THE
Wild
NOT-SO-WILD
West
Few places can match the unwavering allure
of the American West. From John Wayne
movies to Little House on the Prairie, we
have been entertained by courageous stories
of lonesome cowboys and hardscrabble
pioneers for generations. That version of the
Last Frontier may have disappeared, or quite
possibly never existed, but the idealization
endures in the modern-day ranches that invite
families to experience, if only for a few days,
this quintessential American adventure.
While there are many different types of
ranch experiences — overnight treks and
glamping options are abundant — there is also
an impressive list of five-star ranch resorts
where you’re as likely to find an 18-hole golf
course and upscale spa as you are saddles
and spurs. As one would expect, horseback
riding is par for the course. Whether you’re
a family of novices in need of instruction or
looking for a challenging ride through some of
the country’s most spectacular terrain, today’s
ranches can oblige. Most lead multiple trail
rides a day and provide all the necessary tack,
gear and guidance.
On and off the trails, resort ranches are
pros at catering to the needs of families.
Kids programs, cookouts and nightly
entertainment, as well as roping and fishing
lessons, swimming pools and river trips
guarantee no one will ever be bored. The food
has moved on as well, and these days you’d
be hard-pressed to find a baked bean in sight.
Instead, you’ll find locally sourced ingredients
such as grass-fed beef and organic produce
paired with homemade ice cream and
regional wines. What pioneer family wouldn’t
have appreciated a meal like that at the end of
a long cattle drive?
Family horseback trail ride
8 | SELECT · 2020