This story was created in partnership with Paradise Guest Ranch.
1. Unleash your inner cowboy at Paradise Guest Ranch
The star attraction of any dude ranch worth its salt is the horseback riding. Paradise Guest Ranch does not disappoint! Their 180-horse herd is full of personality and offers something for every guest—from first-time riders to those with years of experience. Mount up for a guided trail ride through literally a million acres. You’ll walk, trot, and lope alongside sweeping mountain vistas, in meadows full of wildflowers, and through thick forests of pine. During your ride, keep an eye out for native wildlife like antelope and mule deer! Rides vary in length from two hours to full-day trips. You will also have the chance to practice your cowboy skills in the arena with team penning, where riders hone their horsemanship skills by cutting steers from the herd.
2. Fish undiscovered holes teeming with cutthroat and rainbow trout
One of the best parts about being in a remote corner of Wyoming is that the fishing is second to none. At Paradise Guest Ranch, there are a variety of places to practice your cast: French Creek and several stocked ponds are right out the front door, and uncrowded rivers and seldom-visited alpine lakes are perfect for full-day fishing excursions. For beginners, casting and knot clinics are available during your stay. Paradise Guest Ranch is proud to have trained quite a few expert fishermen and women during summer vacations. No matter your experience level, the fly-fishing guides at Paradise Guest Ranch will get you hooked on this life-long sport. Chances are, they’ll help you get quite a few fish on the line in the process!
3. Hike where Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid once roamed
For those who prefer to explore the Bighorn National Forest on foot, guided hikes are a great option. Paradise Guest Ranch offers a myriad of hikes from lazy strolls to full-day events. Join an experienced naturalist on a trek through Crazy Woman Canyon, an area named for the lore of the past. Or, journey to the high desert “Outlaw Cave” which was once a hideout for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The Seven Brothers high mountain lakes are another popular all-day hiking destination. Regardless of which hikes you take during your stay, the Wyoming wilderness is sure to take your breath away.
4. Kick up your boots for old western hospitality
When you’re done exploring all the vast wilderness around Paradise Guest Ranch, recharge with delicious home-cooked meals and refreshments. The dining hall is the heart of the ranch, where guests tell stories about their adventures while tucking into family recipes that have withstood the test of time.
The French Creek Saloon offers another favorite dude ranch experience. Check the schedule for square dancing, talent shows, and more fun for all ages! At the end of the day, cozy log cabins await. Cabins range in size from one to four bedrooms to accommodate the size of your party, and all come with modern amenities to complement their rustic charm.
5. Kids of all ages are welcome to have a great time
Dude ranch vacations are popular for kids of all ages, and infants to teenagers are welcome at Paradise Guest Ranch. The property’s award-winning kids program features so many events, parents might actually get jealous! Arts and crafts, pony rides, talent shows, fishing derbies, rodeos, and even overnight pack trips are only a few of the options for children during their stay. No matter what activities your kids participate in, smiles and good old-fashioned fun are guaranteed!
Because of its popularity for the whole family, it is not unusual for Paradise Guest Ranch to become a cherished family tradition each summer. We think your stay will turn into one, as well.
