Dude Ranches 

If the thought of riding the trails, working cattle, chowing down on a chuck-wagon barbecue, bunking down in a log cabin and learning to rope a steer appeals to your sense of adventure, then perhaps you should consider kicking op your family heels and heading out west to a dude ranch. 

Some ranches have good programs for kids such as Paradise Guest Ranch in Buffalo, Wyoming where your young'ns can ride out with you or with their own group. The ranch also offers a nature-oriented children's program.

At Averill's Flathead Lake Lodge and Dude Ranch in Big Fork, Montana, you sleep in log houses with fire places and mooseheads for decor. There are trail rides and special programs for kids including an early-dining option.

Skyline Guests Ranch in Telluride, Colorado is good for older kids who want some heavy duty riding instruction on all levels. Yellowstone Park is a short drive away from Mountain Sky Ranch in Bozeman, Montana and at the Homestead in Midway, Utah, there is a "Kids' Kamp" and accommodations in cottages as well as the lodge. 

  JAX FAX Travel Marketing Magazine ©