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

White Stallion Ranch, a luxury dude ranch and working cattle ranch in Arizona, USA, is the latest ranch to gain the Top50 accolade. One thing that really stood out for us was not just the ranch's convenient location just 35 minutes from Tuscon International Airport, but the fact that as soon as you step cowboy boot-clad foot inside the Arizona ranch, you could be a hundred miles from the 'outside world'. One reason is that White Stallion Ranch sits right alongside Saguaro National Park, with access to mile upon mile of cactus-adorned desert plains and mountain wilderness. What's more, the luxury dude ranch is nestled into the west side of the Saguaro studded mountains, where only on reaching the very top is the nearest town in sight.

Don't be fooled by the ranch's high guest capacity of 70 and luxury, resort-style facilities and amenities. This family-owned and operated 3,000-acre ranch is steeped in history, and is still a working cattle ranch alongside providing luxury and family dude ranch vacations. Brothers Russell and Michael True took over the guest ranch from their parents, who bought White Stallion in 1965, and go out of their way to get to know each and every guest taking dude ranch vacations at the ranch. This is the kind of place where people treat you like one of the family - so no wonder the Trues are renowned for their high-quality service and first-rate hospitality.

At White Stallion Ranch, it's all about the horse riding. This is the perfect family ranch vacation for parents with children able to ride, as kids aged 5 and above are, if able, welcome to join in the beautiful, scenic trail rides on the diverse riding program. Children aged 8 and above can - again, if able - even join the faster, more adventurous rides, complete with loping and trickier terrain. And if you want to ride without the kids, you must go on the adults-only "Cheese and Wine Ride" - a slower, relaxing ride to one of the ranch's most beautiful areas where you'll enjoy wine, cheese and other treats. With 140 horses, the Arizona dude ranch runs one of the largest horse herds in the state and so can match each guest with more than one perfect horse. Whether you're a complete beginner or an advanced rider looking to tackle some 'real' riding, there is a horse and a trail ride for you.

Running 100 head of cattle across the ranch, White Stallion runs a hugely popular team penning program - an arena based riding activity where guests can learn the art of this tricky rodeo sport. And because you'll no doubt be hooked on rodeo by the end of the week, you'll love the weekly ranch rodeo featuring local cowboys and ranch wranglers demonstrating how the pros do it.

Not interested in riding? The guest ranch's wonderful location offers wonderful guided and unguided hiking opportunities, both through White Stallion Ranch and in the adjacent Saguaro National Park. There are also plenty of off-ranch activities to enjoy should you wish to head further afield - all made easy with the option of hiring a car direct from the ranch.

Aside from comfortable lodging and tasty meals, the luxury dude ranch boasts a heated pool with a large redwood hot tub; a fitness room with an exercise room, sauna and massage therapy; a lighted tennis court and sports court; a recreation room with a 27-seater movie theater, lots of fun games; a children’s playground and a petting zoo. Come evening, retire to the beautiful bar and hop up on one of the western-saddle bar stools for a drink with other guests - you don't have to be a rider to get in these saddles! And forget having to trek to town for souvenirs, as the ranch has its own gift shop where you can buy riding gear, gifts, travel items and lots more.

Whether you're travelling alone, with family and friends, with your partner or as part of a corporate retreat, White Stallion Ranch will give you a dude ranch vacation experience you will never forget - and want to return to year after year.

For more information on dude ranch vacations at White Stallion Ranch, visit their ranch profile at Top50Ranches.com

Dude ranch vacations are the ultimate way to enjoy a whole host of recreational activities. And it's not just about the horseback riding! In fact, many of our Top50 dude ranches, guest ranches and working ranches are great places to relax and unwind without even going near a horse.

Of course, if horseback riding is your go-to stress reliever then you'll find trail rides, pack trips, horsemanship clinics, horse treks and cattle drives aplenty...

Best ranches for...

 Action-packed cattle drives - Zapata Ranch, Beaumont High Country Experience, Burnt Well Guest Ranch, Lazy E-L Ranch, The Hideout Guest Ranch, Chico Basin Ranch, Badger Creek Ranch 

Pack trips - Estancia Ranquilco, Snowy River Horseback Adventure, Estancia Huechahue, Latigo Ranch

Wilderness horse treks - Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, Brush Creek Ranch, Siwash Lake Ranch, Estancia Ranquilco

Horsemanship clinics - The Hideout Guest Ranch, Three Bars Ranch, Zapata Ranch, Chico Basin Ranch, McGinnis Meadows

Rodeos - Averill's Flathead Lake Lodge, Brush Creek Ranch, Lone Mountain Ranch

Cattle work in the arena - Bar W Guest Ranch, Bonanza Creek Ranch, McGinnis Meadows, Rowse's 1+1 Ranch, Sweet Grass Ranch

Appealing to non-riders, these ranches offer some equally enjoyable ways to spend your time on dude ranch vacation...

Best ranches for...

 Water sports - Averill's Flathead Lake Lodge, Siwash Lake Ranch, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, Majestic Dude Ranch, The Resort at Paws Up

Fly fishing and angling - North Fork Ranch, Triple Creek Ranch, The Ranch at Rock Creek, C Lazy U Ranch, Siwash Lake Ranch, Averill's Flathead Lake Lodge

Golf - C Lazy U Ranch, Rancho de los Caballeros, Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, Lone Mountain Ranch, Ranch at Rock Creek, Three Bars Ranch

Spas - Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, The Resort at Paws Up, The Ranch at Rock Creek, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, Rancho de los Caballeros

Children's activities and supervized children's programs - Red Horse Mountain Ranch, The Resort at Paws Up, Alisal Ranch, Lone Mountain Ranch, Elk Mountain Ranch, Sugar and Spice Ranch, Majestic Dude Ranch, C Lazy U Ranch, The Ranch at Rock Creek, Siwash Lake Ranch, Three Bars Ranch, Vista Verde Ranch

Wine tasting vacations - Estancia Los Potreros, Vista Verde Ranch

Cooking classes - Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, Lazy E-L Ranch, Triple Creek Ranch

Local/historical attractions - Lone Mountain Ranch, Tod Mountain Ranch, Bonanza Creek Ranch, Latigo Ranch, Rancho Las Cascadas

Yoga - Brush Creek Ranch, Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, Lone Mountain Ranch, The Resort at Paws Up, Vista Verde Ranch

Adventure sports - Rancho Los Banos, Majestic Dude Ranch, Beaumont High Country Experience, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

Mountain biking - Majestic Dude Ranch, Tod Mountain Ranch, Lone Mountain Ranch

Wildlife/Safari tours - Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, Siwash Lake Ranch, Zapata Ranch, The Hideout Guest Ranch, Badger Creek Ranch, Brush Creek Ranch, Triple Creek Ranch, Snowy River Horseback Adventure

For more information on all activities at dude ranches, 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

Best ranches for families? You’ll find the best family ranch vacations at ranches that offer a diverse range of activities for all ages. Check out Top50’s great range of family dude ranches that provide multi-generational groups with great family ranch vacations worldwide. Families traveling with children will love those Top50 ranches with children’s programs, but whether your family is comprised of old or young, riders or non-riders, you’ll find the best family dude ranch vacations at Top50Ranches.com – check out our pick of the best dude ranches for families…

Riding for all ages at Red Horse Mountain

One ranch ticking all the boxes when it comes to catering for kids is Red Horse Mountain Ranch in Idaho, USA, whose comprehensive children’s program caters for 3-11 year olds. The family dude ranch encourages kids to ride, with horseback riding programs for children aged 3- 6 years allowing kids to go horseback riding on the trail led by a wrangler, along with the rest of the family. The non-riding part of the children’s program is designed to engage your child through adventure-driven activities. There’s a discount offered for nannies and grandparents, or alternatively pay for Red Horse Mountain’s babysitting service for 0-3 year olds. While the kids are having fun, mums, dads, aunts, uncles and grandparents can enjoy horseback riding catered to all levels, yoga, massages and spa treatments, an outdoor pool, mountain biking, nature trails, water sports and more.

For a luxury family ranch vacation head to The Resort at Paws Up, a 37,000-acre working Montana ranch where the grown-ups of the family can enjoy cattle drives and whole host of wilderness adventures – including fly-fishing on the legendary Blackfoot River, hot-air ballooning, white-water rafting and zorbing! While you’re having a blast, so will your kids with supervised activities including everything from horseback riding and mountain biking to nature education. Not forgetting the Paws Up "Kids Corps of Discovery” – full and half-day programs for ages 5-12 that include trips to a ghost town, authentic ranch experiences and more.

Nestled in Santa Barbara County wine country is The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, a California dude ranch with something for the whole family. Children’s and youth programs are available from ages 3 upwards, allowing the younger family members to get stuck into animal activities, grooming and steer-head roping. Alisal’s family ranch vacations are ideal for slightly older families, as children under six must be accompanied by an adult for ranch activities. Older families can reconnect while mountain biking, hiking, enjoying the outdoor pool and hot tub, or over a game of tennis. With an 18-hole golf course and fishing available, dads and granddads won’t get bored either.

Averill's - best for multi-generational families

The best ranch for multi-generational families has to be Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge, a family-operated Montana guest ranch on the shores of Flathead Lake, just 35 miles south of Glacier National Park. This is a great dude ranch for families interested in riding and water sports, thanks to unlimited horse and water activities included in Averill’s all-inclusive ranch vacations. Relax and reconnect in a rustic ranch atmosphere and enjoy the most diverse range of all-inclusive activities offered by any American ranch – think horseback riding, sailing, personalized fly-fishing, water sports, hiking, cookouts, and family barn dances to name just a few. Averill’s unique children’s program encourages family interaction, meaning kids are free to roam the ranch and participate in the scheduled kids’ activities as much or as little as they like – from horseback riding and rodeo, to water activities and tepee campouts.

Want to see your kids transform and grow on your dude ranch vacation? Then take them on a family ranch vacation to Lone Mountain Guest Ranch near Yellowstone National Park. The Montana dude ranch’s Outdoor Youth Adventures Program encourages kids to have fun while developing more self-confidence, through supervised activities and recreation. Open to 4-18 year-olds, the daily program is geared to suit the abilities and interests of each age level – see your kids enjoy canoeing, camping, riding, hiking, pizza parties, animal tracking and many other fun activities with other children their age. This is a great dude ranch vacation for families with teenagers, with the family dude ranch’s “Teens Only” tours of Yellowstone Park and a backpacking trip into the Spanish Peaks. Meanwhile, the older family members can enjoy mountain biking, yoga, an 18-hole round of golf, campouts, white-water rafting and more. Despite a guest capacity of 70, this Montana dude ranch maintains a real family atmosphere where everyone gets along together.

Elk Mountain Ranch in Colorado, USA, is the ultimate place for families to spend time together. Elk Mountain is very family-oriented ranch and whether you’re horseback riding through unspoiled wilderness, white-water rafting or mountain biking together, you’re sure to reconnect on your dude ranch vacation. Kids aged 3-7 are no exception, with the children’s program supervisors offering fun-filled activities complete with "theme days". Each day includes riding in the arena and activities that revolve around the theme of the day – Cowboy day, Indian Day, even a day at the Mount Princeton Hot Springs pools. Come evening the family fun doesn’t stop, with hayrides, square-dances and musical entertainment bringing you closer together.

North Fork Ranch is another Colorado dude ranch geared towards families, welcoming children aged 6 upwards. Its location just an hour from Denver is ideal for restless young travelers, and the ranch offers a multitude of activities to satisfy everyone's interests – old and young, horsey or non-horsey. From horseback riding, hiking and white-water rafting, to hayrides, campfire sing-a-longs and square dancing, families are encouraged to take part in ranch activities together. As an Orvis-endorsed fishing lodge, North Fork Ranch guarantees a world-class fishing experience for keen anglers, and will also appeal to families looking for a lean toward luxury in accommodations and dining.

Also encouraging families to enjoy the ranch experience together is Latigo Ranch. The Colorado dude ranch involves children aged 6 upward in its full riding program, where kids ride twice a day as the adults do. An impressive range of kids’ activities means non-riding youngsters never get bored, and there’s plenty to occupy older family members too – from mountain biking and bird watching, to golf and instructed fishing.

Exclusively for moms and daughters is the Sugar and Spice Ranch in Texas, where the two generations can enjoy a learning and bonding vacation through fun arena games on horseback.

Wilderness adventures for every generation at Clayoquot

Appealing to groups with both older and younger family members is Clayoquot Wilderness Resort in British Columbia, Canada. The tented safari camp runs a special Multi-Generational Elders Package in May, where grandparents stay free when you book a family of eight adults or more. And for the kids, the Canada guest ranch offers a discounted rate to families traveling with children 12 years and under, provided you all share accommodation.

Majestic Dude Ranch in the beautiful Mesa Verde National Forest is a wonderful family ranch retreat, where everyone from babies to grandparents are welcome and invited to join in the multitude of activities – from adrenaline-fuelled mountain biking and white-water rafting, to more relaxing outdoor movies, wagon rides and gentle horseback trail rides. Kids and adults alike will love s’mores round the campfire under the stars, complete with cowboy poetry and music. A comprehensive children’s program for both kids and teens gives you the choice of being with your kids all day or just seeing them in passing; should you wish, the Colorado dude ranch’s highly trained counsellors will not only keep your kids busy, but also educate them from sunrise to sunset.

The C Lazy U Ranch is another Colorado dude ranch with a great balance between family time and alone time. Spend breakfast and after dinner together as a family, then let the kids out on the ranch for the remainder of the day. Your children will have the vacation of a lifetime and will be kept busy all day with a children’s program centered around horseback riding, and building their independence and confidence – leaving you to enjoy horseback rides, golf, tennis, yoga, mountain biking and more.

Head to Montana for a family ranch vacation at The Ranch at Rock Creek and you’ll be treated to limitless outdoor recreational opportunities, outstanding accommodation and cuisine, and a full-service spa. Activities programs are designed with your individual tastes, preferences and needs in mind, and you can rest assured everything is included – from horseback riding, fly-fishing in the Blue Ribbon Rock Creek and wildlife watching, to archery, paint ball and games in The Granite Lodge. Children aged 4 upwards will have the ranch vacation of a lifetime on the Kids Program, featuring both indoor and outdoor activities – including horseback riding. The whole family can also enjoy trips to local Philipsburg, as well as free tours to the Granite ghost town.

For a more exclusive, intimate family ranch vacation, The Ranch at Siwash Lake in BC, Canada, offers action-packed adventure for all ages and interests. Childcare is available by prior arrangement leaving you free to ride the range or just catching up on some much needed rest and relaxation. Children aged 4-12 can enjoy the same freedom in a safe, supervised environment with the “Free-Range Kids” program, where free play and educational content is used to build their self-esteem – through the likes of horse care, animal tracking, orienteering, scavenger hunts, horse care lessons, pony rides in the meadow and more. More experienced young riders can join the older family members on horseback trail rides, and together you can all go mountain biking, bird watching, hiking, lake water sports and much more besides.

Let the kids go wild at Sweet Grass

Secluded in the remote Rocky Mountains of Montana is Sweet Grass Ranch, a haven for family ranch vacations. It’s all about freedom at this Montana working cattle and guest ranch, thanks to no set children’s program, an unstructured riding schedule tailored to your family’s interests and endless riding options – from cattle drives to relaxing trail rides. With beautiful hiking trails and diverse fishing opportunities, the whole family can appreciate the beauty of the ranch together, as well as have fun on the ranch’s natural water slide, inner tubing the creek, campfires, weekly horsemanship clinics and a host of indoor and outdoor games. Evenings are family time and made for visiting with new-found friends, feasting on s'mores at the campfire, or relaxing with a book in the hot tub. Kids – and adults! – with any energy left can play soccer, volleyball, softball, pasture golf or horseshoes before bedtime. With Yellowstone National Park, Bighorn, local rodeos and golf nearby, venture of the ranch for family days out – taking advantage of Sweet Grass’s free-of-charge travel within a 50-mile radius.

For a flexible, customized family ranch vacation, take a trip to Three Bars Ranch in the Canadian Rockies, which lies close to Banff and Glacier National Park. For kids aged 6 upwards there’s a supervised children's program where Three Bars will make them feel right at home on the ranch, with access to wide open spaces to just be kids. Three Bars is ideal for both parents looking for some independence from their children, or to spend as much time with them as possible; the children’s program will keep them busy all day long and well into the night should you wish, but is also designed so that you can go on family rides, hike and river-raft together. Specializing in families, beginner riding and multi-sport activities, the working cattle ranch and luxury dude ranch’s diverse activities program includes a complete range of horseback riding programs, hiking, river rafting, mountain biking, fly fishing, tennis, indoor heated pool, hot tub and fitness facility. This is also one of the best family ranches for golf enthusiasts, with five of Canada’s top 25 golf courses in close proximity.

Also offering flexibility and personalization in family dude ranch vacations is Vista Verde Ranch. Don’t be fooled by its wide array of summer activities – the Colorado dude ranch maintains a personal, intimate feel unlike any resort, thanks to down-to-earth people who treat you like family. You know your kids will be in good hands on the 6-years-and-up children’s program designed to engage and educate, offering activities including animal care, horse care, arena riding, trail riding, gymkhana and rodeo. The family dude ranch’s teen program gives older kids the freedom to split off and be a little more independent and adventurous with activities, which include special teen horseback rides and overnight campouts. While your children are having the ranch vacation of a lifetime, you and the rest of the adults can too, with climbing, mountain biking, yoga, outdoor pool, hot tub, rafting, cooking classes, wine tasting, fishing and so much more.

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

Family dude ranch vacations don't come much better than at The Resort at Paws Up in Montana, USA. In an age where iPads, X-Boxes and 3D televisions seem to be the centre of our children's worlds, it can be hard to encourage them to enjoy the simpler things in life, and even the most sporty, active and 'outdoors' kids have that favorite TV show they simply can't miss. But on a dude ranch vacation - especially at family dude ranches like Paws Up - sitting in front of the box will be the last thing on their minds.

Paws Up for kids

The Montana dude ranch offers an unbeatable range of activities for all ages that will drag any kid out of bed in the morning, whether taken as part of the Paws Up Children's Program or tackled with Mom and Dad. Let 'em take their pick from all of this...

Outdoor activities
Horseback riding - lessons, cattle sorting and more
Climbing
Mountain biking
Sporting clays
Campouts
Wagon rides
ATV Rentals (guided)
Fly-fishing
Zorbing (pictured below)
Rappelling
Hot-air ballooning
Geocaching
Archery

Water-based activities
Lake water sports
River floating
White-water rafting adventures

Winter adventures
Cross-country skiing Snowmobiling
Snowshoeing

Children's program

The family dude ranch's Children's Program is perfect for children aged four and over, providing supervised, age-appropriate games and activities including:

• Horseback riding (pony rides, arena riding and trail riding)
• Mountain biking
• Hiking
• Fishing
• Nature education
• Wrangler activities
• Wildlife appreciation
• Scavenger/treasure hunts
• Horseshoes
• Badminton
• Pool
• Animal care
• Horse care

The Paws Up "Kids Corps of Discovery" is held seven days a week, will full- and half-day programs available for children aged five to 12. Think trips to a local ghost town, fun in the sun at the Paws Up lake house, authentic ranch experiences and more!

Paws Up for parents

With the kids fully entertained, it's time for Mom and Dad to kick back and enjoy the peaceful tranquility of Paws Up. Whether it's enjoying candlelit dinners, romantic lakeside walks or horseback rides, decadent spa treatments or a dip in the hot tub, adults are guaranteed a wonderful family ranch vacation with as much or as little time with the kids as they please.

As for the sleeping arrangements, parents won't want to leave the luxury 'glamping' tented accommodations with personalized butler service, while the kids will love the luxury camping experience just as much. And if they're too tired to move after a day crammed with adventure? Well, there's always the flat-screen TVs...

For more information on family dude ranch vacations at The Resort at Paws Up, visit Top50Ranches.com

North Fork Ranch reviews came flooding in when the Colorado dude ranch was recently named one of the Top50 Ranches in the world. Three guests who had taken their dude ranch vacations at North Fork Ranch got in touch with Top50 to give us their opinions of what is widely known to be one of the best dude ranches in Colorado, especially for family dude ranch vacations.

Read on to see what these three past guests of North Fork Ranch had to say about their Colorado dude ranch vacations...

Review #1

Romance: 5
Adventure: 5
Ranch Setting: 5
Family Oriented: 5
Adult Oriented: 3
Western Hospitality: 5
Riding: 5
Cattle Work: 4
Food & Wine: 5
Overall Experience: 5

General Questions

Interesting tidbit about the ranch owners or staff:
In the 11 years our family has visited this ranch (no other vacation place have we been so consistent), I've observed both Dean and Karen personally ensuring their guests were treated like family, each doing this at times when I knew they were feeling under the weather. They never missed a step. That is pride in their job and their business!

What makes this riding program stand out?
Great horses matched well to their riders. Also the country you ride through is beautiful and varied, so there's no such thing as a boring ride.

What about this ranch brings guests back?
Dean and Karen interview their summer college help very well. I observed every year how guests really enjoyed the service by these college kids, and it usually ended in email and contact info exchanges at the end of the stay. Choosing young people that really represent the ranch well is very key, and Dean and Karen have done this very well consistently over the years.

Another bit of information you'd like Top50 to know:
Choosing great staff who really care about their guests' experience is huge - all the best properties know this already, but focus on this one thing can cover any "stuff happens" events during a visit.

Review #2

Romance: 5
Adventure: 5
Ranch Setting: 5
Family Oriented: 5
Adult Oriented: 0
Western Hospitality: 5
Riding: 5
Cattle Work: 5
Food & Wine: 5
Overall Experience: 5

General Questions

Interesting tidbit about the ranch owners or staff:
When after a week my two kids said that it was better than a week at Disney World you, know that Karen and Dean are doing something right. The staff were just outstanding in every possible way.

What makes this riding program stand out?
Great riding program - my children and wife always felt safe - plus good horses.

What about this ranch brings guests back?
From the minute you arrive, Karen and Dean treat you like family.

Another bit of information you'd like Top50 to know:
Go on a diet before you go! The food is to die for - I ran every day and climbed a 14-er while we were there, but I thought they would have to roll me back to the east coast. I couldn't put my fork down!

Review #3

Romance: 0
Adventure: 0
Ranch Setting: 5
Family Oriented: 5
Adult Oriented: 0
Western Hospitality: 5
Riding: 4
Cattle Work: 0
Food & Wine: 5
Overall Experience: 5

General Questions

Interesting tidbit about the ranch owners or staff:
The food was outstanding! We didn't have time to get hungry before there was a new tempting treat set before us.

What makes this riding program stand out?
Willingness to accommodate your every need.

What about this ranch brings guests back?
Friendliness, food, fishing and riding

Another bit of information you'd like Top50 to know
Each member of staff helps in every way.

For more information and to book a dude ranch vacation at North Fork Ranch, visit Top50Ranches.com

Texas dude ranch Sugar & Spice with be holding its third annual scholarship program for Summer 2012. Says Sugar & Spice owner Leigh McCourt: "We have had so much success in getting girls to write and express themselves in the last two years that we have decided to make it an annual tradition. This contest will be for all girls that would like to come to the ranch with their moms, and all past guests of the ranch are encouraged to join in as well."

Mothers and daughters bond through horses at Texas dude ranch Sugar & Spice

Sugar & Spice recently announced its branching out into Wyoming, however the program will be run at the Texas ranch only. "The contest will require an essay to be written by the daughter about why she would like to come to the ranch, and what she would expect to get out of being here for a week with her mom," explains Leigh. "The essay should be at least 500 words - it's a thought-provoking exercise and this should be evident in the writing."

The program is a wonderful way to engage the mind, encouraging daughters to look within themselves as to what they intend to get out of such a unique experience with their moms. Mothers are welcome to proof read and help a little, but Leigh stresses she would like the true thoughts to come from the daughters.

"Oh, and one last thing," adds Leigh. "We would really appreciate everyone using the prize they receive. Last year we had two winners who never wound up coming - what a shame for the girls who put so much effort and so much of themselves into this contest. Please allow the girls to reap the rewards of their efforts."

The twist!
For 2012, Sugar and Spice has announced it is going to let fans of The Sugar & Spice Ranch Facebook page to participate in the voting process. Plus, a couple of well-known authors will be helping Leigh in selecting the final winners... Who knows, a budding writer may just be 'discovered'!

The Awards
First Prize: $1000.00 scholarship
Second Prize: $750.00 scholarship
Third Prize: $500.00 scholarship

Age categories

• 8 and under
• 9 to 12
• Over 12s

How to enter
Please email all essays and any pictures you would like to include to info@texashorsecamps.com , or post to the Sugar & Spice Facebook fan page

The deadline for all entries will be February 15th 2012, and the winners will be announced on March 1st 2012.

Good luck!

Visit the Sugar & Spice Ranch profile at Top50Ranches.com

Elk Mountain Ranch in Colorado, USA, is the latest family dude ranch to be named of the Top50 Ranches in the world, offering superb dude ranch vacations for adults and children alike.

High in San Isabel National Forest in Colorado, USA, lies Elk Mountain Ranch – the Murphy family's home and passion since 1985. Warm and friendly hospitality combined with an off-the-beaten path charm, this remote Colorado dude ranch boasts spectacular scenery, quality horses, endless activities and superb cuisine – the ultimate retreat for families looking to reconnect.

Family dude ranch vacations at Elk Mountain

Elk Mountain is family-oriented ranch and, as such, offers a comprehensive and fun-filled children’s program for three to seven year-olds – although children aged eight and upwards are more than welcome to join in. The well-supervised program includes riding in the arena, themed days – eg, “Cowboy Day”, where kids can get stuck into roping, panning for gold and making sheriff badges – and off-ranch trips to Mount Princeton hot springs. Guests looking for a quieter dude ranch vacation can take advantage of Elk Mountain’s adult-only weeks, which run every September.

Surely the only way to relax and take in the beauty of Colorado is to go horseback riding through unspoilt wilderness on one of Elk Mountain’s 50 horses. Rides are kept small and led by one the ranch’s experienced and competent wranglers, allowing guests to get the most out of their western horseback riding experience.

Elk Mountain Ranch also offers a whole host of non-riding activities, including golf, archery, hiking, fishing, mountain biking and much more. Coined the "white water capital of Colorado", the town of Buena Vista lies just minutes from Elk Mountain and here, guests in search of adventure can enjoy thrilling white-water rafting along the Arkansas River. Evening activities include leisurely hayrides, square-dancing and musical entertainment, or guests can simply soothe tired muscles with a massage or a dip in the hot tub.

After an action-packed day, superb home-cooked meals await guests at the ranch dining table at the Main Lodge. The varied menu offers something for every appetite, however hearty or discerning. The options are endless – from hors d’oeuvres, steak fry and fabulous desserts, to Champagne brunches, trail-ride cookouts and, the highlight at week's end, a country candlelit dinner.

Appetites satiated, guests can retire to comfortable and spacious accommodations – which range from rooms and suites in the Main Lodge, to private log cabins ideally suited to families. Tastefully and traditionally decorated, the comfortable accommodations offer a true feel of the ‘Old West’.

If you’re looking for the perfect family dude ranch vacation in Colorado, Elk Mountain can provide.

It’s that time of year again when New Year resolutions are formed - always with good intentions, but normally ditched alongside surplus Christmas puddings and unwanted presents a few weeks into January. Well, 2012 may be the year all that changes. The team at Top50 has come up with some New Year resolution ideas that you might actually keep – and they could be life-changing...

1. Curb your spending Dude ranch vacations don't have to mean blowing the budget - check out these special offers from USA dude ranch Alisal Ranch, Canada guest ranch Tod Mountain Ranch and Argentina dude ranch Estancia Los Potreros. These special offers and discounts will see you saving $$$s on dude ranch vacations in 2012.

2. Travel to another continent Journey south of the equator for a horse riding holiday at Snowy River Horseback Adventure in New South Wales, Australia. Ride in ‘Man from Snowy River’ country as you embark on horse treks along bush trails and mountain ash forests. Or venture to neighboring New Zealand for a horse riding holiday at Beaumont High Country Experience, an authentic working cattle station where you can try your hand at sheep mustering. This 18,000-acre high-country sheep station offers incredible terrain over which you can choose to go horseback riding, on ATV tours, or hiking.

3. Take more ‘you’ time Blood pressure rising to the max? Overworked and stressed out? Then vow to take some more ‘you’ time in 2012. And what better way to relax than get away from it all on a dude ranch vacation at a luxury ranch with a spa? Dude ranches such Triple Creek, The Resort at Paws Up, Lone Mountain Guest Ranch, C Lazy U Ranch and Averill's Flathead Lake Lodge all offer wonderful surroundings in which to relax, de-stress and recharge your batteries. Relax in the pool or hot tub, take a leisurely horseback ride through peaceful scenery, and relax in the tranquility of it all.

4. Shed those Christmas pounds! Feeling the after-effects of all that Christmas overindulgence? Beat the post-festive bloat and put a spring back in your step with an energising and invigorating horseback riding adventure at an authentic working ranch like Burnt Well Guest Ranch, Estancia Huechahue, Rancho Los Banos and Bonanza Creek Ranch. With long, fast-paced days spent horseback riding, you’ll soon be feeling fighting fit!

If you’d rather shed those extra pounds without having to exert yourself so much, you could instead opt for dude ranch vacation at a ranch specialising in healthy cuisine. After all, there’s no better way to detox than by sampling delicious healthy cuisine whilst on a western ranch vacation.Top50 recommends Echo Valley Ranch and Spa, which specialises in gourmet, healthy cuisine. Even special diets such as 'Eat for your blood type' are incorporated into its extensive menu!

5. Reduce your carbon footprint Go green with a dude ranch vacation at a ranch with ethically sound practices. Free Rein Ranch creates ethical menus based on locally sourced produce, as the Canada dude ranch advocates the '100 mile diet', buying as much produce from local suppliers within a 100-mile radius. Chico Basin Ranch uses traditional methods to complement innovative management programs to sustain the Colorado working ranch's natural resources, and its sister ranch, Zapata Ranch, takes a similarly holistic approach and runs recreation, education and outreach programs as part of its ethical strategy.

6. Learn a new language Take up Spanish, whether it's brushing up long-forgotten schoolday skills or learning from scratch. Best of all, it's a great excuse test your skills on a ranch vacation at dude ranches in Argentina – such as Estancia Los Potreros, Estancia Ranquilco and Estancia Huechahue. Ride with the gauchos and practise your Spanish lingo - and probably pick up some authentic phrases along the way!

7. Take up a new sport Ever fancied trying something new on horseback - Polo, for example? You can do just that on a dude ranch vacation at Estancia Los Potreros in Argentina. Or maybe try your hand at non-riding activities offered by one of the Top50 dude ranches, such as cycling, golf, tennis, water sports, skiing and other winter sports, or fishing. Top50 has hundreds of dude ranch vacations, working ranch vacations and guest ranch vacations perfect for trying something different.

8. Spend more time with your family Dude ranch vacations offer the perfect opportunity to reconnect with family, and family dude ranches are ideal for getting away with the kids. Family dude ranches such as Majestic Dude Ranch and Lone Mountain Guest Ranch offer brilliant children’s programs, and Elk Mountain Ranch even has a full children's program for 3-7 year olds.

9. Spend more time with your partner If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, head to one of Top50’s adult-oriented dude ranches with your loved one - such as The Ranch at Rock Creek, Bonanza Creek, McGinnis Meadows and Rowse's 1+1 Ranch Quiet and secluded, such dude ranches offer great couples' ranch vacations.

10. Catch up with old friends Call your girlfriends and get 'em on a ranch vacations at Rancho Los Banos in Mexico - the working ranch and guest ranch is offering a Ladies' Special in August 2012, the perfect excuse for a budget girlfriends' getaway.

Inspired? Browse all of Top50's ranches to find your own way to keep your 2012 New Year Resolutions!