White Stallion Ranch
White Stallion Ranch is one of the best dude ranches in southern Arizona, within easy reach of Tucson and surrounded by 3000 acres of beautiful countryside at the foot of the Tucson Mountains.
There's a sense of laidback charm at White Stallion which permeates the 41 rooms and the four-bedroomed private property - The Hacienda. Every room has a terrace with a view of either the cactus gardens, horse corrals or the mountains beyond, and some of the suites also have hot tubs. There are interconnecting suites that are perfect for families, and children aged four and under stay for free.
The ranch offers seven night programmes (starting any day of the week) that include accommodation, meals, and all activities, and White Stallion is particularly suited to families, as their wranglers offer expert riding tuition for children as young as five, as well as walking, rock climbing, basketball, tennis, volleyball, swimming, campfire cooking and even a petting zoo. As they say themselves, this is somewhere for children 'to take their hands of the keyboard and grab the reins, to discover a whole new sense of freedom.' Admirable stuff, we're sure you'll agree.
For adults and proficient younger riders more technical riding is available on a horse from one of the largest selections in Arizona which can be put through its paces on 'fast rides', mountain rides to all-day rides. Other activities include watching the ranch's rodeo, stargazing, line dancing and lasso lessons and watercolour classes.
Why We Love It
White Stallion Ranch is in cactus country adjacent to Saguaro National Park, and for decades Hollywood film-makers have used the ranch's landscapes to film quintessential western scenes. For the full experience, guests can practice cowboy skills such as whip cracking and gun spinning.
Brush Creek Ranch
Saddle up and prepare for an authentic Western experience. Brush Creek Ranch is a boutique hotel surrounded by 15,000 acres of South Central Wyoming's North Platte River Valley, in the heart of the American West.
The Ranch features a variety of lodging options, including cabin residences, cabin rooms and suites, lodge rooms and a private Magee Homestead nestled in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. All rooms, cabins and lodges are individual in design and are equipped with beautiful western artworks and furnishings. Some even have mountain views whilst others feature fireplaces or decks with outside furniture.
There are dining options galore available on the ranch. The Trailhead Great Room offers a dining experience with panoramic views of the Snowy and Sierra Madre Range. The restaurant includes an open-hearth fireplace, a bar and guests have access to the exclusive 800-bottle wine room. The Corriente Dining Room provides exclusive private dining for up to 12 guests with an outdoor patio and access to the Cattle Baron's Library. Family-style feasts and buffets are offered at the Chuck Wagon, and is a perfect spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Saloon features western-themed entertainment, a fireplace, billiards, a piano, plasma TV and karaoke.
Relax and rejuvenate at the western style Trailhead Spa. The Spa offers a number of treatments, as well as indoor and outdoor fitness and wellness programs, a steam room, sauna, outdoor hot tub and a full- service salon with manicure and pedicure stations. An indoor gymnasium invites the more active guests to take part in sports such as volleyball and basketball. There are also rock climbing walls, paintball courses, a 3D digital golf course and many more fun activities to enjoy throughout the day.
Brush Creek Ranch hosts many outdoor activities from craft programs to hiking, fishing and treasure hunts. Try Fly Fishing at the crystalline waters of the North Platte River- one of the most iconic fly fishing destinations in North America. No trip to the American West would be the same without sampling traditional western riding in the indoor riding arena or discover the Ranch's wilderness with over 50 miles of private trails. These and many more activities are offered for all age groups, experienced or beginners, equipped with professional facilities.
Why We Love It
This is an excellent location for an unforgettable family holiday, offering themed programs, such as Buffalo tours, Home Stead History Tours and themed days for kids or the entire family.
Elk Mountain Ranch
Elk Mountain Ranch is a dude ranch in the heart of the Rockies, just two hour's drive from either Denver or Colorado Springs in Colorado.
There are just eight suites, cabins and lodges in total, all of which are perfect for families with either two or three bedrooms. The décor throughout is simple - wood panelled walls and occasional ranch related artworks - but the cabins are all very comfortable.
Food is a big part of the Elk Mountain experience, with steak nights, candlelit suppers and trail ride cookouts (that's cowboy for barbeques) organised throughout your stay, and there are also children's menus (warning - cookies may feature) for the youngsters.
All these hearty meals serve a purpose, namely to provide enough energy for guests to really make the most of the riding, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, hiking in the surrounding San Isabel National Forest, shooting, archery, fly fishing, programmes designed for children and evening entertainment including square dancing. Elk Mountain Ranch offers seven night packages, running Sunday to Sunday, which include accommodation and meals and all of the activities above.
Why We Love It
The ranch lays the activities on thick and fast, but the secret sauce here is the incredible scenery. White Stallion Ranch sits at an elevation of 9,600ft with wonderful views across the Arkansas Valley to the Collegiate Mountains. The San Isabel National Forest in which the ranch sits is home to deer, antelope, wildflowers and, of course, elk.