Top 10 Dude Ranch Vacations

by Janna Graber Subscribe to Janna Graber's posts Posted Mar 22nd 2011 07:00 AM

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Horseback riding, gorgeous scenery, downtime and tasty meals are all part of a dude ranch vacation. There are no TVs, phones or other distractions at most ranches, but ah heck, you won't miss them anyway. You'll be too busy having fun.

Ranches vary in style, size and amenities, but generally fall into one of three categories: dude ranches, which focus on riding; working cattle ranches, where guests work alongside ranch hands; and resort dude ranches, which offer an array of upscale amenities in addition to riding. Dude ranches can be found all over the U.S. and Canada; most are in the west. The Dude Ranchers Association lists more than 100 member ranches, but here are some of our favorites:

Eaton's Ranch

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Eaton's Ranch; Wolf, Wyoming

Founded in 1879, Eaton's Ranch claims to be the oldest dude ranch in the country — with a record like that, it must be doing something right. The 7,000-acre Wyoming ranch boasts miles of riding trails. The ranch accommodates 125 guests who stay in historic cabins in a wide range of sizes. Wranglers match each guest with one of the ranch's more than 200 horses, making sure the horse fits that rider's abilities. The most unique aspect of Eaton's Ranch is that it allows guests to ride out on their own (after a day or two to get used to the horse), rather than restricting riding to a trot or nose-to-tail trail riding. This offers riders an incredible sense of freedom and exploration.

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Valerie Darlington

Great job Janna! Thanks so much for taking the time to highlight some of the fine ranches in the Dude Ranchers Association. We appreciate your time and your effort. If you're ever near the Lazy EL, stop by...we'll chase some cows together!

March 23 2011 at 4:55 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down Reply