RanchSeeker Blog

February 14th is just around the corner and although any time during the year is a great time to visit one of RanchSeeker’s beautiful guest ranches Valentine’s Day is a wonderful reason to book a last minute getaway with that special someone in your life. Take romance to the next level and book a vacation stay where you will be surrounded by nature, wildlife, clean air and a star-filled night sky. Book a spa appointment for two, get outdoors and ride a horse or try one of the various fun activities available for your enjoyment. When the sun dips below the horizon enjoy a romantic dinner and afterwards take in the breathtaking view of a star-filled sky or relax in a hot-tub before retiring to either a cozy room or private cabin with your partner. Here are 3 guest ranches that are offering Valentine’s Day specials:  

Coffee Creek Ranch, Trinity Center, California  

Coffee Creek Ranch was founded in 1900 and is surrounded by National Forest and the Trinity Alps wilderness area in Northern California. Its 367 acres lie along Coffee Creek, an excellent Fly Fishing stream for trout! They are located 72 miles Northwest of Redding, 8 miles above Trinity Lake. Special Offer:

• $100 off Romantic weekend getaways if guests book anytime in February
• Gift certificates available for special occasions.
• Total cost for a 2 night 3 day weekend is usually $899 but for February it only costs $799 “it’s a heart of a deal”
• Includes a bottle of wine.

 Red Reflet Ranch, Ten Sleep, Wyoming  

The Red Reflet is both a working cattle ranch and luxurious resort located on over 27,000 acres in the Wyoming Big Horn Mountains. The landscapes vary from red rimrock to rolling foot hills to aspen forests, limestone canyons, and mountain meadows. If you live in the area take advantage of this gourmet Valentine’s Day Dinner. Special Offer: Red Reflet Ranch Dinner Reservation The Red Reflet Ranch Lodge is open to the public and you are welcome to join them! Each menu is inspired by a theme and flavor profile.

• Prices: Dinner $50 per adult, $30 per child ages 12 & under, unless noted otherwise.  Includes multi-course meal, tea, lemonade, coffee with dessert, tax & gratuities.  Additional beverages paid the night of.
• Full bar service including wine, beer, liquor and sodas, additional charge.
• Reservations required.  Non-refundable prepayment required to secure reservation.
• For those who would like to spend a night or two stay in one of their luxurious and romantic chalets. $250 plus taxes per couple includes breakfast items stocked in chalet.

Red Reflet Valentine's Day Dinner

Nestled in one of Montana’s most pristine valleys, The Ranch at Rock Creek offers year-round unique vacations on an authentic 19th century homestead. They balance Western adventure with lavish all-inclusive amenities. Special Offer: This Valentine’s Day celebration includes a barn dance, tasting menus, champagne pairings and complimentary Snowga. Extend your stay to four or six nights and receive a complimentary day of downhill skiing or a treatment in the Granite Spa.

• 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 and gear.
• Weekend festivities include complimentary group yoga and Snowga, as well as tasting menus, a barn dance and champagne pairings.
• Rates start at $1,600 per accommodation, per night, based on standard occupancy, plus 20% Ranch Fee.
• Minimum three-night stay, based on availability.
• Book a 4-night stay to take advantage of the 2016 Ski & Spa Special.

So what are you waiting for surprise that special someone today and take advantage of these great guest ranch offers!

Happy Trails!  

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!  It takes a lot of work to make this the most perfect day of your life. The biggest concern is the wedding venue and honeymoon destination. You want to be able to celebrate, relax and spend time as newlyweds without a worry in the world. A dude ranch is the perfect combination for a dream wedding and honeymoon..... a truly unique outdoor wedding for you and your guests away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Why Is A Dude Ranch The Perfect Choice? Staying in a private log cabin in an idyllic setting is the perfect adventure as a newly married couple. Your entire family and friends can join you for a beautiful and romantic wedding. Ranches can normally accommodate everyone on the guest list, depending on group size, which will relieve you of the responsibility of booking hotel rooms.  Dude ranches also offer a wide range of activities that your guests (and kids) can enjoy, which also saves you the job of providing entertainment.

At a dude ranch, you will be up close with nature, surrounded by panoramic views and wildlife sightings, making it the perfect backdrop for an outdoor wedding. Also, your schedule can be customized for you and your guests to participate in many of the various activities on offer, be it trail riding, shooting range, hiking, swimming, fishing or rafting. For relaxation, many dude ranches now offer fully-equipped spas, for that all-important massage to soothe away the stresses of wedding planning and beauty treatments to help you look your very best on this most special day!  In-house spas are usually much appreciated by your guests as well.

Perfect Dude Ranch Destinations for Your Wedding and Honeymoon While there are many dude ranches that can make your big day a memorable experience, here are three that are situated in amazing locations and which offer a variety of activities:

Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch

This dude ranch is located in the Southern USA among the beautiful mountains of the Gila National Forest in New Mexico. It is a small ranch, which is why booking the entire place for your wedding and honeymoon will give you and your guests the freedom of feeling entirely at home. You can hike or horse-ride through the luscious forest among the wildlife all the way up to the hill for a breathtaking view of deep canyons and streams of crystal-clear water. They also provide tours for several historic sites and swimming in the creek! Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch offers 5% off to honeymooners.

Chilcotin Holidays

This dude ranch is located in the Canadian north among the snow-capped mountains of British Columbia. Here you can go trail riding, target shooting and also take lasso lessons. This ranch will give you a true cowboy experience. They have a vast selection of packages which include animal tracking, hiking and mountain biking, fishing, and other adventurous activities. The ranch has a secluded honeymoon cabin available that promises the utmost privacy during your stay. You can upgrade from any package to the honeymoon cabin as well.

Echo Valley Ranch

Echo Valley Ranch is also located in British Columbia, about a 5 hour drive from Vancouver. This luxury dude ranch has an East-West theme and boasts 2 world class spas. One spa focuses on European spa treatments while the other on Thai spa treatments. If you are looking to get pampered during your wedding, then Echo Valley Ranch is the dude ranch for you.

Weddings at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa are a perfect opportunity to bring together the family and celebrate in a spectacular and serene setting. Wedding parties have the exclusive use of the whole ranch, so your family and friends can settle in, spread out and be comfortable. The ranch can accommodate up to 50 persons for overnight stays and has an awesome, discreetly located, honeymoon cabin for the bride and and groom. From hair to makeup, from the wedding cake to the reception, the Echo Valley team help you plan the perfect wedding, so you and your guests can simply relax and enjoy this all-important day. So, if you are looking for an active and fun-filled honeymoon amid unforgettable scenery for a wedding to really "wow" your guests and become a cherished memory, then a dude ranch is the perfect choice!

Веtwееn wоrk, kids, house chores, a social calendar аnd еvеrуthіng еlsе in between lіfе саn сеrtаіnlу bе quite hесtіс. Аftеr а whіlе, уоu can stаrt tо fееl lіkе а rоbоt running on auto-pilot. Іt саn bе ехhаustіng and  mаkе уоu fееl оvеrwhеlmеd аnd rundоwn.

Еvеrуоnе nееds а lіttlе rеst аnd rеlахаtіоn frоm tіmе-tо-tіmе. Ѕоmеtіmеs, уоu јust nееd tо tаkе а brеаk frоm thе rеgulаr rоutіnе аnd focus on your happiness and wellness. Аftеr аll, уоu саn’t ехресt tо bе hарру whеn уоu аrе fееlіng run-dоwn аnd оvеrwоrkеd.

Ѕо, whаt’s thе bеst wау tо еаsе thе strеssеs аnd tеnsіоns thаt hаvе  mаdе уоu fееl sо оvеrwhеlmеd? Тhе bеst wау tо dо thіs іs tо tаkе а vасаtіоn.

Неrе’s а lооk аt sоmе оf thе surе-fіrе sіgns thаt уоu shоuldn’t іgnоrе thаt dеfіnіtеlу іndісаtе thаt уоu nееd tо tаkе а vасаtіоn.

8 Signs Іt’s Тіmе tо Рlаn а Vасаtіоn

1.) Do you feel more irritable, impatient and on edge that even thе smаllеst lіttlе thіng (lіkе а sрооn fаllіng оn thе flооr) becomes a huge issue and mаkеs уоu snар at others? If so, you may be overstressed and headed for burnout

2.) Аrе уоu аlwауs feeling tіrеd аnd rundоwn? Are you wаkіng uр mоrе ехhаustеd thаn уоu wеrе whеn уоu wеnt tо bеd even though уоu gоt рlеntу оf slеер? Do уоu fееl lіkе уоu аrе drаggіng уоursеlf аrоund every day and fееl lіkе уоu саn’t snар оut оf іt? Sounds like you have already burned out and need a recharge

3.) Are you making more mistakes at work? Chronic stress often leads to increased errors in the workplace and counterproductive work practices. Try to finish up any open projects while double and triple checking your work and then plan a vacation.

4.) Dо уоu fееl lіkе уоu јust аrеn’t hарру? Еvеn during tіmеs whеn уоu shоuld bе very hарру, уоu саn’t seem to fіnd thе јоy іn аnуthіng? Dо hоlіdауs, bіrthdауs, sреndіng tіmе wіth уоur lоvеd оnеs, оr еvеn јust sіttіng dоwn аnd trуіng tо rеlах sееm lіkе mоrе оf а chore  thаn sоmеthіng enjoyable? Іf sо, thеn іt’s рrоbаblу а рrеttу sаfе bеt thаt уоu nееd tо hаvе sоmе tіmе аwау.

5.) Do you constantly have aches and pains in your body? Headaches? Back problems? Tightness in the shoulders. When people are in stressful situations their bodies release chemicals that trigger inflammation and increase their sensitivity to pain. It’s time to take a well deserved break.

6.) Do you have trouble sleeping? Stressed or overworked people tend to have trouble winding down and falling sleep and also feeling rested. This could lead to daytime sleepiness as well from the lack of sleep.

7.) Do you rеmеmbеr thе lаst tіmе уоu sаt dоwn аnd hаd а соnvеrsаtіоn wіth уоur sіgnіfісаnt оthеr оr уоur fаmіlу thаt dіdn’t hаvе tо dо wіth wоrk or chores, thеn іt іs аbsоlutеlу tіmе tо рlаn а vасаtіоn to spend lots of quality time with your loved ones.

8.) Are you overindulging in food or alcohol? Many who are stressed will reach for their favourite comfort foods or drinks as a coping mechanism to get them through their days. This could lead to unhealthy addictions. It’s best to address the problem and take some time off.

Іf аnу оf thе аbоvе dеsсrіbеs уоu аnd hоw уоu аrе fееlіng, thеn іt іs сеrtаіnlу tіmе thаt уоu stаrt thіnkіng аbоut рlаnnіng а vасаtіоn. Whеrе shоuld уоu gо аnd whаt shоuld уоu dо? Wеll, оnе аwеsоmе орtіоn іs tо go оn а dudе rаnсh vасаtіоn. Νоt оnlу wіll уоu hаvе thе орроrtunіtу tо hаvе а grеаt tіmе with your loved ones in the great outdoors and not have to worry about meals (they are included and many have gourmet chefs), You can also enjoy many different types of vacations from relaxing and pampering to adventurous and active! Search our database of dude ranches and start planning that well deserved break!

The winter season will soon be upon us and probably faster than many of us would like, I am sure, but just because the temperature drops it doesn’t mean that fun times are over. In fact, wintertime means that there are lots of new adventures to be experienced and enjoyed with friends and loved ones. Guest ranches are an excellent option to consider when booking your winter wonderland escape. Though several guest ranches do close down during this period there are many that stay open all year round and thy offer a diverse range of activities to choose from. Here are a few of the guest ranches that offer winter vacation packages:

The Laughing Water Guest Ranch, Fortine, Montana:

Nestled against the foot hills of the Whitefish Divide and just a short drive from Glacier National Park, The Laughing Water Guest Ranch is a true Montana, Rocky Mountain trail riding ranch. During the winter months the Laughing Water Guest Ranch has lots to offer its guests. With over 220 acres of gentle rolling timber and pasture land you will find that your days can be as busy as you like or as relaxed as you like. Your stay is custom fitted for you. Choose from activities like horseback riding in the snow, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, ice fishing and one day spent dog sledding. For an additional charge guests can go down-hill skiing at Whitefish Mountain as well as back country powder skiing and snowmobiling.

The Laughing Water Ranch

The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg, Montana:

Located in one of Montana’s most pristine valleys, The Ranch at Rock Creek offers year-round unique vacations on an authentic 19th century homestead. Here Western adventure is balanced with lavish all-inclusive amenities. This season make the most out of winter and book the 2016 Winter Ski & Spa Special. Within less than a mile of your accommodations, you will find a skating pond, sledding hills, cross country skiing trails, sleigh rides and a relaxing spa. Book a six-day stay and you’ll receive $700 in additional value, including complimentary spa treatments and downhill skiing at Discovery Ski Area–a Montana alpine ski hill with 67 runs and short lift lines. Offer Details: Rates start at $1,600 per accommodation, per night based on standard occupancy, plus 20% Ranch Fee. Offer valid on new reservations only for travel between January 3 and March 31, 2016. Offer is not combinable with other promotions and cannot be redeemed for cash or credit. A four (4) night minimum stay is required. Complimentary amenities depend on length of stay. All guests are strongly encouraged to plan their itineraries related to their complimentary amenities prior to their arrival to secure preferred timing. Standard RC Inclusions: luxury accommodations; all gourmet meals; premium wine, beer, spirits and other beverages; a selection of gear and guided on-ranch activities

The Ranch at Rock Creek

Vista Verde Ranch, Steamboat Springs, Colorado:

Situated in the Elk River Valley this Colorado guest ranch features luxurious cabins and spacious lodge rooms. During the winter months Vista Verde Ranch becomes a veritable winter wonderland. Come hideout in a cozy log cabin with a private hot tub and enjoy delicious, freshly prepared meals in between adventures out in the snow. Christmas and New Year’s weeks are perfect for families looking for a special way to celebrate the holidays.  Then, from early January until mid-February the ranch becomes available to adults only until President’s Day weekend rolls around and the kid’s program kicks back into gear. While staying at Vista Verde Tanch during the winter you can take a sleigh-ride or strap on some skis and try a variety of styles of Nordic skiing from classic to skate to back country. There’s also snow-shoeing, “fat” biking (bikes with wide tires that allow you to bike across snowy terrain) and snow tubing. The ranch also offers their riding program during the winter months as well as photography lessons, yoga, spa treatments and weekly cooking lessons and wine tastings.

Vista Verde Ranch

Western Pleasure Guest Ranch, Sandpoint, Idaho:

Located on 1100 acres, you will be treated to true western hospitality while surrounded by the scenic beauty of North Idaho while staying at Western Pleasure Guest Ranch. During the winter months you can choose from 5 different packages as the guest ranch is transformed by a blanket of white snow. Log Cabin or Lodge Room Getaway Schweitzer Ski Packages: This all-inclusive ski package includes two nights lodging for two in one of their cozy, log cabins or lodge rooms, one day of skiing at Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort, a romantic horse drawn sleigh ride for two, and a hearty ranch breakfast served in the main lodge for two mornings. Snowmobile Package: If you are looking for adventure then this package is for you! Come enjoy the grandeur of the back country wilderness by snowmobile. You will experience two evenings of comfort in either a cozy lodge room or one of our private log cabins. Your stay at Western Pleasure will also include a hearty ranch breakfast. Spa Package: For those of you who are looking for a relaxing winter get-a-way, try this spa package. Your stay will begin with a sleigh ride and accommodations that include two nights in a modern rustic log cabin or choose one of their spacious guest rooms. Both mornings include a hearty ranch breakfast. Indulge yourself in a day of absolute pampering while you enjoy the services and beautiful facility at the Spa at Seasons in Sandpoint. Your “Time Together” package will include (2) 50-Minute Massages and (2) Spa Pedicures. Cross-Country Ski Package: If you want to get out and enjoy the snow, but are looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of the ski mountain this is the package for you. Two nights lodging for two, your own private horse drawn sleigh ride and a hearty ranch breakfast served in the lodge is only part of what this package has to offer. ***Be sure to check which dates these packages are available when booking***    

Western Pleasure Guest Ranch

Tod Mountain Ranch, Heffley Creek, British Columbia:

Hidden in the Louis Creek Valley, surrounded by mountains, this Canadian guest ranch is small and exclusive and offers a relaxing, tranquil environment. Available for group bookings, Tod Mountain Guest Ranch is the perfect relaxing winter getaway. Only 15 minutes away from Sun Peaks Ski Resort means that guests can enjoy all the fun, outdoor activities of Sun Peaks during the day, and then relax in comfort at the ranch in the evening. Sun Peaks Resort, the 2nd largest Ski Resort in Canada, has over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain and 126 runs.  

Activities include:

• Downhill skiing & snowboarding
• Snobikes
• Snow shoeing
• Dog sledding
• Skating Rink
• Cross Country Skiing
• Snowmobiling
• Tubing & Tobogganing
• Ski School

As you can see there is lots to do at a guest ranch during the winter months. From sleigh-rides, skiing and snowmobiling to spa treatments, yoga classes and wine tastings you are sure to find the ideal guest ranch for you and your family and friends!

Happy Trails!

When you think about California a dude ranch vacation may not be the first vacation choice that immediately comes to mind but “The Golden State” has several Western dude ranches to choose from and Coffee Creek Ranch is just one of them. Located in the Trinity Alps wilderness area you will find snow-capped mountains, cascading waterfalls, lush meadows, sparkling lakes and one of Northern California’s finest guest ranches. The most popular activity at Coffee Creek Ranch is horseback riding. The ranch breeds its own AQHA and Paint horses for guests to use on one of their two scheduled rides per day. You can choose from the “Breakfast Ride” or the all-day “Wilderness Ride” that takes guests to a picturesque lake. For the more adventurous the all-day ride can be extended into an overnight pack trip that returns the next day. With access to over 833 miles of scenic trails picture-postcard views of the Trinity Alps Wilderness area await you. Be sure to pack your camera!

 
Coffee Creek Guest Ranch

Other activities include mountain hiking and biking, swimming in a heated pool, soaking in the outdoor Jacuzzi, badminton, volleyball, horseshoes, pedal boating, table tennis, gold panning and basketball. You can also test your skills at the rifle and archery range. Bingo, square & line dancing, Karaoke and a talent show round off the fun list of activities that guests can choose from while staying at the ranch. Accommodations at the ranch feature secluded, rustic, cozy cabins. One ranch house room and one cabin is handicapped friendly and most of the family cabins have wood burning stoves that are just perfect to set the mood for a “romantic weekend getaway” for couples. Meals are prepared by professional chefs who provide nutritious cuisine using only the freshest herbs, vegetables and fruits that utilize the garden to table concept whenever possible. Daily menus are planned and prepared keeping in mind both children’s tastes and the hearty appetites of the adults in the family. Special diets from Gluten-free to Vegan can be accommodated if notified in advance so that the ranch can have your food products available in their pantry. So next time you are thinking about booking a vacation why not consider Coffee Creek Ranch in the beautiful state of California?

Happy Trails!

Summertime is BBQ time and what's better on some grilled salmon is some fresh and tangy mango salsa. The folks over at Colorado Trails Ranch were nice enough to share their recipe for mango salsa. Try it over some grilled fish for some added freshness and flavor. Also, serve it with tortilla chips for scooping! If you are seeking some adventure visit this  guest ranch located San Juan Mountains outside historic Durango, Colorado. The long activity list includes horseback riding on scenic trails, fly-fishing, rafting, shooting sports and hiking. Children have the time of their lives making friends and discovering new activities in Colorado Trail Ranch's children/teens’ program. Evenings offer a hayride & campfire sing-along, western dancing, cookouts and relaxing under starlit skiesTheir mango salsa is reason enough for a visit!

Mango Salsa

INGREDIENTS:

1 mango chopped
¼ fresh pineapple chopped (approximately – use less quantity than the mango)
Some diced red onion
Some diced cilantro
A squeeze of orange
A squeeze of lime

DIRECTIONS

1. Toss all the ingredients together and enjoy. Serve chilled.

Fresh Mango Salsa  

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 the exceeds these standards by a mile. Located in Montana, the surrounding mountains are the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable western experience.

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.

If you hope to relax and unwind on your guest ranch vacation, the Granite Spa is unparalleled in their customized massages and body treatments. Their accredited spa technicians will ensure you feel rejuvenated, and refreshed. With a focus on breathing, endurance and alignment, a mat-free yoga session might also be on your list of to-do’s at the Ranch. Experiencing peaceful meditation surrounded by Montana’s beauty often heightens awareness, and breaks personal boundaries.

Of course, a Montana guest ranch vacation would not be the same without horseback riding. With expert wranglers, and over 50 head of horses, regardless of riding ability guests are assured a positive horse riding experience on the surrounding Rock Creek trails. Guests are also invited to enjoy local fly fishing, hiking, biking, clay shooting - and more! Activities to suit every level, age and interest are all available at Rock Creek, and are sure not to disappoint.

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 snacsk are served in their canvas sided canteen.

The harmonious blend of western hospitality, with affordable luxury is what makes Rock Creek a special place. The long standing history of the lodge is a credit to its scenic location, and hard working ranch folk that seek to impress. Guests to Rock Creek may be first time ranch vacationers, but quite often will return again and again as they recognize the lodge as a place to experience Montana at its finest, while enjoying a luxurious vacation. Although the Ranch does offer special holiday escapes and event packages throughout the year, a special occasion is not needed to treat yourself and your family to this one of kind ranch!

Although dude ranch vacations appeal to many travelers, the ideal destination choice is often based upon specific interests, age groups, skill levels and overall sense of adventure  A few guest ranches even specialize in catering their programs around building better relationships with families, friends or colleagues. At the Sugar and Spice Texas ranch, their dude ranch experience is designed especially to encourage a closer bond between mothers and daughters, through horses.

Mother/daughter bonding at Sugar and Spice Ranch

An undoubtedly unique, and memorable week together awaits mothers and daughters as they bunk, dine and ride together - and most importantly, deepen their connection with each other. Unlike other dude ranches with off site horses, lessons and trail riding, the overall experience at Sugar and Spice Ranch is a much more hands on approach.  Complete familiarity with the care involved with the horses is part of the activity, and education, taught at Sugar and Spice Ranch. Learning the basics of tacking up, grooming, feeding and bathing the horses creates a unique connection with horse and rider. Lessons for every skill level, including beginner to advanced are taught twice daily. On the last day of camp, the special experience of participating in a team horse show creates memories that will last a lifetime. 

Sugar & Spice Ranch

The Saturday to Friday mother and daughter camps are in full operation at the Sugar and Spice Ranch from Memorial Day weekend through Labour Day weekend. Additionally during this time, young riders are invited to return without their mom for a two week adventure summer camp. At these camps, the focus is on learning skills to improve horse riding, and having fun. During the months of September - May the Sugar and Spice Ranch continues to provide mother daughter vacation options, however, they also extend their southern welcome to families, women only groups and corporate team building.

These events are booked at special per person rates for 2 or 3 day weekends.  Due to the popularity of these weekend adventures, advance booking is usually required. The rave reviews from guests often mention that the Sugar and Spice Ranch is a comfortable destination that perfectly harmonizes horse riding and all their other activities, in a relaxing environment. It is a place to return to year after year, as mothers and daughter often see it as a highlight of time spent together. With everything from accommodations, meals and activities incorporated into their all inclusive rates, it is a sure win for budget conscious travelers. For anyone looking for an authentic equestrian vacation, particularly to spend with family, the Sugar and Spice Ranch is the perfect choice. They offer spectacular scenery, in a true Western atmosphere. Steeped in history, reflecting the way things were in 1862, this ranch offers stories unlike any other. Hospitality at Sugar and Spice Ranch means treating their guests like family. For a real, working ranch experience that provides opportunity to learn more about life with horses, in addition to focusing in on creating a stronger bond between mother and daughter, there is no better place than Sugar and Spice Ranch. Also, view the great pictures we have on Pinterest.

These easy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars are brought to us by the lovely folks over at Shangrila Guest Ranch in Virginia. This recipe is so easy and try it with the kids. They will love to help out and mix the dough!

Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Bars

Ingredients:
 2 rolls (20-30 ounce)
Pillsbury chocolate chip cookie dough
2 packages (8 ounce) cream cheese
2 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:  

1. Preheat oven to 350' degrees.  Spray a 13x9 inch baking pan with cooking spray.
2. Spread 1 package of cookie dough in bottom of pan.
3. In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, eggs, sugar and vanilla.  Spread over top of cookie dough.
4. Gently crumble the 2nd package of cookie dough over the top of the mixture.
5. Bake in preheated oven 35-40 minutes.  Chill in refrigerator at least 1 hour.  Cut into squares. Makes 18-24 squares.

Families that have enjoyed the bonding experiences, adventures and well-earned relaxation time  vacationing at a dude ranch, can attest to the fact that one does not need an ’occasion’ to celebrate in order to enjoy this type of vacation. However, with two special dates coming up in the Spring, like Easter and Mother’s Day, there are some very tempting guest ranch vacation promotions that are appealing to travelers looking for family, and budget friendly fun.

Year round, the ’horse lovers paradise’ of Southern Cross Ranch invites travelers to experience the southern hospitality famous to this Madison, Georgia guest ranch. The lunch buffet that is specially prepared for Easter Sunday and Mother Day rises above their already highly reputed meals. Guests staying at the ranch on these two special dates are warmly welcomed to enjoy the extensive lunch buffet selections, compliments of ranch hosts!

Southern Cross Guest Ranch

For a unique, and incredible experience that combines the Canadian ranch experience with the tranquility of a spa, Echo Valley Ranch is certainly a favorite. A very special Easter weekend of activities is planned that the whole family can enjoy including arts & crafts, an egg hunt, indoor and outdoor activities and so much more. Special pricing is available for 3 nights stays over Easter weekend.

Echo Valley Ranch

For family bookings of 3 persons or more, Big Bar Ranch is offering 15% off  from April 18 -21st. Big Bar Ranch is a great choice for families that want to create memories, and stay within their traveling budget. Nestled within the rolling hills of Clinton, B.C., this Canadian ranch offers a ‘relaxed western charm’ and hospitality that can’t be beat.

Big Bar Ranch

By planning a 2 night stay at Sundance Guest Ranch during Easter weekend, you can take advantage of an incredible 50% off their regular children / youth rates. Conveniently located just 4 hours north of Vancouver, B.C., they are a great choice for those that want to relax, unwind and treat the whole family to an enjoyable vacation.

Sundance Guest Ranch

To really put away the cares and concerns of life’s hectic pace, plan a week-long stay at Coffee Creek Ranch during the month of April for just $995 / per person. With special activities planned for the little ones over Easter weekend, and the beautiful surroundings of Northern California to enjoy, it is a perfect time and place to plan a dude ranch vacation experience.

Coffee Creek Ranch

Once you’ve narrowed down an area where you would like to travel to and any specific interests you may have such as trail riding, fishing, spa treatments or other activities - then it might be time to take a look into some of the terrific discounts offered by many dude ranches such as the ones mentioned above during the spring special occasion dates of Easter and Mother‘s Day. The most difficult part about planning a dude ranch vacation can often be selecting which one of the many incredible destinations to try first. Without a doubt, a dude ranch vacation is an experience that will create lifelong memories with your family. Find your family dude ranch vacation at Ranchseeker.