There is nothing that captures the iconic image of the West better than a cowboy. We can all conjure up a picture of a grizzled rider, slouched over his saddle with his hat pulled low and a silk scarf around his neck, driving cattle over the dusty plains. Many of us dream of riding the range alongside him. In Wind River Country that dream can become a reality by booking a vacation at one of our Dude Ranches.
On one end of the spectrum are working dude ranches where you become a hired hand during your stay. You’ll get up early and start moving the cows, helping with branding, checking on fences, and vaccinating animals. It’s hard work, but you’ll be rewarded by the spectacular scenery, good food, great company and a real sense of the Old West.
If you are looking for a more pampered vacation, there other guest ranches in Wind River Country that offer spa treatments and luxury accommodations. You’ll still get your cowboy fix on guided horseback rides, but you are also welcome to sit on the porch and read a book, soak in the hot tub, or go fishing in a nearby stream.
All the dude ranches and guest ranches in Wind River Country pride themselves on their food and hospitality. In addition, they share the same amazing location where miles of public, unfenced land provides you with access to hours of riding. You can wander through pine forests, gallop across the sagebrush flats, meander through honeycombed badlands, or follow mountain trails up to the high country. The fishing is great at most of the ranches and services usually include expert guides to help you find the local stream’s sweet spot.
Many of the area’s ranches also offer backcountry horsepacking trips
into the Wind River Range and the Absaroka Mountains for people looking
for a bit more adventure.