Wilderness - Goosewing Ranch

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

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.

——-

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!

Welcome Back!

May 22, 2013/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

The excitement is building. Goosewing Ranch Staff started arriving several weeks ago. Fortunately the weather has cooperated to help speed up preparation for guest. With the sunshine comes an early snow melt pushing water over river and stream banks. This morning from the lodge, a herd of Elk were spotted on the far side of the river; with a backdrop of Aspen trees and evergreens. A magnificent scene for the privileged few who get to experience the moment in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, bordering the Gros Ventre Wilderness.

Wranglers how worked to repaired fences and hay racks preparing for the horses arrival. Tack has been cleaned and checked for any necessary repairs. Goosewing is fortunate to have a knowledgeable team of Wranglers. Their keen eyes will match the guests with a perfect mount to make their vacation experience the best we can provide. Guest comfort, happiness and well-being are the priorities of the entire staff at the ranch.

This week brought the arrival of the ranch horses. The trucks pulling the trailers were spotted a couple of miles from the ranch. Everyone headed to the barn to help unload and get the horses settled in to their accommodations. They were like kids returning to summer camp; anxious to greet old friends and make new ones. You could feel the Wrangler’s eagerness to climb on the back of a horse and get going.

Welcome Back

Returning and new guest will appreciate the scenic drive along Gros Ventre Road as it overlooks Slide Lake on your right. Continuing on you will cross over the Gros Ventre River and Crystal Creek. The rugged road allows you time to take in the breathtaking countryside as your mind drifts back to the difficult life of the Mountain men who walked through this wilderness. The slower pace prepares you for your time at the ranch to, at your choice, relax, participate in new activities, make new friends and create memories to last a lifetime.

Hey look, the gangs all here!

The horses’ thoughts are more of

when do we get out to eat!

Yew Haw… Horses have arrived…

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

Giddy up… the horses have arrived and Goosewing Ranch is starting to feel like home again! Big, tall, small, but not one is skinny… We have horses of all shapes, sizes, and colors; horses for beginner to experienced riders and something for everyone in between. We are so excited to have them all back on the ranch. It really is a long winter without them. The horses have spent the last few months down in Star Valley Wyoming, and have made the journey through Jackson Hole to get up to the ranch. Our horses are very lucky to get the winter off, which they earn after a long season of taking guests all across the Bridger- Teton National Forest and through the Gros Ventre Wilderness.

We have 62 head of horses on the ranch. The majority of these horses have been coming to Goosewing Ranch for years. The great thing about having the same horses year after year is that the horses learn our routine, and trails, and the returning wranglers know the horses and their personality which helps them pick the best horse for each guest. Our horses are leased through Yellowstone Horse Rentals, similar to many of the local guest ranches throughout the Jackson Hole area. These horses are the best at what they do. They stay calm in intense situations, they are very sure footed in varying terrain and weather conditions, and know how to show every guest a great time whether galloping through the meadows, or meandering across mountain tops.

Of course each horse comes with its own personality and behaviors. One of the more famous Goosewing horses is Snickers. She is a big grey mare with more personality then one can imagine. She is an escape artist, a belly scratcher, fence breaker, hobble runner, and the best darn horse to put beginner adult riders on. Snickers will take care of her rider on the trail, she might not be the fastest but she won’t be “bear bait”. Snickers best buddy is Goliath. Goliath is a small pure black gelding who loves children of all ages. He will cautiously carry the smallest of equine enthusiast through the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem to the more advance buckaroos on adventures excursions. He is also very smooth and comfortable to ride bareback. Stay tuned for more horse updates throughout the season.

Our wranglers are busy getting the horses in shape and ready for each of our guests. No matter if you want to ride high for views of the Grand Teton, or low along the river we have trails and horses to take you everywhere. Welcome back horses!

Wildflowers, the best in Jackson Hole…

April 2, 2012/0 Comments/in Summer at Goosewing Ranch, Uncategorized /by [email protected]

As the snow begins to melt and I am hearing all the birds chirping throughout the day, I can’t help but dream about the wildflowers in bloom. No matter where I see wildflowers, they always seem to take my breath away, and cause me to stop and enjoy the moment. But, in my mind there is no comparison to the wildflowers in the Gros Ventre.

Jackson Hole, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone National Park are home to many spectacular sights and creatures; Goosewing Ranch is fortunate to be located in an area where we are surrounded by these things daily, and get a little of everything! Wildflowers will bloom during different times of the summer depending on the elevation. As you increase in elevation spring and summer can be slow to come into bloom, but as things dry in Jackson new life is forming in the mountains.
I have been fortunate enough to have ridden through many fields of wildflowers, and still the sheer beauty takes me by surprise… A feeling of happiness and peace just seems to rush through me when I crest a hillside to see all the colors of summer opened to the sun.

While at Goosewing Ranch you won’t want to miss the opportunity to horseback ride, and enjoy a picnic in a field full of lupine, Indian Paint Brush (Wyoming’s State flower), Columbine, and more. Not only are the flowers a beautiful sight and smell, but they also make for great photography opportunities. Different flowers are blooming at different elevations throughout the summer, but the prime time to view them close to the ranch is from late June until mid-August. The higher you venture the later you can see them. Visit Goosewing Ranch and get more than just a vacation get an experience that will live in your heart for years to come.

Ranch Activities for all Buckaroos’

March 22, 2012/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch Activities /by [email protected]

The sun is shining, the snow is melting, and it is time to get excited about summer time in Jackson Hole! Guest ranches have been around for generations, and are a great way to enjoy time with your family. With families comes kids, and with kids comes the fun! Goosewing Ranch has a great children’s program with lots of educational and entertaining activities.
We want the lil’ buckaroos on the ranch to have fun, and make lasting memories and friendships while experiencing ranching, western, and outdoor activities. We have different programs and activities for different age groups. Our kids program is designed for children ages 6 and up. We want to make sure everyone gets to try something new and experience life in western Wyoming style. All the activities are led by trained instructors.
A typical day in the Gros Ventre might consist first of the kids helping the wranglers groom and care for the horses, all while learning about horsemanship, saddling, and proper care. After tacking the horses, everyone will head out on the trail with picnic lunches in tow for a day of fun out in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, or Gros Ventre wilderness. Wranglers will lead different groups depending on ages and riding abilities. While out the groups will search for wildlife and make imprints of their tracks, learn about the local flora and fauna, and enjoy time playing trail games on the horses. Upon returning from their rides the kids can enjoy a swim in our outdoor heated pool and hot tub. After swimming there will be another scheduled activity. In true Wyoming spirit we have activities such as rifle shooting, archery, western arts and crafts, horse shoe tosses, water balloon tosses, and much more… After dinner and dessert kids can participate in a kickball game, line dancing, scavenger hunt, star gazing, fire building and roasting s’mores, or enjoy story telling about the local history, Yellowstone National Park, or mountain men, Native Americans, and cowboys. Each day there will be different rides and activities to choose from that will even keep teenagers entertained! Throughout their stay at the ranch the kids will enjoy lots of interaction with the horses and other ranch animals (steers, lambs, goats, chickens and a miniature donkey). Towards the end of the week there will be a day of wrangler and arena games where the kids can show off their roping, and riding skills in a mini rodeo. Certificates will be awarded to the cowboys and girls.
The goal of our kids program is to allow parents peace of mind knowing that their children of all ages are having fun in a safe and educational environment. We also want to provide experiences to the kids that they might not be able to get anywhere else. Hiking, horseback riding, swimming, making dream catchers, and learning different ways of having fun outdoors is just a small part of what we hope the buckaroos of all ages will enjoy. All activities are designed for family participation. Come and experience Goosewing Ranches western hospitality, and enjoy a vacation the whole family will love. Oh yeah…Mom and Dad, we have great activities for you as well… from fly fishing to relaxing at our spa, no one will be left out!

Moose in the Gros Ventre…

March 20, 2012/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News, Uncategorized /by [email protected]

As the winter is winding down and the locals in Jackson Hole are dreaming about their May vacations… the moose in the valley are still struggling to survive. Goosewing Ranch is home to all sorts of wildlife during the year and especially in the winter. We feel very special to be sharing our back yard with some of Wyoming’s most spectacular wildlife.

There is a lot said in the winter about wolves, and elk in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, but at Goosewing Ranch we think that our Wyoming moose are equally as important. Moose are sort of a gangly creature, but their design isn’t without purpose… Moose are designed to be able to move through deep marsh lands and snow packs. Moose will feed on such plants as willows, and at times consuming up to 40lbs of the fibrous branches daily. The males grow antlers called paddles, for their shape. They shed these antlers annually. Moose are typically solitary animals, but will at times be found in small groups during mating season, or when calving.

We are fortunate to have moose in the Gros Ventre. I think the best part about being in the Jackson Hole area in June is that the moose are calving. It is a special moment when you get to see a mother with her newborn calf standing underneath her. Remember that moose can move quickly and are very protective of the babies. Always give them plenty of space, and never allow your dog to chase or harass them. Like with most wildlife in this area winter takes a toll on the moose. They need to be left alone and not disturbed. It is very taxing on their bodies to be chased or pushed through the deep snow. The amount of energy and calories they burn during the winter can be the difference between life and death in the spring. Give them respect and space to ensure their survival. Remember to be kind to the wildlife and don’t poach the powder, so we can always enjoy the moose…

_________________________________________________________________________

Come share this corner of North America’s wildest country with us! At Goosewing Ranch, we combine the Wyoming wilderness ranching lifestyle with many of the modern refinements in life. It’s sure to be an amazing, memorable “Dude Ranch” vacation here in amazing Jackson Hole!

Connect with us at Goosewing Ranch!

Our Website – https://goosewingranch.com

Facebook Community – https://www.facebook.com/GoosewingRanch

Twitter Handle – https://twitter.com/goosewingranch

YouTube Videos – https://www.youtube.com/goosewingranch

Blog – https://ranchstyleliving.wordpress.com/

“As the gateway to the Yellowstone and Grand Teton Parks, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is the epicenter of guest-ranch vacationing in North America. If one acknowledges that this is the area that sets the standard, then the Goosewing Ranch sets the gold standard.”

100 Best Ranch Vacations In North America

About the author…Amy Worster

March 13, 2012/0 Comments/in Goosewing Ranch News, Uncategorized /by [email protected]

Our new website is live, the ranch is filling up, and my to do list is changing from winter projects to spring projects…so, I guess it is time for me to formally introduce myself. Howdy, I am Amy DeCarolis Worster…I am the one that has been sharing my thoughts, hints, and and stories about Goosewing Ranch and ranch life. I am also the General Manager for Goosewing Ranch.

I arrived in the Gros Ventre valley fresh out of college, and excited about a new beginning. What I didn’t know was that that new beginning would start with a 20 mile horse back ride to my new job as a wrangler. My truck broke down around lower Slide Lake, just out side the Grand Teton National Park boundary, and I did what any true cowgirl would do… No, I didn’t wave down the first passing vehicle; I unloaded my trusty horse, jumped on bareback and proceeded to my new job at Goosewing Ranch. Soon realizing that I should have looked at the map first…I didn’t realize that I was still about 20 miles from a hot shower, bed, and paycheck. Well, after riding by a few passing vehicles, and fighting off wild animals (just kidding) Sheela and I finally arrived at the most beautiful place in the West, Goosewing Ranch. I was greeted with some strange stares of fellow employees wondering if I rode this little mare all the way from Indiana. Now, Goosewing and the Jackson Hole area has become home for me and Sheela.

I have been with the ranch now for about 8 years, and have made not only lasting memories and friendships, but a life for myself that includes Goosewing Ranch. I married my best friend and partner in adventure last September on top of the mountain where we met 7 years ago, Monument Ridge. I truly enjoy showing off this beautiful area of Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton, Jackson Hole, and most of all the Bridger-Teton National forest and Gros Ventre Wilderness. I think there are times when I am more excited to show someone a spectacular mountain view on horseback than they are to see it. I am the proud momma of my four legged, pointy ear, dogs and horses, and couldn’t imagine life without them.

I hope that you will enjoy the information that will be shared, and find it helpful. Come visit the Ranch and let me show you, what I think, is the best of the West!

Great Vacation Specials…Something for Everyone!

March 7, 2012/1 Comment/in Goosewing Ranch News /by [email protected]

Its the lucky month of March and time to make those final plans for a summer vacation, and Goosewing Ranch has something to offer everyone… Jackson Hole is a spectacular place, and June is a great time of year to experience Wyoming. There is abundant wildlife, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are open, and the area is coming to life after a long winter season. We will give you more than a vacation, you will get an experience of a lifetime!

Celebrate Goosewing’s Opening (June 3 – 10): During the early part of June the Gros Ventre is full of life…Elk and Moose are calving, hawks and eagles are fishing in the open streams and lakes, bears are moving about, and Goosewing Ranch is OPEN!! Book your experience and vacation now for the week of June 3 – 10 and receive 40% OFF our peak season prices. While at the ranch you will be able to experience ranch life, ride horses, enjoy classic ranch dinning, and be able to help us give back to the Wyoming wilderness we love so much.

Photography and Wine Paring (June 10 – 17): When you are in an area as unique and beautiful as the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem it is key to capture your vacation on film. After a few days of photographing everything under the big Wyoming sky, there is no better way to relax than with wine that compliments good food. Book your stay at Goosewing Ranch from June 10 – 14 and receive insights from a Professional Photographer that we will have on hand. Enjoy all that the ranch has to offer while capturing your memories on film. Submit a few specified photos for the ranch to use to be entered into a contest; the winner will receive a FREE 3 night stay for 2 in 2013. Book your stay at Goosewing Ranch from June 14 – 17 and we will provide you with a trained somelier to share knowledge of paring food and wine. Enjoy great food, and great wine from us during cocktail hour and dinner. You can also book a complete week from June 10 – 17 and enjoy a full week of ranch livin’ and culture!

Family Reunions/Group Getaways (June 17 – 24): Summertime is family reunion time. Book your family reunion or group getaway with Goosewing Ranch the week of June 17 – 24 and receive a discounted group rate up to 40% OFF (depending on group size). Goosewing Ranch has various activities to offer even the most diverse group. The horseback riding in the Bridger-Teton National Forest and Gros Ventre wilderness is practically endless. We have Polaris rangers for those looking to explore, hike, fish, photograph, tube the river, or just cruise the back roads. Plus, we have lots of other activities to keep even teenagers busy…target shooting, dancing, arts and crafts, and much more. We didn’t forget about Mom either, we also have a spa, sauna, hot tube, and heated pool. A getaway experience that everyone will love and enjoy!

Bond with each other, bond with nature (June 24 – July 1): Calling all Mothers and daughters, Fathers and sons, its time to get back to what matters and enjoy the company of each other. Book your vacation with Goosewing Ranch for the week of June 24 – July 1 and receive either a FREE overnight pack trip and numerous outdoor excursions for the boys, or 2 FREE massages and 10% off our spa menu for the ladies. Can’t stay the entire week…book a 3 or 4 night stay and receive 10% off our spa menu. Couples and other travelers welcome to book.

Please call 1-888-733-5251 or 1-307-733-5251 for more details. Space is limited… call now to experience the vacation special you are sure to never forget…

Offer expires April 30, packages may be subject to change.

Unbreakable bond…Horses and Humans

March 2, 2012/0 Comments/in Uncategorized /by [email protected]

To many it might seem that skilled horseman (women) just jump on a horse, go, and make it look effortless…But there is an art to riding these magnificent creatures. Whether you are riding bareback in the Wyoming mountains, on a trail ride through Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Park, or galloping through the country side somewhere else, the bond between humans and horses is unbreakable!

Horseback riding isn’t about breaking the beast; it is about becoming a part of that animal, and working together. Riding a horse is like trying to communicate with someone when neither speaks the same language. You must overcome insecurities, boundaries, and give each other the respect deserved. When we speak of communicating with horses it isn’t in words. It is in body language, movement, and pressure. I find it absolutely amazing that these massive animals will let us on their backs. If you look at it from the horse’s perspective, we are predators, and they are the prey. Their natural instinct should be fight or flight when they see us approach, however, they are trusting, and forgiving animals.

It takes a lifetime to truly understand horses, one is never too old to learn from a horse, or become a better horseman. How do we get a 1000+ pound animal to do what we want? First of all, we are not teaching horses anything that they don’t already have the skill, and natural design to do. We are simply asking them to correctly use their body, and do a certain task when we ask. Horses respond to pressure, and reward. Ask a horse to move to the left by putting pressure on the right, and reward the movement be removing the pressure.

Horses and humans have been communicating, and working together for centuries. We both have evolved and adapted to one another. Life in Jackson Hole without horses would be no life for me. The bond between human and horse is strong. It has been said that the cowboy who didn’t cry at his friends funeral, wept when his horse passed away. Horses teach us more than we could ever teach them. Humans have tried to break the horses’ spirit, but horses have seen into our soul and strengthened our spirit.

Come form a lasting bond, and experience the spirit of the horse first hand at Goosewing Ranch. You’ll never forget your first horseback ride in the Gros Ventre!

_________________________________________________________________________

Come share this corner of North America’s wildest country with us! At Goosewing Ranch, we combine the Wyoming wilderness ranching lifestyle with many of the modern refinements in life. It’s sure to be an amazing, memorable “Dude Ranch” vacation here in amazing Jackson Hole!

Connect with us at Goosewing Ranch!

Our Website – https://goosewingranch.com

Facebook Community – https://www.facebook.com/GoosewingRanch

Twitter Handle – https://twitter.com/goosewingranch

YouTube Videos – https://www.youtube.com/goosewingranch

Blog – https://ranchstyleliving.wordpress.com/

“As the gateway to the Yellowstone and Grand Teton Parks, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is the epicenter of guest-ranch vacationing in North America. If one acknowledges that this is the area that sets the standard, then the Goosewing Ranch sets the gold standard.”

100 Best Ranch Vacations In North America

Posts

Three Reasons to Choose a Wyoming Vacation

Wyoming: Just the Facts

Three Reasons to Choose a Wyoming Vacation

1. National Parks

2. Jackson Hole

3. Goosewing Ranch

The Beginning of a Journey

Welcome Back!

Yew Haw… Horses have arrived…

Wildflowers, the best in Jackson Hole…

Ranch Activities for all Buckaroos’

Moose in the Gros Ventre…

About the author…Amy Worster

Great Vacation Specials…Something for Everyone!

Unbreakable bond…Horses and Humans

Contact us

Helpful resources

Follow us