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Why Jackson Hole: Yellowstone, Tetons, and Ranches

Winter is one of the best times to make plans for a vacation destination. Whether a young couple, mature couple, large family or small, the Jackson Hole area has something offer each diverse traveler. Make this year’s vacation an adventure filled with new experiences while exploring this educational and historic area. Here’s why Jackson Hole (hint: Yellowstone and Grand Teton might have something to do with it).

Why Jackson Hole

Yellowstone National Park

Wyoming is home to our nation’s first National Park, Yellowstone National Park, founded in 1872. However, Yellowstone is not the only park that neighbors Jackson Hole-there is also Grand Teton National Park. Jackson not only has two historic and magnificent parks in its backyard, but is also home to many guest ranches and summer attractions.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park has much to offer as well. This is a great area to enjoy the water or spend the day hiking. Grand Teton has hiking trails suitable for those looking for an easy family picnic and hike to the more adventurous climber and backpacker. Grand Teton has many great opportunities to view wildlife and is a photographer’s dream.

Dude Ranch as Home Base for the Parks

Guest Ranches such as Goosewing Ranch are a great way to visit the area with the ease of an all-inclusive package. While staying at a ranch you can enjoy many different activities from hiking, horseback riding, line dancing, spa treatments, rodeos, cookouts, off-roading, and more. But, make sure you save some time to visit Jackson Hole for some shopping, rodeo, rafting and a quick history lesson, and then head into Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.

There are many outfitters that will guide you through the parks in all fashions, but if you are a do-it-yourself kind of person here are a few tips. I would suggest leaving your accommodations early in the morning and hitting the trail. You should allow for a full day or more in each park, 12+ hours.

If you only have one day I suggest driving the Lower Loop of Yellowstone. You will see such features as Old Faithful, boiling paint pots, hot springs and swimming holes, waterfalls, grand canyons, and hopefully some wildlife. There are many different boardwalks taking you safely around various features of the park, and you may find park rangers on site to answer questions.

Remember obey all warning and safety postings and keep a vast distance between yourself and ALL wildlife. Yellowstone might have park behind its name but that doesn’t mean it is safe to play or recreate anywhere.

Between Jackson, the national parks of Yellowstone and Grand Teton, the Jackson Hole area has a lot to offer a diverse group of travelers. With a history, adventure, and science rich environment, you will return home with more than a vacation. You will return home having had an experience. When visiting Jackson Hole, expect to experience the Wild West!

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.

Try Glamping in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

February 27, 2018/0 Comments/in Glamping, Goosewing Ranch Amenities /by [email protected]

Have you ever dreamed of sleeping under the stars, having meals cooked over dutch ovens and spending your vacation days like cowboys on horseback trail rides? Does spending the night in a covered wagon sound appealing? Ever wanted to escape from reality for a few days and try your hand at flyfishing, archery, or skeet shooting? Then a Jackson Hole glamping vacation may be the perfect fit for you and your family. Goosewing Ranch invites you to try our glamping camp for a unique adventure. We answer our most frequently asked questions to give a sense of what glamping in a picturesque Wyoming location is truly like.

Glamping has become one of the hottest travel trends. In 2017, Goosewing Ranch expanded our dude ranch to include a glamping experience called Goosewing Rendezvous. The glamping camp allows guests to have a customized, truly unique western experience. Perfect for those seeking adventure without sacrificing comfort.

For those not familiar with glamping, it’s a newly created word that means glamorous/luxury camping. Some common threads to glamping:

Nature is usually a stone’s throw away from where you sleep;
Glamping is typically in a unique structure like a treehouse, yurt, tent, or covered wagon;
Accommodations include a bed and indoor plumbing. More likely than not, the glamping destination has upped the luxury quotient and could rival resorts and hotels on the amenities.

Since the definition of glamping can vary, the first step is to do your homework and research the glamping location. Read the reviews, see what’s included, and get a sense of what it will be like to stay there. This is key to align expectations with what is available.

Welcome to Goosewing Ranch’s Glamping Camp

Our glamping camp is named Goosewing Rendezvous after the French word “rendezvous” meaning to come together or gather. We are certain this vacation experience will bring you closer to nature and close together with one another.

If you want to try something unique for your next adventure, consider Goosewing Glamping. Our hand crafted, custom made wagons are perfect for your next family adventure. Be the envy of your friends and family when you return home with grand stories of horseback riding, wildlife spotting, hiking, fishing, explorations, and much more.

You will have many opportunities to search for wildlife, learn survival skills, learn about Dutch oven cooking, learn how to tack and care for your horse, fish, ride, hike, and explore the Gros Ventre area. This is a remote location and the main focus is for you to have a unique Western experience.

Goosewing Glamping FAQs

Q. What can we expect from our glamping experience?

A. Your Goosewing Rendezvous Glamping package will begin at our Resort Guest Ranch, Goosewing Ranch, located approximately 4 miles below the glamping site location. However, this is not the same package as our guest ranch packages.

Upon arrival you will be checked in by our reservation staff, and then a Ranch Hand will help you with moving your luggage from your car to your Polaris Ranger UTV (utility terrain vehicle). A Goosewing employee will escort you from Goosewing Ranch to the glamping location. Once at the glamping site, our wrangler will give you a personal tour and show how to use the amenities around the site. You will have full days of horseback riding, exploring, and activities in your package. Your checkout morning is for relaxing, packing, and completing your experience. You will head back down to the main Goosewing Ranch where checkout will take place, return your Ranger, and we wish you happy trails. There is NO cell coverage and internet is limited.

Q. What’s different about glamping camp compared to the resort ranch?

A. The Goosewing glamping site is located about 4 miles northeast of the Goosewing Ranch and sits at about 8,400 feet.

There are generally fewer guests at the glamping camp, so in that way it becomes an incredibly personalized, tailored for you and your family vacation. With 4 covered wagons, the glamping camp has a maximum of 17 guests.

You will enjoy a vast amount of guided horseback riding and equine adventures, horse drives, hayrides, non-guided fly fishing in both trout ponds, rivers, streams and lakes, you can take a refreshing dip in one of the mountain waters, or tube down the Gros Ventre River. Hiking is abundant with varied difficulty. Many of these activities are self-guided, but we can provide the instruction, gear, and location.

Q. What is included in the glamping package?

A. Glamping packages are minimum 2 night packages. These rates are all per person based on the occupancy of the wagon. Included are the glamping accommodations, meals, and on site glamping seasonal activities. Rates do not include 22% taxes and gratuities; off glamping site activities, excursions, or accommodations; transportation; alcohol; UTV fuel; fishing licenses; or any Goosewing Ranch amenities and other incidentals.

Q. Are we at the glamping site by ourselves? Any staff there with us?

A. At the Goosewing glamping site, there is a chef, a wrangler/guide, and an event coordinator/helper. These folks work together to provide you with all your meals, services and information. They also live at camp to provide you with a safe and enjoyable vacation experience.

Have fun on the glamping camp and the surrounding property We have trail maps available for you, wranglers/guides for your equine adventures, fishing gear, tubes for the river, and Polaris Ranger UTVs. Many adventures and activities will be self-guided with instruction and information provided by staff members.

Q. What is the food like?

A. This is a true Western culinary experience. We expect you will be impressed with the food given the scale of our Rendezvous kitchen. Expect Dutch-oven meals, grilled meals, or open fire cooking.

Our chef and staff members prepare and serve breakfast and dinner. Meal times are flexible depending on the day’s adventure and groups desires. Hearty breakfast fare typically includes fruit, eggs, pancakes, sausage, and bacon.

Lunch is typically a sack lunch out on the trail horseback riding, hiking, UTVing, or enjoying a number of other adventures. Snacks are available in the afternoon, and dinner is served family style in the dining tent or around the campfire. Meals are hearty, home cooked from fresh meats, breads, and veggies. Some dietary restrictions can be met with advanced notice.

Q. What are the wagons like?

A. We have four custom, handcrafted wagons available at the glamping camp. Three wagons will sleep a maximum of five people, with a king bed and three twin beds set up like bunk beds. The fourth wagon is perfect for just a couple, with a king bed and seating. Wagons have storage for luggage and dressers. All linens and bedding provided. There is a safe box located in the bath cabins for valuables and your convenience. There is NO daily housekeeping. On Monday, linens are changed and the trash emptied.

Additional propane lights, lanterns, and solar or battery operated lamps are provided for your use. Wagons do have outlets and USB ports for charging. Propane stoves provide the heating in bath-cabins, wagons and around camp. There is no air conditioning as it is not needed in our mountain climate. Special instructions will be provided upon check-in for all features of your wagon, bath-cabin and other aspects around camp.

Q. What are the bathrooms like?

Each glamping wagon has a detached bath-cabin, with full amenities of shower, commode, vanity with sink and running hot and cold water. Towels and some Eco friendly toiletries provided (shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, bar body and face soap, toilet paper). Bath-cabins have power with lights and outlets.

Q. Do I have to be an expert rider?

A. Absolutely not. We welcome riders of all levels and experience. With over 60 horses in our stable, we can match guests with the most appropriate horse for them. Riding age is 6 years old and up. Riders must be able to listen and follow instructions for our seasoned wranglers.

Q. What other activities are available besides horseback riding?

A. While with us, you will experience true Western Hospitality, learn the cowboy way of life, help us with our environmental stewardship, and connect with nature. We encourage our glampers to engage in helping around the site with horses, meal prep, all while learning about the Western lifestyle. Evenings consist of campfire songs and stories, stargazing, s’mores roasting, and relaxing while reflecting on the day’s activities. Activities available may include archery, hatchet throwing, knife throwing, roping (not on horseback), and wildlife spotting.

Each day you will experience a different part of the Western culture and have the opportunity to learn and practice new skills. These range from dutch oven cooking lessons, equine care, horse tacking and packing instructions, wildlife tracking skills, fire starting and more.

Additionally, activities vary from guided and instructed, or to being available for self service. Either way, we suggest that glampers be healthy and in good physical health so you can enjoy the remote experience.

Q. Will we get bored without electronics/wifi?

A. Well, that is really more of a personal answer depending on your family. Does the idea of not needing phones for anything (except for photos) sound appealing? Would your family like to take a break from social media and texting and get into outdoor activities, games, and hay rides? Or does not having email and phone coverage make you twitchy?

The main focus of Goosewing Glamping is to enjoy nature, the wilderness and reconnecting with family and friends in a unique setting. So if you’re up for a disconnect and an escape from the “real world”—this is it!

Q. What should I pack?

A. Don’t go overboard, but also prepare for a range in temperatures. Think lightweight and layers. The glamping camp is at 8,400 feet elevation in the Gros Ventre Mountains, the sun can be intense, and the weather can change quickly. Here are our packing recommendations:

For horseback riding: Jeans, cowboy boots or slick soled enclosed shoes with at least a 1 ½” heel, wide brimmed hat or cowboy hat with stampede strings, long sleeve/lightweight shirt, gloves, fleece or extra layer.
For hiking/fishing/biking: Shorts or lightweight easy dry pants, river shoes or sandals that strap to your feet (no flip flops), lightweight easy dry shirt, walking or hiking boots/shoes, hat, and sunglasses.
Essential items: Sunscreen, camera, bathing suit, lightweight jacket or extra layer for cool mornings and evenings, lightweight packable rain gear, warmer clothing for early or late season visitors and pack trippers. Additionally, the ranch does have a gift shop where many of these items can be purchased. We have a full Packing List to help you get ready!

Q. What’s the weather like since we’ll be in covered wagons?

A. 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.

Average temperatures:

June: 68/35; July: 76/42; August: 67/43; and September: 65/33

Moreover, there is no air conditioning, but it is not needed in our mountain climate. We will provide you with rain slickers, but we suggest you follow our packing guidelines for additional gear.

Q. How long will it take to get to Goosewing Ranch?

A. Allow at least 1 ½ hours from downtown Jackson, Wyoming or the Jackson Hole airport.

We recommend you print directions and use them along with your GPS devices. GPS devices are not always accurate in the mountains. Also, use the physical address of 24440 East Cottonwood Creek Road, Kelly, Wyoming, 83011.

Q. What are check-in and check-out times?

A. Goosewing Glamping Check-in time is between 2:00pm and 6:00pm, while Check-out time is 9:00am – 11:00am. (check-in and out times are strict, we cannot accommodate early or late arrivals or late checkouts). On your arrival or check in day, please have lunch before you arrive, there will not be a meal for you until dinner. Breakfast is provided on your departure on checkout day.

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Glamping is a unique experience. Whether the cabins or the glamping site, we’d love to have you. Or try a combination stay including both glamping and the main ranch. Best of both worlds!

We have a dedicated website just for Goosewing Glamping. We’d love for you to check it out!

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.

Celebrate Your National Parks with Goosewing Ranch!

May 4, 2016/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by [email protected]

This year, the National Park Service celebrates its 100^th birthday, and to celebrate, fourth graders are being given free park passes for them and their families.

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest park in the United States. It was established in 1872 as an Act signed by President Grant. It wasn’t until August 25, 1916 that the National Park Service was created to protect and preserve our beautiful parks, and since 1916 over four hundred parks have been created. The NPS has grown tremendously over the years. They rely on 22,000 employees and 221,000 volunteers to maintain the parks—and no wonder they need so many people, as Yellowstone alone draws over 4 million visitors a year, usually between the months of May to September.

Goosewing Ranch makes an ideal location to stay while visiting the parks. Not only can you take advantage of the free park pass given to your fourth grader—visiting the parks with ease from our location—you can enjoy the Bridger-Teton National Forest and the beautiful, untouched wilderness that surrounds the ranch, as well. The UTVs available for guests are a fun way to get off the ranch and explore everything nature has to offer.

This is a historic year for the parks. By celebrating 100 years of service, the NPS campaign has shifted public focus to the future, and preserving National Parks for another 100 years to come. This will be a celebratory year to visit Jackson Hole.

For your child to receive his or her park pass, go to everykidinapark.gov. Passes are valid until August 31, 2016. This year’s third graders are eligible to receive their park pass starting in September 2016.

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This post was written by Sara Massery.

The Beginning of a Journey

May 26, 2015/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by [email protected]

I graduated from college on May 9^th, and six days later I was on a plane headed to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The time I spent in the airport—a total of about four hours across two layovers—didn’t feel real, and my impending adventure was suspended above my head. I had flown alone before to visit family, and this didn’t feel any different. When the plane touched down in Jackson—that was when it hit me: I was in for one unique summer. I walked off the ramp and almost stopped short.

Growing up in the western part of Massachusetts, I was used to the way the mountains encircled the town. We were in the foothills of the Appalachians, after all, and I liked their rounded tops and the way they protected my town from bad weather. These were different. These mountains were so sharp they could cut the sky if it got too close. Home, spring was in full bloom. Here, the air was crisp and light and there was still snow on the mountaintops.

On the day I arrived, the trees clung to the fog. The tops of the mountains were obscured by fat clouds that yearned to touch the ground. We passed Slide Lake and the Grey Hills, and around every corner I kept wondering, how close are we?

I know the distance of forty miles. On a highway, it would take less than forty-five minutes to drive. I thought the wilderness of the Gros Ventre River Valley and the Grand Teton National Park might be exaggerated, but nothing could have prepared me for the trek to Goosewing Ranch. The road passes the small town of Kelly and climbs upwards into the park. From there, it could be equated to a mild roller coaster ride. Sometimes you can see the road extend into the distance for a mile; other times you might question if it even continues after this hill; it is always winding and twisting. And my perception of forty miles changed—it took nearly an hour and a half to drive that distance here. Finally, there it was: the ranch spread out in front of us, as glorious (even in the rain) as the pictures that I had pored over during the previous months.

I wake up each morning excited for the day ahead, for the work we’re doing to make this ranch the best it can be for our guests. I am nearly bursting with excitement waiting for the guests to arrive, because they’ll make my new home come alive with activity. I’ve been here for almost a week, which is the same amount of time most of our guests will be here, and I know that’s not enough for me; I’m not done with this place yet. And I can bet you will feel the same.

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This is Sara Massery’s first season at Goosewing Ranch, where she is the Office Assistant. She hails from Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and has just completed her B.A. in English Writing and Literature at Emmanuel College. She’s very excited for the summer ahead!

Treat yourself to an All-Inclusive Guest Ranch Vacation….

October 30, 2012/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

For many a Dude or Guest Ranch vacation seems like a good way to spend a lot of money for doing work instead of relaxing. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Yes, some Ranches are a bit pricy, but once you take into account that most are All- Inclusive than the sticker shock is greatly reduced. Guest Ranch vacations have been a part of our history and our economical evolution since the 1880’s. Guest Ranch vacations are a family friendly environment about Hats, Hospitality, Horses and more. Try a new adventure this year and discover the the cowboy in you.

Like many cruises and beach resorts, Guest Ranches are a package deal with something for every traveler, and family member. Why should Mom have to sacrifice doing what she enjoys because Dad wants adventure, and face it the boys don’t always enjoy having to follow their sister around all vacation either. At Goosewing Ranch we have activities and adventures for everyone, from the single explorer to the diverse family reunion. Let Mom enjoy reading a book by the pool or treating herself to a massage (included in a 7 night package), while the boys go fishing or exploring on the Polaris Ranger, and little Suzie goes on a horseback adventure with like minded young ladies. Experiencing the Wild West together is also a great way to reunite a family or bond the vows during a honeymoon.

With an all-inclusive package you will receive lodging with modern accommodations and amenities, meals prepared by an expert culinary artist, entertainment and activities. Guest Ranches have all the hospitality and charm that is expected of a Southern B&B, with the activities of a top notch resort, and service of a high end hotel, with scenery and views worth escaping the real world for.

Goosewing Ranch in Jackson Hole Wyoming is a member of the Dude Ranchers Association ensuring an authentic ranch experience from start to finish. We have a season fitting for singles, groups of friends, couples, families, or reunions. Go ahead make your neighbor jealous and book your Guest Ranch adventure at the base of the Tetons and bordering Yellowstone National Park at Goosewing Ranch, in Jackson Wyoming. Where you will enjoy everything from horseback riding through the mountains; fly fishing the streams and Gros Ventre River, to target shooting, archery, hiking, and more.

Just remember you get more than sand in your shorts with a Guest Ranch vacation, you will go home with lasting memories and experiences that the family will talk about for generations.

Autumn in Jackson Hole

October 15, 2012/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

Well the summer tourist season has drawn to a close. It was another spectacular summer in the Jackson Hole area, and throughout Yellowstone. But not all travelers have left and there certainly are locals still in the area… so what is there to do in Jackson during the fall shoulder season? Well, there is a lot to do.

Goosewing Ranch closed to guests on September 23 for the 2012 summer season, but we are still at the ranch finishing projects and already preparing for 2013. Without all the families on the ranch to take horseback riding we have some down time to really enjoy the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem.

Hunting, fishing, hiking, and great deals are just a few of the things you can experience in Jackson Hole Wyoming during the autumn months. Flights into Jackson Hole Airport are usually a little less expensive and all restaurants and hotels are offering discounted rates and deals. The area itself is beautiful also. The aspen trees are in full color, and the wildlife is abundant whether you are shooting them with a camera, bow, or riffle. Hunting is a big part of our local economy and it brings many thrill seekers to the area. Contact a local guiding service or check out grosventrehunting.com for more information. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks also offer great touring opportunities. With fewer tourists in the area you can travel through the parks with ease. This is also a great time of year for hiking with cooler temps and spectacular views, but remember the wildlife is preparing for winter so tread with caution. Fishing is still excellent also. The steams are easily accessible and the trout are hungry. With temps ranging for 65 degrees during the day down below freezing at night you will want to pack a variety of options. But get out and enjoy the spectacular weather the autumn in the Tetons brings.

Make sure you check local listings for off season hours and specials, and also check with the local parks because each entrance and most venders have different dates of operation. Remember not all of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are open all year. If you like cooler weather, great deals, fall colors, small crowds, and lots of wildlife and scenery viewing then checkout the Jackson Hole area. Most of the people in the area this time of year are hunters, locals, and singles or couples so pack a bag and enjoy the off season touring the Tetons. I know those of us at Goosewing Ranch and in the Gros Ventre LOVE this time of year!

From our head wrangler, Kris…

June 1, 2012/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News, Uncategorized /by [email protected]

Well another spring has arrived and life on the ranch is as exciting as ever. The tack room is cleaned, and ready for a fun filled summer of horseback adventures into the Wyoming back country. We have 62 head of horses on the ranch, with mostly familiar faces, but a few new ones to learn. The horses have all wintered well and are looking fit for our guests. It is always a happy reunion when the horses return, both for them and the wranglers. We all get a good laugh watching them wonder around the ranch showing the new horses the routine of their life on a guest ranch.
All of the horses have been ridden and taken out on different trails into the Gros Ventre wilderness and Bridger-Teton National Forest. The new Goosewing Ranch wranglers are as fun to watch as the new horses. They are in awe of the terrain and vistas surrounding the ranch and on the trails we ride. They all are excited to learn more about the area and the horses they will be caring for throughout the summer. Every day is a new adventure. They remind me of myself and the reasons why I started leading trail rides. With eight wranglers this year we will be able to provide excellent service and a variety of trail rides daily.
The wildlife has been abundant both on, and near the ranch and on the trail rides. We have spotted numerous herds of Elk, mule deer through the thin foliage, and watched as the antelope move back into the valley. We have also spotted wolves, badgers, grizzly bears, eagles, and a few moose. The horses have handled the wildlife spotting’s, new wranglers, and various trail conditions like old pros. One never knows what to expect in western Wyoming where we are part of the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem.
We are all looking forward to the vacation season starting in the Jackson Hole area, and can’t wait to entertain all of our guests by taking them on horseback adventures, touring Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and enjoying all the a resort ranch has to offer. The horses are “rearing to go”, the trails are drying out, and the wranglers are saddled up and waiting for all the different guests to arrive. We still have cabins available, so, it’s not too late to book your Dude ranch vacation at Goosewing Ranch. Come and enjoy our western hospitality!

A mordern spin on an old way of life in Jackson Wyoming…

April 17, 2012/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News, Uncategorized /by [email protected]

Wow… I can’t believe that the winter season is over and it is about time to open up Goosewing Ranch for another wonderful summer, and I couldn’t be more excited.

We are gearing up for a terrific summer vacation season… With lots of returning staff and a successful autumn of completing projects, this summer might just be the best yet! The 2012 staff members will start arriving around the first week of May and continue arriving until the beginning of June. Throughout this month staff will be trained, and facilities will be cleaned and prepared for our first guests’ arrival on June 3. This year’s returning staff members include: Eric, the ranch foreman, Kris and Katie, head wrangler and wrangler, Will, activities director, Angel, head chef, Charlotte and Katia, lodge and housekeeping departments, and myself. I am also very excited about the new staff members that will be spending the summer with us; they are all very enthusiastic and well qualified. We have hired a few extra staff members for this season to better serve and meet the needs of our guests.

Aside from being well staffed, we have many new amenities available that will suite a variety of travelers. Just because you are taking a family vacation to Wyoming and will be spending a week at a guest ranch doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice comfort. After a day of hiking through Grand Teton National Park, or touring the geysers of Yellowstone National Park we invite you to relax by our heated swimming pool, gaze at the star filled skies from the hot tub, or treat your muscles to time in the sauna and a massage from one of our professional therapists. The ranch not only has a variety of ways to relax and pamper you, but we also have new ways of exploring the Brider-Teton National Forest or Gros Ventre Wilderness. New for the 2012 season is the addition of 10 Polaris Rangers ranging in capacity from 2 – 6 seats. Now each cabin will come with a Ranger for the convenience of our guests. This is a great way to get out to different hiking trails, go fishing, or explore new areas without soring you butt in the saddle. For the more adventurous types we are offering 2 and 3 day pack trips into the backcountry. This is a true western experience with many opportunities to view wildlife and take in the vast vistas the surrounding mountain ranges have to offer.

From offering a full Spa to pack trips, and ATV rides Goosewing Ranch has something to offer any vacation traveler. These are just a few of the new and exciting investments that the ranch is making. Check out our website for more details or feel free to give us a call toll free at 1-888-733-5251 or 1-307-733-5251. Don’t miss out on a vacation of a lifetime at Goosewing Ranch, call today for rates and availability. We also are offering lots of specials mention this blog post and receive a free massage! Offer expires 4/24/2012.