2. The Dude Ranchers' Association was formed in 1926 to preserve this special way of life
and the wonderful environment in which dude ranching takes place. When you vacation at
a Dude Ranchers' Association dude ranch, you can be sure of a quality vacation.
Membership in the Association is a rigorous two year inspection and approval process, to
assuring that guests are treated to genuine western hospitality combined with the lodging
industry’s highest standards.
Our dude ranches offer all-inclusive vacations that are perfect for everyone, from the
littlest rancher to Grandpa and Grandma. Horseback riding, hiking, petting zoos,
swimming holes, rodeos, fishing, games, skeet shooting, archery, art classes, cooking
classes and more await your discovery on your next Dude Ranch Vacation. Horses, Hats,
History and Hospitality - they're the foundation of every ranch.
3. Who Takes a Ranch Vacation
People from all walks of life enjoy ranch vacations.
They are not only family -oriented, but also provide an
intimate environment, perfect for people traveling
alone. Staff and guests are quick to include you as
part of the group. Families enjoy ranch vacations for
the wholesome environment which fosters quality time
and valuable learning experiences. Children
experience an amazing sense of freedom on a ranch.
It's a safe haven where the only people they will come
in contact with are staff and guests. Active adults
enjoy ranch vacations for all the outdoor activities and
the unique socializing. The love of horses and the
wilderness brings people together from all over the
world, to create a unique and diverse group of friends.
4. Why Choose a DRA Ranch
With over 100 unique ranches in the Association, we
have one to match your dreams - perfectly. As you
narrow your choices down to a couple of ranches,
call and explain to us what's most important to you -
we'll help you make the best choice.
Since every ranch is a direct reflection of the family
operating it, there are no two dude ranches alike. For
our first time guests, we've created a list of basic
questions. We encourage you to visit the ranch web
sites and refer to our comprehensive Ranch
Directory.
5. Dream Ranch Vacations
Imagine yourself taking the best vacation of your
life at a dude ranch. The cool, fresh mountain air,
the open spaces, the feel of a steady horse
beneath you as you top the next rise... the flash
of color from the dark pool as the monster trout
rises to your offering...luxuriating in the warmth of
the setting sun as you wait for the dinner bell's
call ... shared time with family and friends.
What to Consider:
•Style of Riding
•Accommodations
•Time of Year
•Ranch Size
6. Riding should be your first consideration
Choose the riding environment that appeals to you; open
meadows, prairies, mountain trails or southwestern desert. The
location of the ranch determines the terrain.
Then, choose the type of riding you'd like. All ranches fall into
one of the following categories.
•Working Dude Ranch: Your horseback riding adventures will
be determined by the ranch's livestock and the work related to
them.
•Dude Ranch: Horseback riding is central to these ranches.
•Resort Dude Ranch: Horseback riding is featured, and these
ranches offer an array of diverse activities and onsite facilities.
7. Ranch Accommodations
Ranch atmospheres range from rustic to
luxurious, and everything in between. In New
Mexico and Arizona try a Southwest-inspired
casita while in northern states like Wyoming and
Montana guests can sleep in a log cabin lodge or
cottage. Some ranches even offer pre-
constructed tents for camp outs and cattle drives.
Ranches are always extremely clean and
comfortable, but if you need hair dryers, TV's,
Jacuzzi tubs, a daily massage and wireless
Internet to make your dream vacation, just
choose your ranch accordingly.
8. All-Inclusive
The "all inclusive rate" concept originated at Dude
Ranches. Rooms, meals and activities have been
included in the rate since the late 1800's. For the most
part, you will find that your rate includes a full day of
activities as well as your meals and lodging. Ranch
vacations are a great value and make it easy to stay
within a budget. Because of the high ratio of staff to
guests, a gratuity is usually added to the final bill and
distributed to all employees. Rate cards for all ranches
clearly state what is included and any additional
charges that may apply.
9. Horse Safety and First Aid for the Trail
The DRA’s Horse Safety and First Aid for the Trail is one
program provided to certified member ranches . The
program is a reflection of a proactive approach by the DRA
to promote good SAFE horse programs that prepare staff
to handle any emergencies that may occur on the trail and
to be recognized as experts in the industry.
This program is a reflection of the member ranches and our
responsibility to give guest riders an enjoyable experience
along with exercising the highest degree of care to
safeguard the lives and well-being of our riders. Each
certified ranch must be recertified every three years. The
owner, operator or manager must attend both seminars to
complete or update current certification.
10. Alternative Ranch Activities
Modern Ranch Activities •River Rafting •Cooking Classes
•Rock Climbing •Mountain Biking
Dude ranches have dramatically changed over
•Yoga •Tai Chi
the past few decades adding a wider range of
activities, special programs for children, •Ziplining •Wine tastings
specialty clinics and retreats, culinary •Sleigh Rides
programs, and even spa services. Guests can
choose to enjoy a traditional western vacation
complete with cattle drive and daily trail rides or
mix in a bit of relaxation with morning yoga and
a round of golf at sunset.
