Saddle Up!

Dude ranch vacations are not riding off into the sunset.

- DALE LEATHERMAN

Travel trends are often brief. In a shrinking world where travelers have access to almost any destination and experience they desire, many opt for a variety of vacations and have no interest in repeat visits. However, one decades-old vacation choice has held its appeal and is increasing in popularity.

“A stay at a dude ranch is one of the most special, All-American experiences that families can have,” said Gene Kilgore, author of Gene Kilgore Ranch Vacations, a guidebook now in its 13th edition. “In today’s tech bubble, and with all of the instability in the world, ranches are beacons of hope and hospitality. They are places where men, women, and children can have quality time together and embrace nature and the simple pleasures of the outdoors.”

The words “dude ranch” still evoke the cowboy mystique in every generation, from aging Baby Boomers to the 20-somethings of Generation Z. And it’s an attainable dream. Anyone can escape a frenetic urban existence for a ranch vacation, ditching electronics to connect with horses, ranch hands, and fellow “dudes.” For those seeking big skies, glorious scenery, and adventures that don’t include horses, there’s a ranch for that, too. Today’s ranches offer something for everyone, from mountain biking to fishing, climbing, hiking, ATV riding, swimming, zip-lining, yoga, massage, and even snow sports.