{What Is A Dude Ranch?~What To Do On A Dude Ranch~A Dude Ranch For Your Next Family Trip}

By: Amanda Riley

{
A dude ranch (also referred to as a guest ranch) is the epitome of what is now called agritourism. Agritourism (involving ranches open to individuals) has grown tremendously in popularity. This is mostly because vacationers/tourists are starting to enjoy more hands-on experiences in which they can learn and play at the same time. Visiting a ranch promotes agritourism, offers a learning experience, and can be fun for everyone. The a great deal of these ranches appear to be in the Midwest and Western zones of the United States. Some of the things that may be experienced include horseback riding, cattle/bison drives, roping/gymkhana, and other nature based activities (such as hiking, bicycle riding, or bird watching).~
A dude ranch (or guest ranch) falls under the category of agritourism. In today's world, there has been a rising interest in the ability to gain knowledge while on vacation. Visiting a ranch is both an educational experience; as well as being a fun journey. Most dude ranches in the United States are located in the Western and Midwestern areas of the country and offer horseback riding, cattle or bison herding, gymkhana/roping, and nature related ventures.~
In the United States, the majority of dude ranches are located in the Western or Midwestern parts of the country. Agritourism consists of vacations that take place on various types of ranches or farms (including the dude ranch). More and more people are choosing agricultural based destinations as vacation spots because of the fact that one can learn while having fun at the same time. If you enjoy nature, these ranches may be right up your alley (as you may hike, watch birds, see several other species of animals, and ride bikes).}
{
The majority of today's dude ranch facilities offer horseback riding as their main staple. Rides vary from once to three times per day. The horseback portion of your excursion might include basic horse riding skills, learning how to groom/saddle the horse that you are paired with, learning how to 'read' your horse, trail rides, and cattle penning (using your horse to guide cattle/bison into pens). You will also learn some pretty savvy roping techniques that will be used from atop your horse.~
The main source of entertainment of a dude ranch is horseback riding. While at the ranch, you may take several horseback trips. Some of the ranches offer up to three scenic rides per day. You may learn (among other things) roping methods, horseback safety, and cattle penning (using your horse to lead cattle into pens). You will also learn to groom, feed, and saddle your horse.~
Horseback riding is the main pastime of those that go to a dude ranch. When you arrive at the ranch, you will probably be assigned to a horse that will be yours for your entire visit. You may go on trail rides after you learn to saddle, feed, and groom your horse. Some ranches will teach you how to pen cattle while riding your horse. By the end of your trip, you may be able to show off some of the roping methods that you learn.}
{
Cattle and/or bison drives/roundups involve using your horse to round up herds (which you will guide to a designated area). A dude ranch that offers these roundups may also be called a 'working' ranch.~
A dude ranch that includes an actual cattle drive is also referred to as a 'working' ranch. The cattle or bison that you see or work with are bred at that particular ranch and will be eventually used as the meat that we eat. You will use your horse to round up cattle, then lead them back to the ranch.~
At a 'working' ranch, you may actually be able to herd cattle to various destinations. You will be using your horse to do this.}
{
Gymkhana (American Indian for 'games on horseback') is a variety of horseback sport. Gymkhana activities may include barrel racing, timed cattle penning, and roping games.~
One type of sport involving horses is called 'gymkhana' (meaning 'games on horseback'). Some gymkhana sporting events associated with ranches are cattle penning, barrel racing, and roping games.~
American Indians used to have 'games on horseback' (called Gymkhana), and this is yet one more thing that may be available at a dude ranch. Gymkhana horse games may include roping, barrel racing, and timed cattle penning.}
{
Some nature based activities that can be enjoyed while visiting this sort of ranch are bicycle riding, hiking, fishing, and bird watching.~
For those vacationers who enjoy getting close to nature, exercising, and/or photography; a dude ranch vacation can more than suit your needs. Hiking, bird watching, fishing, bicycle rides, and hunting can be experienced (depending on the ranch).~
If you would like to get back in touch with nature, these ranches will often offer fishing, hiking, hunting, and bicycle excursions. Do some research to find exactly which ranches offer what activities.}
{
Amenities and prices for dude ranch excursions can vary greatly. Some ranches offer a bed and breakfast type atmosphere (to include saunas, tennis courts, and swimming pools. Pricing varies with the amenities and activities offered. This type of vacation appeals to individuals as well as families. Most of the ranches offer many things for children to do.~
Pricing for a visit to a dude ranch can fluctuate based on the amenities and activities. All meals may be included. The higher end ranch may have swimming pools, private cabins, saunas, and tennis courts. Costs can be lower if you are looking for a more rugged experience. There are usually plenty of things for children to do; or your trip may be spent as a true family vacation.~
Based on what you are willing to spend on a trip to a dude ranch, amenities can vary from posh to mediocre. Pricing will depend on what the ranch offers, and/or the season. Some of the ranches even have saunas and tennis courts. Dude ranches are appealing to individuals; and are equally fun for children and families.}
And next, learn more about Dude Ranches and Montana Dude Ranches for the western lifestyle vacation of your dreams.