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Jackson Hole Must See Spots

June 30, 2019/0 Comments/in Jackson Hole /by [email protected]

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is filled with many must see spots. Use our list of the best destinations in Jackson Hole and make sure not to miss the most memorable and most photographed spots.

Jackson Hole Must See Spots

Grand Tetons
Mormon Row
Teton Village
Antler Arches

When you hear Jackson Hole, what is the first thing to come to mind? Maybe the Grand Tetons, Mormon Row, the Teton Village, or Antler Arches. Hands down, these are just a few of the most popular features in the valley.

1. Grand Tetons

No visit to Jackson Hole is complete without a trek to see the Grand Tetons.

Named by French trappers, the three peaks are now known as the South, Middle, and Grand Teton. They called the mountains “Les Trois Tetons,” or “The Three Breasts.” It is the youngest mountain range in the Rockies. Spanning 40 miles long and 8 miles wide, the highest peak measures in at 13,770 feet (Grand Teton) and it has 8 peaks that are over 12,000 feet!

Fact: Grand Teton National Park was approved by President Calvin Coolidge on February 26, 1929. This act protected the Teton Range and six glacial lakes but not nearby Jackson Hole.

Things to Do in Grand Teton National Park

2. Mormon Row

Mormon Row was an early homesteading settlement in Jackson Hole before the Grand Teton National Park was formed. Mormons from Salt Lake Valley set out to establish new communities, and they clustered their farms to share labor. Their community was known as Mormon Row.

The famous Moulton Barn is probably the most photographed barn in Wyoming, if not the world. Pretty logical considering its location directly in front of the Grand Tetons!

3. Teton Village

Located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, the Swiss-styled Teton Village offers restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

In the wintertime, this location bustles with skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Even non-skiing types will love activities like the sleigh ride dinners and dog sled rides.

During the summer, activities in Teton Village include scenic tram rides to the top of Rendezvous Mountain, horseback riding, tandem paragliding flights, hiking and mountain biking trails, and a disc golf course. Learn more about the Tram, called “Big Red”in our post Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.

4. Antler Arches

Step off, McDonald’s! The Antler Arches put the golden arches to shame. The Antler Arches in Jackson’s Town Square are one of the most iconic spots in all of Jackson Hole. As Jackson transformed from a mountain man town into a dude ranch town, the Antler Arches grew in popularity with family travelers and locals alike.

There are four antler arches, one marking each corner of the town square. Though there isn’t an exact date of when the first arch was built and placed on the town square, most sources cite 1960 as the year the first antler arch was added to the town square. In 2007, they began to replace the arches, and auctioned off the old weathered ones.

Each arch contains about 10,000 pounds of elk antlers. Don’t worry: not one elk was harmed in the making of the arches. Elk grow antlers that they shed annually. Unlike horns that must be cut off and are hollow inside, antlers, fall off naturally and are solid.

Starting May 1, locals, tourist, and the local Boy Scout club hit the National Forests and Elk Refuge in search of the all the antler sheds. Each year at the Old West Days, the Boy Scouts put on an auction where they sell their antlers. Others sell them to jewelers, furniture makers, private deals, dealers from overseas, or just keep them to enjoy in their own homes.

Did you know? See Jackson Hole hosts live webcams all around Jackson, including Town Square. Get your Jackson Hole fix by checking out the happenings around town and in Jackson Hole.

You Might Also Like:

What to Expect on a Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari

Snake River: What You Should Know

Three Reasons to Choose a Wyoming Vacation

June 2, 2019/0 Comments/in Wyoming /by [email protected]

Are you searching for new travel destinations? Checking new states off the bucket list? Then Wyoming should be way up there on the priority list. From Jackson Hole’s attractions to the nearby national parks and Goosewing Ranch dude ranch, this is the trifecta of reasons to try a Wyoming vacation.

Wyoming tends to fly low on the radar when it comes to vacations. However, there are several gems that make this state stand out. In the northwestern corner lie Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton National Park, which attract tourists in the summer and avid skiers and snowboarders in the winter. As a result of these famous spots, Jackson Hole has flourished.

Wyoming: Just the Facts

Capital: Cheyenne

Nickname: Cowboy State, Equality State

Motto: Equal Rights

Admitted to Union: July 10, 1890 – 44th State

Size: 97,914 square miles, 9th largest state

State Sport: Rodeo

Highest Point: Gannett Peak, 13,804 feet

Lowest Point: Belle Fourche River, 3,100 feet

Average Annual Precipitation: 14.5 inches

Population (2010 Census): 563,626

Three Reasons to Choose a Wyoming Vacation

1. National Parks

The national parks draw a big crowd to Jackson and the Greater Yellowstone area. Yellowstone alone entices about 4 million people per year; the heaviest concentration falls between May and September.

Wyoming is home to two national parks: Grand Teton and Yellowstone, as well as national monuments, historic sites and trails.

Did you know? 96 percent of Yellowstone National Park is in Wyoming!

With 563,000 residents among 62+ million acres, there’s one resident per every 111 acres.

Learn more about Yellowstone National Park:

Visiting Yellowstone National Park: Tips for What You Should Know

Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park

Grand Teton links:

Grand Teton National Park Things to Do

What to Expect on a Jackson Hole Wildlife Safari

2. Jackson Hole

You may have heard about this region named Jackson Hole. Did you know it is just a popular nickname for the entire Wyoming valley and not an official location on a map? Back in the late 1800s, Davey Jackson was a famous tracker, and people referred to a valley surrounded by tall mountains as a HOLE. So that’s how Jackson Hole’s name came to be.

The town of Jackson is a historic Western town. Its Town Square and its famous antler arches are the hub of the town, along with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Learn more about the area at Wyoming Office of Tourism and read more about what sets Jackson Hole apart from other destinations.

3. Goosewing Ranch

Aside from being close to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, our ranch sits on the Bridger-Teton National Forest and is the perfect entry point into the Gros Ventre Wilderness. (True to its name, the wilderness has remained untouched by all motorized vehicles – accessible only by foot, horseback, or UTV.)

So if you ask us why you should pick Wyoming, or why you should pick Jackson Hole as your vacation destination, just take a look at this piece of country that is still truly wild. Not many people get to experience our isolated paradise.

Learn more about Goosewing Ranch:

8 Reasons to Take a Dude Ranch Vacation

Jackson Hole Glamping

Jackson Hole, Wyoming Family Reunion at Goosewing Ranch

May 29, 2018/0 Comments/in Dude Ranch Planning /by [email protected]

Planning a family reunion? A multi-generational trip to Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming will allow your family to disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect as a family, making memories together. Here’s how we can help you plan and pull off a family reunion

Family time has always been important, but getting together for an extended family vacation now is as important as ever. Families are living farther apart than ever before. Yes, we have the technology to stay connected, but is that really enough? It is no longer the era where cousins are spending entire summers together at the grandparents’ farm. Sometimes we are lucky to even get together during the holidays.

This is why multi-generational vacations are so needed. We need our children to know how fun it can be to play for endless hours with siblings and cousins making connections through experiences. Not to mention how cool and adventurous grandparents can be. Opportunities to grow as a family and create lasting memories through adventure, education, experiences, and time spent together are invaluable. A family reunion at Goosewing Ranch will allow your family to disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect as a family, making memories together.

Family Reunion at Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

There are a few key points to consider when planning a family reunion. Here are a few that make this the best vacation and are actually quite easy to achieve. Making lasting impressions and memories is the end goal, but we want this to be great for the planner. We love hosting family reunions and have had a many great experiences bringing families together from all over the world.

Why Choose a Dude Ranch Reunion

A dude ranch is a destination that has something for everyone. From horseback riding to fly fishing and spa days to exploring days, there is something for all ages and abilities. We have a wide variety of activities that are great for all ages. For kids 6 and under, they can enjoy a nature walk, a UTV(utility terrain vehicle) ride, pony rides, finger painting the horses, wagon rides and Indian arts and crafts.

For older kids, archery, target shooting, horseback riding, team penning, hatchet throwing, hiking, and UTV exploring are on the menu.

We are also able to organize a family photo shoot. This can be a group picture with matching tee shirts or cowboy hats, or a costume party for the holidays. Believe us when we say this will be a stress free holiday where everything is taken care of for you.

Trust your family with our family. Dude ranches were founded on the idea of bringing families together and opening our home to you so you can become a part of our extended family. These family excursions are important for child development and building of family relationships. If you have never experienced a dude ranch vacation, let us show you some true Western hospitality and help you plan your next adventure.

Planning a Family Reunion

This can seem very daunting task. How am I going to schedule 10 – 30 people a vacation and ensure all will have something they will enjoy? The best part of planning an all-inclusive family reunion at Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming is that the planning ends when your vacation begins. Once you are on the ranch, everything will be taken care of for you. From meals and lodging to activities and equipment. Family members simply choose their activities for the day and the fun starts.

How We Can Help You Plan a Family Reunion

Choosing Dates

Once you have the list of family members who are interested in attending, you will need to have a list of the dates that they are available. Don’t forget that we are a small property and can book out 6 months to a year in advance. Something else to consider is the season you wish to visit. If you have young children (infant-15 years) we recommend visiting us in July or August. For more mature families you might be able to find great options in either June or September. Each season comes with different weather and activities. Also, consider how long you should stay to make the most of your time together.

Gathering Details

We are happy to send information via mail or email about what to expect, weather, activities, packing tips, food details, and more to all members of your family or for the planner to disperse. We feel the more information provided the better to ensure everyone’s expectations are met.

Choosing Accommodations

Depending on your group size, you might have the entire ranch to yourself or you might need just a few cabins. We are here for you to help arrange the best accommodations possible. What we will need would be: age, gender, and desired lodging accommodations for each immediate family.

We have eight private guest cabins and three larger 2-bedroom cabins for bigger families. For a totally different experience, we also have a dedicated glamping site with covered wagons.

Other Helpful Information We Need and Suggest

Additional Information about Your Family

It is very important for us to know as much about each family member as possible. We are interested in know if there are any dietary restrictions, allergies, medical conditions, special needs/requests, horseback riding level/interest, other activity interest. Additionally, if there are any special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or graduations, we’d love to know. Finally, we can assist in arranging unique activities (National Park trips, photographer). All of these details will ensure that you are provided with True Western Hospitality and all your needs will be met.

Go With Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend travel insurance to all our guests, but when you are dealing with multiple generations traveling together, we feel it is even more important. When making a reservation with us, you can opt into additional travel insurance that will cover all members of the traveling party and extended family member emergencies. It is always better to be prepared so you can be worry free.

Let us help you plan an extraordinary family reunion. We’d be honored and believe it will make for the most memorable family vacation ever.

Why You Should Plan a Goosewing Ranch Vacation in June

April 11, 2018/0 Comments/in Dude Ranch Vacation Tips, Summer at Goosewing Ranch /by [email protected]

Rejoice-summer is on the horizon! Our ranch doors will soon open, and we are excited to start a new season with guests that are soon to be part of the Goosewing family. June is considered our early season, so there are definite advantages to booking your ranch vacation in that month. Think wildlife, fewer crowds, and discounted rates. Learn more about the upside of a June dude ranch vacation in our Jackson Hole, Wyoming location.

Summertime is just around the bend, and that means…vacation time! Whether you’ve already booked a trip to Wyoming or are still in the planning stages, summer is a delightful time to visit Wyoming. Since our season at Goosewing Ranch begins on June 1, we thought we’d chat about the benefits to having a dude ranch vacation in June. Between the weather, the crowds, and the animals, June can be one of the best times to explore our corner of the world here in Jackson Hole.

Why You Should Plan a Goosewing Ranch Vacation in June

1. Price advantage

Rates for early summer travel are discounted off our peak season. Shoulder season runs June 1-16, followed by the Low Season rates from June 17-July 7. Both are more advantageous in pricing that our peak season. Our Summer 2018 Rates will be properly reflected on our website. Or feel free to call us at (307) 733-5251.

2. Great for Wildlife Viewing

June is quite an opportune time to see all kinds of wildlife as they get active from their winter slumbers. From bison to grizzy and black bears, moose, elk, mountain goats, foxes, and eagles, animal sightings are especially plentiful during the month of June.

Since the road to our ranch doesn’t officially open until June 1, the upside is that wildlife roam free and virtually undisturbed during this time. So the possible animal sightings are heightened. Between elk, moose, bears, they have all been spotted on our property during June. Although the tradeoff is a bit more unpredictability in terms of weather, the advantage is a season filled with wildlife. Antlers and sheds are also plentiful during this time.

It’s also a time where animals are starting to have their babies, so you may even see those.

Photography buffs, June may be more ideal because the sun is not as strong as it is in July and August.

3. Fewer Crowds Than in Late Summer

Crowds in the national parks like Grand Teton and Yellowstone swell at the peak of summer. The National Park Service reports that from 2012-2017, the average number of visits to Yellowstone per summer months as follows:

Month	Average # of Visits (2012-2017)	% of Average Annual Visits

June	743,361	19.39%
July	922,018	24.04%
August	822,021	21.44%

So wildlife buffs, photography fans, and those craving fewer crowds in the national parks, come check us out in June!

What to Pack for a Dude Ranch Vacation

March 13, 2018/0 Comments/in Dude Ranch Planning, Dude Ranch Vacation Tips /by [email protected]

Summer is on the horizon, and that means VACATION! Dude ranch vacations offer some of the most active, adventurous experiences for families, couples, and even multigenerational or solo travelers. As unique as a ranch vacation is, it also requires some specific items to make the trip a success. Check out this dude ranch packing list to get prepared for the ultimate outdoor vacation.

The countdown has begun and your summer vacation is quickly approaching. Now begins the task of preparing and packing. Packing for any vacation can be a challenge, and a guest ranch is no different. Whether you plan to pick up some essential items in Jackson, or bring them from home, we would like to give you some suggestions on what to pack and expect.

Dude Ranch Packing Tips

Remember, Goosewing Ranch is located at 7,400 feet in the Gros Ventre Mountains, the sun is very intense, and the weather can change drastically very quickly. Typically the summer months in Jackson Hole are very enjoyable, with mild temperatures and a dry climate. Expect, warm, and dry days, with chilly temperatures in the evenings and nights.

The weather can be very different as you travel from Yellowstone to Jackson to the Ranch. We recommend always carrying an extra layer with you while traveling through western Wyoming. The ranch, town, and surrounding National Parks are all very causal and laid-back. You will be welcomed into most establishments in causal summer attire, or your cowboy getup.

Aside from you cowboy or cowgirl gear we suggest that you bring along sunblock of SPF 15 or higher, lip balm with SPF, and make sure to apply throughout the day. Hats are a great tool in keeping you cool, and aid in sunburn prevention. A cowboy hat works well, because it keeps the sun off your face and neck. Just make sure it is a snug fit or purchase a stampede strap to keep it on your head.

We also recommend bringing a thin long sleeve shirt; this will also help keep you cool and from getting too much sun exposure. We have found that fishing or western button up shirts work the best. For horseback riding, you will want to have a comfortable pair of jeans, and slick soled boots with about a ½” heel. We recommend this style of boot for safety reasons; bulky hiking boots could get stuck and shoes without heels can slide to far forward being very dangerous for the rider. Boots are fun for a night of line dancing, also.

There can be a drastic temperature fluctuation between day and night, so we suggest that you bring a fleece or light jacket. For those of you coming in June or late September, bring a heavier jacket or more layers.

Don’t forget shorts, t-shirts, and comfortable hiking or walking shoes for touring the local area and parks. And a bathing suit for the pool, hot tub, and sauna!

If you are planning on rafting the Snake River or floating the Gros Ventre, pack a pair of water shoes or sandals that will stay on your feet.

For your convenience, we have a guest laundry facility located near our cabins. We will provide all riders with rain slickers in case of an afternoon shower. We also have a number of items available for purchase in of gift shop, such as gloves, hoodies, vests, lip balm, bug spray, sunblock, ball caps, and more.

In your cabin for your pleasure are hair dryers, robes, mini refrigerator, coffee maker, and eco-sential bath products. If you are planning on going on an overnight pack trip, we suggest bringing wool socks, warm hat, and an extra warm layer.

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

Feel free to print and use this packing list to get ready!

Please feel free to contact at 1-888-733-5251 or 1-307-733-5251 us or visit our website for more information.

And check out the Dude Ranchers’ Association website for more dude ranch packing tips.

Another Holiday Special to Ring in the New Year!

December 27, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

Although all the packages have been unwrapped, we’ve been filled with the holiday spirit and feel compelled to offer another Goosewing Ranch holiday special. And this one is a real winner: a three day package that adds on a fourth day activity for free! If you’ve been dreaming of a dude ranch vacation to Wyoming with side trips to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, or Jackson Hole.

Ahh, still glowing from the holiday magic, we at Goosewing Ranch are now looking forward to 2018. Because the start of a new year means it will soon be time to open our doors to our returning family and new guests! So we’re harnessing that holiday happiness and turning that into one huge holiday special.

Goosewing Ranch Holiday Special

Those of you looking for a three night dude ranch experience so you’ll have time to also do Jackson Hole, Yellowstone, or Grand Teton (or all of the above), this is it!

holiday special from Goosewing Ranch to ring in the new year-horseback riding activity

Grand Teton views and great horseback riding-this could be your free extra activity if you book this special!

Get the most out of your limited time with this special offer: a three night package that includes a FREE extra activity day. Book a three night package from either Thursday, June 21 – Sunday, June 24 or Thursday, July 5 – Sunday, July 8 and all party members will receive a free activity day with an early check-in on Thursday. This is over a $200 value per person.

Not valid with any other specials or offers. For new reservations only. We reserve the right to adjust package as needed. Valid from December 18, 2017 – January 2, 2018. Must mention 2017 Holiday Special.

If these dates work for you, book now! Hopefully you’ll be toasting an upcoming trip to Goosewing Ranch as you ring in the New Year. We would love to have you!

Special Offer: Saddle Up Holiday Cheer at Goosewing Ranch

December 13, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

It’s the holiday season. Don’t stress about gift giving or wrapping presents. We’ll do all that for you with a Holiday Cheer special that will have you smiling from ear to ear next year. But don’t be an Ebenezer Scrooge on Christmas Eve because this offer expires on December 24th.

Dude ranch fans, have we got a holiday special for you! For those of you who have never been to a guest ranch, now is the perfect time to get introduced. Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming cannot wait to welcome guests. Our 2018 summer season runs June 1st-September 23. Picture horseback rides, flyfishing, archery, utility vehicles, and much more. We also have the Glamping Rendevous, our glamping site complete with covered wagons for a truly unique experience–with horse wrangler and its own chef.

Miles and miles of national forest to explore. A river beckoning for tubing fun. Trail rides galore, and each one different and customized to riders’ skill level. For relaxation, we’ve got the pool, sauna, and massages.

Sound enticing? We’ll sweeten the deal a bit more with this Holiday Cheer special in case you’ve been sitting on the fence about booking.

Spreading Holiday Cheer with this Special Offer

The holidays are a time to spend with family and friends and rejoice in life. Your summer holiday should be the same. Goosewing Ranch wants to spread some holiday cheer this season. If you make a reservation between December 11, 2017 and December 24 we will include one free alcoholic or nonalcoholic drink in your package for each day for each person.

Contact us today at 1-307-733-5251 or email us at [email protected]

This offer is only valid for new bookings taken between the mentioned dates, with deposits paid in full. Not valid with any other offer. Mention HOLIDAYCHEER when booking.

We hope to see you in the saddle in 2018!

#GoGoosewing: Share Your Goosewing Ranch Memories

November 27, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

Here at Goosewing Ranch, we want to give something new a try, and we need your help! We love sharing our photos on Instagram, but we also know that some of the best photography has been taken by many of you, our guests! So we’ve come up with our own hashtag and would love it if you would use the hashtag #GoGoosewing when posting your dude ranch memories. In doing so, we would love to then share your photos by reposting on our Instagram account. Win-win! So let’s get those photos out and get the hashtag #GoGoosewing off to a great start!

Be a Part of Goosewing Ranch’s Instagram Feed with #GoGoosewing

Instagram is one of our favorite social media platforms because it really captures the beauty and essence of our ranch as well as Jackson Hole and Wyoming. It gives future guests a sneak peek into their future vacation. For those who have become Goosewing family, we’d love to share your memories and photos because your photography and storytelling are the essence of our story.

Anytime you’d like to post an Instagram photo of your Goosewing experiences, please use the following hashtag: #GoGoosewing. That then tells us that we have permission to repost your photo (giving you all the credit, of course!) Share about your favorite trail riding session…

Or perhaps the food made a big impression…

Maybe scenery like the Grand Tetons left you in awe…

Or watching your family try new experiences made you say “AWW”

Whatever bring a smile or shares a memory, we’d love to have it tagged #GoGoosewing so we can encourage others to do just that: Go Goosewing!

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/

Gift Ideas for Travelers: Dude Ranch Vacation at Goosewing Ranch

November 20, 2017/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

The holidays are quickly approaching, which means it’s time to gear up and figure out what to give friends and family. Here’s our suggestion: give the gift of travel and book a stay at Goosewing Ranch for 2018! From trail rides, archery, flyfishing and skeet shooting, Goosewing Ranch has activities galore. Coupled with stellar food and a stunningly scenic setting, our dude ranch would make a terrific surprise this holiday season.

Tired of giving the same gift for the holidays? Or trying to find something for someone who has everything? Walking around aimlessly at the mall and feeling like you are moments away from a last minute, desperate purchase? We’ve been there too and agree that it’s no fun.

So here’s a novel idea: buy them something they will love, that gives back endlessly, and perhaps be something you can do with them. What is the answer to this gifting riddle? Why, it’s giving the gift of travel! Specifically, we suggest a present of a dude ranch vacation.

Gift Ideas for Travelers: Dude Ranch Vacation at Goosewing Ranch. Ranch entrance welcomes your stay!

From the moment travelers set foot on Goosewing Ranch, they are met with a picturesque location, welcoming staff, and boundless activities to choose from.

Gift Ideas for Travelers: Give the Gift of a Dude Ranch Vacation at Goosewing Ranch

Here’s why travel makes such a meaningful gift, why gift a dude ranch vacation, and how to make it happen!

Why We Value Experiences over Material Goods as Gifts

There’s even science behind it. Researchers at Cornell University found that experiences make us happier than material goods.

Here’s what they found: “People often think spending money on an experience is not as wise an investment as spending it on a material possession. They think the experience will come and go in a flash, and they’ll be left with little compared to owning an item. But in reality we remember experiences long afterward, while we soon become used to our possessions. At the same time, we also enjoy the anticipation of having an experience more than the anticipation of owning a possession.”

Makes sense, doesn’t it? Experiences are also harder to be compared with something else because most times they are in the category of unique. It’s much easier to compare consumer goods than say a bobsledding adventure or a horseback excursion.

Finally, experiences will have the upper hand because they are more likely to be social. And at our core, most of us are social beings and we will remember that experience because it was shared with others.

What Better Gift for Travelers than a Dude Ranch Vacation?

So now that we’ve unpacked the why behind giving experiences, let’s talk about the why behind a dude ranch vacation. First and foremost, guests will encounter many settings and activities they have never experienced before. That in and of itself it quite thrilling!

One of the biggest draws at a dude ranch is horseback riding. No two trail rides with Goosewing Ranch are the same, and we assess all riders for their level of experience and carefully select horses for each guest for their stay.

Gift Ideas for Travelers: Dude Ranch Vacation at Goosewing Ranch. Trail rides are the most popular activity!

Giddy up, partner! Trail rides for all ages and all skill levels are available at Goosewing Ranch.

One way we stand out is that every cabin has use of a Polaris UTV (utility terrain vehicle). We also offer fly fishing, archery, skeet shooting, cattle herding and pinning, target shooting, hatchet throwing, and tubing. Not to mention the special events like cookouts, s’mores by the fire, and hayrides. After a long day in the saddle, the pool, hot tub, and a massage are popular treats.

Gift Ideas for Travelers: Dude Ranch Vacation at Goosewing Ranch. Horse painters.

Move over, Picasso! These budding artists have fun horse painting.

When staying at Goosewing Ranch, almost all amenities and activities are included. So the credit card can stay in the wallet and the vacation won’t follow you home for months afterwards! All-inclusive is a big plus for a dude ranch vacation at Goosewing.

So as you can see, a dude ranch vacation is customizable and unique for every guest. From kids to parents and grandkids, couples on their honeymoon or family reunions, Goosewing will prove the science behind giving experiences is true.

Gift Ideas for Travelers: Dude Ranch Vacation at Goosewing Ranch. Target shooting is fun for all ages.

Teens and tweens particularly like target shooting and other hand-eye coordination activities.

Giving the Gift of Travel

So now that you’ve decided on giving a dude ranch vacation, have fun with the delivery! Wrap up a travel guidebook or get a travel brochure and enclose your gift inside. The gift could be as simple as a letter explaining what you will pay for or an actual gift certificate, gift card or check.

We can assist you in making a booking or in letting your travel lover know about this special gift. Click the “Book Online/Get Quote” tab at the top of our website or give us a call at (307) 733-5251.

Posts

Jackson Hole, Wyoming is filled with many must see spots. Use our list of the best destinations in Jackson Hole and make sure not to miss the most memorable and most photographed spots.

Jackson Hole Must See Spots

Grand Tetons

Mormon Row

Teton Village

Antler Arches

When you hear Jackson Hole, what is the first thing to come to mind? Maybe the Grand Tetons, Mormon Row, the Teton Village, or Antler Arches. Hands down, these are just a few of the most popular features in the valley.

1. Grand Tetons

No visit to Jackson Hole is complete without a trek to see the Grand Tetons.

Fact: Grand Teton National Park was approved by President Calvin Coolidge on February 26, 1929. This act protected the Teton Range and six glacial lakes but not nearby Jackson Hole.

2. Mormon Row

Mormon Row was an early homesteading settlement in Jackson Hole before the Grand Teton National Park was formed. Mormons from Salt Lake Valley set out to establish new communities, and they clustered their farms to share labor. Their community was known as Mormon Row.

The famous Moulton Barn is probably the most photographed barn in Wyoming, if not the world. Pretty logical considering its location directly in front of the Grand Tetons!

3. Teton Village

Located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, the Swiss-styled Teton Village offers restaurants, shopping and entertainment.

In the wintertime, this location bustles with skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Even non-skiing types will love activities like the sleigh ride dinners and dog sled rides.

During the summer, activities in Teton Village include scenic tram rides to the top of Rendezvous Mountain, horseback riding, tandem paragliding flights, hiking and mountain biking trails, and a disc golf course. Learn more about the Tram, called “Big Red”in our post Jackson Hole Aerial Tram.

4. Antler Arches

Each arch contains about 10,000 pounds of elk antlers. Don’t worry: not one elk was harmed in the making of the arches. Elk grow antlers that they shed annually. Unlike horns that must be cut off and are hollow inside, antlers, fall off naturally and are solid.

Did you know? See Jackson Hole hosts live webcams all around Jackson, including Town Square. Get your Jackson Hole fix by checking out the happenings around town and in Jackson Hole.

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