviting banquet table and consists of quality organic beef and seafood dishes. The steaks, burgers and various BBQ meat options are provided by the ranch’s neighbours who operate a sustainable open range farm. Guests can also choose to eat away from the ranch at one of the many restaurants found in Ridgeway, Ouray or Montrose.  

Since Double G Ranch is open not only throughout the warmer months but also during the winter this means that they offer an incredible array of thrilling activities for guests to choose from while on their Colorado guest ranch vacation. 

Summer is almost upon us so below you will find a list of exciting activities that you can take part in over the next few months. Be sure to check back in with us again for our next blog post which will not only outline the sensational winter adventures to be had but also provide other interesting details about this Colorado guest ranch experience.

Summer Activities

Temperatures ranging from 70 – 90 Fahrenheit and plenty of sunshine means that a variety of outdoor activities can be enjoyed during the warmer months. Colorado is truly a magnificent place to be during any season but especially during the summer.

Horseback Riding / Wagon rides

Because of the ranch’s location time spent in the saddle is truly spectacular. The beauty and solitude of the Colorado mountains and landscape is second to none. Ride across free-range cattle pastures where galloping is not only allowed but encouraged for those who are able and after an exciting two hour ride your hosts will welcome you with a well-deserved picnic. Other rides take you through scenic nature parks where abundant fauna and flora are present for your viewing pleasure. Deer, elk and many other wild animals will surely cross your path. 

*The ranch provides horses for guests, but you can also bring your own. The duration of each ride is determined by the ability of your horse. If you do bring your own horse, please be advised that they don’t need shoes on all the trails and the ranch can accommodate up to 10 guest horses. Price per day per horse including food is $20USD. *

**On request and if available you can also participate in small cattle drives. **

Hiking / Running

The BLM (Bureau of Land Management) as well as the Middle Fork of the Cimarrons Owl Creek Pass, Dry Creek, Black Canyon, Gateway Canyon and many other areas offer exciting trails for hikers to explore while reconnecting with nature and the surrounding wildlife.

Rock Climbing

Advanced climbers as well as beginners will find endless climbing opportunities to try out such as the Via Ferrata Climbing Trail in Telluride or in various other high rope courses found nearby.

Off Highway Vehicles (ATV, Jeep, Motocross & Bike Touring)

The trails surrounding the ranch as well as the State Park and open land areas are ideal for off road vehicles. Upon request the ranch can provide several contacts for all types of off-road vehicle rental companies. 

Fishing / Boating / Rafting

Only 10 minutes away from the ranch you will find the Ridgeway Reservoir. Onsite rental companies can provide everything that you need to try your hand at fly fishing, stand up paddling (SUP), motor-boating and water-skiing. For the more adventurous at the Uncompahgre River and Colorado River there are guided tours for white-water rafting and canoe trips. And for those seeking the ultimate “rush” 30 miles away from the ranch you can jump from a 60 ft high cliff into the clear lake in Blue Mesa Park. 

Golf

Only 5 miles away from the ranch avid golfers can take part in a round of golf at the remarkable “ Divide Gold & Country Club” which features unbeatable panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains. Or choose one of the other 4 golf courses located in Montrose and Delta.

Adventure Activities

If you have ever wanted to soar through the sky in a hot air balloon, fly in a helicopter or see the world from above while strapped into a tandem paraglide then this is your chance. Double G Ranch can help you organize your ultimate bucket list items.

As you can see Double G Ranch has something for everyone seeking a vacation of a lifetime.

Happy Trails!

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Thinking about going to Gros Ventre River Ranch? Read on to discover why you should choose this Jackson Hole Valley Ranch. 

See GVVR’s original blog post HERE

There are numerous ranches to choose from in the Jackson Hole Valley, and even more if vacationers look to other areas in Wyoming, or to Montana and Colorado. We are asked frequently by potential guests, “So, what makes the Gros Ventre River Ranch’s Jackson Hole location stand out? Why should I stay with you? What is there to do off of the ranch?”

During your stay with us you’ll get to experience stunning horseback riding, excellent cuisine, and world class fly fishing. But that’s not all; GVRR is also an awesome home base for exploring the greater Jackson Hole area!

National Park Proximity

We are so fortunate to be close to not one, but two National Parks. Grand Teton National Park is about twenty minutes away and offers some of the best hiking in the country. Not an avid hiker? Instead of climbing the 3,000 feet up to Amphitheater Lake, walk the even perimeter of Jenny Lake or ride the ferry across it!

Gros Ventre River Ranch is also only an hour and a half from the South Gate of Yellowstone National Park, America’s first National Park. Yellowstone is truly an astounding place full of geological wonders. Take a day trip and drive the South Loop. You’ll see colorful springs, erupting geysers, and bubbling mud!

Thirty Minutes from the Town of Jackson, WY

We are in Kelly, WY just about thirty minutes from Jackson, WY. We love this distance. Town is an easy drive away, but on the ranch, guests feel relaxed and immersed in the natural beauty of Wyoming, away from the hustle and bustle. Many of our guests enjoy a trip into town during their time with us, so we do recommend renting a car. There is plenty to do: Listen to live music at the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar or spend an evening at the rodeo. If you’re here at the end of July, head to the Teton County Fair!

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch location today.

Fun, adventure and breathtaking scenery await guests at Colorado Trails Ranch located in the San Juan Mountains outside historic Durango, Colorado. For over 53 years the ranch has been offering an authentic dude ranch experience to its visitors. Guest ranch stays are all-inclusive and provide the opportunity to re-connect with family members, create new friends, memories and perhaps learn a new skill. The best way to experience the beauty of the San Juan Mountains is from atop a horse. There are vast mountain ranges, creeks and meadows to explore. It doesn’t matter whether you are a 1st time rider, advanced or fall somewhere in between there are riding options for people off all ages and skill levels. You can choose from morning rides or afternoon rides or both. The more adventurous rider can also take part in team penning and steer soccer, for a small additional charge.

Colorado Trails Ranch offer a vast array of activities to do aside from horseback riding. You will be in trout heaven if you love to fish. If you are new to the sport you can learn the basics of fly-fishing and for the more accomplished fisherman there is the opportunity to try out some more challenging spots where you can test your skills out. Other fun activities to try are white-water rafting, trap shooting, and archery, guided nature hikes in the forests and mountains, volleyball, swimming in the heated pool and power tubing for the kids at the nearby Vallecito Lake. After a fun-filled day it’s time for the nighttime activities to begin. Many of the evening’s events are suitable for both kids and adults to enjoy together. There is Western dancing in the Opera House where you and your family will learn the footwork for square and line dancing. And everyone enjoys ice- cream social night, going on hayrides and cowboy campfire sing-a-longs. One night is always reserved for wood-fired cookout serving up beef tenderloin, chicken breast and all the fixings to be enjoyed under a magnificent Colorado sky. A guest ranch vacation at Colorado Trails Ranch can be as active as you want but it can also be just as relaxing too. You can kick-off your boots and enjoy some quiet time in your comfortable, and beautifully decorated cabin or take a relaxing soak in the ranch’s hot tub under a Colorado starry sky.There truly is something for everyone while visiting Colorado Trails Ranch.

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation today

Happy Trails! 

There is nothing more fun than thinking about where you want to go on your next vacation. This year why not consider putting Spotted Horse Ranch at the top of your travel wish-list? Open May through October, this Wyoming guest ranch, is ideal for travelers who are looking for a more laid-back pace, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Shortly after your arrival you will begin to feel like you have gone back in time to a simpler era in the “American Old West”

Although the day to day pace is more leisurely here it is by no means ever boring! Guests can choose from activities such as fly-fishing, hunting, a scenic float trip on the Snake River or white water rafting for the more adventurous traveler. For those who enjoy hiking there are lots of opportunities to connect with nature as well. 

Of course, staying at a guest ranch for many, is all about horseback riding. The Spotted Horse Ranch, known for their Appaloosa horses, offer daily rides across acres of scenic forest lands. Be sure to bring your camera along to snap pics while you ride through valleys of wildflowers and along river banks surrounded by majestic mountain landscapes. Overnight pack trips are available for guests who would like to experience even more of the “great outdoors” that surrounds the ranch. 

Two nights a week during the summer months the ranch hosts evening cookouts which are always a lot of fun! Nothing quite beats the sound of sizzling steaks and the sweet smell of marshmallows cooking over an open-fire coupled with live entertainment provided by local talent. There is also volleyball, ping-pong, square dancing and horseshoes to try your hand at while taking a break from the more energetic activities. For the ultimate in rest and relaxation, guests can visit local hot springs for a dip in a natural “hot tub.” 

Accommodations consist of comfortable individual log cabins featuring modern conveniences from home or spacious rooms that include private baths with a western-style décor which embodies the true spirit of the West. In the main lodge you’ll find the dining room which overlooks the Hoback River as well as a living-room with a beautiful rock fireplace and lounge. Other main features include a sauna, whirlpool, video library, and laundry facility.          

A vacation at Spotted Horse Ranch provides adventure as well as perfectly blended moments of relaxation. You decide just how active you want to be during your stay. With a true sense of the ‘old west’ and the hospitality that makes each guest feel at home, this Wyoming guest ranch should be high on your travel wish-list this year.

Happy Trails!

Let RanchSeeker help you find your ideal guest ranch vacation.

This year when planning your next vacation for your family, spouse or friends why not choose a guest ranch vacation? You don't have to be a cowboy or even know how to ride a horse to have a great time. Here are 5 reasons you should check out the ranches on RanchSeeker today. 

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. Many ranches also have swimming pools, hot tubs and saunas.

( Photo courtesy of White Stallion Ranch)

Dude Ranch Vacation Packages Many dude ranches aside from offering basic all-inclusive vacation packages also offer customizable vacation packages. If you want to be a “real cowboy” for a week you can 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 choose a spa package at one of the many ranch spa resorts and spend the week being treated to relaxing treatments and incredible views. There are many vacation packages available that you can choose from to make your dude ranch vacation tailor-made for you.

(Photo courtesy of New Haven Ranch)

Horseback Riding If you love horses then a dude ranch vacation is definitely for you. Whether you are an experienced rider or will be riding for the first-time responsible wranglers will help you find the right horse for you. Enjoy riding through forests, surrounded by majestic mountains, or through canyons alongside rushing rivers or even take a ride through an arid desert surrounded by green cacti. Many ranches will pair you with a horse at the beginning of the week who will be yours for the rest of your stay so be prepared to make a new friend.

(Photo courtesy of Geronimo Trail Guest Ranch) 

Dude Ranches Are Close To Nature A dude ranch vacation is all about the scenery – unplugging from technology and connecting with nature. Riding and hiking trails always lead to the very best of the surrounding landscapes that are inaccessible any other way. Re-connect with the world around you.

(Photo courtesy of Hawley Mountain Ranch) 

Spend Quality Time Together With today's modern dude ranches offering so many activities there is something for everyone of all ages. Whether you are traveling with your family, spouse or good friends you are bound to find something that interests everyone in your group. Many dude ranches offer kid-friendly programs so be sure to ask them. Vacations are about making memories and spending time together.

(Photo courtesy of Echo Valley Ranch & Spa) 

Still not sure whether a dude ranch vacation is what you are looking for?

Check out our SEARCH FOR RANCHES tab and read more about each ranch listed on RanchSeeker.  

Happy Trails!