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What is a dude ranch? -

A dude ranch is a guest ranch. That is, a type of ranch geared towards visitors or tourism.

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The dude ranch concept -

The dude ranch concept is nothing new. In the 1920s, the US cattle industry took a hit and many ranchers had to rein in extra income from other sources.

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Dude Ranchers' Association -

By the late 1920s, hundreds of ranchers were relying on their hospitality services to make ends meet. In 1926, the Dude Ranchers' Association was formed and, with it, a new kind of vacation experience.

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'City Slickers' (1991) -

These days "dude" is a slang greeting term mainly between men, meaning "guy" or "man." Back in the early 1900s, however, a "dude" was an urbanite, a city slicker. Anyone who has seen the movie 'City Slickers' (1991) will immediately identify with the white-collar townies who join a cattle drive not knowing one end of a horse from the other!

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Outdoors vacation option -

Today there are thousands of dude ranches operating across North America. Each offers an authentic Old West experience in scenic, fresh air locations a world away from the 21st century.

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Saddle up! -

Tourists seeking a couple of weeks immersed in a Western lifestyle will no doubt end up in the saddle, even if they've had no prior experience.

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Cowboys and cowgirls -

But it doesn't really matter if you consider yourself a city slicker or a seasoned buckeroo, spending time on a dude ranch is all about enjoying the great outdoors with like-minded people. So, what can you expect from a stay?

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Trail riding on horseback -

Trail riding affords a unique opportunity to explore the West like a true pioneer. This is leisurely horseback riding at its most agreeable.

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Cattle drives -

On the other hand, if your idea of a dude ranch vacation is to experience life as a cowboy or cowgirl firsthand, then "hup, hup, and ride 'em" on an exhilarating cattle drive.

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Herding and penning -

Once you've honed your cowboy or cowgirl skills, why not test them by taking part in a herding or penning competition? The idea is to separate a cow or steer from the group and herd it into a pen. The winner is the person who can do so in the fastest time. Good luck!

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Learn to ride -

Kids are catered to big time at dude ranches. And if your youngster is eager to climb into the saddle, learning to ride a horse in an Old West environment is the perfect place to start.

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Bird watching -

Some horseback rides follow trails that take you into the semi-wilderness and the realm of rare and iconic wildlife. Bird watching is a favorite pastime. Pack binoculars and scan the sky. You may well be rewarded with a glimpse of the mighty bald eagle.

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Cross-country by track -

Horsepower of a different kind can take those not so sure in the saddle to outward destinations in the comfort of an all terrain vehicle (ATV). This is another memorable way of exploring the territory.

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Jeep tour adventure -

Alternatively, book a jeep tour. Many ranches offer all-day excursions using tough, durable 4 x 4 vehicles that can take guests way beyond their wildest imagination.

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White water rafting -

If watersports is your thing, choose a dude ranch next to a river. And the wilder, the better! White water rafting is one of the top optional activities requested by guests.

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Kayaking and canoeing -

However, if crashing and cascading through an untamed torrent sounds like a river too far, take to a lake in a kayak or canoe.

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Fly fishing -

Excellent fly fishing on private waters lures experts as well as beginners to some fabulous rivers that snake and meander through dude ranch property. And there's nearly always an expert on hand to help you net the "big one."

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Meet the locals -

Dude ranch vacations aren't all about hooves, dust, and water. Many guest ranches feature petting zoos, wonderful havens of domestic wildlife where kids can meet and greet furry farm friends and other adorable animals.

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Overnight campout -

While dude ranch accommodation is entirely adequate and super comfortable, there's nothing like a night under the stars. Why not opt for an overnight campout in the mountains?

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Archery -

Outside recreational activity, programs might very well include instruction and participation in archery.

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Skeet shooting -

Skeet shooting, or clay target shooting, is another popular sport. Shooting and archery practice are disciplines always carried out in a safely controlled environment.

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Zip-line experience -

If you're staying up in the hills or mountains, the ranch will likely be able to provide the ultimate rush—a zip-line flight!

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Hiking the big country -

Dude ranches are typically found in amazing locations, valleys or mountains for example. To get the most out of dramatic destinations like this, spend a day hiking a trail. Do so in pairs or as part of a group.

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Roping -

Here's something that will keep the children occupied for hours! Roping is the age-old skill of handling cattle using a circle of rope called a lasso. The truly accomplished can lasso a runaway animal on horseback. How will your young cowboy or cowgirl fare?

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Sleigh ride in the snow -

Many dude ranches are year-round operations. In winter, programs take on an extra dimension with the option of sleigh rides in snow.

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Glamping -

Glamping is a relatively new accommodation trend that many dude ranches are now providing. Spending time under canvas with a shower and bath at hand appeals to the more discerning traveler, but who still wants to embrace the great outdoors.

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Music and song -

Talent shows are a mainstay of guest ranches. Besides the complement of professional entertainers, talented guests are encouraged to join the party, either as singers or musicians.

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Line dancing -

On the other hand, why not tap your feet to a different tune and join a line dancing lesson?

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Cookery classes -

Dude ranches are known for hosting great cookery classes. And we're not just talking about knocking together a BBQ. Trained chefs are on hand to impart the secrets of scrumptious ranch cuisine—and that doesn't always include meat-based recipes.

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Massage for tired muscles -

A long, hard day trail riding can leave its mark. Soothe out those saddle sore muscles with a relaxing massage. Check that the ranch of your choice offers this service before booking.

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At one with nature -

Additionally, many dude ranches offer yoga classes for those seeking communion with Mother Nature.

Sources: (Dude Ranchers Association) (National Geographic Society) 

See also: 30 ways that yoga can improve your health

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