Goosewing Ranch Activities - Goosewing Ranch

Goosewing Ranch’s Top 10 Ways to Practice Social Distancing on Vacation

Here at Goosewing Ranch, we know how important it is to keep our family, friends, and neighbors safe. We also know that it is important to have meaningful interactions and experiences together. So, here’s our ranch’s Top 10 ways you can practice social distancing on vacation while still creating memories together.

Goosewing Ranch’s Top 10 Ways to

Practice Social Distancing on Vacation

1. Horseback Riding – The relaxing sound of horse hooves moving down the trail is something really good for the soul. Let us take you on the adventure of a lifetime exploring all that Goosewing Ranch has to offer from the back of a trusty steed.

2. Exploring on your own UTV Polaris Ranger – Pack a cooler and head out in exploration for the day. You can get to mountain tops, river bottoms and everything in between.

3. Hiking – Pack a lunch and grab your camera because you can find yourself in front of beautiful waterfalls, savoring Grand Teton views or in fields of wildflowers.

4. Mountain Biking – Grab one of our mountain bikes, a helmet, and your water bottle and have a day of fun coasting down back country trails.

5. Relaxing on the ranch in one of the many scenic spots. We have many great locations to read a book, take a nap, practice yoga and meditation, or just plain relax and enjoy nature.

6. Fishing – Enjoy the secluded areas all around the ranch from streams to rivers and lakes. The fishing is excellent and the people are scarce.

7. Authentic Western Activities – From shooting sports to archery and hatchet throwing we have many activities to get you outside in the fresh air. Try something new or sharpen your skills in the wide-open spaces of Goosewing Ranch.

8. Stargazing – With vast skies, and virtually no light pollution you can see and explore the skies at night. See the Milky Way, many constellations, and simply let your imagination roam free.

9. Wildlife Searching – There is more wildlife in the Gros Ventre Valley than people by far! Avoid the crowded parks and enjoy searching for elk, moose, wolves, deer, eagles, pronghorn, bears and more!

10. Photography – Tetons, horses, wildlife, flowers, smiling faces all can be “shot” from a safe distance and are all available during your stay with us.

BUT WAIT, there’s one more to add to our Top 10 List:

Bonus – Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks have it all. With fewer crowds expected for this summer, now is the time to plan your next adventure.

If any of this sounds good, contact us TODAY to book your summer vacation! Dates for our Summer Season are June 28-September 20, 2020. We hope to see you soon!

What to Expect in Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather

August 31, 2019/0 Comments/in Dude Ranch Vacation Tips, Goosewing Ranch Activities, Jackson Hole, Summer at Goosewing Ranch, Wyoming /by [email protected]

Dude ranch reservations? Check. Travel arrangements made? Check. All the boxes are being marked. The one variable in a dude ranch vacation that can be less predictable is the weather. We haven’t quite figured out a way to control the weather, but we do have suggestions on how to prepare for ranch life and Wyoming dude ranch weather.

When thinking of the Wild West one tends to imagine hot sunshine, beautiful mountains, majestic wild horses, and dusty old cowboys. While some of those things are true and others have been somewhat tamed, Wyoming’s western weather still remains untamed and unpredictable.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is one of those places that is still a little wild, yet filled with wonderful adventure. Being in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, the area is prone to diverse weather patterns. One thing you can count on with the weather in this vast area is that no matter the season, it could always snow on you. Now, don’t let this turn you off and make you start thinking about that sandy beach vacation again. Just because it could snow in July in Wyoming doesn’t mean that your experience will be any less amazing.

What to Expect in Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather

Yes, that's snow around our teepee at Goosewing Ranch.

Snowy Teepee at Goosewing Ranch

Weather in any mountain region can be difficult to understand. Mountains produce their own weather and also make it difficult to see weather moving in; you just never know what to expect when setting off for a fun day hike or family horseback ride. Most of the summer months are filled with warm, arid (dry) days and clear, cool evenings.

If weather moves in, it is usually gone as fast as it arrived. Some thunderstorms may only last about 10 minutes, and just because it is storming doesn’t mean the sun won’t still shine. Then after the storm has passed, all is right in the Gros Ventre river valley again. The dust is gone, the air is fresh, and the grass is green.

This diverse weather pattern can turn the average day into a great story making adventure. Just think about what the real cowboys and mountain men went through year after year, and take the weather in stride. The horseback riding and many other activities can still be enjoyed even when the weather is less than favorable.

Average Temps at Goosewing Ranch:
June High and Low: 68 / 35
July High and Low: 76 / 42
August High and Low: 75 / 43
September High and Low: 65 / 33

A fiery sunset over the Gros Ventre Valley shows how beautiful the weather conditions can be.

Fire in the sky at Goosewing Ranch.

A snowy June day can also give you a chance to relax by the fire, catch up with family and friends, and a reason to treat yourself to a soothing massage. So next time you are planning a vacation to the Jackson Hole area, remember to pack a bit of everything, leave for activities prepared for anything, and take the weather in stride. After the storm comes the most amazing rainbows!

Remember our guides and wranglers at Goosewing Ranch are trained to keep you safe. They have gear available for you to help you stay warm and dry, and will do their best to always make the best out of any situation. We also have links that will help with packing and planning a Jackson Hole vacation.

7 Reasons for a Jackson Hole Family Vacation

August 23, 2019/0 Comments/in Dude Ranch Vacation Tips, Explore Goosewing Ranch, Goosewing Ranch Activities, Summer at Goosewing Ranch /by [email protected]

Jackson Hole Trail Riding at Goosewing Ranch

September 27, 2018/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch Activities /by [email protected]

Happy trails to you…especially in beautiful Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This area boasts magnificent views and superior settings, none more so than on the back of a horse. Here at Goosewing Ranch, we offer horseback riding for the beginner to the advanced rider. These trail rides are varied, scenic, and fun! Definitely consider trail riding as part of your dude ranch vacation: it’s one of the best and most memorable experiences in Jackson Hole.

“Heigh ho, Silver!” Guests staying at Goosewing Ranch can channel their inner Lone Ranger and explore the glorious landscapes of national forests and wilderness via horseback on our legendary trail rides. Located in the Bridger-Teton National Forest and the Gros Ventre wilderness, our ranch is surrounded by miles of trails begging to be ridden. Sadlle up with the facts on how a trail ride adventure in Jacskon Hole may be one of the best family vacations ever spent.

Trail riding at Goosewing Ranch

From our herd of 60 horses you will be assigned your own horse for the duration of your stay. Our head wrangler will match the horse and rider according to ability, physical requirements and horse temperament.

Goosewing wranglers are experienced horsemen & women and will instruct you in our arena and on the trail on how to ride well for a memorable Jackson Hole horseback riding experience. All wranglers are First Aid and CPR certified and have taken the DRA horse safety course.

If all you want to do is walk and enjoy the scenery, we have the perfect trail; if you want to trot and lope, we have rides appropriate for this as well. We also have cattle work (team penning) available for those who would like to try and are advanced enough to control their mounts. Rides go out Monday – Saturday to different areas of the Bridger-Teton National Forest and Gros Ventre Wilderness.

We offer two, four, and six hour long trail rides. Riding on your check in day consists of being fitted to your horse and saddle and riding in the arena or taking your loping test (this is only available for arrivals between 4:00 and 5:00 PM). The ranch uses mostly quarter horses or quarter/draft crosses. The weight limit varies based on height, physical fitness and trails.

Children 6 and older can join the riding program, but must be able to control their horse and follow instructions. We recommend cowboy boots or riding shoes. Boots should have at least a 1 1/2 inch heel and be slick soled. Enclosed shoes and long pants are required. We have riding helmets with sun visors available by request. We also have gel pads for the saddle seats.

Here’s What You Can Expect

Each ride is limited to 6 or 7 horses per wrangler
Riding lessons are available in the arena or on the trail
Trail rides to fit to your riding ability, beginner to advanced. Walking to loping
Loping rides and lessons available after rider passes riding test
Bareback riding available
Horse swimming available
2, 4, or 6 hour trail rides
Lunch rides
Sunrise Breakfast rides
Kid only rides
Adult only rides
Family rides

Horseback trails and riding activities are prearranged each evening for the following day. Sign up typically begins at 6:00pm. Riders can also choose from a variety of arena lessons, team penning, or horse game options. Our head wrangler will help you decide what option fits your ability and interest best. Rides will go out in rain or snow, but will be canceled for lightning. Trails are subject to change based on weather, riders’ ability and trail condition. Some riding activities are ONLY available during the peak season such as swimming rides, kids rides, and breakfast rides.

Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole

January 22, 2018/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch Activities /by [email protected]

Jackson Hole is one of the hotspots for vacationing, especially for horse lovers. From the Grand Teton National Park to the rolling landscapes, the area is filled with trails to be explored. Horseback riding is one of the most popular activities, and dude ranches welcome riders of all skill levels and ages. Learn more about horseback riding at Goosewing Ranch and how a dude ranch vacation gives opportunities for daily trail rides, lessons, penning, and packouts.

During your stay at the Goosewing Ranch, there is plenty of time for both relaxation and adventure. Once the car is parked, the vacation begins. You can spend time kicking back at the pool. Enjoying a quiet cup of coffee on your porch taking in the stunning surroundings of the Gros Ventre River Valley. Or gazing into a warm campfire in the evening. When it is time for fun, there is an impressive list of activities to engage both children and adults. At the heart of the ranch’s activities is their horseback riding program.

Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole

Included in your stay at the Goosewing Ranch is the opportunity to be fitted and paired to your very own horse for your entire stay. This gives guests time to get to know their horses and develop a camaraderie. Horse’s personalities are as unique as humans, and the accomplished head wrangler at the ranch carefully selects one of their 65 horses. Horses are matched to fit each person’s riding abilities and personality, providing the foundation for an exceptional experience.

The extensive program features leisurely strolls as well as faster paced rides with trotting and loping, technical rides, and simple walks to the fishing hole. There are 2, 4, and 6 hour scenic trail rides on different types of trails through the Jackson Hole area. Also consider a peaceful sunrise breakfast ride.

The exclusive area available for riding includes 55 deeded acres and another 300,000 permitted acres. For those ready for it, there are bareback riding opportunities, and even a ride where you get to swim down a smooth section of the Gros Ventre River on your horse.

Lessons are always available for anyone who wants to improve their riding skills and abilities. Regardless of what types of horseback riding activities you participate in, one thing is sure; at the end of your stay, you will take away the wonderful memories of an incredible experience.

Guest Reviews of the Horseback Riding at Goosewing Ranch

Don’t just take our word for it. Here are some guest reviews of the horseback riding:

“We just came back from an incredible vacation at Goosewing Ranch. The views are spectacular in every direction. The horseback riding was fun for every level of rider – even very experienced, which is not always the case. The food was top notch. The staff and wranglers feel like family now. I highly recommend this place. Just a little tip for the out of practice rider….padded bike shorts inside your wranglers might be a good idea.”

“We loved the horseback riding and the ATV’s. Tori and Ben (wranglers) have a lot of knowledge about the area. My kids absolutely adore Wrangler Carter and the kids’ horseback riding.”

“Breathtaking setting, great accommodations and fabulous staff…The wranglers, ranch crew and all the staff are the Best in the West as the saying goes. A once in a lifetime experience I hope to repeat.”

We are blessed to have exceptional wranglers and staff and are so happy that guests see their quality. Thanks to all our guests for the feedback!

Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole | Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming has horseback riding for all levels and ages. Learn about the trail rides, location, and what sets Goosewing apart from other dude ranches.

Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming has horseback riding for all levels and ages. Learn about the trail rides, location, and what sets Goosewing apart from other dude ranches. #GoosewingRanch #duderanch #ranchvacation #horsebackriding

Dude Ranch: The Ultimate Vacation for Kids and Parents!

November 22, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch Activities, Summer at Goosewing Ranch /by [email protected]

Ask a kid and their parent about their idea of a perfect vacation and you will likely get two very different answers. While a parent’s idea of fun includes the chance to wind down, rest and recuperate, kids tend to want to do more, see more, and experience more. Why would you want to rest on a vacation, kids say! Packing the days with as much fun as possible equates to a fun summer vacation. Here’s why a dude ranch vacation at Goosewing Ranch meshes the two for a unique and satisfying experience for everyone in the family, parents and kids alike!

Where should we go on vacation? The question may get very different answers from everyone in the family. Kids typically want action, excitement, and adventure. But parents might have more leisure and relaxation in mind mixed in the with the hustle and bustle. Let Goosewing Ranch combine the two for the ultimate dude ranch vacation for kids and parents.

Dude Ranch Experience: The Ultimate Vacation for Kids and Parents

At Goosewing Ranch, the ultimate kids’ vacation is easy to achieve in the Jackson Hole area. Most importantly, kids and teenagers alike have the chance to experience some independence, roam free on the dude ranch and explore their deep sense of adventure.

Dude Ranch: A Hit with the Kids

Autonomy is important for anyone, and in today’s world it can be difficult to give your children these types of opportunities to taste that freedom. The ranch is safe and offers an environment where kids have a natural boundary to explore within. In addition, a wide range of activities and experiences keep kids of all ages entertained. This gives parents some much needed time to relax around the ranch. Like the pool and jacuzzi!

Adventurous and artistic, athletic or active, there are activities designed to meet every kids personality. Scavenger hunts, geo-caching and track/scat identifying activities bring out the adventure. Arts and crafts activities include bracelet and dream catcher making, river rock and face painting, and even some horse painting.

There is target practice, roping, archery and hatchet throwing, and fire making. Wagon rides and horse feeding give kids a taste of ranch life and when its time to cool off, kids can float the river and swim in the pool.

Dude Ranch: Activities Galore

And if that didn’t seem like enough, there is a Kids Town complete with foosball, ping pong, and shuffleboard. Kids can also use their imaginations to their hearts’ content in the playground and tepee. An evening kids cookout gives kids a chance to have fun together and learn about cooking. The children’s program operates from mid-June through the end of August. There are daily activities that last anywhere from 2-4 hours. Most activities are suited for kids over the age of six.

One more unique feature you won’t find in too many places is a teepee that can be reserved for family or kids nights. Sleeping under the stars in a teepee is something you and your kids will not soon forget.

We hope you’ve got a keen sense that Goosewing Ranch has considered all the amenities your family desires. Parents, this is the ultimate vacation your family will talk about for years to come. Questions? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help you every step of the way.

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https://goosewingranch.com/2017/11/04/top-six-reasons-stay-goosewing-ranch-dude-ranch-jackson-hole-wyoming/

Top Six Reasons to Stay at Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

November 4, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch Activities, Goosewing Ranch Amenities, Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

Dude ranches are one of the best vacation experiences around. From couples to families to groups, all who wander onto a dude ranch are in for an unbelievable vacation. The biggest dilemma may be which dude ranch to choose. If Wyoming is on the travel list, then consider Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Nestled in the Gros Ventre River Valley adjacent to the Grand Tetons, our dude/guest ranch is in a prime location to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Here are the Top 6 reasons to stay at Goosewing Ranch.

Goosewing Ranch is a place to disconnect from your daily struggles and reconnect with what is really important: Family, friends, nature, and your inner self. Here at Goosewing Ranch, we combine the lifestyle of ranching in the Wyoming wilderness with many of the modern refinements that make your visit with us especially enjoyable.

At 7,400 feet, the valley is the host to some of North America’s most spectacular game: elk, moose, mountain sheep, antelope, bear, eagles, geese, cranes, and much more. The Gros Ventre River, home to native cutthroat trout, runs through the meadows of our historic ranch.With many different package options, we can truly customize the perfect all-inclusive vacation option for you. From pack trips to nights in Jackson, let us help make this year’s vacation the best ever.

We invite you to come share this corner of North America’s wildest country just as it has been for over a hundred years – a working ranch reborn as an isolated retreat deep in the Gros Ventre River Valley. Here are the Top 6 reasons why Goosewing Ranch should be on your travel list.

Top 6 Reasons to Stay at Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

1. Access to Yellowstone National Park

Stay at Goosewing Ranch and include a visit to our nation’s first National Park: Yellowstone. Yellowstone National Park is not far from Goosewing Ranch, and we can help you plan your self or guided tour of this historic and amazing National Park. From wildlife viewing to hiking around thermal features, there is much to see and do.

2. Proximity to Grand Teton National Park

Let’s not forget about Grand Teton National Park. With many spectacular Grand Teton views from the Goosewing Ranch trails, you won’t have to leave your saddle to experience this mesmerizing mountain. I can already imagine your new profile picture…you on a horse with the Grand Tetons towering behind you. With Grand Teton National Park nearby, plan to incorporate some park activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, or even a wildlife safari, whitewater rafting, or a scenic float,

3. Hello, Jackson Hole

Historic Jackson Hole is a great place to stay before or after your package with Goosewing Ranch. While in town, shopping, dining, and history surround you. Don’t forget about a white water rafting trip or a scenic float trip. There’s also the rodeo and the old west shoot out on the town square. We’ll take care of the planning so you can relax and enjoy your true Western Vacation.

4. All-Inclusive and Exclusive

Our dude ranch is an exclusive and all-inclusive vacation. Goosewing Ranch is a small unique property that offers all-inclusive packages including lodging, meals, ranch seasonal activities, taxes and gratuity. Being all-inclusive makes planning and organizing your vacation much easier; just tell us what you want to do and we can arrange the details. You won’t have to make dinner reservations, plan daily activities, or think of things to do that will please everyone–we have you covered!

Goosewing Ranch has a wide variety of adventure based activities for all abilities and age ranges. From flyfishing, skeet shooting, trail rides, and archery, the possibilities are bountiful. And did we mention the Polaris UTVs to get around? These mean endless hours of exploring the surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest.

5. Something for Everyone

Goosewing Ranch offers a chance to experience the Wild West and get a taste of it all. This is an ideal spot for multigenerational travel, family reunions, and special occasions. Being a small guest ranch means the focus can be on the guests and their needs. Whether kids or kids at heart, the ranch has a full list of activities sure to please both thrill seekers and chill seekers. We have a great package that offers a bit of everything: from a luxury night in Jackson Hole, a one night/two day spectacular pack trip, and three nights of rustic charm and all-inclusive activities at the ranch. Customize the vacation of your dreams.

6. Memory Making at Its Best

Make memories through adventure and experiences. Goosewing Ranch offers guests many opportunities to create life long memories and new family traditions through adventures. This is a place where you can disconnect from distractions and truly relax and recharge.Don’t fight the summer crowds escape to beautiful Goosewing Ranch. The Tetons are at our doorstep and nature surrounds us. Immerse yourself in fun and the freedom of multiple activities and make memories sure to last a lifetime.

Saddle Up for Glamping at Goosewing Ranch

September 11, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch Activities, Summer at Goosewing Ranch /by [email protected]

Ever been glamping before? We recommed you try it! Glamping is truly a unique experience not offered by many dude ranches. Sleeping in covered wagons? Check. A private chef for campfire meals? Check. A dedicated wrangler just for the glampers? Check. We not only share a bit about the glamping site and its amenities, but also a TravelingMom.com.review of the glamping experience by one of our guests.

Traveling Mom visits Goosewing Ranch, tries glamping, and is amazed! Here are the glampers on their trail ride.

Glampers from South Carolina and England on one of many trail rides. Photo by Sherry Boswell.com.

Glamping. A new word to the English vernacular. Camping and glamour combine to make this fun word. Here at Goosewing Ranch, we have what we believe to be an amazing glamping setup with 5 covered wagon for families and couples nestled in the hills of the Bridger-Teton National Forest overlooking our ranch facilities a few miles below. Yes, the glamping site is a fun Polaris UTV ride up to Gunsight Pass. More isolated than the ranch itself, it creates the feel of a total escape from the ordinary.

Glamping at Goosewing Ranch

All dirt roads lead to Gunsight Pass, home of the Goosewing Ranch glamping site.

Don’t just take our word for it! Sherry Boswell, one of the writers at TravelingMom.com and her family tried it out this summer and had the time of their lives. These self-professed “City Slickers” stayed at our glamping site, and now swear that they have been spoiled for life. Happy to have them and the same would go for you, too.

Breakfast of glampers: donut holes, french toast, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, OJ, and coffee.

Go to Traveling Mom to read the full post. Have questions? Contact us!

Solar Eclipse Week at Goosewing Ranch

July 11, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch Activities, Solar Eclipse, Summer at Goosewing Ranch /by [email protected]

By now, you’ve probably heard…a total solar eclipse is coming! August 21, 2017 is the big day. We are very excited because Goosewing Ranch and much of Wyoming is in the path of totality. Between the eclipse and already spectacular scenery, this promises to be a once in a lifetime kind of experience.

solar eclipse 2017 will be total eclipse at Goosewing Ranch and many part of Wyoming especially the Grand Teton National Park

Grab those solar eclipse glasses and get ready! The total solar eclipse is coming.

By now, most Americans are acutely aware of the approaching total solar eclipse set to pass across the country on August 21, 2017. There are several reasons that make this eclipse so intriguing to people, the first being its total eclipse status. There are several types of solar eclipses, including a partial solar eclipse, an annular and a total eclipse. The next total eclipse in North American will not be until April 8, 2024.

In a total solar eclipse, the most rare type, the moon slides in front of the sun in a near perfect center that blocks out the suns strong rays, leaving a rare glimpse at the sun’s corona. This occurs because of a simple, yet amazing fact… the sun is approximately 400 times larger than the moon, and yet the moon is approximately 400 miles closer to the Earth than the sun.

This mathematic equation means that when astronomically aligned, the moon appears just the right size to those of us watching from Earth to see something spectacular!

Solar eclipse 2017 will be total eclipse at Goosewing Ranch. Here's a photo of one.

This is what a total eclipse looks like.

Solar Eclipse at Goosewing Ranch

Arching from Newport, Oregon to Charleston South Carolina, the 2017 eclipse is the first to span coast to coast across the United States since 1918. With 2/3rds of the nation living within a 500 mile radius of the path of the eclipse, there is no doubt that many people will hit the road to see the spectacular event. The Great American Eclipse website suggests arriving at your viewing destination at least two days before the eclipse to avoid the likely congestion.

NASA also has excellent information on the path of the 2017 total eclipse.

Anyone lucky enough to be staying at the Goosewing Ranch this week will be safely tucked away from all the bustle, enjoying gourmet cooked meals, a beautiful and peaceful ranch to view the eclipse from that just so happens to be directly in the total eclipse path.

Soda Lake, which lies in the Gros Ventre River Valley is going to offer some of the most amazing and unobstructed views of the eclipse. Whether your are on a pack trip adventure, a glamping holiday or perched at your private cabin, the Goosewing Ranch will provide the perfect place to create eclipse memories you will be telling for many years to come.

Solar Eclipse Map and Stats

solar eclipse 2017 will be total eclipse at Goosewing Ranch and many part of Wyoming-map view

Source: The Great American Eclipse website.

Solar Eclipse Chart represents Soda Lake area:

Lat.: 43.5282° N

Long.: 110.252° W

Total Solar Eclipse

Duration of Totality: 2m20.6s

Magnitude: 1.014

Obscuration: 100.00%

Event Date Time (UT) Alt Azi

Start of partial eclipse (C1) : 2017/08/21 16:17:24.2 39.0° 113.7°

Start of total eclipse (C2) : 2017/08/21 17:35:45.9 50.7° 135.4°

Maximum eclipse : 2017/08/21 17:36:56.1 50.8° 135.8°

End of total eclipse (C3) : 2017/08/21 17:38:06.5 51.0° 136.1°

End of partial eclipse (C4) : 2017/08/21 19:01:26.4 58.0° 169.6°

Finding the Road Less Traveled By in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

May 22, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch Activities, Summer at Goosewing Ranch /by [email protected]

Jackson Hole, Wyoming includes many popular spots such as the city of Jackson and Grand Teton National Park. But the road less traveled may also be nestled in its same valleys and along the Gros Ventre River. See why Robert Frost could have been writing about Jackson Hole and specifically Goosewing Ranch when he penned the words “the road less traveled by.”

Each year, three to four million people visit Yellowstone National Park. Many of those people continue south to Jackson Hole. Just a short 60-mile drive through the John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway and Grand Teton National Park, and you wind up in one of the true mountain towns of the American West. Jackson Hole is a town built on a history of people traveling to the free expanse of the mountain landscape to find a moment of solace, a place to reclaim the busy mind, and indulge in some relaxation.

So what’s the difference between Jackson Hole and Jackson, Wyoming? Jackson Hole is the larger 48-mile long valley and includes the towns of Kelly, Moose, Moran, Wilson, Teton Village, and of course, Jackson.

Evolution of the Dude Ranch

In its early history, Jackson was known as a place where fur trappers could trap, buy, and trade. Later, as the fur trapping industry waned, a few people began developing the area’s first dude ranches. In 1872 when Yellowstone became the country’s first national park, the interest in the West increased. Easterners yearned for the chance to experience the frontier, and dude ranches provided this avenue, albeit in a safe and comfortable fashion.

The term “dude” was coined as a description of those who paid for the ranching service. Through the legacy of dude ranching, people began to see the benefit settling in, and spending some time “living on the ranch.” Thus, a long-standing tradition of people coming to spend time in the Tetons was born.

Today, the town of Jackson retains a touch of its western heritage as it has been enveloped in the new western traditions of outdoor sports, art and gastronomy. There are endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, a myriad of art galleries to inspect, and wonderful restaurants to satisfy the palate. You will always enjoy something in Jackson. But in busy summer months, you will be doing it with a lot of other folks.

Jackson Hole: Choosing Jackson or a Dude Ranch

Imagine all those three and a half million people driving their cars, wagons and RV’s from Yellowstone in a vigilant procession to get to the next flag on the vehicle’s fancy navigation system. Imagine yourself in that procession when suddenly you see a road leading in another direction. Off to a quiet vista of red rolling hills, majestic mountaintops where a crystal clear river rolls through the valley of uncompromised beauty.

As all those people are checking in to their hotels and motels, you are sitting on the porch of your cabin, taking in the landscape of open wilderness as far as the eye can see. As the cars move through the town, the people swarm the town square, and wait for dinner reservations. Meanwhile, you walk to the deck for a decadent BBQ dinner masterfully cooked accompanied by a full bar and scenery that is beyond compare.

The Road Less Traveled

One cannot help but think of Robert Frost’s classic poem, The Road Not Taken:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

Not everyone has the opportunity to stay at a guest ranch in the heart of the Gros Ventre River Valley. Not everyone knows about such a magical place. And not everyone will ever know the wonder and peacefulness of spending time in the wilderness. Goosewing Ranch offers weary travelers a respite from the busy chatterings of life. A chance to jump out of the line of status quo into a fresh unique way of discovering nature.

Days on the ranch are filled with horseback riding, fly fishing, mountain biking, hiking, sunbathing poolside, amazing meals, and time to unwind. No lines to wait in, no cash registers, no buses filled with tourists. And when you do get to Jackson, you will do so with a smile on your face. The furrow in your brow will not be quite so deep because you took the time to slow down, breathe in the expanse of the wild, and stare at a star filled sky.

So, when you are making your summer plans, think of Frost… “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”

Goosewing Ranch’s Top 10 Ways to Practice Social Distancing on Vacation

Goosewing Ranch’s Top 10 Ways to

Practice Social Distancing on Vacation

What to Expect in Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather

When thinking of the Wild West one tends to imagine hot sunshine, beautiful mountains, majestic wild horses, and dusty old cowboys. While some of those things are true and others have been somewhat tamed, Wyoming’s western weather still remains untamed and unpredictable.

What to Expect in Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather

Average Temps at Goosewing Ranch:
June High and Low: 68 / 35
July High and Low: 76 / 42
August High and Low: 75 / 43
September High and Low: 65 / 33

Remember our guides and wranglers at Goosewing Ranch are trained to keep you safe. They have gear available for you to help you stay warm and dry, and will do their best to always make the best out of any situation. We also have links that will help with packing and planning a Jackson Hole vacation.

7 Reasons for a Jackson Hole Family Vacation

Jackson Hole Trail Riding at Goosewing Ranch

Trail riding at Goosewing Ranch

Here’s What You Can Expect

Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole

Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole

Guest Reviews of the Horseback Riding at Goosewing Ranch

Dude Ranch: The Ultimate Vacation for Kids and Parents!

Dude Ranch Experience: The Ultimate Vacation for Kids and Parents

Dude Ranch: A Hit with the Kids

Dude Ranch: Activities Galore

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Top Six Reasons to Stay at Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Top 6 Reasons to Stay at Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

1. Access to Yellowstone National Park

2. Proximity to Grand Teton National Park

3. Hello, Jackson Hole

4. All-Inclusive and Exclusive

5. Something for Everyone

6. Memory Making at Its Best

Saddle Up for Glamping at Goosewing Ranch

Glamping at Goosewing Ranch

Solar Eclipse Week at Goosewing Ranch

Solar Eclipse at Goosewing Ranch

Solar Eclipse Map and Stats

Finding the Road Less Traveled By in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Evolution of the Dude Ranch

Jackson Hole: Choosing Jackson or a Dude Ranch

The Road Less Traveled

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Helpful resources

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Goosewing Ranch’s Top 10 Ways to

Practice Social Distancing on Vacation

When thinking of the Wild West one tends to imagine hot sunshine, beautiful mountains, majestic wild horses, and dusty old cowboys. While some of those things are true and others have been somewhat tamed, Wyoming’s western weather still remains untamed and unpredictable.

What to Expect in Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather

Average Temps at Goosewing Ranch: June High and Low: 68 / 35 July High and Low: 76 / 42 August High and Low: 75 / 43 September High and Low: 65 / 33

Trail riding at Goosewing Ranch

Here’s What You Can Expect

Horseback Riding in Jackson Hole

Guest Reviews of the Horseback Riding at Goosewing Ranch

Dude Ranch Experience: The Ultimate Vacation for Kids and Parents

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Top 6 Reasons to Stay at Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

1. Access to Yellowstone National Park

2. Proximity to Grand Teton National Park

3. Hello, Jackson Hole

4. All-Inclusive and Exclusive

5. Something for Everyone

6. Memory Making at Its Best

Glamping at Goosewing Ranch

Solar Eclipse at Goosewing Ranch

Solar Eclipse Map and Stats

Evolution of the Dude Ranch

Jackson Hole: Choosing Jackson or a Dude Ranch

The Road Less Traveled

Contact us

Helpful resources

Follow us

Average Temps at Goosewing Ranch:
June High and Low: 68 / 35
July High and Low: 76 / 42
August High and Low: 75 / 43
September High and Low: 65 / 33