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What to Expect in Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather

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.

Wyoming Dude Ranch Weather can change on a dime, but good news is the storms usually roll in and out quickly.

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.

Foggy morning on Goosewing Ranch shows just how varied the weather can be on a Wyoming dude ranch vacation.

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!

After rain showers comes a rainbow-the horses are the proverbial pot of gold at the end of this rainbow!

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.

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. Get ready for a Wyoming dude ranch vacation by being informed about what to expect with the weather and how to get ready. #Wyoming #thatsWY #JacksonHole #duderanch #weather

What to Pack for a Dude Ranch Vacation

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.

Dude Ranch Packing Tips | What to Pack for a Dude Ranch Vacation just might include clothes for a pack out. And the horses do the heavy lifting!

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 | What to Pack for a Dude Ranch Vacation. Use our packing list to get ready for the ultimate vacation. Specific tips on what works best at our dude ranch, the climate, and what NOT to pack.

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.

Jimmy and Tiffany riding their horses with the Tetons in the background

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.