Visit a National Park During Your Dude Ranch Stay

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. March 04, 2010

WY - March 4, 2010 - 2010 is the year of national parks. The buzz around these American landmarks is undeniable after the release of Ken Burn's PBS documentary. Families everywhere are looking to vacation to Mother Nature's playground this summer. For a fun twist, the Dude Ranchers' Association can facilitate a holiday at traditional dude ranch right on the footsteps of a national park.

The dude ranch is one of America's favorite past times for family getaways. Travelers can escape the daily grind, get some fresh air and explore the natural wonders of our great nation. Ranches affiliated with the DRA hold the highest standard of lodging and western activities. Pairing a dude ranch and national park vacation is the perfect opportunity to have adventurous days and comfortable nights.

The DRA represents over 100 dude ranches in the western United States with locations next to popular destinations like Mesa Verde, Yellowstone, Glacier, Yosemite National Parks and so many more. On the ranch, travelers can enjoy long horseback rides designed for any skill level, warm up next to a crackling campfire at night and enjoy some bonding time with their family in traditional log cabins. Guests can head off the property for a day trip, venturing in to the nearest national park. Explore ancient Native American ruins at Mesa Verde, partake in scenic day hikes at Glacier National Park or view some of America's infamous wildlife at Yellowstone.

The Dude Ranchers' Association makes finding a ranch next to your favorite national park a cinch. Their website offers a map of the western states with locations of every national park and descriptions of the closest dude ranches in the area. For example, if travelers are planning a trip to Yellowstone this summer, the dude ranch has over 30 members that are located within reasonable driving distance of the park - the closest one being only three miles away.

Many families use dude ranches as a meeting point for relatives that might live in different regions across the country. There is something for every family member at a dude ranch. Grandparents, parents and kids will enjoy the variety of activities offered. During the day, Mom and Dad might go for a couple's horseback ride, the kids might have a swim in the pool or lake and grandma just might have a go at the shooting range - but at the end of the day everyone can sit down to a hearty, home-style meal and swap stories.

The cost of staying at a dude ranch will vary anywhere between $1,500 and up for a week per person, depending on the proximity to a national park and lodging options. This price includes unique lodging, gourmet meals (often with wine), and all guided/instructor led activities. Not to mention the added value of sleeping on a nice soft bed rather than roughing it in a tent in the national park.

To plan your summer adventure at a dude ranch and national park, visit www.duderanch.org. For more information about the Dude Ranchers' Association, contact Colleen Hodson at colleen@duderanch.org or phone 866-399-2339.