Goosewing Ranch is excited to be involved with the Dude Ranchers Association, or the DRA. We recently returned from the DRA convention in Cody– where we met and mingled with fellow “dude ranchers”.
The DRA has been around since 1926. Being a part of such a great organization brings us pride. To become a member – the ranch must go through a two year inspection and approval process. All DRA ranch members are required to represent the highest quality of western hospitality, while ensuring that all guests have a wonderful western ranch experience. DRA ranches are also kept to the highest safety standards.
It was nice to get off the ranch and enjoy Cody Wyoming in January. We enjoyed the company of our fellow ranchers – and shared knowledge of the industry, and of course good cheer! We visited the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, the DRA headquarters at the Heritage Center, and other historic hotels. Cody Wyoming is a wonderful place… It is full of history, great hospitality, and located just outside the East entrance of Yellowstone National Park. From wild mustangs to big horn sheep – Cody also has amazing opportunities for viewing wildlife.
Throughout the convention we enjoyed guest speakers from all around. Some spoke about horse safety, and how to better prepare our wranglers for the summer, others about marketing and the latest trends. We also meet with different venders that all have our guests’ best interest in mind. They shared information on products such as cozy towels and linens, belt buckles and souvenirs, as well as travel insurance. (Look for our next blog on travel insurance).
The core principles of the Dude Ranchers Association are the “6 H’s”: Horses, Hats, Hospitality, Heritage, Honesty, and Heart. Each one of the previous words beginning with “H” represent what dude and guest ranches are about. Though our guests’ expectations have changed over the years, and we have evolved with them, the core principles of dude ranching remain the same.
We hope that with Goosewing Ranch being a part of this great association we can provide our guests with the best possible experience. Remember dude ranches aren’t only about horses and rustic cabins; they offer many adventurous outdoor activities, classic culinary experiences, and modern amenities. Come and let us share with you our passion for horses, hats, hospitality, and adventure, all while making lasting memories.
Come share this corner of North America’s wildest country with us! At Goosewing Ranch, we combine the Wyoming wilderness ranching lifestyle with many of the modern refinements in life. It’s sure to be an amazing, memorable “Dude Ranch” vacation here in amazing Jackson Hole!