True Ranch Collection Highlights the American West With Its Portfolio of Dude Ranches

When travelers think of the American West, they often imagine the expansive landscapes and unspoiled natural beauty they see in the movies — and while they may not have previously considered "Big Sky Country” when planning vacations, they definitely should, and to that the True Ranch Collection is a good place to begin.

Offering authentic dude ranch vacations in Arizona, Montana and Wyoming, the True Ranch Collection celebrates Western heritage with its distinctive properties and guest experiences.

“Traditional western dude ranches are an endangered species,” said Sally Black, business development manager for True Ranch Collection. “True Ranch Collection is trying to preserve western hospitality, these ranches and this land for our future generations. We currently have six historic ranches in our portfolio, and with the help of our agent partners, we hope to expand our collection to ensure more ranches are not lost."

Why Clients Should Consider a Dude Ranch Vacation

Although clients may not have visited a dude ranch — and it may be a new product for some travel advisors, too — Black notes that travelers have been vacationing at guest ranches for more than 100 years. That means a dude ranch stay not only allows clients to experience the American West firsthand, but also provides a unique opportunity to "step back into a rich history."

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A great way for clients to test the waters is through True Ranch Collection’s glamping-style pop-up ranches, which are operated in partnership with national parks to offer a combination of luxury and adventure. Previous seasons have included pop-ups at the historic O.T.O. Dude Ranch in Gardiner, Montana, Montana's first dude ranch, which welcomed guests for the first time in 80 years with True Ranch Collection's Yellowstone Pop-Up Ranch. 2025 dates and locations will be announced soon.

Qualifying Clients for a Dude Ranch Vacation

Nearly everyone is a good fit for a dude ranch stay, according to Black. True Ranch Collection properties are all-inclusive, making them an excellent option for everyone from multi-generational families to solo travelers who want the convenience of the all-inclusive structure. Plus, with activities ranging from fishing, hiking and archery to exploring historic western towns, national parks and even abandoned gold mines, there’s bound to be something for every traveler to enjoy.

In addition, ranches with multi-bedroom accommodations are ideal for multigenerational or multi-family groups. Additionally, because most properties in the collection are smaller (with a maximum capacity of 25 to 40 guests), they’re also great for family reunions, group getaways, company team building experiences or destination weddings.

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The one thing clients won't find is organized kids' clubs. According to Black, that’s because families are encouraged to experience activities together, including horseback riding programs, which are an option for all guests over the age of five (pony rides are offered for younger kids). Guests have the same horse for their entire stay, and Black notes that many develop special bonds with "their" horses. Advisors can help ensure “happy guests and happy horses" by providing accurate information about each client’s riding ability before arrival, which allows wranglers to match riders’ comfort levels with horses’ temperaments.

Advisors should also be aware that most of the ranches in the collection are historic properties in rural locations, so clients with mobility issues may have difficulties in some locations. However, White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, has two ADA-compliant rooms, and Tombstone Monument Ranch in Tombstone, Arizona, has one. Chefs at all ranches can accommodate any dietary restrictions or special needs diets.