FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

FAQs

 

What should I wear/bring to the ranch?

Ranch attire is casual, but if you wish to dress up for evenings, western wear is appropriate. We always suggest dressing in layers as desert temperatures will vary throughout the day. Below is a list of suggested packing items:

Clothing

  • T-shirts/Sleeveless tops/Comfortable shirts

  • Long sleeve shirts – we highly recommend riding in long sleeve shirts to block the sun

  • Comfortable western or denim shirts

  • Bike Shorts/Tights/Underclothing – To minimize possible chafing from riding

  • Jeans/Long Pants – Pairs for riding and pairs for evening/daytime wear

  • Shorts/ Skirts

  • Belt

  • Outerwear – Jackets, vests and layers are suggested for cool desert mornings and evenings

  • Hoodies or pullovers

  • Bathing suit – For the pool/hot tub

Footwear

  • Walking/Hiking boots

  • Riding/Cowboy Boots – Boots with a slight heel are the safest if you do not have riding boots, we do have loaner boots available

  • Sandals/Flip flops – For the pool/hot tub area

  • Long socks for riding

Accessories

  • Cowboy Hat (w/Stampede String) and/or Ball Cap

  • Gloves for riding

  • Riding Helmet (recommended, but not required; we do have helmets for lend)

Additional Items

  • Sun Protection Items – Sunglasses, Lip balm, Sunscreen, After-sun moisturizer

  • Camera

  • Plug in converter – If you are traveling from outside the USA

  • Reusable plastic or stainless-steel water bottle

  • Lightweight backpack – allows you to carry your essentials during the day while keeping your hands free

  • Flashlight or headlamp

What will the weather be like?

Weather at the ranch depends on the time of year you’re coming. We’re located in the Sonoran Desert at 2130’ in elevation, so a large daily temperature swing can occur no matter the time of year; so we recommend packing layers. Winters can warm up by day, but be very brisk in the mornings and evenings. If you’re interested in the temperatures when you plan to come, here is a link to the average temperatures throughout the year.

When will I be charged for my stay?

We will collect the required deposit at the time of booking. The balance of your stay will be processed upon check in. Please have your payment method ready when you arrive at the ranch. Any incidentals added during your stay will be processed at check out.

What if I have never ridden a horse before?

Many of our guests have never ridden before. We have horses that are appropriate for all experience levels. Our wranglers are experienced in working with first-time or inexperienced riders, ensuring that you can learn and ride at your own pace.

Riding lessons are an additional charge of $25 per person for a group lesson, paid directly to the wrangler. If you are interested in a riding lesson, please inquire with ranch staff.

I am an experienced rider. Will the riding program work for me?

We have horses suitable for every level of riding, including experienced riders. Many of our guests own their own horses and some ride competitively. Our cattle work, including team penning and sorting, is a new and challenging skill even for our most experienced riders as the cattle integrate their own variable to the riding. In addition, we have trails appropriate for half-day and all-day rides, as well as a few trails for fast rides, which include trotting and some loping where the terrain allows.

Is there a weight limit for riding?

Riders must weigh less than 240 pounds.

What are the minimum ages for activities?

Per our insurance, children must be at least 5 years old to ride. After completing a slow ride and passing a riding demonstration test, advanced rides are available to guests 8 years and older. .22 caliber shooting is available for those 8 years and older. Clay pigeon shooting is for those 16 years and older. Archery is available to guests 5 years and older.

Is there a separate children’s program?

The ranch is the perfect vacation for families to enjoy the activities, atmosphere and amenities together. We do not offer childcare or a children’s program.

Is the ranch a good place for solo travelers?

Dude ranches are by nature a great place for solo travelers. The safe and welcoming atmosphere offers the opportunity to relax on your own or mingle with other guests/ranch staff. The riding, activities, mealtimes and culture of the ranch create great opportunities to make new friends, be included in the group and feel quite comfortable.

How many guests will be at the ranch at one time?

We will have a maximum of about 25 guests at one time.

What are the closest airports?

o   Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (1 hour and 15 minutes drive)

o   Guests are responsible for their own transportation to and from the ranch. Wickenburg-based Airport Express shuttle information available. Contact us for details.

Can the kitchen accommodate special dietary needs?

Our kitchen is happy to accommodate special dietary needs or requests with advance notice. Please notify us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking.

What amenities are in my room?

Each room is equipped with basic toiletries and a hair dryer. There are no televisions in the rooms.

What is the alcohol policy?

In our Lodge Living Room, we have a full bar with wine, beer and spirits available for your purchase.

Is there cell service?

There is cell service at the ranch, but it can be spotty. We do have wi-fi available.

Are there laundry facilities?

There are no guest laundry facilities on the ranch, however, our housekeeping team would be happy to do a separate cycle for you for a small gratuity. Please arrange this with ranch staff.

What is the pet policy?

We do not allow pets on the ranch.

Is tipping expected?

Our rates are subject to a Ranch Service Fee, which allows us to do the following for our staff: We do not pay tipped wages and instead pay above minimum wage. Many of our staff are provided room and board and all are provided meals while at the ranch. The Ranch Service Fee also contributes to an end of season bonus system. With all of this in mind, tipping is not expected, however it is appreciated if you feel you have received exceptional service during your stay. You are welcome to tip directly or notify the front desk at check out.

Is Trip Insurance available?

We do not offer Trip Insurance, but recommend an outside provider called TravelGuard, which is an associate member of the Dude Ranchers’ Association.