Cowboys & Dude Ranches

Tanque Verde Ranch, a family friendly western dude ranch adventure in the Sonoran desert of Arizona is the perfect place for your family’s ultimate getaway.

As lifelong residents of the Western US, my family and I love pioneering history. Since the moment my 4th grade class studied the California Gold Rush, I was hooked, and I’ve passed on my passion for this chapter of our nation’s history to my kids. Nearly everywhere we drive in the West harbors some vestige of early settlements, Native American life, or pioneering struggles.

The Sugar and Spice Ranch is a ranch home open to mothers and daughters interested in learning about horseback riding. Along the way, Mom and daughter teams learn horsemanship and much more.

A kid-friendly desert adventure in Phoenix, Arizona is the perfect place for a family getaway. From hiking, kayaking, and taking a hot air balloon trip, you will be surprised by the many adventures found in the Sonoran Desert.

Have you ever taken a vacation where you literally felt like you stepped back into a different time? Visiting the YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center took us back into a different era, one centered on family, kids, and nature while simultaneously bringing all three together.

Big Sky ski vacations are ideal for families. Big Sky Resort and Moonlight Basin offer wide open ski runs, no lift lines, and plenty of powdery snow.

Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge, a historic ranch is located on the east shore of the largest lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake, exudes Big Sky Country relaxation. For over 60 years, the Lodge has been host to guests coming for a great family vacation filled with horseback riding, water sports, and relaxing, Montana-style.

Tarryall River Ranch in Colorado is like chicken soup for the soul. My kids wanted to move here. In addition to twice-daily rides, there was trap shooting, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, a petting zoo, crafts and more.

We heeded the call for adventure and headed west for a week-long stay at The Home Ranch. This all-inclusive dude ranch in Northwest Colorado is ready to play host to any adventurer who enjoys great food.

Taking a summer trip to Alaska has been one of my family’s greatest memories.  My kids remind me often of the times we spent picking wild strawberries and raspberries, taking …