Unplugged Ranch Vacations- 5 Ways to do it at Colorado Dude Ranches
One of the newest requests for many travelers is a place where they can unplug and have a technology free vacation. This is especially requested by parents, who want their kids to enjoy nature, immerse themselves in new experiences and enjoy actually talking with other people and family members. Our friends at the Colorado Dude and Guest Ranch Association, which has been helping travelers connect with Colorado ranches since 1934, share some of the great ways that guests can take advantage of truly unplugging on their next dude ranch vacation.
Taking in the views at Drowsy Water Ranch.
#1 Slow Down & Turn Off Your Devices!
Being on a dude ranch is one of the only places left where time seems to slow down and families can simply enjoy being with each other without the distraction of our ever-present technology. There is something special about being away from it all, in the mountains, on the back of a horse and not thinking ONCE about what lay in your inbox or your voicemail.
Although you will find the cabins and lodge rooms have all of the modern comforts you'd find in your own home, there will be no TV or gaming system to entice the lil' buckacroos. A dude ranch is a place where you can truly turn it all off and tune back into what matters: spending quality time with your kids and creating lasting memories for them. With so much to do, see, taste, and experience on a Colorado Dude Ranch, you’ll be surprised to find that your fear of separation from your mobile device or TV is far easier than you could have ever imagined.
#2 Let The Kids Get As Dirty As They Wish
At a dude ranch, kids will stretch their imagination to the limit, explore new things, and find a sense of independence that is nearly impossible to find in a busy city or even the suburbs. Children from 3-12 and, yes, even your teens will find unique pleasure in the simple things such as brushing and saddling their own horse, making forts in the woods around the ranch, or shooting a bow and arrow for the first time. In short: kids learn how to be 'kids' on a dude ranch without using technology as a crutch. Boredom just doesn't happen at a ranch. You’d be amazed by how many legendary campfire stories come from retelling the adventures that lead to the dirty boots and soggy socks. Many ranches offer special children's activities, some of which might surprise you.
#3 Grandparents Make Grand Memories
Do you have a special memory with one of your grandparents? Most of us do. We see, year after year, more grandparents choosing a Colorado dude ranch to take their grown children and/or grandchildren for a family reunion or just a simple multi-generational getaway. There’s a good reason for this. They want to leave lasting memories for their families and know that the simplicity of being in nature and getting back to our roots brings people together. Our grandparents grew up in a different era where things were simple, and to be honest, bonds were stronger. Our ranches re-kindle that spirit of simplicity and togetherness every day on the ranch.
#4 Try Something New
Whether it’s whitewater rafting, trap shooting, or even stepping into the saddle for the first time, you’re going to have plenty of opportunities to try something new at a Colorado Dude Ranch. Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone! Kids might learn to pan for gold, rock climb, or tend the ranch’s farm critters (gathering eggs, feeding the goats & chickens etc). You’ll even find paintball, zip lines, and rodeo games (running the barrels for instance) that catches your fancy. There is something special that happens when the whole family embarks on a brand new adventure together: all without turning on a game console. Those types of memories last a lifetime!
Riding at High Lonestome Ranch in Colorado.
#5 Make It A Tradition
You might at first be thinking: I’ve had a dude ranch on “my bucket list” for years and we FINALLY have our trip booked. So now we can cross this trip off the list! However, consider yourself properly warned: dude ranching is an addictive experience! You might be surprised to know that our ranches average a 60-80% (or higher) return guest ratio…. What does this mean? Most families get bitten by the dude ranch bug and return year after year to continue adding to the stories that started the previous summer. Come find out for yourself what hundreds of families, couples, and individuals have already discovered: the magic and memories you find as soon as you 'cross the cattle guard' at a Colorado Dude Ranch.
Learn more about exploring Colorado Dude Ranches.
