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Three Reasons to Choose a Wyoming Vacation

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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.

A Wyoming vacation wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Grand Teton National Park to see the Grand Tetons.

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. 

The Grand Prismatic Spring at Yellowstone is one of many reasons to travel to Wyoming this year.

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 antler arches in Jackson's Town Square are a sight to behold on a Wyoming vacation.

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

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 our dude ranch, this is the trifecta of reasons to try a Wyoming vacation. #Wyoming #thatsWY #vacation #duderanch #nationalparks

Why You Should Plan a Goosewing Ranch Vacation in June

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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.

Moose Jackson Hole wildlife

 

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!

 

Goosewing Ranch Pack Trip in the autumn just outside of Jackson Hole Wyoming.

Autumn in Jackson Hole

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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!

 

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

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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.

Ranch Activities for all Buckaroos’

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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…

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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…

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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

Great Vacation Specials…Something for Everyone!

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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.

Contact us

Physical: 24400 East Cottonwood Creek Road
Kelly, Wyoming 83011
Mailing: P.O. Box 12649
Jackson, WY 83002

Email: [email protected]
Toll Free: (USA) 888-733-5251
Outside the US: 307-733-5251

We are an equal opportunity provider
Permittee of the Bridger-Teton National Forest

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