Have you just booked your first Colorado dude ranch vacation? If so, you might be wondering what you should pack for the trip. The good news is we’ll supply just about everything you could need to make your stay with us a blast. But, there are a few things you can bring to make your trip more enjoyable…
Your Camera
Although we generally recommend our guests do their best to “unplug” and enjoy their natural surroundings without phones or gadgets, you’ll probably want to bring your best camera. From fun family photos to breathtaking sunsets, we can guarantee you’ll see all kinds of things you’ll want to remember forever.
Several Pairs of Comfortable Blue Jeans
Not only will having a few pairs of broken in jeans make you look and feel more like an authentic cowboy or cowgirl, but denim is popular on guest ranches for a reason. It’s great for protecting you when you’re in the sun or cooler temps, and jeans can stand up to the wear and tear of hiking, horseback riding, and other outdoor adventures. And the best news: the dining attire for every meal includes jeans! It’s the way of the west, and no formal attire necessary around the dinner table.
Your Favorite Western Boots
You might think of cowboy boots as something you wear when you want to make a fashion statement, but their flat soles serve a useful purpose, as well. They are much better for riding horses than hiking shoes and boots with tread on the bottom. Plus, Western boots typically go higher up the leg and ankle, which gives you more protection from thorns and other irritants. If you don’t feel like chipping in for your own pair, have no fear! Many ranches have ‘boot barns’ where you can borrow a pair for the week.
Good Luck Fishing Charms
Most ranches will provide you with a rod and reel if you want to go fishing in one of our mountain streams, but if you have a favorite lure or good luck charm bring it along. Of course, the best way to ensure your fishing trip is a great one is to bring along your favorite partner.
Bathing Suits and Sunscreen
Even the most adventure-minded guests usually end up taking a day or two to sit by the pool or or tube down the stream and enjoy the clear skies and warm Western sun. Just be sure you pack plenty of sunscreen – you don’t want to get too much of a good thing and end up feeling medium rare!
A Great Western Novel
Nothing can immerse you in the spirit of the old West quite like a good book with cowboys and villains. Westerns are great for reading on your porch swing, on quiet days, or in bed before sleep. If you really want to get yourself in the mood, you can listen to some Western bestsellers on your drive to up to your ranch.
Your Sense of Adventure
No matter how long you’ll be staying, or what you plan on doing, we hope you’ll bring your sense of fun. There’s so much to try and enjoy that you might be surprised at how full each day will feel!
Have more questions about what to bring on your Colorado Ranch vacation, or what to do when you’re here? Feel free to contact us at 1-866-942-3472. We will give you all the inside scoop when it comes to planning for and packing for your Colorado Dude Ranch Vacation! And if you haven’t yet booked for next summer, there’s still time. Carpe Diem! You can request a free brochure and DVD to start your search.
