We had always talked about wanting to go to a 'dude ranch' to experience the West but never did anything about it. We chose the Covered Wagon Ranch based upon numerous positive reviews, watching the video many times and reading all about CWR. This was the best decision we made and best vacation we have ever had! We didn't know what to expect, but we were very impressed. Upon our arrival, we were given a tour of the ranch. The meals were expertly prepared, presented and seasoned. We sat around the campfire at night and listened to music. Sawyer, the owners' 3 year old son, even played his guitar and sang!
There were graham crackers, marshmallows and chocolate in individual bags so we could make s'mores, but we never did because we were too full from the evening meal! The entire staff made us feel very welcome. The mattress was very, very comfortable. We were in cabin #9 - the Sunken Forest cabin, which had a claw foot tub. The scenery was absolutely beautiful; the mares and foals had just returned from summer pasture and were roaming around the ranch. Several grazed in front of our cabin. We went on 4 rides--2 morning and 2 afternoon rides. The wranglers were very helpful and knowledgeable. We hiked on a trail behind the corral. The farriers were at the ranch re-shoeing the horses and mules, so we enjoyed watching them work. We shopped in their gift shop and bought a cute horsehair bracelet and a book. The rodeo at West Yellowstone was fun to watch. There is an album on the coffee table in the Lodge with a picture of each horse and a description of that horse. That was fun to look at again and again. We loved seeing the cats, dogs and pig roam around the ranch. We definitely plan to return to the CWR...that's how special a time we had there. Don't pass up an opportunity to stay there and experience their hospitality. Thanks for such wonderful memories! Steve and Carol McPike (South Carolina)