Oregon Dude Ranch Getaway
"Dude ranching" was born of the lure of the Wild West, and the desire of many Americans to find some solace from the increasingly congested metropolises of the eastern seaboard. The completion of the transcontinental railroads in the 1880s put the West's rugged mountains in reach of visitors, but upon arrival, they found little in the way of accommodations. Cattle and horse ranchers, bound to an unofficial code of hospitality, opened their doors to these urban folk, who were as taken with the ranch lifestyle as with the natural wonders of the wide-open spaces. Some of their guests-many of whom stayed for extended periods-began repaying their hosts' kindness with hard currency, and a new revenue stream was conceived.
Today, there are more than 100 dude ranches operating in 13 Western states and two Canadian provinces. The experience these ranches offer varies: Some allow visitors to partake in the operation of a working cattle operation; others provide a mountain retreat with ranch trappings, and a healthy helping of horseback riding. Here are some Oregon dude ranches for your next "outback" getaway
For the full story of a dude ranch getaway, read Home on the Range.
(Photo credit: Leon Werdinger)
1.
Central Oregon
ROCK SPRINGS GUEST RANCH
Bend, Oregon.
Here the emphasis is on horseback riding and programs for young buckaroos.
www.rocksprings.com 800.225.3833
LONG HOLLOW RANCH
Sisters, Oregon.
A working cattle ranch for more than 100 years, guests can ride trails or work alongside ranch hands.
www.lhranch.com 877.923.1901
2.
Eastern Oregon
THE BAR M RANCH
Adams, Oregon.
This 3,000-acre mountain retreat with ranch trappings offers horseback riding adventures and more.
www.barmranch.com 888.824.3381
3.
Southern Oregon
ASPEN RIDGE RESORT
Bly, Oregon.
Set on 14,000-acre Fishhole Creek Ranch, Aspen Ridge lets you experience the daily workings of an operating cattle and buffalo ranch.
www.aspenrr.com 800.393.3323
WILLOW SPRINGS GUEST RANCH
Lakeview, Oregon.
This 2,000-acre working ranch features rustic cabins,
trail riding, campfire cuisine and more.
www.willowspringsguestranch.com 541.947.5499
LONESOME DUCK RANCH & RESORT
Chiloquin, Oregon.
Set on the Williamson River, it offers charming guest cabins as well as trout fishing, wildlife viewing and more.
www.lonesomeduck.com 541.783.2783
4.
Willamette Valley
BIG K GUEST RANCH & GUIDE SERVICES
Elkton, Oregon.
This 2,500-acre ranch is complete with 20 private cabins, a game room, and endless options for horseback riding through the woods and along the beautiful Umpqua River.
www.big-k.com, 800.390.BIGK (2445)