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Did you know? You can partake in herding cattle, as well as learn line dancing on a dude ranch.
TakeawaysMost dude ranches offer more than riding…some even offer tennis and hiking experiences.Most women that experience the dude ranch come away feeling empowered.Before choosing a dude ranch, do your research.Dude ranches are not just for men and boys. Women of all ages and backgrounds are flocking out west to vacation in one of the most relaxing of atmospheres. Some people may ask, "Why a dude ranch?" Beyond the fact that the west is full of beautiful scenery, dude ranches can offer a woman the chance to experience a vacation like no other and have a variety of dude ranches to choose from.
One of the main reasons women decide to spend their vacation time at a dude ranch is the feeling of safety while doing something adventurous. Ranches generally check their staff's backgrounds and make sure their animals and adventures are safe for the beginner.
They will ask many questions to make sure that you and your horse make a good match. A more simplified reason that women are prone to vacation at a dude ranch is they actually get to relax. They no longer have to worry about preparing a meal doing their laundry, or cleaning. Women can simply enjoy their vacation at a dude ranch.
Knowing that there are a variety of activities at the dude ranch is another important reason women choose them. Most guest ranches offer other activities, as well, including line dancing, cookouts, mountain climbing, rafting, fishing, and some even offer tennis. There is always some type of activity going on at a dude ranch.
These are just a few of the reasons women decide up a dude ranch for their vacation. Other reasons may include the chance to feel like they are accomplishing something, such as a trail ride or hiking up a mountain. A lot of women that partake in the dude ranch experience are over the age of forty and may want to experience something in between raising their children and taking care of their elderly parents. Whatever the reason women are choosing the dude ranch experience, dude ranches are certainly taking advantage of this trend and many now offer "Women's Week", a time for just women to attend the ranch. These gatherings of women bring about camaraderie among them and many leave feeling more in-tune to themselves, simply by spending their time with other women.
What To Bring
When it comes to packing for your trip to a dude ranch, you'll want to come prepared. Make sure you bring long pants, jeans being ideal, long sleeved shirts, cowboy boots (or boots that lace up and have a heel), a hat with strings (it will keep it from falling off), bandanna, comfortable clothing, and casual clothing for when you're not riding. Another item ideal for women is pantyhose. Worn under your jeans when riding, pantyhose will help protect you from chafing. Also, if you plan on doing any hiking, it is best to bring hiking boots as cowboy boots are not intended for hiking. A warm jacket is essential as the nights can get cool and bring rain gear just in case of bad weather. Other items to consider are chap stick, sun block, any medications you require, lotion, and of course, your bathing suit for an afternoon swim.
Other essential items for your dude ranch experience are binoculars and your camera and film. The beauty of the west is undeniable and you'll want to capture every moment. Whether you are riding the horse or hiking through the many trails, bring your camera and get ready to preserve your memories of life on the dude ranch.
Adventure Women
There are many western dude ranches to choose from that cater to women. Among them is one that has been developed by Adventure Women in Bozeman, Montana. A week long trip is schedule at the Montana Guest Ranch where the women will truly experience the west. From horseback riding to fishing, women will be able to join in the fun and even celebrate the Fourth of July with a Western rodeo and fireworks. Exploring Yellowstone National Park, women will get a chance to see the "big game" and then experience the Missouri River headwaters (well-known due to the historical Lewis and Clark expedition). The women on this adventure will also take a trip back in time to the gold rush towns from the 19th century. Adventure Women makes sure that their clients understand that this is not a sit-back kind of tour. It is a hands on experience that women will walk away from feeling empowered by their capabilities.
The Colorado Dude and Guest Ranch Association
Out of the thirty-six dude and guest ranches represented by the Colorado Dude and Guest Ranch Association, five of them offer "Women Weeks" in their schedules. Among them are Smith Fork, located in Crawford, the Colorado Cattle Company, located in New Raymer, Wilderness Trails Ranch, out of Durango, the Powderhorn Guest Ranch of Powderhorn, and the Home Ranch in Clark.
These five ranches offer the best of Colorado for women looking to experience the outdoors and ranch life. Each individual ranch offers individual cabins, and those on The Home Ranch even come with a hot-tub on their own private porches. Whether your looking to develop a relationship with your horse or work with the cattle on the ranches, you'll find you'll experience the best of it all, while staying at any one of these ranches.
Double E Guest Ranch
Located in Gila, New Mexico, the Double E Guest Ranch is home to one of the best Cowgirl Camps available. At this ranch, a woman can expect to experience the adventure with a hands-on approach. Here you'll learn basic horsemanship, as well as skills such as roping and herding cattle to the branding pen. At the Double E, they take pride in giving individual attention and only schedule a maximum of twelve guests during Women's Week.
Because the Double E offers a more hands-on style, maid service is not offered, however, meals are served at the main ranch in a family-style atmosphere. Cabins are equipped with the basics for you, however, the Double E Guest Ranch is more than accommodating should you require something.
When deciding which Western dude ranch you'd like to partake in, first decide what you are hoping to accomplish from your vacation. Are you looking for a place simply to relax? Or are you looking for real adventure? Would you rather be at a ranch with a hundred guests or a dozen? Do your research online or make phone calls to find out exactly what the accommodations are at each ranch you inquire about. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Most of the dude ranches are willing to do whatever it takes to make your stay comfortable. Just remember that the dude ranch experience is one that women of all ages and backgrounds enjoy and most come away with not only a feeling of accomplishment, but pride in knowing they have experienced the west. |
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