Until this past year, I’d never been to a dude ranch. In 2022, we were fortunate enough to visit two amazing, yet very different, historic ranches: White Stallion Ranch in Arizona and Circle Bar Ranch in Montana.
For as much advance research as I do, there are still things that surprise me about every trip. Usually they’re good surprises. Experiencing the unexpected is something I love about travel.
While I knew loosely what to expect, there were 8 things that surprised me about a dude ranch vacation.
1. Horseback Riding is for (Almost) Everyone
I was surprised by how accessible horseback riding was for all ranch guests. I saw people of all ages, body types and of varying mobility saddle up.
KidTripster Tip: If traveling with young kids, be aware that most ranches have a minimum age for riders, typically 5 years old. Each ranch varies, so check before booking.
When it came to horseback riding, my family didn’t have much experience. So I was a little worried going into our vacations, but there was no need to be concerned. The level of experience ranged from those who’d never been on a horse before, to those who’d been riding all their lives. The wranglers are prepared for this. They have horses who can work with all levels of experience. I was worried that the more seasoned riders might get annoyed with us newbies, but I found everyone to be encouraging and helpful. We stuck with slow rides, but fast rides are available for more experienced riders, including older kids.
At both ranches, we were assigned the same horses for the duration of our stay. Getting to ride the same horse each day created a bond and increased our comfort level.
KidTripster Tip: In advance of your stay, you’ll likely complete a questionnaire regarding your riding experience. Be honest! There’s no shame in being a beginner. Completing this accurately helps the ranch assign you the right horse.
2. Horseback Riding Isn’t the Only Activity
I knew that horseback riding would be a predominant part of our dude ranch vacation, but I was impressed by how much else there was to do on the ranch.
Each ranch offers its own menu of daily activities. It could include archery, sharp shooting, rock climbing, river rafting, zip lining, eBiking, and so much more. You’ll likely sign up the day ahead for the activities.
KidTripster Tip: Check out the Dude Ranchers Association website for help selecting a ranch. You can look up ranches by geographical location, time of year, available activities, accommodations, and more. With 90+ member ranches, there’s a ranch for everyone. In order to be a member of the DRA, ranches must meet certain standards. They must adhere to the 6 H’s: horses, hats, hospitality, heritage, honesty, and heart.
[ Related: What to Expect on a Dude Ranch Vacation ]
3. Relaxing is OK Too
While most ranches include activities as part of the stay, participation isn’t required. For those who want to relax, there are plenty of quiet spaces to read a book or sip a cup of coffee. You might be wiped out at the end of a busy day on the ranch, but don’t sleep on stargazing. After dark, get outside and look up at the night sky.
4. Great for Multi-Generational & Group Travel
All-inclusive vacations tend to be good for a family group traveling together. That definitely holds true on a dude ranch.
Families have the ability to do activities together, or split up. We noticed that many families did separate activities during the day, but met up at mealtimes. There truly was something for everyone on the ranch.
As for accommodations, some cabins and guest rooms sleep larger groups if you prefer to bunk together.
KidTripster Tip: Many people bring their pets on family vacations. You might assume that dogs would be allowed on the ranch, but in fact most ranches don’t allow them. If you’re wanting to bring your four legged family members, check first.
5. A Vacation You’ll Want to Repeat
Yes, certain destinations inspire repeat visitors, but I was shocked by how often people return to their favorite ranches again … and again … and again.
For instance, at White Stallion, guests can collect an enamel pin upon each visit. The pins go all the way up to 50! I’m told families return to this ranch year-after-year, generation-upon-generation. Guests make reservations a year (or more) ahead of time, coordinating meet-ups with family and friends.
6. Expect to Meet International Visitors
The allure of the Wild West doesn’t just draw in Americans. People from all over the world are also fascinated by this way of life, which is why dude ranches are also popular with international visitors.
You’re likely to meet people from around the world during your time on the ranch. At White Stallion, the ranch flies flags that represent the country each guest is from. Six countries were represented during our stay there. At Circle Bar In Montana, we rode horses with Germans and Italians.
7. The Food is Really Good
Your dude ranch stay includes your meals. Most ranches will have a communal dining room. The meals aren’t fussy, so no need to dress up. While the dining experience is casual, the food is top notch. We enjoyed some truly spectacular, and filling, meals. Guests will know it’s time to eat when the dinner bell rings out.
KidTripster Tip: Chefs can accommodate food allergies. Just give the ranch a heads up at the time of booking.
8. Boots and Hats Aren’t Cliche
As I packed for our trips, I wondered if cowboy boots and hats were cliche. The answer was NO! Everyone working the ranch wore boots, hats, and often a pair of wrangler jeans, too. These items weren’t just a costume, they serve a practical purpose on the ranch. So you won’t look silly for wearing a hat and boots, but you might if you don’t.
[ Related: What to Pack for a Dude Ranch Vacation ]
My family of city slickers enjoyed our time on the range. Heading into the experience, we were a bit nervous. It was definitely different from our previous family vacations, and a bit outside of our comfort zone. While most of the people we met had been to a ranch previously, everyone was warm and welcoming, and excited to introduce us to this traditional western way of life.
The author and her family were guests of White Stallion Ranch and Circle Bar Ranch for purposes of this article. All opinions are those of the author.
