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Top Five Evening Experiences on a Colorado Dude Ranch
It’s the busiest time of the year for Colorado Dude Ranches. The sun enjoys copious amounts of time high above the ranchlands near the summer solstice. Cows and horses come home early from pasture and don’t go out until the last ride’s home. That means evening activities and adventures are going to carry on far […]
No More Pork and Beans
I was initially inspired to write this piece by my love of lululemon stretch pants under cowgirl boots, a good Colorado Kolsch, and lamb done better than my own Jewish mother could prepare. Pork and beans aside, there is still plenty of authentic dude ranch cuisine available on today’s menu, however, look for a more […]
Spring Escapes Across Colorado on Horse and Hay
The snow never came. We might as well start planning for spring, sunshine and smiley family travel across the state. Why not add a horse, a barn, comfy accommodations, delicious food and beverage pairings, and over 100 activities for all ages. Colorado Dude Ranch vacations might be one of the most affordable, adventurous and unique […]
Colorado Dude Ranch Stays: The Original “Learning Vacation”
Over the past few years, sociologists, travel planners, and work-life balance experts have been re-examining the meaning of “vacation.” What are people looking for when they travel? Why do people travel? And what do folks hope to come home with after their trip. Ready for the simple answer: learning vacations. This isn’t just a buzz […]
Benefits to a Full Week at a Colorado Dude Ranch
Why do all CDGRA Ranches offer and encourage a week-long stay? Planning a vacation is always something of a balancing act. But if you plan ahead and give yourself “permission” to take the week off, you’ll be glad you did. We know you will get the absolute best experience out of your dude ranch vacation […]
High Performers in the Workplace Stand to Benefit the Most from a Colorado Dude Ranch
Colorado dude ranch vacations are for everyone. Over the years, we’ve had all kinds of folks come to us from every corner of the globe. However, we’ve recently noticed a trend of CEOs, executives, and other high-performers returning to our ranches each year. In the process of getting to know these folks, we’ve learned that […]
Why Disney Lovers LOVE Colorado Dude Ranches
Disney embodies the magic of childhood and immersing yourself in a ‘new world’. Guess what, this is pretty much the recipe for a Colorado Dude Ranch Vacation too. Our guests have given us some valuable feedback who have traveled to both Disney resorts and Colorado Dude ranches. And their feedback might surprise you! […]
How to Play Horseshoes Like a Pro
When families come to us for a Colorado dude ranch vacation, it’s normally because they want to break the vacation mold and try something new. They yearn for horseback rides on the dusty trail, zip lines across sweeping valleys, and whitewater rafting down our rivers. But if you really want to take your Dude Ranch […]
The Need-To-Know Info About Vacationing at Altitude
Occasionally, we hear from folks who love the idea of visiting a Colorado dude ranch, but worry that they’ll be affected by the elevation. Usually, it’s because they have had a friend or relative who experienced discomfort at altitude, and assume they’ll automatically be out of breath from the moment they enter our state. How […]
Benefits to a Full Week at a Colorado Dude Ranch
How long should your Colorado dude ranch vacation be? Naturally, there are a lot of variables that go into making that kind of decision. Your work and travel schedule will factor in, of course, as might your budget or the commitments your kids have at school. Planning a vacation is always something of a balancing […]
How a Ranch Vacation Brings You Back Down to Earth
It’s not exactly surprising that the people who come to us for Colorado ranch vacations describe it as an experience that can make you feel like you are coming to life. However, there is an unexpected one aspect of that notion we’ve heard again and again over the years: many men and women say that […]
Why Horses Sometimes Make the Best Doctors
Do you know what veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, inmates with emotional issues, and teenagers dealing with clinical levels of anxiety all have in common? They all respond more positively to equine therapy than antidepressants. It’s true: horses sometimes make the best doctors and therapists. We point this out because even though there are […]
The Four Seasons of Fun at a Colorado Dude Ranch
Even though most people associate Colorado dude ranches with family summer vacations, many ranches actually host guests all year long. To give you a sense of all that we have going on – and everything there is to do throughout the year – here are a few highlights that come with the four seasons of […]
Why You Should Bring Your Next Business Meeting or Conference to a Colorado Ranch
Colorado dude ranches are known for being the perfect destination for a family vacation or couples getaway, but what about a business meeting, professional conference, or corporate retreat? In recent years, more and more organizations have come to see us as the perfect spot to bring leaders and team members together. Here are just a […]
7 Things That Make a Colorado Dude Ranch Vacation Special
We love to tell people who are thinking about visiting us that there is nothing quite like a Colorado dude ranch vacation. It’s a special experience for anyone, and particularly those who don’t get the opportunity to break out of city life all that often. In fact, it can be such a great time that […]
Why Your Next Fishing Trip Should be to a Colorado Ranch
Everybody knows there are many of wonderful things to do on a Colorado dude ranch vacation. Families and friends visit us from across North America (and even around the world) for horseback riding, hiking, and whitewater rafting. Couples and honeymooners stop by for the scenery and solitude. Grandparents and grand kids make lasting memories and […]
Book Your Romantic Getaway at a Colorado Ranch
Imagine the perfect couple’s getaway and you might envision white sandy beaches, a glittery hotel with a view of the Eiffel tower, or a New England bed and breakfast in the Fall. But what if you are looking for something a bit more out of the box. It’s ironic that so many couples go farther […]
What Does it Mean for a Colorado Dude Ranch to Have the CDGRA Seal of Approval?
We like to use most of our articles to let the world know about all the great reasons to come to Colorado for a dude ranch vacation. However, it’s important to point out that not every ranch is the same. Believe it or not, not all dude ranches in Colorado have earned the Colorado Dude […]
5 Things Teens Love About Colorado Ranch Vacations
If you have teenagers in your life, you know how it can seem like they aren’t impressed with anything that doesn’t show up on a screen. Getting them to open up and spend time with family – even during a family vacation – can be difficult. A lot of that changes, though, when you flip […]
7 Things That Make a Colorado Dude Ranch Vacation Special
We love to tell people who are thinking about visiting us that there is nothing quite like a Colorado dude ranch vacation. It’s a special experience for anyone, and particularly those who don’t get the opportunity to break out of city life all that often. In fact, it can be such a great time that […]
The Quiet Joys of a Colorado Ranch Vacation (Sans Kiddos)
At a Colorado dude ranch, children bring a sense of excitement, wonder, and energy to every activity. From toddlers to teens, young people of all stripes seem naturally drawn to horses and our wide open skies. It’s not unusual for parents and grandparents to tell us they love coming back year after year because their […]
Do You Have What it Takes to be a Dude Rancher?
At least a few times a year, someone will visit us for the first time and remark: “this is such a wonderful place. I wish I could buy a ranch and enjoy this lifestyle every day.” Obviously, most of the people who make these kinds of comments are simply daydreaming. But, a few actually do […]
Colorado Dude Ranch Vacations: The Ultimate “Set it and Forget it” Getaway
As anyone who has ever planned a family vacation could tell you, the all-inclusive choices are not always as “inclusive” as they seem to be. Even when you set aside the costs associated with visiting a popular resort, there are details of travel to consider. And then, once you’ve actually arrived at your destination, there […]
Why a Working Ranch Can be a Relaxing Getaway
What is the purpose of your vacation? Is it to sit on an overcrowded beach, pay a small fortune for tickets to an amusement park, and snap a few photos to post online? Or, is the point of a getaway to actually refresh yourself and come home feeling renewed and invigorated? More and more people […]
A Quick History of the Dude Ranch
One of the questions we are used to hearing from people who are on their first Colorado ranch vacation is: “who came up with the idea for this, anyway?” After all, ranches have been around for a long time, but they were (and many times still are) businesses designed to raise cattle, along with crops […]
Why You Should Book Your Colorado Ranch Vacation Early
If you’re thinking about booking a Colorado dude ranch vacation for yourself or your family, our advice would be to act quickly. We know it can be difficult to focus on a vacation that’s several months (or longer) into the future, and planning specifics can require balancing a few different areas of your life at […]
Book a Colorado Dude Ranch Vacation: It’s Good For Your Health!
Have you ever gone on a vacation and come back feeling worse than when you left? That’s unfortunate, but it happens. The stress of travel and planning meals, activities, etc can leave you tired out and worn down. In other words, they can create the exact symptoms you’re trying to alleviate on your precious time […]
How to Beat the Summer Heat on a Colorado Dude Ranch
Is the anticipation of summer’s heat & humidity already getting you down? Does the prospect of spending another summer cramped around the air-conditioner have you a bit on edge? While places like Arizona, Texas, and Florida are a true oasis for snow dwellers around the country for a bit of warmth during winter, you might […]
The Four Seasons of Fun at a Colorado Dude Ranch
Even though most people associate Colorado dude ranches with summer vacations, several ranches actually accept guests all year long. To give you a sense of all that we have going on – and everything there is to do throughout the year – here are a few highlights that come with the four seasons of fun […]
How to Fit More Vacation Into Your Vacation
We like to remind families, couples, and anyone who needs a break from day-to-day life that it’s hard to beat a Colorado dude ranch getaway. That isn’t just because we offer a unique mix of thrills, scenery, and even garden fresh meals. As it turns out, we can actually help you fit more vacation into […]
Why Cowboys and Cowgirls Dress the Way We Do
Come visit a Colorado dude ranch, and one of the first things you’ll notice is that we don’t necessarily dress the way your friends and neighbors do. Most of the men and women you’ll find living and working on our ranches are dressed in traditional Western gear, and many of our guests decide to, as […]
Booking Your Ranch Vacation on a Budget: Insider Tips
Booking Your Ranch Vacation on a Budget: Insider Tips Visiting a Colorado dude ranch is likely to be one of the most affordable vacations you’ll ever book. That’s because you can save money on international travel, cruise ship fees, along with the huge (and often unexpected) expenses that come with tourist-driven adventure parks. In this […]
What to Pack for a Colorado Ranch Vacation
Have you just booked your first Colorado dude ranch vacation? If so, you might be wondering what you should pack for the trip. The good news is we’ll supply just about everything you could need to make your stay with us a blast. But, there are a few things you can bring to make your […]
How to Beat the Summer Heat on a Colorado Dude Ranch
Is the summer heat getting you down? Is your family getting cranky at the prospect of spending another day cramped around the air-conditioner? If so, taking a trip to the beach might not be the solution you’re looking for. You won’t get a break from the high temps there, but you will find crowds, litter, […]
7 Things Foodies Love About Colorado Ranches
When most people think of the food they would find at a working ranch, they tend to imagine dusty cowboys eating beans cooked over a fire, or big steak dinners held in log cabin lodges. While those are certainly romantic and iconic notions, they aren’t really up to date. As it turns out, visiting a […]
Is it Time to “Jump Ship” on Your Normal Vacation?
Are you cruising towards another ho-hum family vacation? Looking for a break that requires less in the way of packing and travel, and brings you more real adventure in return? You might be surprised to know that some of our biggest dude ranch fans are couples, families, and vacationers who have also tried many other […]
This Dude Ranch Seems Fishy…
What if you didn’t have to decide between a family vacation and an unforgettable fishing trip? What if you could get away, catch a few new trophies in a serene mountain setting, and unwind with dozens of other fun activities while keeping your kids happy? The fishing available on and near our vacation ranches in Colorado might […]
Why Moms Love Colorado Dude Ranch Vacations
In addition to their dozens of other duties, moms often find themselves in charge of planning and booking family vacations. Over the years, we have learned that many of them will say time spent on a Colorado dude ranch ranks amongst the best trips they have ever taken. It isn’t just that traveling to Colorado […]
Get Off Your High Horse: 4 Other Fun Things to do on a Colorado Dude Ranch
Mention a Colorado dude ranch adventure vacation, and the first thing that will come to most people’s minds is horseback riding on a serene mountain trail. That’s understandable – we have families who visit us simply because they want to be around our favorite four-legged staff members. Interacting with horses is lots of fun, and […]
4 Things You Bring Back From a Colorado Dude Ranch Vacation
Sometimes, the best part of visiting a dude ranch in Colorado isn’t the fun and relaxing trip itself, but the new impressions and experiences you bring back with you. After all, all vacations end, but some of the enjoyment can go on with you and your family for the rest of your lives. Over time, […]
Planning an Adventure Vacation? Don’t Forget the Amenities!
First-time visitors tend to think visiting a Colorado dude ranch is all about “roughing it.” Riding horses and beating the dusty trail must mean sleeping out under the open sky and eating canned food from an open fire… right? While you certainly could spend your vacation that way, most of our guests prefer to have […]
How to Plan the Perfect Family Adventure Vacation
There are a lot of different types of family vacations, and each of them can be enjoyable. But, sometimes a theme park, a trip to the beach, or a week with relatives just won’t cut it… once in a while you and your kids need a touch of adventure. Adventure can come in many different […]
Is a Colorado Dude Ranch the Perfect Grandparents Vacation?
Planning the perfect vacation is all about mixing the right destination with the right people. That’s why very few things can be as fun and fulfilling as giving grandparents some face time with their grandkids while mom and dad get away, catch up on work, or just try to remember what it’s like to have […]
Live and Unplugged: A Hidden Benefit of Your Colorado Dude Ranch Adventure Vacation
One of the biggest benefits to visiting a guest ranch might be something you hadn’t even considered: being away from electronic devices for a while. Whether you recognize it or not, there’s something special about being “unplugged,” and present in the moment, when you’re getting away with your family. Most of us don’t realize just […]
5 Things You’ll Never Hear Your Kids Say at a Colorado Dude Ranch
Planning a family vacation can be difficult. Parents want to have a relaxing time and share wonderful experiences with their kids, but finding a destination that appeals to kids and adults alike is harder than it seems… especially if you don’t want to fight crowds at the beach or spend hours in line […]
Rancher Newsletters
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Tempt your palate with indulgent gourmet dinners, wine pairings/tastings and farm to table traditions at Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches
Wine, dine and simply indulge Shawnee, CO (Jan. 28, 2015) – Today’s Colorado dude and guest ranch experience revolves around a variety of tempting taste bud delicacies ranging from traditional ranch fare to organic and farm grown products to tantalizing gourmet meals served with that perfect glass of wine. You’ll never go hungry […]
Multi-Generational family adventure at Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches
Fishing and other Outdoor Recreation, Gourmet Dining and “Edutaining” Activities for Kids Shawnee, Colo. (Nov. 19, 2013) – Colorado’s dude & guest ranches provide the perfect getaway for a multi-generational family vacation. There’s something for everyone in the family — from kids and teens to parents and grandparents with this mini-destination experience. All […]
Celebrate your inner ‘Cowboy/Cowgirl’ at a ‘Traditional’ Colorado Dude Ranch
Move and pen cattle, take care of the horses and play Gymkhana games Shawnee, CO (Feb. 27, 2014) – Grab your hat and boots, mix one part working dude ranch and one part active Colorado outdoor lifestyle, and get ready to explore your inner Cowboy/Cowgirl. You’ll experience the best of both worlds – […]
The top 10 outdoor adventures to enjoy at Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches this summer
Burn Calories with Outdoor Activities and Adventures for ‘Kids’ of All Ages Shawnee, Colo. (March 31, 2014) – Grab your favorite gear and head to one of Colorado’s dude & guest ranches this summer for some outdoor fun and adventure. The Colorado ranch experience is unlike any other with chuck wagon cookouts, gourmet […]
Taking advantage of specialty weeks & late season getaways at Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches
Fishing Groups, Women’s Yoga and Art Weeks, Murder Mysteries and Culinary Weekends Shawnee, CO (April 29, 2014) – Get out your art supplies, yoga mat and fishing gear — it’s time to head to Colorado’s dude and guest ranches for specialty weeks and late season specials! With a range of offerings, you’re bound […]
At Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches you can explore the beauty of Colorado’s National Parks and forests
Trails Rides, Excursions and Day Trips Take You from Ranch to Park Shawnee, CO (November 20, 2014) – Leave your worries behind and enjoy the Colorado’s all-inclusive dude and guest ranch vacation where you can ride horses, build campfires, explore the natural beauty of Colorado’s national parks, hike Colorado’s national forests, rock climb […]
Dude Ranches – The original “Green” vacation
February 10, Shawnee, CO – Member ranches of the Colorado Dude & Guest Ranch Association have been offering family vacations that follow “green practices” far longer than recent trends. Colorado dude ranches have been “green” for, oh, about 70 years now. There is nothing greener than riding a good horse on a well-maintained natural […]
No better time than now to book a Dude Ranch Vacation
March 10, Shawnee, CO – Reserving the dates that fit your schedule, securing the best airfare rates, and achieving peace of mind that your valuable summer or fall vacation will be as memorable as possible. These are the reasons why now is the time to book your Colorado Dude and Guest Ranch vacation. Here […]
Travel to Colorado in June
April 10, Shawnee, CO – It is difficult to select the absolutely very best month to vacation at a Colorado dude ranch. But if you ask very politely, a local cowboy may share this secret – June cannot be beat as THE month most Coloradoans love the best. In June, the wildflowers are at […]
Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches offer all-inclusive summer fun and value for couples, groups and the whole family!
More than Thirty Ranches to Meet Your Individual Needs, Location and Budget Shawnee, CO (Jan. 28, 2009) – Grab your boots and kick off this summer with an all-inclusive ranch experience at one of the more than 30 certified Colorado dude & guest ranches. Value When Colorado dude and guest ranches say “all inclusive” […]
Cattle drives and women’s yoga weeks, murder mysteries and culinary weekends
Explore the “Special” Weeks and Weekends at Colorado’s Dude & Guest Ranches Shawnee, CO (Feb. 23, 2009) – Whether you are into horses, art, food or culture, Colorado’s 30 certified dude and guest ranches offer a variety of “special” weeks and weekends for guests to enjoy. The “special” weeks and weekends that many […]
Explore the unexpected side of Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches
There’s More to a Ranch Vacation Than Just Riding Horses Shawnee, CO (March 24, 2009) – Think a dude and guest ranch vacation is just about riding horses and eating hotdogs and beans? Think again. Although riding horses is synonymous with ranches, Colorado’s dude and guest ranches serve up a complete vacation experience that […]
Family fun and adventure at Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches
Outdoor Adventure, Cookouts and “Edutaining” Activities for the Kids Shawnee, Colo. (April 28, 2009) – Colorado’s dude & guest ranches provide the perfect getaway for a family vacation. You’ll find something for everyone in the family with this mini-destination experience. The 30 certified ranches offer everything from riding, river rafting, fishing, hiking, tennis […]
Ten ways to burn calories while having fun at Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches this summer
Outdoor Activities and Adventures for ‘Kids’ of All Ages Shawnee, Colo. (May 19, 2009) – Grab your gear and get ready for some outdoor fun and adventure this summer at one of Colorado’s dude & guest ranches. The Colorado dude ranch experience is unlike any other – there may be chuck wagon cookouts, […]
This Summer Become a Colorado ‘Cowboy/Cowgirl’
…at Colorado’s All-Inclusive Dude & Guest Ranches. Explore Specialty Weeks, New Amenities and More Activities that Meet Individual Needs and Budget. Shawnee, CO (Jan. 27, 2010) – What exactly is a ‘Colorado Cowboy/Cowgirl’? Mix one part traditional cowboy with one part Colorado active outdoor lifestyle and get the best of both worlds – […]
Discover Unexpected Undulgence At Colorado Dude and Guest Ranches
Gourmet Dinners, Wine Pairings, Relaxation and Pampering Await Guests Wine, dine and pamper yourself on your next celebration vacation Shawnee, CO (February 24, 2010) – Commemorate your next milestone, anniversary or birthday with a Celebration Vacation at one of Colorado’s dude and guest ranches. At many ranches you’ll find an all-inclusive vacation experience that […]
Multi-Generational Family Adventure at Colorado’s Dude and Guest Ranches
Fishing and other Outdoor Recreation, Gourmet Dining and “Edutaining” Activities for Kids Shawnee, Colo. (Nov. 19, 2013) – Colorado’s dude & guest ranches provide the perfect getaway for a multi-generational family vacation. There’s something for everyone in the family — from kids and teens to parents and grandparents with this mini-destination experience. All […]
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