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Working Ranch Holidays
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'A Genuine Western Ranching Experience'
All Working Ranch holidays are priced according to your exact requirements. However, as a guide, an average cost for a working ranch holiday would be in the region of £1,575 per person, based on two sharing and including return flights from the UK, ranch accommodation, all meals, riding, ranch activities, sales taxes, ranch gratuities and transfers in many destinations.
The principal activity of a Working Ranch is the raising of cattle and crops but guests have become an important part of the operation. For the best experience, you should be a reasonably confident adult rider and not too faint-hearted - remember these operations are involved in rearing beef for the table.
We stress that daily activities will probably be unstructured as they are geared around the ranch's annual cycle. Springtime sees more calf work (branding & inoculating) and moving cattle out to summer pastures, they return in September or October. Summertime means checking stock, fences, water supplies etc.
Accommodation will be comfortable but rustic with home cooked food. While meat dishes are a main feature, most ranches can provide alternatives with prior notice. This is a great option if you want to experience genuine Western ranch life.If you do not yet know which destination you wish to visit to enjoy your ranch experience, Contact Us with your holiday wishes and requirements, and our experienced Travel Consultants will suggest the most suitable ranches for you, according to when you wish to travel, budget, riding experience and what other activities you may be keen to enjoy whilst at the ranch.
Alternatively, if you know which US state you want to visit, but are unsure of the ranch options available, please see below for inspiration, and Contact Us to discuss your enquiry in further detail.
We typically find that clients looking for ranch holidays also want to incorporate other activities such as Grand Canyon visits, National Park stays, Las Vegas breaks, and more - the possibilities are endless. That's the beauty of Medway Travel because we don't offer you a package but instead offer you a range of options to match your desires so that you have a holiday experience to remember forever.
Montana
Double Spear
The Ranch is located near the Chief Pleny Coups Museum, the Pryor Mountain Wild Mustang Preserve, Custer's National Battlefield, Yellowtail Dam, Bighorn River, the Cody Wyoming Museum and they are not far from Yellowstone National Park. They run over 300 mother cows on more than 5000 acres that still show the wagon ruts of the old Bozeman Trail. On the ranch, every season has its own special work waiting. In early Spring, there is calving. When the snow melts and wildflowers bloom, it will be branding time. In the summer, there is tall grass, cowboy campouts and cattle to move. Later, when the air is crisp and leaves turn the roundups begin.
In addition to the necessary ranch routine, there are many ways to tailor your vacation for you. There will be campfires, pack trips and overnight campouts up in the Pryor Mountains and sometimes up in the Castle Rock Gap. You will have your own cow horse and will be on horseback most days. There is plenty of cattle work , including gathering, roundups, cattle drives, brandings and doctoring. There is feeding and other regular chores. There are occasional days off haying & fencing.
Accommodation is modest, simple and clean. There are a couple of guest bedrooms in the main Ranch house and there's a bunkhouse with 3 bedrooms. The four cabins have shared bath facilities with single and queen-size beds. They also have a shower house for men and women. They have more beds than they want to fill with guests here which gives guests a much better choice of accommodation. Activities at this working ranch are unstructured; you will be taking part in whatever is happening at the time. This is a real Western Experience on a ranch with a whole bunch of history attached to it. You should be at an Intermediate riding level to enjoy the ranch most.
A fine example of western working ranch in the Prior Mountains south of Billings. There are unstructured ranch activities at this property as the owner may take you out to help his neighbours as much as you would find yourself working at the Double Spear. Seasonal work starts in May and the most popular time is the September round-up and early booking for this is recommended.
“Hi Mel
I'm now back from the Double Spear ranch after crying half way across the Atlantic!
I had a fantastic stay. They are a wonderful family, great fun to be around, have beautiful horses and fabulous rides. I didn't want to come home.
Everything on your part was really well organised, thank you.
Value for money was good.
All in all a fantastic trip, and would go back again for definite.
Thanks again
Alison”
"Mel,
I am now home and settled after an amazing 4 week journey across the US.
The ranch was everything I expected and more, they made me feel so welcome and definately part of the family. I learned new skills and got to ride plenty considering the bad weather.
Because we had such bad weather, there was times when riding was not possible, but instead Tony (ranch owner) took us out to see the other local sites which offered spectacular beauty and far exceeded my expectations...
Neil"
Montana Pick and Mix
If you are keen to extend your holiday after your ranch experience, various fly-drive itineraries can be provided for you to explore the stunning scenery of Montana and the Great Parks, including those mentioned below...
Yellowstone National Park - The world's first national park and a favourite for millions of visitors each year. The park is a major Montana attraction, where visitors can admire the beauty of the park from the comfort of their own vehicle or take a rest at a roadside picnic area. Active visitors enjoy the thousands of miles of hiking and cycling trails, whilst wildlife fanatics can spend days spotting the numerous species of bear, sheep, bison, elk, moose, birds, fish, wolf and other animals that inhabite over two million acres of parkland. Other natural attractions of Yellowstone include over 300 geyseys and more than 290 waterfalls, with the 308 foot Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River as it's showpiece.
Glacier National Park - Explorers in Glacier National Park can experience pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. There are over 700 miles of hiking trails for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and solitude to enjoy. No trip to the Glacier National Park is complete without a drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This spectacular 50-mile highway clings to the edge of the world as cars - and bikes - cross over the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. Along the way, it is likely the resident wildlife will be sharing the road with you.
California
Hunewill Ranch
The elevation at this working ranch is 6500 feet. They recommend that you bring a hat, sunscreen, rain jacket or poncho and a warm jacket for cool evenings. Dress is informal as you might imagine.
The Ranch is located just east of Yosemite National Park in the green, mountainous Bridgeport Valley of California.
This property is mainly a working cattle ranch with over 1200 head of cattle. You'll be able to learn cowboy skills such as gathering and sorting cattle. It's not uncommon for you to be able to help cowboys gather and bring in the herd to the corrals for vaccinating or branding. Once in a while cows will need to be "doctored" 'in the field.
You'll love riding your horse through this 26,000 acre expanse of cool lush meadow, bordered by timbered peaks. Horseback riding is the premier attraction at this ranch. Horses and riding groups are available for every riding ability. You can saunter slowly across the meadows with the novice ride or canter across thousands of acres of wildflower covered meadows with the advanced ride. Splash your way through one of the ranch's many puddles on a hot summer day, ride to breakfast on Robinson Creek, take an all day ride into high mountain meadows that approach both Yosemite and the Hoover Wilderness.
There is world class trout fishing in the nearby East Walker River and in the many lakes and streams in the adjacent Toiyabe National Forest.
Home style meals are served in the dining room in the founder's Victorian ranch house.
You'll stay in comfortable cottages near the horse pasture; allowing you to watch the horses come thundering in early each morning. The majority of cabins have two connecting rooms with private baths and comfortable porches. Most rooms have a queen and a twin bed or two twin beds. All rooms are non-smoking rooms.
In the Gift Shop you will find T-shirts, sweatshirts, posters and postcards are for sale. Other items such as books, notecards, film and sunscreen are also available.
California Pick and Mix
If you are keen to extend your holiday after your ranch experience, various add-ons can be arranged for California, both self-drive and escorted tours. For inspiration on where you can visit, please read on...
San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the world's most picturesque cities with breathtaking views and sights. Attractions include the Golden Gate Bridge, authentic street cable cars, Chinatown, Lombard Street - the most crooked street in the world, and Alcatraz Island, formerly the infamous maximum security federal prison but now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation area.
Union Square is the heart of San Francisco's shopping district, and Fisherman’s Wharf is the pier area of the city and home to rows of coastal seafood restaurants, street vendors and souvenir stores. For the best views of San Francisco Bay, venture to the top of Nob Hill, one of the highest points in the city.
Pacific Coastal Highway
The drive along the Pacific Coastal Highway is one of the most unique routes in America, the most popular section is between San Diego and San Francisco, where the highway winds along some of the most spectacular ocean views. Watch waves breaking on rocky shorelines and cliffs, and see dozens of historical landmarks such as Spanish Missions and settlements.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles - the City of Angels - is one of America's largest and most populated cities. From theme parks to beaches to movie studios and fabulous shopping, there is something for everyone.
Spend your days exploring the city, then at night sample some fine California cuisine or perhaps visit some of the nightspots of Hollywood and Sunset Strip frequented by the stars.
Hollywood is the heart of Movieland. Stroll along the Walk of Fame and see Grauman's Chinese Theatre, or see where the stars live and shop on famous Rodeo Drive.
Las Vegas
Welcome to the entertainment capital of the world - home to the world's most spectacular hotels and greatest shows. Many of the themed hotels are an attraction in themselves. Las Vegas comes to life at night - the bright lights of the strip are an amazing sight - especially from above with an unforgettable helicopter flight.
You can never tire of things to see and do in Las Vegas - ride the New York New York roller coaster, take a gondola ride at the Venetian, or enjoy fine dining at the Bellagio overlooking its spectacular fountains. Las Vegas is also perfectly placed to explore the Grand Canyon - a sight all visitors to the area must see!
San Diego
San Diego offers a wide variety of things to see and do with its near idyllic climate and dazzling array of world-class family attractions, including the famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park and Sea World San Diego.
Canada
Lucasia Ranch
Located south of Calgary just to west of Highway 2 in the glorious Porcupine Hills west of Claresholm in south west Alberta. They are in the same area as a number of well known attractions such as the World Heritage Site " Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump", the Frank Slide and Kananaskis Country.
This is a Working Ranch offering a number of varied packages throughout the summer. These will include shorter stays of 4 nights to give you a taster of the western life right up to an 11 night stay for those who just can't get enough Cowboying! There will be three cattle drives in the spring, summer and autumn where yearlings are moved onto summer grazing, heifers are brought back to the main herd and then the autumn gather when a week is spent gathering up and bringing the herd home again.
This ranch is a family-owned and run working ranch. The family enjoy meeting and introducing guests the world over to their western lifestyle. The owners and their family take pride in the historic ranch legacy that is depicted at the ranch. You will find a number of farm buildings some of which date back to the 1800s. In the main ranch house are two double guestrooms with shared bath and sitting room on a private floor.
Alternatively guests may choose the rustic life in a turn of the century refurbished log bunkhouse known as the Pioneer Cabin. There are no bathroom facilities in this cabin so you are requested to use those in the ranch house. Decor in both reflects Lucasia's western flavour. There is a brand new log cabin with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and views out over the years and valley.
Meals are home-cooked with ranch-raised beef & plenty of vegetables. Desserts are varied, homemade & delicious! Hearty ranch breakfasts are served every day. Guest conveniences also include TV, VCR with varied videos/DVDs, a wood burning fireplace and a horseshoe pit.
After a day in the saddle, you can spend the evening beside a crackling campfire or relaxing on the deck. Taste the crystal clear spring water that flows through the ranch yard into a pond that is home to colourful ducks and geese. The ranch is home to a number of award winning Percheron draft mares and stallions.
Canada Pick and Mix
If you are keen to extend your holiday after your ranch experience, why not consider exploring some of the wonderful cities and attractions that Canada can offer. Take a look at the below highlights, then Contact Us with your ideas and wishes and allow us to create a personalised holiday itinerary especially for you.
Vancouver - The natural geography of Vancouver makes it one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The backdrop of the mountains and the harbour front setting are scenic and are a focal point of everyday life. Ranked by many as their favourite city, it has many attractions and a wealth of restaurants, nightlife and shopping opportunities.
Experience the splendour of Vancouver with a sightseeing tour that begins at Stanley Park. Visit Chinatown and the waterfront area and end your day in Gastown, Vancouver's turn-of-the-century pedestrian mall filled with pubs, restaurants, art galleries, specialty stores, and the world-famous steam-powered clock.
Vancouver Island - A scenic ferry ride across the Strait of Georgia from Vancouver brings you to Vancouver Island and Victoria, the provincial capital since 1871, which continues to resemble the outpost of the British Empire as it once was. Victoria will charm you with its colonial heritage, beautiful world famous gardens and its inner city harbour. The Parliament Buildings overlook the harbour which is a bustle of activity year round.
Vancouver Island stretches along the western coast of British Columbia. The rugged west coast is cut deeply by fjords lined between high mountains with many communities located along the shores of protected bays.
The island is the perfect place to relax or to enjoy some water based activities - fishing and bear watching are popular, as well as boat and zodiac trips out to spot the Gray Whales of the Pacific Rim National Park or the Killer Whales in the Johnstone Strait.
Bear Watching - October and May are the best times to see Brown or Spirit bears in Canada. In October they come down to the river to feed on spawning salmon as they swim upstream and in May they return to the river after hibernation with their cubs to feed from the river banks. For further information about our Bear Watching Holidays, please click here.
Alaska Cruise - More than twice the size of Texas, Alaska is the largest state in the US by area and is situated in the North West extremity of the North American continent, with Canada to the East.
With snow covered peaks, thick pine forest, turquoise lakes and stunning rivers, this dream holiday destination comes highly recommended by Medway Travel, whether you are looking for adventure or romance on your long haul holiday. A vast area with gold mining and plenty of outdoor activities, Alaska is also one of the top cruise destinations in the world, so if your idea of a once in a lifetime holiday has always been a luxury cruise then let us take care of the details leaving you free to marvel at Alaska's spectacular glaciers.
The longest river of ice in North America, the Hubbard Glacier is also one of the most active glaciers of its kind in Alaska. Also, since the ships that cruise this part of our world are designed to provide guests with the best viewing possible, you'll be able to see this massive natural wonder, with its 1,350 square miles of blue ice, from just about anywhere on your ship.
For further information about holidays to Alaska and the Hubbard Glacier, please click here.
Rocky Mountaineer - Our train holidays take you through the Canadian Rockies on the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer. Four spectacular rail routes highlight the diverse beauty of Canada’s West as guests relax and enjoy the renowned service and gourmet cuisine onboard. Whether it’s a passion for historical adventure, an appreciation for natural wonders, or a desire to visit world-class destinations, we have a holiday experience to suit everyone’s taste.
The Canadian train holiday packages are designed to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. You'll experience the splendour of luxury rail travel, explore awe-inspiring parks and wildlife and enjoy the comfort of knowing all the planning has been done for you. For further information about tailor-made holidays onboard the Rocky Mountaineer, please click here.
Banff - Banff was Canada's first National Park and is world renowned for its towering peaks, pre-historic glaciers and cool canyons. Visit the museums and galleries, the Cascade Mountains, Cave and Basin National Historic Site or stroll along Banff Avenue. Banff is also the perfect base to explore from. Visit Lake Louise, the "Jewel of the Rockies" or Moraine Lake with the Valley of the Ten Peaks - the list is endless.
Lake Louise - Lake Louise, with its blue-green water set against the stark backdrop of Victoria Glacier, probably one of the most photographed scenes in the Canadian Rockies. Banff and Lake Louise offer a wide rnage of sightseeing and adventure based excursions. From city tours to horseback rides, and grizzly bear tours to lake cruises, there really is something here to suit everyone.
Jasper - Jasper's combination of wildlife, startingly blue-green mountain lakes, soaring peaks and broad forested valleys rank it as one of the world's premier national parks. The vast wilderness of the park is one of the few remaining places in Southern Canada that is home to a wide rnage of wildlife including grizzly bears, mountain lions and elk.
Whistler - Nestled in Canada's spectacular Coastal Mountains, the world famous mountian village of Whistler is one of Canada's premier resort areas. The resort is a charming European style village and has many restaurants, bars and nightclubs, all which are nestled around cosy cobblestone plazas and open air squares.
Calgary - Calgary is a city with a distinct difference, it is a 'cowboy town' at heart and one of the city's highlights is the annual "Calgary Stampede", a spectacular rodeo event which is renowned around the world. The focal point of the skyline is the 190 metre Calgary Tower which has an observation deck giving spectacular views of the City.
Colorado
Zapata Ranch
This 103,000 acre Ranch is located in the historic San Luis Valley adjacent to the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range and the newest National Park in the U.S., the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. The San Luis Valley is home to the Spanish Trail and the oldest settlement in Colorado.
The lodge is located within a beautiful stand of cottonwood and the surrounding buildings are part of an original homestead built in the late 1800's which have since been renovated. Each room features it's own private bathroom and some have a private outside entrance.
There is a choice of indoor and outdoor dining. Home cooked meals are their speciality, all beef & bison are organic and grass fed, along with sustainable pork, seafood and organically grown vegetables and fruits which are served at the dinner table.
Activities include ranch work - gathering cows, doctoring cattle, cattle drives, branding, weaning, irrigation and fence building are all in a day's work on the ranch. Ranch Horsemanship - they have developed a comprehensive programme that minimizes horse & human problems by putting the emphasis on teaching guests the importance of communication with their horse from the very start.
The high desert grasslands, alpine forests, wetlands, sand dunes, creeks, and lush meadows offer one of the most scenic and ecologically diverse landscapes to be found anywhere in the United States. The ranch and surrounding valley is a wildlife mecca with thousands of elk, bison, deer, coyotes, birds and many other animal species.
The guest services arm of Zapata ranch offers an extensive program where guests can get an indepth and educational experience learning about ranching, horsemanship, and conservation practices, while also enjoying fine lodging and meals. Guests also come for hiking, photography, bird and other wildlife watching, family reunions, and corporate retreats.
Colorado Pick and Mix
If you are keen to extend your holiday after your ranch experience, few other States have so much to offer than Colorado, from the wide open prairies in the east of the state to the majestic Rockies in the west. Denver is the major gateway which stands a mile high above sea level and you go up from there into the mountains.
Colorado is an ideal destination for families as there are direct flights to Denver as well as enjoying the greatest number of ranches, offering a range of activities for everyone from riding, fishing, rafting, swimming, tennis, hiking, bird watching and golf.
Colorado boasts some the best skiing resorts in north America in the sophisticated towns of Vail, Aspen and Breckenridge. Some ranches are open in the winter if you wish to sample nearby ski resorts or cross country skiing, riding in the snow, snowmobiling or just relaxing in a hot tub with snowy outlook.
In the summer many visitors combine their ranch stay with a self-drive tour to explore Mesa Verde National Park, Pike's Peak, Garden of the Gods, Denver City.
Whatever your interests, Contact Us with your wishes and allow us to put together the perfect Colorado holiday for you.
Idaho
Silver Spur Ranch
The Silver Spur horse drives are very popular weeks for those of you who want a challenging ride, good company, don't mind missing the home comforts of phones, bathrooms and electricity and wish to sample life as a comboy/cowgirl.
If you have ever rounded up and driven horses in miles of open country, you know it's not just a ride in the park! Driving 40-50 horses 20 miles a day through all kinds of terrain is an adventure! Former guests will tell you it's the most exciting thing they have ever done on horseback.
It can be hot and it can be cold, it can be wet or dry or dusty, it can be fast and then slow, it can be challenging yet relaxing. It's a horse drive and anything can happen because it's the real thing' If you’re looking for a fast paced great cowboy adventure, a Medicine Lodge Horse Drive is just the thing for you.
Your Horse Drive week will begin with the ranch rounding-up you and the other guests (12 average) at either the Idaho Falls or Jackson Wyoming airport and driving you to the isolated ranch located 45 miles from Dubois Idaho at the head of Medicine Lodge Canyon. The Warm Creek Cow Camp will be where your trip begins and ends.
You will arrive at the ranch Sunday evening for a welcome dinner and introduction to the Silver Spur Ranch family, crew and other guests. Your accommodation is simple yet very nice. There is no electricity at the ranch, all rooms and cabins have propane lighting The hot outdoor shower is a favourite for all guests.
After a ranch style dinner, your room and bed will be a welcome site! You will want to get a good nights sleep, because morning will come fast! You will awake to the smell of cowboy coffee and a great cowboy breakfast. After breakfast, be prepared to meet your mount. You will receive riding instructions and then off you will go on a full days ride in the mountains.
Monday is a very important day. They want everyone to feel comfortable with their horse before we leave on the horse drive. You will take a sack lunch with you everyday and eat on the trail. This usually becomes a favourite time of day, stopping to enjoy lunch on a beautiful day, giving your horse a little rest and taking in a little sunshine in the great outdoors. Making sure every one feels comfortable going up and down the mountain's on their horse and confident riding at a walk, trot and lope. We want you to trust your horse completely before we leave on the horse drive. After a great day of confidence building we will return for a Dutch Oven Dinner , a nice hot shower and relaxation around the campfire.
Tuesday: After a nice country breakfast, we will pack our bedrolls in the chuck wagon, round up and saddle the horses, load them in the horse trailer and head for Deep Creek. Let the round-up begin! We will round-up to 40 horses 20 plus miles, through desert canyon country. At the end of the day we will end up at Warm Springs. There is not a more welcome site than riding over the ridge with a herd of horses and spotting the chuck wagon and the camp. A hot cup of coffee or an ice cold coke is always appreciated. You’re going to be tired and dirty after a long day of riding.
There is a natural warm spring here and it's the perfect spot to take a nice relaxing bath. It is up on the hill from camp, so while soaking after a long day, you can see the horses you have gathered in the meadow below you, it's an awesome site' . You can end your day with a hot delicious meal and lots of stories of the day’s adventure You will be ready to retire for the evening to a nice tent or: sleep under the stars if you wish.
Wednesday: You will awake to the smell of coffee brewing over the fire and hot cakes on the griddle. After breakfast, if you like, another quick dip in the Spring, then we will help break camp, catch our horses and be on our way. We will drive the horses further into the mountain today and the scenery is breathtaking. You just never know how the day will go, it all depends on the horse's. One thing is for sure, every day is different and every day is an adventure. Once again the chuck wagon is a great sight to behold after a long days ride. Dinner and more stories and songs around the campfire make an end to a perfect day.
Thursday: Awake to the sounds of the horses near by, coffee brewing over the fire and the smell of bacon sizzling! The young colt's are usually tired and need a days rest. We have travelled over 40 miles and are now in some beautiful back country. You have got to see this. ' We will leave the colts and camp behind today and go do a little exploring. There is a beautiful mountain lake just 6 miles from camp and with abundant wildlife around, we might just get a close look at a moose, elk or even a bear.
Friday: After a whole day off with nothing to do the colts are ready and anxious to get going, so after another great breakfast we will help break camp, gather and saddle our horses, round up the colts, and get them headed to their final destination. This is another great day of riding and moving horses through some of the most beautiful country you can imagine. By now you definitely know what you are doing and feel confident doing it You are a cowboy! I You will arrive back to the ranch in late afternoon ready for a hot shower a cold drink and a Warm cookie, reward for a job well done. After a little relaxation time we will sort out one of the colts and work with him for a short time before dinner.
Saturday: By now you have ridden over 60 miles and are ready for a day off yourself. At the Silver Spur we will do all we can to make your vacation one to remember, so if there is something that you want to do that you think we may have missed, be sure and let us know and if it's possible we'll do it!
You will have memories for a lifetime.
Nevada
71 Ranch
Visit the 71 working Ranch to join an authentic working cattle ranch for a memorable cowboy/girl experience.
Located in Elko County Nevada at the base of the Ruby Mountains at an elevation of 5400 ft., the 38,000 acre 71 Ranch has been a working cattle ranch since the 1870's and is a shining example of how the Spirit of the American West continues to thrive and flourish in the modern west. During the summer months they run between 2000 and 3000 head on the ranch and you can be riding up to 13,000 feet.
The historic lodge lets you soak up the ambiance of years gone by in front of a blazing fire or venture outside for a hike and experience the tranquillity of the often snow capped Ruby Mountains.
Accommodation is on one of 6 rooms, 2 in the lodge and the other 4 are in cabins, all have private bathrooms.
The main focus at the 71 Ranch is horseback riding and cattle work. You will be riding and working side by side with the cowboys doing the chores of moving the cattle from pasture to pasture, helping doctor, vaccinate, sort, gather and brand. You may ride for hours looking for strays and missing cattle. And there is no shortage of good food as their Executive Chef will be pleased to show you. While home grown beef is high on the menu, vegetarians can also be catered for.
Whether it is helping gather calves for branding, sorting yearlings, checking or moving cattle from pasture to pasture, you will be able to participate in all the ranch work that goes along with a cattle operation. Ride the trails every day, spending hours in the saddle and enjoying life on horseback as it was meant to be. Each evening during dinner, they will discuss the next day's schedule of cattle work. You may choose what you would like to participate in; cattle work, Cowboy School or scenic trail rides or a combination.
In addition to the ranch work activities mentioned above, you will have an opportunity to participate in their other daily events such as trail rides, arena work and other general recreational activities of your choice.
A ranch stay starts on a Sunday afternoon and finishes on a Saturday and please note there is no riding on first and last days.
Nevada Pick and Mix
If you are keen to extend your holiday after your ranch experience, various add-ons can be arranged from Nevada, both to Las Vegas and California, either by self-drive and escorted tours. For inspiration on some of the places you can visit, please read on...
San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the world's most picturesque cities with breathtaking views and sights. Attractions include the Golden Gate Bridge, authentic street cable cars, Chinatown, Lombard Street - the most crooked street in the world, and Alcatraz Island, formerly the infamous maximum security federal prison but now part of the Golden Gate National Recreation area.
Union Square is the heart of San Francisco's shopping district, and Fisherman’s Wharf is the pier area of the city and home to rows of coastal seafood restaurants, street vendors and souvenir stores. For the best views of San Francisco Bay, venture to the top of Nob Hill, one of the highest points in the city.
Pacific Coastal Highway
The drive along the Pacific Coastal Highway is one of the most unique routes in America, the most popular section is between San Diego and San Francisco, where the highway winds along some of the most spectacular ocean views. Watch waves breaking on rocky shorelines and cliffs, and see dozens of historical landmarks such as Spanish Missions and settlements.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles - the City of Angels - is one of America's largest and most populated cities. From theme parks to beaches to movie studios and fabulous shopping, there is something for everyone.
Spend your days exploring the city, then at night sample some fine California cuisine or perhaps visit some of the nightspots of Hollywood and Sunset Strip frequented by the stars.
Hollywood is the heart of Movieland. Stroll along the Walk of Fame and see Grauman's Chinese Theatre, or see where the stars live and shop on famous Rodeo Drive.
Las Vegas
Welcome to the entertainment capital of the world - home to the world's most spectacular hotels and greatest shows. Many of the themed hotels are an attraction in themselves. Las Vegas comes to life at night - the bright lights of the strip are an amazing sight - especially from above with an unforgettable helicopter flight.
You can never tire of things to see and do in Las Vegas - ride the New York New York roller coaster, take a gondola ride at the Venetian, or enjoy fine dining at the Bellagio overlooking its spectacular fountains. Las Vegas is also perfectly placed to explore the Grand Canyon - a sight all visitors to the area must see!
San Diego
San Diego offers a wide variety of things to see and do with its near idyllic climate and dazzling array of world-class family attractions, including the famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park and Sea World San Diego.
Texas
Lazy F Ranch
Where the oaks of Central Texas meet the Mesquite of South Texas, this 2,500 acre working ranch is to be found south east of San Antonio. It is one of the most beautiful and historic cattle ranches in Texas and is the remaining part of the 70,000 acres Billings Ranch of Gonzales County. The guest capacity of the ranch is up to 20 adults in the Main and Guest house but there is a very basic bunkhouse with accommodation for up to 14. The Main House consist of one large master bedroom with whirlpool Jacuzzi bath and one smaller bedroom with upstairs bath. There is also a very large living room with fireplace, dining room also with fireplace, upstairs mezzanine offering cable TV and a garden/card room. In the Pool House are four bedrooms all with private bathroom.
The Pool is located next to the Pool House which has a verandah facing the pool. Laundry - Washer and Dryer facilities are available to ranch guests. The ranch offers a real Cowboy Experience and you would be best advised to be a competent rider to get the best out of this ranch. In the Spring and Autumn there are cattle gathers in which guests may participate. These will involve a considerable amount of hours in the saddle and some long days but at the end, you will have memories of having taken part in "the real thing". At other times activities are unstructured. Rest, relax or join in as you wish. This is a working ranch with normal ranch activities. They change daily and can include cattle work such as sorting, gathering, scattering, roundup, roping, branding, riding fence and going to cattle auctions to help buy and sell cattle.
Hearty family style meals are offered with pass around, ranch cooking. Guests must bring their own liquor, beer and soft drink.
Texas Pick and Mix
Texas in the second largest state in America, with an abundance of sunshine, stunning countryside and vibrant cities, so why not extend your stay after your ranch experience ends?
There are more than 900 courses for keen golfers to play, exciting theme parks, and of course, very distinctive food.
Dallas - a shimmering city with mind-blowing architecture, Dallas is ultra-modern and is the number one visitor and leisure destination in Texas. The best shopping in the southwest can be found here, along with an abundance of fine dining venues and art exhibitions, top museums and performance halls.
Bandera - Typically Texan, Bandera is a small town, but is full of character and sure to offer you a genuinely warm welcome. In addition to its selection of ranches, Bandera has a host of bars, restaurants and stores. Just a short drive from San Antonio, Bandera makes a geat stop as part of a Texas fly-drive itinerary.
Houston - As the 4th largest city in the U.S., Houston, Texas is a leader in business, entertainment, the arts, and more. From professional sports to outdoor fun to an out-of-this-world space experience and incredible dining - it's all in Houston! Stroll the beaches of Galveston or challenge yourself on one of the many golf courses. SpaceCity offers everything from breathtaking museum exhibits to vibrant downtown entertainment. Explore the wonder of space or spend the day shopping to your heart’s content. Visit and you'll understand why it is a city of infinite possibilities.
San Antonio - San Antonio is the most visited city in Texas. Top sights include the Alamo and other historic missions, the River Walk, SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
Wyoming
Kara Creek Ranch
One of the best working ranches in north east Wyoming offering seasonal working programme of cattle drives in Spring and Autumn plus regular work throughout the summer. Run by an experienced rancher who will ensure a memorable holiday for those looking for the true ranching experience. Advanced riders would enjoy this property to its full.
This Wyoming ranch is located in the north east of the State and is very much a working ranch. To stay here you have to be classified as either an Intermediate or Advanced rider. You also have to be prepared to "get down and get dirty !" but the rewards and memories that you come home with will last you a lifetime.
Owned and run by Monte Snook and his family, the ranch is close to the old Cheyenne to Deadwood Stage route. You are right in old Wild West country here !The sleeping accommodation is all in the ranch house, several rooms are in the basement where the staff are usually quartered, the guests are accommodated on the ground floor (two rooms, which share a bathroom) and on the upper floor there are two rooms with wonderful views. They also have to share the bathroom. Downstairs the dining and sitting room are close together and have panoramic windows on three sides plus an enormous fire-place. There is also a new four berth cabin with en suite facilities which stands about 200 yards from the ranch house.
The Ranch is relatively small by American standards covering several hundred acres but the remainder of the ranch is some distance away. It is sometimes necessary to transport the horses by road if you are taking part in one of their "Cow Camps".
Wyoming Pick and Mix
If you are keen to extend your holiday after your ranch experience, various fly-drive itineraries can be provided for you to explore the stunning scenery of Wyoming and the array of outdoor activities it has to offer, including those mentioned below...
Grand Teton National Park - Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming, just south of Yellowstone National Park, and just north of the town of Jackson. The park's mountain range is very popular among climbers, hikers and photographers. Grand Teton National Park offers hiking, camping, climbing, boating, kayaking and numerous photography opportunities. A road winds through the park, but the best way to experience the park is to take one of its shorter trails.
Fishing - With 4,200 crystalline lakes sand 27,000 miles of blue-ribbon, fishable streams, Wyoming is the ultimate fishing and fly fishing destination. Expert anglers and eager beginners alike can find a fisherman's dream along the clear waters scattered across the state. Wyoming embraces this gift, ensuring that capable guides and outfitters are as plentiful as the fish waiting to be caught. Fishing in Wyoming is truly a unique experience. In the unspoiled wilderness, you're likely to encounter more wildlife than other anglers, allowing you to find your own private fishing paradise.
Hiking - With seven national forests, two national parks, numerous state parks and more than 18 million acres of public land, hikers have plenty to do and see throughout the Cowboy State. Whether you want to scale a mountain or stroll across the prairie, Wyoming has the perfect hike for you. With hundreds of trails to choose from, it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few!
Golf - Nearly 100 courses are scattered throughout the state. The high altitudes of Wyoming allows the shots stay aloft almost 10 percent longer than the same shot made at sea level. Now that's something to drive for.
Scenic Float Trips - Embarking on a scenic river trip means one thing: relaxation. The slow meander of the water and the lazy dip of a paddle are your ticket to rest and leisure. Along with an experienced guide and a serene state of mind, this is your chance to marvel at nature and take it nice and easy on the water.
River Rafting - Don’t let its calm rivers fool you. Wyoming is also home to canyons with stretches of whitewater offering enough bounce and splash for even the most thrill-seeking, expert rafters. And if you’ve never rafted before? Not to worry. Experienced guides who are passionate about whitewater will teach you everything you’ll need to know.
White Water Rafting - As winter loses its grasp on the landscape, snow turns to runoff, water levels rise, and whitewater rafting adventures begin in Wyoming. Whether you’re a first-time rafter with a family in tow or a seasoned veteran of whitewater, you’ll find a rafting trip designed for people like you in Wyoming. There are plenty of rafting outfitters to meet your needs, and they’ll provide you with all the gear you need as well as their expert instruction. With half-day, full-day and overnight excursions, you can choose the duration and intensity of your trip. The rafting season runs from mid-May to late September, and the highest flows come at the beginning of the season as snow melts into the rivers.
Ballooning - If you are one of those who find hot air balloons fascinating, you've probably dreamt of going for a balloon ride, or maybe even piloting one. Hot air balloon rides are one of the most fascinating experiences you will ever have. The roar of the burners as you rise into the sky, then the silence of floating, drifting with the winds, looking down on trees, beaches, farms and fields.
