Craving wide-open skies and a break from the everyday? These ranch vacations deliver horseback rides, hearty meals, and unplugged moments in some of the most scenic spots in the country.

Highlights:

  • All-inclusive dude ranches in Montana and Wyoming
  • Luxury ranch resorts with spa services and gourmet dining
  • Horseback riding, cattle drives, and outdoor adventures
  • Family-friendly ranches with kids’ programs and nature trails
  • Romantic escapes with private cabins and stargazing decks

Luxury Ranch Vacations in the U.S.:

Plan a family adventure at Vista Verde Ranch


Enjoy horseback riding, fishing, and exciting outdoor activities.

Plan a family adventure at Vista Verde Ranch

© Vista Verde Ranch

Location:

Colorado, USA

Highlights:

Plan a family adventure at Vista Verde Ranch, a working Colorado dude ranch offering a perfect blend of nature, delicious food, and exciting activities. Whether it’s summer or winter, there’s something for everyone, from horseback riding and fly fishing to snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.

We Recommend This For:

Families looking for an adventurous vacation, nature lovers, and anyone seeking outdoor fun and relaxation in a beautiful mountain setting.

What We Love:

The variety of activities available year-round, family-friendly programs, private cabins with hot tubs, and the delicious meals prepared by the talented chef at the ranch.
  • Stay in private cabins furnished in western style with lodgepole pine beds and handmade log furniture, each with a private hot tub on the deck.
  • Dine on three delicious meals daily, included in the rate, or learn to prepare some of the ranch’s signature dishes by attending cooking classes.
  • Enjoy a wide range of activities, from summer horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, and biking to winter snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and track skiing on 30 km of groomed trails.
  • Relax at the Spa Building with access to the fitness room and outdoor hot tub, perfect for unwinding after an active day.
  • Family Fun with family-friendly river rafting, kayaking, and a daily program for kids and teens led by trained wranglers.

Contact:

For more information or to book your stay, call 800-526-RIDE

Wapiti Meadow Ranch


Explore scenic trails and enjoy peaceful fly-fishing adventures.

Wapiti Meadow Ranch

© Wapiti Meadow Ranch

Location:

Idaho, USA

Highlights:

Wapiti Meadow Ranch is an adventure getaway nestled in the stunning mountains, trees, and streams of Idaho. Surrounded by 50 miles of freestone streams, it’s a paradise for fly-fishing enthusiasts and offers an array of exciting outdoor activities in one of the largest Wilderness areas in the U.S.

We Recommend This For:

Fly-fishing lovers, nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat in Idaho’s beautiful wilderness.

What We Love:

The unique experience of fly-fishing in the pristine waters of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, along with the variety of activities available like hiking, photography tours, and wildlife observation.
  • Fish for salmon in the Middle Fork of the Salmon River and enjoy the beauty of 50 miles of freestone streams, perfect for fly-fishing.
  • Explore the area’s nine lakes, accessible by foot or 4x4 trails, and take part in activities such as hiking, photography tours, panning for gold, mountain biking, and wildlife tours.
  • Witness the wild Idaho salmon and trout migration around mid-July, as the salmon return to spawn in the stream that flows through the ranch.
  • Stay in private guest cabins featuring a separate bedroom, modern bath, large living room, and a fully equipped kitchenette for a comfortable and cozy stay.

Contact:

For more information or to book your stay, call 208-633-3217

C Lazy U Ranch, Granby, Colorado


Go horseback riding and savor ranch-style cuisine with breathtaking views.

C Lazy U Ranch, Granby, Colorado

© C Lazy U Ranch

Location:

Granby, Colorado

Highlights:

Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or just looking to reconnect with nature, the historic C Lazy U Ranch in Granby offers a memorable, all-inclusive vacation experience. Open year-round, this charming resort is perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, and groups who want to enjoy outdoor activities in a picturesque, all-inclusive setting, with luxurious accommodations and a variety of recreational options.

What We Love:

The variety of activities for all ages, including horseback riding, fishing, and yoga, along with the gourmet meals served at the main lodge and the relaxing amenities like the Lazy U Spa.
  • Stay in luxury rooms perfect for couples or private cabins with 1 to 3 bedrooms for families, all with exceptional comfort and beautiful surroundings.
  • Dine on gourmet meals included in your stay, served at the main lodge with views of the surrounding natural beauty.
  • Ride with equestrian activities for all ages, including lessons and guided trail rides through scenic landscapes.
  • Explore other activities like fishing trips, biking, hiking, hatchet throwing, yoga, and ranger tours to complete your outdoor adventure.
  • Relax with amenities such as the Lazy U Spa, outdoor swimming pool, and fitness center for downtime after a day of activities.

Address:

C Lazy U Ranch, 3640 CO-125, Granby, CO 80446
Phone: 970-887-3344

Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch


Relax in hot springs and admire stunning mountain scenery.

Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch

© Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch

Location:

Stanley, Idaho

Highlights:

Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch offers spectacular mountain vistas and a natural hot springs swimming pool, making it the perfect adventure vacation for couples. With a log lodge, cozy cabins, and handcrafted furniture, it’s an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful and scenic getaway in the heart of the Sawtooth Valley.

We Recommend This For:

Couples looking for a romantic and adventurous retreat, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unplug and enjoy stunning mountain landscapes.

What We Love:

The rustic charm of the accommodations, including the Honeymoon Cabin with its rock fireplace, and the delicious five-course dinners served each evening in a tranquil setting.
  • Stay in one of 21 accommodations, all featuring handcrafted furniture and private baths. The Honeymoon Cabin and other duplex cabins feature cozy rock fireplaces, with several cabins offering connecting doors for groups.
  • Relax with no phones, televisions, or radios in the guestrooms, ensuring a peaceful, distraction-free experience in nature.
  • Dine on a delicious breakfast in the lodge dining room, including a continental buffet and one of two morning specials, as well as five-course dinners featuring appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts.
  • Explore with picnic lunches that can be pre-ordered for your adventures during the day, or take a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs swimming pool.

Address:

Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch, 9 miles South of Stanley, Idaho on Highway 75
Phone: +1 208-774-3544

Unique Ranch Vacations in the U.S.:

Rancho De La Osa


Discover Southwestern history and enjoy horseback riding through desert landscapes.

Rancho De La Osa

© Rancho De La Osa

Location:

Arizona, USA

Highlights:

Rancho De La Osa is an intimate ranch nestled in the tranquil surroundings of the Arizona desert. With no televisions or radios, it's the perfect place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy activities like horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and croquet, or indulge in a cooking class and relaxing massages during your stay.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful, romantic getaway with plenty of outdoor activities and delicious meals included in the stay.

What We Love:

The charming atmosphere of the Hacienda, with its thick walls that stay cool throughout the day, and the authentic Southwestern gourmet meals that make every meal a treat.
  • Stay in one of 18 guestrooms, each individually decorated with Mexican antiques, a private bath, and a porch. For a romantic experience, request a room with a wood-burning fireplace.
  • Relax in the beautiful Hacienda, built in the 1830s-1860s, where you’ll find the dining room and four comfortable salons with fireplaces, offering a perfect ambiance to unwind.
  • Dine on gourmet Southwestern meals, including ranch favorites like lemon pinon chicken, filet mignon with a delicate spice rub, and grilled tilapia with almond butter sauce. Indulge in desserts such as chocolate decadence, espresso crème brûlée, and margarita pie.
  • Explore the Sonoran Desert with activities like swimming in the heated pool, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and croquet. Cooking classes and massages are also available to enhance your stay.

Address:

Rancho De La Osa, near Tucson, Arizona
Phone: 800-872-6240

Paws Up in Montana


Experience luxury glamping and explore exciting outdoor adventures.

Paws Up in Montana

© Paws Up in Montana

Location:

Missoula, Montana

Highlights:

Paws Up is a luxurious getaway surrounded by 37,000 acres of pristine Montana wilderness, including the Blackfoot River. With elegant accommodations, ranging from upscale tents to private homes, this resort offers a true immersion in nature while providing world-class amenities and activities.

We Recommend This For:

Nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those looking for a unique and luxurious retreat with plenty of outdoor activities, both in the summer and winter.

What We Love:

The extensive array of activities, from hiking and mountain biking to whitewater rafting and dog sledding, paired with luxurious accommodations and the relaxing, nature-filled spa.
  • Stay in elegant homes or upscale tents, each designed with luxurious Western-style décor, featuring soft brown leather couches and unique art pieces, offering comfort for two to six guests.
  • Explore over 100 miles of hiking, mountain biking, horse and ATV trails, and enjoy activities like fly-fishing, kayaking, tubing, whitewater rafting, and sporting clay shooting.
  • Relax in the tranquil Spa, situated on a hillside above the resort, offering a range of treatments surrounded by the peaceful woods and nature.
  • Indulge in delicious meals at two on-site restaurants: the Cook Shack, serving continental cuisine with a Western flair, and the Tank and Trough Bistro, offering a more casual menu.
  • Winter Fun includes snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, ice fishing, and dog sledding—perfect for those looking to embrace Montana’s snowy landscapes.

Address:

Paws Up, 30 minutes east of Missoula, Montana
Phone: 406-244-5201

Blue Lake Ranch


Enjoy a romantic getaway surrounded by stunning gardens and mountain views.

Blue Lake Ranch

© Blue Lake Ranch

Location:

Durango, Colorado

Highlights:

Blue Lake Ranch is a secluded romantic getaway set on 200 acres, just 15 minutes from Durango and 30 minutes from Mesa Verde National Park. With its own trout-filled lake and spectacular flower gardens, it’s the perfect destination for those looking for an affordable yet unique mountain retreat.

We Recommend This For:

Couples seeking a romantic getaway, families planning reunions, and anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of Colorado’s nature with a tranquil and picturesque setting.

What We Love:

The lush gardens filled with irises, daffodils, tulips, and lilacs, along with the peaceful atmosphere provided by the lake and surrounding mountains. The variety of accommodations, from cottages to private cabins, ensures something for every type of traveler.
  • Stay in cozy cottages or larger houses on the property. For family reunions, consider the Spring House, which features a gas fireplace, wet bar, and can accommodate up to 12 guests.
  • Relax in the Cedar Casita, ideal for a romantic summer getaway with views of the Iris and Peony field, a gas-burning fireplace, wet bar, and a whirlpool for two.
  • Enjoy Privacy in the Cabin on the Lake, with a wrap-around deck, living room with a stone fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, three bedrooms, and three baths, perfect for a secluded retreat overlooking the Blue Lake and mountains.
  • Explore the vibrant flower gardens, where 10,000 irises bloom in the summer, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the surrounding fields and lake.

Contact:

For more information or to book your stay, call 888-258-3525

The Lodge at Red River Ranch


Walk along peaceful trails and admire rustic, historic architecture.

The Lodge at Red River Ranch

© The Lodge at Red River Ranch

Location:

Utah, USA

Highlights:

The Lodge at Red River Ranch is a secluded couples' getaway in the Southwest, surrounded by 2,000 acres of pristine wilderness. With 15 individually decorated guest rooms, this beautiful hideaway offers a perfect mix of rustic charm and elegance, ideal for an active couple looking to explore the outdoors.

We Recommend This For:

Couples seeking a peaceful, romantic retreat with opportunities for adventure in a picturesque, wilderness setting.

What We Love:

The lodge’s stunning architecture, inspired by grand Western lodges, and the comfortable guest rooms with private fireplaces and balconies, providing a relaxing space after a day of outdoor activities.
  • Stay in one of 15 uniquely decorated guest rooms, each featuring its own charm, such as the Tyrolean room inspired by the European Alps, the Safari room, and the Wildflower room with subtle floral decor.
  • Relax in the Great Room, with a three-story high ceiling, plush chairs, and a massive Anasazi-style fireplace, perfect for winding down in the evenings.
  • Explore the nearby Capitol Reef National Park, Zion, Arches, and other national parks for hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and stunning red rock canyon photos.
  • Experience activities like fly fishing, ATV rides, and Jeep tours, available through nearby outfitters.

Contact:

For more information or to book your stay, call +1 435-425-3322

UXU Ranch near Cody, Wyoming


Explore wilderness trails and enjoy an affordable, authentic ranch experience.

UXU Ranch near Cody, Wyoming

© UXU Ranch

Location:

Cody, Wyoming

Highlights:

UXU Ranch is located 35 miles west of Cody, Wyoming, and is the perfect spot for large family reunions. Offering a week of unlimited horseback riding, mountain biking, a trip to Yellowstone National Park, fly-fishing, and nearby golf, it provides a fantastic combination of adventure and relaxation.

We Recommend This For:

Large families, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for an active yet relaxing vacation in Wyoming’s beautiful wilderness.

What We Love:

The range of activities, from horseback riding to guided fly-fishing, the delicious regional cuisine, and the relaxing hot tub and sauna at the end of a busy day.
  • Stay in one of ten cozy one to three-bedroom cabins, each with down comforters, private bathrooms, and a sitting porch. Some cabins include fireplaces or gas stoves, and two deluxe cabins offer views of the Shoshone River.
  • Dine on regional cuisine with three full meals per day included, complemented by a wine list of over 70 wines, primarily from the West Coast.
  • Enjoy a variety of activities such as horseback riding, mountain biking, guided fly-fishing, and golf, with a special trip to Yellowstone National Park included in your stay.
  • Relax at the end of the day with a soak in the hot tub or unwind in the sauna after a day full of adventures.

Address:

UXU Ranch, 35 miles west of Cody, Wyoming
Phone: 307-587-2143

Spring Creek Ranch


Admire breathtaking views and enjoy wildlife watching in any season.

Spring Creek Ranch

© Spring Creek Ranch

Location:

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Highlights:

Spring Creek Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is the ideal spa destination for adventure enthusiasts who appreciate the outdoors and luxury amenities. Offering a health spa, fitness center, and turndown service, it’s perfect for those looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway. The property also features condominiums and homes of various sizes, making it a great choice for family getaways.

We Recommend This For:

Families, adventure lovers, and anyone seeking a mix of outdoor activities and luxury accommodations in a stunning mountain setting.

What We Love:

The variety of activities, from hiking in Grand Teton to heli-skiing in the winter, paired with luxurious accommodations and incredible views of the Teton Range.
  • Stay in the inn, condominiums, or homes, with accommodations offering beautiful views of the Teton Range and a pond. Rooms come with wood-burning fireplaces, balconies or patios, and some condominiums feature gas fireplaces and full baths.
  • Relax with spa services and unwind in the seasonal pool, perfect after a day of outdoor adventures.
  • Explore during the summer with hiking, fly fishing, climbing, float trips, golf, horseback riding, and tennis. In the winter, enjoy skiing at three resorts, heli-skiing, sleigh rides, and ice skating.

Address:

Spring Creek Ranch, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Phone: 307-733-8833

FAQ:

  • What activities can you enjoy on a ranch vacation?
    • Ranch vacations offer activities such as fly fishing, horseback riding, cattle drives, and other exciting adventures.
  • What types of ranches are included in the list of top 10 ranch vacations?
    • The list includes working dude ranches and luxury country lodges in the United States.
  • When is the best time to visit a ranch, according to the Dude Ranchers' Association?
    • Fall is a great time to visit, with great deals, cattle drives, and stunning fall foliage displays.
  • What should you do if you plan to visit a ranch during the busy summer season?
    • It's recommended to reserve your spot well ahead of time during the busy summer season.
  • Do families often return to ranches?
    • Yes, families return to their favorite ranches year after year, with some booking their stay a year in advance.
  • Are there ranch getaways suitable for honeymooners?
    • Yes, honeymooners who love the outdoors can choose from ranch getaways offering cozy honeymoon cabins and romantic touches.
  • What are the typical rates for a ranch vacation?
    • Rates typically range from $100 per night to $300 or more, with meals and activities usually included (but check beforehand).

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