Family dude ranch vacations could provide the solution to the problem faced by almost every parent: getting the kids away from the X-Box! Whether your child is glued to their games console, computer, television screen or cell phone, family dude ranch vacations can tear even the most gadget-savvy child out of the digital age and enlighten them to the simpler ways to enjoy life.

Top50 Ranches has come up with 10 wonderful ways to de-gadget your kids on a family dude ranch vacation – try these simple strategies for size…

1. Get ‘em in the saddle at Red Horse Mountain Ranch and you’ll have a hard time trying to get them back off the horse! The Idaho family dude ranch’s children’s program includes horseback riding for children as young as three years, allowing kids to go horseback riding on the trail with the rest of the family.

2. Let them jump in at the deep end – literally! – at Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge, whose all-inclusive Montana family vacations include lake water sports among a whole host of other ranch activities. In fact, at Flathead Lake Lodge the kids can enjoy the most diverse range of all-inclusive activities offered by any USA ranch – think horseback riding, sailing, personalized fly-fishing, water sports, horseback riding, rodeo, tepee campouts, family barn dances and so much more.

3. Send them mountain biking at Majestic Dude Ranch, which boasts an impressive fleet of brand new, state-of-the-art bikes for every age and size. With pro-cyclist Nick as their guide, the kids will be awestruck at the exciting cycle trails to tackle in Colorado’s beautiful Mesa Verde National Forest, some of which have been named in the top 10 mountain biking trails in the USA.

4. Make ‘em cowboys! At Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge, kids get to try out real rodeo games in the arena during the week, then put their new cowboy skills to the test in the weekly take-part family rodeo. The only thing they’ll want to watch on TV after this is ‘Eight Seconds’!

5. Set your teens loose in Yellowstone on Lone Mountain Guest Ranch’s “Teens Only” tour of the national park, on a backpacking trip into the Spanish Peaks. Not only will they not be able to get cell phone service in the mountains, they’ll probably forget why they ever bothered with texting in the first place.

6. Get bonding with your daughter at the Sugar and Spice Ranch in Texas, USA. The moms-and-daughters dude ranch encourages bonding through fun horseback games, rodeo and horse care activities. If your little girl loves horses, she’ll love this Texas family vacation – and so will you!

7. Forget heading to town for 10-pin bowling – Montana's The Ranch at Rock Creek’s Silver Dollar Saloon entertainment area comes fully equipped with a four-lane bowling alley, complete with computerized scoring, a selection of balls and bowling shoes in assorted sizes. Strike!

8. Swimming with dolphins? So last year. This year’s family ranch vacation is all about swimming with horses. That’s right, head to Sweet Grass Ranch for a Montana family vacation where the kids – and you! – can enjoy swimming your horse bareback in the creek.

9. Roll them down a hill. Yes, really! It’s all about “zorbing” these days, so take a Montana family vacation at The Resort at Paws Up, which offers exactly that. What could be a better way to get your thrill-seeker kids outdoors than to ask them to strap themselves inside a giant bouncy ball and launch themselves down a hill? (See above.) Don’t worry, it’s all fully supervised and totally safe!

10. Get ‘em chasing cows on cattle drives at Bonanza Creek Ranch. Your Montana family vacation will see them doing the job of wranglers, with guests of all ages, if able to control their horse independently, encouraged to play an active role in the working ranch’s style cattle drives. Prepare to unleash their inner Billy the Kid!

For more information on family dude ranch vacations, visit Top50Ranches.com

Horseback riding holidays at Beaumont High Country Experience in Southland, New Zealand, offer more than just a unique sheep mustering experience on the 20,000-acre sheep and cattle station. Head to the 160-year-old New Zealand ranch and you’ll discover Flecks Hut, a small, unassuming building with a big history.

Guests ride out to Flecks Hut

Back when the hut was inhabited by the Fleck family more than 130 years ago, horseback riding holidays were non-existent at Beaumont. Before the Flecks even came to the live at the ranch in the 1870s, Beaumont was farmed as early as 1850, making it one of the first runs to be taken up in Southland. At that time it was managed by Captain William Stevens, an ex-whaling man who officially took over Beaumont Station in 1857 after it was purchased by the government following growing concern over ‘squatter’ farming on Southland. Stevens purchased two properties, Beaumont and Fairlight, in partnership with his half brother, Captain Howell. When the partnership dissolved after a couple of year, Stevens took full ownership of Beaumont, leaving Fairlight to his half brother. Captain Stevens is synonymous with much of the early history of nearby township Riverton, the first settlement in Southland, his sisters being the first white women to land in that part of New Zealand.

And so it was several decades later in the late 1870s when the Fleck family came to live at Beaumont. John and Mary Fleck had emigrated from Ireland in 1862, and for many years John worked as a shepherd on the adjacent Dunrobin Station. It was only when he was offered work at Beaumont as a boundary rider, riding the outskirts of the property to collect wandering stock on unfenced land, that John and his family came to live at Beaumont, in a small hut that took the Fleck name.

Flecks hut itself is a small, single-room abode still boasting most of its original features, including the door and table which have been inscribed with many signatures over time – some dating back as far as 100 years. Still clad with the original corrugated iron, the hut was imported all the way from England – a very long ocean journey in those days.

During their time at Flecks Hut, Mary gave birth to two daughters who sadly died in infantry, and a cairn still today marks their grave where they were buried on a rocky outcrop a short distance from the hut. On leaving Beaumont, John purchased 150 acres close to nearby township Riverton, where his family still own land today.

Offering horseback riding holidays at Beaumont today is the Minty family, whose farming history in Southland dates back three generations. The Mintys purchased the homestead block of Beaumont in 1982 before acquiring the Ardross lease in 1993, bringing the station to its present size of 20,000 acres. On its horse riding holidays, the Minty family enlightens guests about much of the ranch’s history, and takes trails rides out to Flecks Hut itself where guests can see the historical property in much of its original state.

The Minty family has not only opened its doors to guests for horseback riding holidays, but continue to operate a working cattle and sheep station, making Beaumont High Country Experience exactly that – a working ranch experience, not just a horseback riding holiday. Travel to the New Zealand ranch and you’ll discover on horseback the amazing, natural landscape on a true high country farming adventure. Whether it’s joining the mustering team to help with the gathering of sheep and cattle in the high country, or enjoying off-road backcountry horseback riding over diverse, hilly terrain, your horseback riding holiday at Beaumont will be part of the ranch’s new history.

For more information on horseback riding holidays at Beaumont High Country Experience, visit Top50Ranches.com

Planning a dude ranch vacation isn't something to leave until the last minute! There’s a lot to consider, so follow Top50's top 10 tips to make sure you get the most out of your western riding holiday…

1. Best place for a ranch vacation?
Which country? Which state? Mountains or desert? The options are endless. Here at Top50 Ranches we showcase Canada guest ranches, USA ranch vacations, Argentina horse riding holidays, riding holidays in Mexico, Australia horse treks and New Zealand cattle stations – but your choice will depend on how hot you like it and the kind of riding country you’re after. For mountain riding, Colorado, Montana, Canada and Argentina are good choices. If you like hot weather, choose a ranch in the southern States and south America, which boast great weather all year round. Best place for winter sun? Australia, which of course has its summer during the USA/European winter. Taking the kids? Find a child-friendly ranch with a supervised children’s program.

2. Budget early on
The cost of a dude ranch vacation varies greatly, so it’s worth setting a budget early on – taking into account getting there (flights, care hire if applicable), spending money and tipping. If you know your limits, you won’t even be tempted to consider ranches you can’t afford and save yourself disappointment. And it might be that you realise an extra year of saving might be worth it if you do want to opt for some luxury dude ranches.

3. Getting cheap flights
To avoid a shock when it comes to booking flights, check when it’s cheapest to fly before you book your ranch. Book as far in advance as you can, as prices tend to rocket closer to the flight date. Don’t be tempted to go for the very cheapest flight if it means several tight connections – give yourself plenty of time in case of delays, so you don’t run the risk of missing your connections.

4. Pack sensibly
Pack lots of layers if the weather is variable, and remember your swimsuit! Pack plenty of comfy jeans for riding, low-heeled shoes/boots for riding, smarter clothes suitable for dinners in the evening, and a pair of sneakers will also come in handy for exploring the ranch on foot. Check to see if you need to pack your hard hat or boots, as some ranches provide these for guests. Padded underwear and a good sports bra will also come in useful for long days in the saddle!

5. Leave room in your suitcase
…for souvenirs, gifts for friends back home, and the western riding gear you’re sure to be tempted by at local western outfitters.

6. Money matters
Some ranches charge extra for certain activities and remember that tipping is pretty commonplace – especially in America – so take enough currency that you won’t need to rely on your credit card (complete with hefty fees for use abroad). And yes, you will want to buy that shiny new pair of cowboy boots!

7. Do your western riding research
You will of course get ‘Western Riding 101’ from the wranglers before they set you loose on the open range, but it’s worth getting familiar with the western riding aids – many of them verbal – and techniques such as neck-reining. We can’t promise your dressage schoolmaster will know what on earth you’re asking him to do, however! Really keen? Book a couple of lessons at your nearest western riding centre.

8. Car hire
Even if you’re not planning a road trip and your chosen ranch provides airport transfers, you might want to head off ranch a couple of times to see the local area – especially if you’re near Yellowstone or Glacier National Parks, The Grand Canyon and other famous landmarks. From the UK or Europe? Booking car hire from the UK/Europe is vastly cheaper than getting it while in the USA and Canada, so save yourself some money and sort it before you go.

9. Make sure you’re legal!
Immigration officers abroad are notoriously strict, so avoid a lengthy delay at airport customs by making sure you have the right documentation before you travel. For travel to the US, that now means applying for a visa waiver online and paying a small fee, which you can do online here.

10. Get fit for riding
You might already pack in several hours’ riding a week, but hard riding all day for up to two weeks on long cattle drives or pack trips can take its toll on your muscles. Avoid burning out after the first day by getting fit before you go – swimming is a great way to up your fitness levels and muscle endurance, and practise sitting trot as often as you can to prepare that bottom!

To find your ultimate dude ranch vacation, visit Top50Ranches.com

The best ranches for advanced riders tend to be working ranches that offer skilled cattle work that guests can participate in. That said, there are many guest ranch vacations and luxury dude ranch vacations that offer similarly great opportunities for advanced riders, some even holding special advanced rider weeks for more experienced horseback riders who may be looking for longer, faster and more adventurous riding and horse treks on their ranch vacation.

Chico Basin cattle work

Here's Top50 Ranches' pick of the best ranches for advanced riders...

Any ranch that encompasses the Ranching First ethos guranatees authentic cattle drives with riding as the real cowboys do it. That includes Badger Creek ranch in Colorado, USA, an authentic working ranch specializing in cattle drives, where rides are grouped by ability meaning advanced riders won't be held back by those less experienced in the saddle. For something a little different, head down under to Beaumont High Country Experience in New Zealand, for days filled with sheep mustering - something of an art form that advanced riders will enjoy mastering.

Another ranch running sheep, as well cow-calf pairs, is Burnt Well Guest Ranch in New Mexico, USA. Here you might ride from before sunrise until after sundown if it means getting the job doen, and their 'old west style' cattle drives require "a spirit of adventure and determination"!

Check out Bonanza Creek Ranch if you're after a guaranteed advanced riding program, as this Montana working ranch has a strict intermediate and advanced rider-only policy.

Head to Colorado to sister ranches Zapata (pictured above) and Chico Basin, both working cattle ranches offering fabulous horseback riding for advanced riders. Not least at Zapata, which runs a herd of bison - herding these fast, dangerous beasts calls for quick wits, skilled riding and absolutely no fear! At Chico Basin, a large-scale working cattle ranch, riding is dictated by the ranch's work that day - often meaning gathering cattle across the prairie on specially trained cow horses. Education is at the fore here, so if you're a keen rider looking to further your horsemanship skills, this is the place for you.

Another Ranching First operation is Nebraska cattle ranch Rowse's 1+1. Working ranch vacations here mean riding with the cowboys - working cattle, riding the range and experiencing life as a real cowboy on a real working cattle ranch. By the end of your ranch vacation here, you'll be roping, sorting, rounding up cattle and team penning like a pro!

Advanced riders looking for an abundance of cattle work on their ranch vacation will not be disappointed at Lazy El Ranch. The Montana working ranch specializes in cattle drives. This is no fantasy cowboy experience - daily cattle work with the ranch's 3,000 head of cattle mean you'll bget more than your fill of authentic cattle roundups. Twice a year they hold Advanced Rider weeks involving the extreme side of cattle work - from shipping and receiving, to sorting and doctoring, you're a part of the team with a big job to do, dawn to dusk.

Estancia Ranquilco, Argentina - photo courtesy of Eddie Thornton

For a ranch experience like no other, head to the southern Americas for an Argentina horse riding experience. Estancia Huechahue offers great opportunities for advanced riders to immerse themselves in the gaucho lifestyle, riding all day on long cattle drives at this real working cattle ranch. Estancia Ranquilco offers remote pack trips into the mountains - swim with your horse in remote mountain lakes, and negotiate demanding terrain as you trek on horseback through the Patagonian wilderness.

Journey to Mexico for a backcountry horse riding vacation at Rancho Los Banos, which runs special adventure vacations perfectly suited to advanced riders. With 30,000 acres as your playground, enjoy unlimited hours of challenging, thrilling, yet fun-filled adventure riding in remote, rugged and secluded isolation, surrounded by an inspiring vastness of mountains, hills and canyons.

Want to learn the art of natural horsemanship and progress your riding skills even further? Then you'll love McGinnis Meadows ranch, a Montana working ranch with a focus on horsemanship and cattle work. Instruction here is second to none, with wranglers trained in Buck Brannaman-style horsemanship imparting their knowledge both in the arena and out on cattle drives. They even run special clinics throughout the year, where you can bring your own horse or ride one of the ranch's well-trained ranch horses.

Advanced riders also looking for luxury in their ranch vacation will love Brush Creek Ranch and Spa, a luxury Wyoming dude ranch and working ranch. A stay here means all the pleasures that a luxury dude ranch brings, but with the options to get stuck into weekly cattle work and pasture gathers, as well as annual brandings and horsemanship clinics.

Other working ranches with a hint of luxury and family-friendly include The Hideout in Wyoming and Sweet Grass Ranch in Montana (oictured above)  - both offering excellent opportunities for advanced riders, but without the pressure to do riding and nothing else. Great if you're the rider of the family but your partner and/or kids would rather keep both feet on the ground! Three Bars Ranch in BC, Canada, may not offer cattle work, but it does schedule fast rides for advanced riders looking for more exciting horseback riding on their guest ranch vacation. Like the look of Bar W Guest Ranch? Advanced riders should head here in the spring or fall, for the spring roundup and spring branding, and the fall roundup later in the year.

For more information on all of Top50's ranches for advanced riders, visit Top50Ranches.com

Working ranch vacations don't get more authentic or action-packed than at McGinnis Meadows Ranch, and that's why the Montana guest ranch and working ranch has been chosen as Top50's March 2012 Ranch of the Month.

Each month we scour our selection of dude ranch vacations and pick out one that we feel surpasses our standards of excellence - and, most importantly, offers something unique. That could be anything from ultra-luxurious facilities, to those personal touches that really make a ranch vacation, to fast-and-furious cattle drives that'll be etched in your memory forever. In the case of McGinnis Meadows, it's the latter!

Top50 has chosen Montana guest ranch McGinnis Meadows as March 2012 Ranch of the Month 

Head to McGinnis Meadows Ranch in Montana and be transported to the true west. Immerse yourself in authentic western cowboy culture on this working cattle operation and ride with real cowboys as you saddle up for all-day cattle drives, take park in branding, work cattle in the arena and learn the art of natural horsemanship with Buck Brannaman inspired groundwork and horseback riding lessons.

Take a working ranch vacation at this Montana guest ranch and expect a real hands-on experience - from catching up your horse in the morning, to graining and letting him out again at night. Beginner and experienced riders alike will leave the ranch with more knowledge about horses, horsemanship, and cattle than they'll experienced anywhere else. McGinnis Meadows' wranglers will work with you individually and tailor each day to you to help you progress throughout the week.

While you're welcome to take relaxing trail rides throughout the ranch, cattle work is the specialty here: learn to cut and pen steers in the arena, prepare for cattle drives by moving small herds of mother cows in the meadows, then venture out on cattle drives across 75,000 acres of spectacular country. During the day enjoy the freedom to ride and participate in ranch work as much or as little as you wish, and rest assured that each evening you'll come home to the heartiest of meals, first-class lodging and sincere, authentic hospitality.

For more information on McGinnis Meadows Ranch, visit Top50Ranches.com

Is there a ranch that stands out for you? Tell us why and we'll consider for upcoming Ranches of the Month!

Cattle drive vacations don't come much better than the Lazy E-L Ranch in Montana, USA - Top50's newest addition to its family of guest ranch vacations. For the ultimate cattle drive experience, Lazy E-L Ranch offers riders of all levels the chance to experience genuine and authentic western cowboy culture, with cattle work and horseback riding at the fore of its working ranch vacations.

Just outside of Yellowstone National Park near the old cowboy town of Red Lodge, sits the 12,000-acre Lazy E-L Ranch. The 5th-generation working ranch opens its doors to guests wishing to immerse themselves in western cowboy culture, offering working ranch vacations perfectly suited to advanced riders and keen beginners alike. Taking no more than 16 guests at any one time, the working ranch offers intimate horseback riding vacations with a real personal touch. No wonder, then, that the ranch was chosen by Condé Nast Traveler as one of their Top 5 Guest Ranches in the USA.

Steeped in history, Lazy E-L has lost none of its authenticity or its working ranch practices, allowing guests taking working ranch vacations at the ranch to experience the real cowboy lifestyle – not the fabricated kind. This means getting up as early as 6am to head down to the barn to saddle your well-trained ranch horse, before heading back to the cookhouse to plan the day’s cattle work over a hearty breakfast. Each and every morning on your working ranch vacation at Lazy E-L, ride alongside real cowboys as you venture out on thrilling, fast-paced cattle drives, gathering and moving the ranch’s 3,000 head of cattle over 12,000 acres of rolling Montana ranch country to new pastures.

Riding at Lazy E-L ends after the morning cattle drive, allowing both you and your horse to recharge your batteries and relax in the peace and tranquillity of the ranch. Satisfy your appetite back at the cookhouse with a hearty, home-cooked lunch lovingly created by Chef Jesse Montenegro and his team of professionally trained cooks, then spend your afternoons however you choose – whether it’s visiting nearby Yellowstone National Park, exploring the ranch on foot or by mountain bike, fly-fishing for trout in five miles of the West Rosebud River or helping the wranglers doctor cattle. Head to the Lazy E-L Guest Ranch during one of the three Advanced Rider weeks that run throughout the year, and be treated to longer hours in the saddle – meaning even earlier starts and later lunches!

Lazy E-L might be all about the riding and specially cater for keen, advanced riders wishing to get in lots of riding and cattle work on their guest ranch vacation, but that doesn’t exclude younger family members and beginner riders. Scenic trail rides are always available, and the ranch’s team of wranglers provide a gentle, supportive hand to beginner and novice riders, as well as helping more advanced riders improve their horsemanship skills. Children will be shown the ropes and then, if willing and able, included in the morning cattle drives. Those children less interested in cattle work can enjoy arena games, scavenger hunts, horseshoes and many more non-riding activities.

For an authentic, genuine working ranch vacations with an abundance of first-rate riding and cattle work that’s beginners and advanced riders alike - as well as for family ranch vacations - it has to be the Lazy E-L Ranch. The adventure of a lifetime really does start here!

View Lazy E-L's ranch profile on Top50Ranches.com

Cattle drives are about as real as it gets on a ranch vacation. Working ranch vacations offer the chance to get to grips with real roundups on cattle drives across the ranch, whether it’s moving sheep, cows or bison. Feel like a real cowboy as you drive cattle across the open range to find fresh pastures for them to graze, and make a real contribution to the working ranch operation as you help gather cattle for sale or branding in a spring or fall roundup. From USA working ranches to Australia cattle stations, cattle drives are a sure-fire way to embrace life as a real cowboy.

What to expect
How long you spend in the saddle with depending on the nature of the cattle drive – some can be short rides to move small herds to an adjacent pasture, while those involving driving large groups across several miles of ranch can last all day. That said, the duration of cattle drives can be unpredictable, especially on large ranches where actually finding the herd of cows can take longer than the cattle drive itself - meaning a short cattle drive can turn into an all-day ride if the herd decide to play hide-and-seek.

Depending on the ranch and the number of cattle run over the land, cattle drives can take place every day, offering unbeatable horseback riding opportunities for keen riders and those looking to get stuck into real ranch work. Other ranches may only need to roundup cattle once or twice a week – sometimes less.

The pace can vary greatly on cattle drives, so bear in mind your riding ability and level of confidence before embarking on a cattle drive at your chosen guest ranch. The ranch hosts and wranglers will be happy to advise you and will of course match you with a suitable horse for your ability. So should you want to experience a cattle drive but aren’t so keen on riding flat-out for hours on end, many ranches will ensure you go on the right cattle drive to match your needs. Some working ranches encompassing a Ranching First ethos require a certain standard of riding, so check before you go that you’ll be able to join in on a cattle drive. Either way, most ranches will allow you to follow the cattle drive on horseback but simply watch the action unfold, should you not wish or be able to actually take park in the cattle drive yourself.

Preparing for a cattle drive
For longer cattle drives, if you’re not used to spending many hours in the saddle it can be worth wearing a pair of padded pants or underwear underneath your jeans! Make sure that you’re totally comfortable in your clothing and are dressed appropriately for the weather. Even if it’s sunny, tie a light waterproof to your saddle as the weather can change without warning, and dress in layers should a cold or cloudy day suddenly take a much warmer turn. And before you set off, make sure you’re totally happy with your stirrup length, as you may not get the chance to stop and adjust the length once the cattle drive gets going.

Capture those lasting memories created on cattle drives with a small camera, but make sure it’s small enough to fit in your pocket or saddle bag – when moving faster, a big clunky camera is the last thing you’ll want swinging around. Most important is a canteen of water, as cattle drives can last several hours, often in high temperatures. Check with your chosen ranch before you go whether you’ll need to bring your own or if the ranch will provide them.

Top tips for your first cattle drive

Learn to 'read' cows on your working ranch vacation cattle drive!

Your team leaders and wranglers will give you ‘cattle drive 101’ before you set off, but here are the main points to remember when working cattle…

• When ‘riding up’ on a cow to get him to move, always ride toward its hip.
• Try to treat each cow as an individual as well as part of the herd. One cow making a run for it can take the whole herd with him, so be on your guard!
• Low stress cattle handling/stockmanship is key. Yelling or shouting at the cattle is discouraged;however, there are times when a "hey" or voice encouragement can be warranted.
• Let the herd travel at its own pace – pushing too much can cause the herd to panic and run, splitting over a large area. And once they’ve gone, it’s hard to get ‘em back!
• If you’re not sure what to do – ask! A wrangler will be on hand to guide you through your ranch cattle drive experience, so don’t be afraid to check you’re doing the right thing if you’re unsure – they will be happy to advise and teach you the ropes along the way. If you don’t feel confident enough to ride on your own, just say and a wrangler will make sure to stay with you the whole time.
• Make sure your horse is responsive to your aids, as you may have to suddenly turn, stop or pick up the pace at a moment’s notice, so you need your horse to be listening to you.

Fall roundups
Want to get stuck into all-day cattle drives for the duration of your working ranch vacation? Then book your stay during the week of a ranch’s fall roundup. Fall roundups involve riding out for as long as it takes to gather every last cow in the herd and moving cattle back to the ranch where they’ll be shipped for sale. On working ranches with large herds – think up to 2,000 head of cattle – this can take a whole week and involve riding out all day, every day! One for the serious rider and those looking for true immersion into western cowboy culture.

Unique cattle drives

If you’re looking for a unique or exciting cattle drive experience, Top50 has a great selection of working ranch vacations for you to choose. Head to Zapata Ranch in Colorado, USA (pictured above), where you have the unique opportunity to ride with bison. These large, fast and unpredictable beasts make for fast-and-furious cattle drives with a real element of danger – one for experienced and confident riders.

For the unique chance to muster sheep on a cattle drive, head to Beaumont High Country Experience in New Zealand. This working cattle and sheep station runs 9,000 head of sheep on the 18,000-acre ranch, for a backcountry horseback riding experience like no other.

Although some guest ranches and dude ranches don't offer cattle drives, many do offer guests the opportunity to try cattle work in the arena, with lessons and competitions in team penning and cutting. This is ideal if you’re after a more relaxing or luxurious ranch vacation but still want to get stuck into some authentic ranching activities.

For the ultimate combination of experience, authenticity and luxury, we recommend Brush Creek Ranch in Wyoming, USA. This working ranch runs bison and is also a luxury guest ranch, meaning you can ride out all day on exciting real-life cattle drives as a real cowboy, AND indulge in some pampering in the full-service luxury spa. What more could you wish for?

Burnt Well Guest Ranch in New Mexico is another working ranch famous for its abundance of cattle work, and Lazy E-L Ranch is a Montana working ranch that specialises in cattle drive vacations. If cattle work is your priority on your working ranch vacations, this is the place to go - discover more about their cattle drives here. Or certainly check out The Hideout Guest Ranch in Wyoming, USA - which has been considered the "Gold Standard" of ranch vacations. You'll experience a working ranch stay and authentic cattle work; however also enjoy the softer side of European luxury, fine food and spa services. If you are looking for something truly intimate, give Sue and Eric a shout with Badger Creek Ranch or Duke Phillips a try with Chico Basin Ranch - where they only take YOUR group for the week! Chico Basin runs over 3000 head and focuses on a getaway for the experienced rider - you'll be doing a load of trotting and serious riding(recently featured in the acclaimed BEEF magazine for their ranching and grazing practices). With Badger Creek Ranch, although you'll have a true experience, they have the ability to take it "down a notch" to accommodate less experienced riders.

Go on a cattle drive!
Ranches with cattle drives
Ranches with sheep mustering
Ranches with cattle work in the arena
Ranches with bison

For more information on all of the ranches offering cattle drives, visit Top50Ranches.com

Outback Australia: A WWOOFer’s guide to life on the land

How does a London desk bunny adapt to the remote red dust of Western Australia? Laura Mannering, journalist and editor of online travel magazine World Out There, tells Top50 Ranches about the time she was shown the ropes by two Outback cattle station owners…

Accessing Outback Australia can be hard if you don’t want to spend a fortune, but are keen to avoid the backpacker trail. A two-week volunteer placement on a cattle station called Wonganoo, in the Goldfields of Western Australia, gave me a first-hand insight into Outback existence.

The station spreads over a million acres of burnt Martian landscape, with 3,000 cattle hiding amid the sparse, wizened vegetation. Having grown up in London and lived in the city most of my life, being somewhere so remote was an eye-opener.

Wonganoo is 240km from the nearest small township, Leonora, and a seven-hour drive from the much bigger mining hub of Kalgoorlie. Food is delivered to Wonganoo by the mail man once a week. If you’re really ill, you call the flying doctor. The myriad choices of day-to-day city living are totally absent. I was surprised at how soothing I found it – the huge starry skies at night, the terracotta earth stretching uninterrupted to the horizon. But it was my hosts who really made it special.

Station owners Kathy and Malcolm Boladeras welcomed me in and taught me how to use a power drill, mend barbed-wire fences, solar panels and windmills, lay baits for dingoes (their sheep were wiped out by a dingo invasion five years ago and they are worried their calves will go the same way) and mince camel steaks (there are around 500,000 feral camels in Western Australia, originally imported in the 19th century as a means of transport. Station owners cull them and nutritionists were promoting camel meat as ‘healthier than beef’ when I was there). As Malcolm kindly put it, I was ‘on a very steep learning curve’.

Losing their flocks was a devastating blow and the end of an era at Wonganoo – Malcolm’s grandfather had set it up as a sheep station in 1925. Now the couple rely on cattle to make ends meet, but domestic beef prices are low and they make their best money selling bulls to Indonesia. Then there’s the weather – persistent drought relieved by the odd smattering of blessed rain.

Malcolm and Kathy have been taking volunteers at Wonganoo for several years to gain a helping hand – and to give them another way to connect with the world outside. It was a pleasure for me to learn about a way of life so different to my own, and to be welcomed into it so openly.

Volunteering Tips

I arranged my placement through Willing Workers On Organic Farms (WWOOF) Australia which has plenty of Outback options. Sign up online or in person when you arrive in Australia. You’ll pay AUS$60 (around £40) and receive a directory of all the WWOOF hosts. Volunteers are unpaid, can be any age, and do not need a working holiday visa. Your host provides you with food and board and you lend them a hand. Using a tourist visa from the UK, I did five placements all over Australia in three months, and enjoyed them all.

To get the most out of your experience, it’s important to:

• Know what you want. Are you after something laid-back, or are you willing to pull out all the stops? Some hosts see their role as being a cultural guide, others will treat you as ‘one of the boys’ and expect you to muck in round the clock.

• Find recommendations from other volunteers via the WWOOF online forum, or by word of mouth if you are already travelling in Oz – plenty of travellers of all ages and backgrounds will have done a WWOOFing stint along the way.

• Speak to your host on the phone before you turn up. It’s a good chance to see if you click and to check they are bona fide. Lots of WWOOF hosts also have websites too, which are worth a look.

• Ask questions and make sure you are happy with the set up (the hours you’ll be helping out, where you’ll be sleeping, provision of meals, opportunities to explore the area). WWOOFers are expected to help out for four hours a day, but some hosts want more, some less. Most people ask you to stay for a minimum of five days, others will want a longer commitment.

• Trust your instincts – if you’ve gone down the line with a placement but don’t feel comfortable with the arrangements, politely back out. Once you’re on a remote farm, particularly if you don’t have your own transport, it can be hard to escape!

Western riding compared to English riding - are they as different as you think? For many riders, an English saddle is the most comfortable place in the world, but if those who have also tried riding cowboy-style on a dude ranch vacation will know that no English saddle compares to the ‘armchair’ of a western saddle, with its large, comfortable seat and oversized stirrups. How, then, must it feel to go from having always ridden western to trying out English riding? For Top50 Ranches founder and ranch owner Jody Dahl, who has always ridden western, that became reality when a friend challenged her to an English-style jumping lesson at a local Montana equestrian centre…

“As soon as I got into the English saddle, the first thing I felt was a huge lack of security,” remembers Jody. “My normal western saddle really holds me in place, so instinctually I froze up – I didn't know where or how to place my weight, especially when it came to the actual jumping part of the lesson. Initially, it was a bigger challenge for me mentally rather than physically.”

Since dabbling in English riding, Jody has taken a lot of what she learned and applied it to her normal western style of riding. “Riding English definitely helped me understand how best to proportion my weight and it also really boosted my confidence – even in the western saddle,” she explains. “It made me more aware of where I should be placing my feet, legs, and weight through my seatbones, and even though a western saddle sits you back a bit, I realised that actually, you can re-train yourself to sit up straighter and maintain a better posture in the saddle.

“I think it would be a much easier transition to go from a very small saddle to a western saddle as opposed to the other way around,” adds Jody. “A western saddle allows you to be a bit lazier as a rider – to an extent you can let the saddle do some of the work. English saddles, on the other hand, don’t all allow for any laziness in your riding.”

Mel's grew up showjumping and doing dressage English-style

Top50’s Mel Rutherford had the opposite perspective. Having grown up in the UK and ridden English style from a young age, making the transition to western riding was, although more comfortable, still very much a challenge…

“Problem one: lifting the saddle onto the horse’s back!” laughs Mel. “But the sheer size and weight of the saddle also meant I had to compensate with more exaggerated movements when giving aids. Having concentrated on dressage for several years where I relied on subtle leg aids and shifts of weight in my seat, it felt odd not to be able to stop my horse using my seat alone. On the other hand, western bits are that much stronger – usually a curb – so you can’t afford to be at all heavy-handed. I learnt to use voice aids a lot more, and to be very ‘giving’ with my hands – if I did pull back on the reins, I had to be very gentle and release the pressure the instant my horse reacted. But most working ranch horses are very responsive, which makes it easier for the rider.

Mel had to get to grips with western riding in Montana

“Going fast was a learning curve, too!” Mel adds. “Western saddles place you much further back in the saddle and, with long stirrups and a large saddle horn in front of you, it’s hard to adopt a forward seat in lope or gallop as you would in English riding. Initially I was afraid of getting ‘left behind’ in the faster paces, but it’s actually much more comfortable to sit back and let the western saddle hold you in position – and for the horse, too. It also means you’re in a much more stable position should your horse suddenly stop or shoot out to the side – there’s less of a risk of coming out of the side door! Having something to hold on to also makes it easier to negotiate steep, rocky terrain that you encounter in such varied landscapes.”

Jody takes part in reining competitions

For Jody, who has regular reining lessons, riding English has revolutionised the way she looks at western riding. “I really liked being so in contact with the horse,” she explains. “The close-contact saddle allows you to stay out of your horse’s way for the finer manoeuvres, like those I use in my reining training. In that sense, I really like the idea behind the English saddle.”

Jody knows western riding like the back of her hand

For Mel, the more she rode western the more she realised the two styles aren’t so different. “I had a few lessons and the foundations are actually very similar,” she explains. “Not letting the horse fall onto his inside shoulder, getting him sharp off your leg, making sure you have the correct bend through a turn – easier said than done when you’ve just got one hand on the reins! And that stuff really matters out there. When you’re trying to control 2,000 head of cattle on your horse out on cattle drives, you’ve got to be in complete control of his every move, otherwise you could lose the entire herd.”

Fancy trying your hand at western riding and cattle drives on a dude ranch vacation? Find your perfect western horse riding holiday at Top50Ranches.com

Valentine's Day can be less than fun when you're single, what with couples going all gooey-eyed over each other, your loved-up friends rambling on about their Valentine's Day plans and people asking what you're doing for the big day. You could bury your face in the sand for a few days until it's all over - or you could celebrate being single and jet off for a last-minute vacation to escape the fuss! There's still time to book yourself a Top50 dude ranch vacation for the Valentine's week - after all, there's no better place for lone travelers to take vacation than a western ranch.

You'll never feel alone on a dude ranch vacation

Dude ranch vacations are a wonderful way to meet new people and whether you visit a luxury dude ranch, authentic guest ranch or real working ranch, you will never feel lonely. The unique welcoming and inclusive environment that only dude ranch vacations can provide means you will feel like part of the family and make life-long friends - horses included! The welcoming atmosphere is extended through all ranch activities, from camp-outs and cattle drives to mealtimes, where, on many of the smaller and more intimate ranches, everyone dines together family-style around the dining table.

Women in particular are often worried about the safety of traveling alone, but dude ranch vacations offer a totally safe environment for single travelers, and with all the freedom to access remote wilderness that non-ranch resorts can't offer. Explore remote landscapes and untamed wilderness on horseback, on foot, by boat or mountain bike, whether it's with other guests, by yourself or with an experienced guide.

Or maybe you're looking for a bit of holiday romance on your dude ranch vacation? With many other ranch guests often fellow singles travelling alone, you could just find love in time for Valentine's Day!

Top50 Ranches' Top 10 Dude Ranch Vacations for Singles

1 Echo Valley Ranch and Spa, British Columbia, Canada - With top-notch spa facilities, this is THE ranch to visit if you want some pampering and 'you' time

2 C Lazy U Ranch, Colorado, USA

Julie Goodnight women's clinic at C Lazy U

OK, so it might not quite coincide with Valentine's Day but that doesn't mean you can't treat yourself to a ranch vaca later on in the year - visit May, September or October 2012 and book the Julie Goodnight riding and yoga retreat for women, a true escape from the stresses of everyday life. Learn how to be your horse’s leader and master your equestrian skills through understanding horse behavior from top trainer Julie Goodnight, plus enjoy Anusara yoga from instructor Ellen Mesaros and indulge at the “Lazy U” spa for world-class massages, facials and more.
Not wanting to exclude the singles guys out there, C Lazy U's new Stargazing & Science Learning Getaway is perfect for both male and female singletons, with nature hikes led by a resident biologist and geologist and nightly lectures from the resident astronomer, where guests can view the wonders of the cosmos.

3 Rowse's 1+1 Ranch, Nebraska, USA - Authentic western hospitality and the chance to ride alongside real cowboys on real cattle drives at this detail-oriented working ranch

4 Badger Creek Ranch - Taking just 6 guests at any one time, this working ranch welcomes you to share in their lifestyle: you'll feel like part of the family

5 Burnt Well Guest Ranch - A real working cattle operation where you can get to play cowboy alongside the wranglers - you'll be so busy horseback riding and getting involved in real ranch work, you won't have time to feel lonely

6 Estancia Ranquilco, Neuquen, Argentina - Take a 7-day pack trip into the mountains with a small group of guests and expeirenced guide T.A - an adventure worth traveling alone for!

7 Tod Mountain Ranch, British Columbia, Canada - Tod Mountain is one of the few Canada guest ranches not to charge single supplements for its cabin accommodations, so you can enjoy the whole cabin to yourself at no extra cost.

8 Snowy River Horseback Adventure, Australia - Australia is a lone traveler's haven and this down-under ranch fits right in, offering adult-focused horse treks across breathtaking Snowy River countryside

9 Sugar and Spice Ranch, Texas, USA - Single moms can bring their daughters with them on vaca, for a bonding experience alongside other moms and daughters

10 Rancho Las Cascadas, Mexico - A small, luxury ranch offering guided and unguided horseback rides, cultural tours and European-style pampering

For more information on all of Top50's ranches perfect for singles, visit Top50Ranches.com