The Dude Ranchers Association is the granddaddy of dude ranch associations. Founded in 1926, it now boasts more than 100 members in 14 western states plus the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. Based in Cody, Wyoming -- the heart of Buffalo Bill country -- the association has a long list of requirements that ranches must meet to become members. For example; since riding is the heart of dude ranching, ranchers must have well-cared-for horses that accommodate all levels of riders, and instruction in Western riding must be available.
Several states have their own dude ranch associations. They range in size from Idaho with five members to Colorado, Wyoming and Montana with many times that number. State associations provide links from their websites to their member ranches' sites and some, like Arizona, provide an on-line chart comparing the features of each ranch. Most association websites also give opening and closing dates of member ranches. Most dude ranches are open only during the summer months while others stay open until late fall. A few in southern Arizona are open year-round.
Dude ranches in British Columbia, Canada, belong to the BC Guest Ranchers' Association, which was formed in 1985. In addition to horseback riding, member ranches may also offer wilderness retreats and fly-in fishing. But horse activities are paramount, as the association requires members to be horse-oriented, with horses to fit every size and ability of rider. Member ranches also must have sufficient acreage to accommodate horse activities. Furthermore, the association requires members' guest housing to be approved by the BC Tourism Commission.
The associations all offer tips on how to choose the best dude ranch to meet your needs. All agree the top criteria should be riding. The Dude Ranchers Association says guests need to determine where they want to ride such as prairie, desert or mountains. They next need to decide the type of riding they want to do such as cattle drives or trail rides. Then they should consider other factors such as season, size of the ranch and its accommodations, which may range from rustic to luxurious.
