RanchSeeker Blog

A long held tradition, Valentine’s Day really needs no special introduction. The day has become annual holiday of sorts, making chocolates, the color red and roses, among the most common things one expects on this day. Hailing from the 18th Century, this special occasion has become one of the most celebrated days. Every year, millions of loving couples get together to express their love for each other in romantic ways.

The holiday has become so widespread that many businesses have started marketing special Valentine’s Day offerings which help make this day an extra bit special for all the couples out there. If you are wondering where to take your special someone, then the following Valentine’s Day Specials are definitely for you:

A Valentine’s Day Getaway

Valentine’s Day is all about grand gestures and getting away from the ordinary routine of your life. A lot of the time, busy couples in love are just looking to recapture the magic and idealistic aura of their romance. If you and your partner are facing the same dilemma, then plan a special Valentine’s weekend getaway. Spend some time with your lover in a romantic getaway with the help of a Valentine’s Day special offer through Chilcotin Holidays. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, couples can book a log cabin which not only embodies a special rustic aura but also gives you everything else you could need to make your day extraordinary. The Valentine’s package offers:

• A 3-day stay in a Honeymoon Cabin
• A complimentary fruit and wine basket
• Wilderness trails for hiking and a tour guide
• Horseback riding, skiing and snowshoeing

All these services and more will definitely give you the perfect weekend getaway for this Valentine’s Day. So, don’t be boring and express your love by pulling out all the stops.

If horse riding and trekking is not your cup of tea, then how about heading to The Ranch at Rock Creek. This lovely, picturesque ranch offers couples special Valentine’s treats. Their package offers:

• Skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Snowmobiling
• Sleigh rides
• Ice skating and more fun activites.

A Valentine’s Day Dinner

A Valentine’s Day dinner is a traditional part of any Valentine’s Day celebration and it’s important to put a little extra flair into it. However, how about skipping on making a home-cooked meal and going out to a special Valentine’s Day dinner? With so many Valentine’s Day Specials, you might be tempted to look around but why not try the annual Aphrodisiac wine-pairing dinner at the Red Reflet Guest Ranch this time around? The menu is comprised of 5 heavenly courses, featuring hors d’eouvres, beginnings, Intermezzo, Entrée and a dessert. Every dish in the menu is made from ingredients which are considered aphrodisiacs and each course is paired with a wine which highlights all the flavor profiles and the wonderful ingredients. You also have the freedom to choose from a pre-set menu so surprise your special someone with this wonderful Valentine’s Day Special.

A Valentine Adventure

Not every Valentine’s Day has to be about the usual lovey dovey stuff. The best part about Valentine’s Day is getting to spend the day with your special someone but you can also make sure you spend a memorable day together. After all, life is all about making enjoyable memories together. For adventurous couples who are always looking to try new things, this Valentine’s Day special can be just the thing. The Vista Verde Ranch offers trekking, horse riding, snow trekking and other outdoor activities in picturesque surroundings. Moreover, the ranch has a luxurious chateau located in the middle of the wilderness with quality wining and dining options available. Whether you want to trek around, have a custom adventure or just want to enjoy the woods, you can easily do so with the help of the Vista Verde Ranch package. Moreover, the best part about the ranch is that you really get to enjoy all-inclusive services which offer great value. It is Valentine’s Day paradise on a budget!

With the help of the Valentine’s Day specials mentioned above, you can easily make your Valentine’s Day special when you are going out with your special someone.

Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch – A Centuries Old Refuge for Today’s Man New Mexico was home to the famous Apache warrior Geronimo and the base of his operations during the 1800s. Outlaws like Billy the Kid and Butch Cassidy have equally added to the Black Range Mountains’ heritage, attracting people who later decide to stay after falling in love with the gentle terrain, open meadows, and groups of pines, cedars and junipers. Flaunting both the area’s history and beauty, Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch promises its guests a unique cowboy experience with a hint of Native American culture.

Exploring Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch Nestled beneath the Ponderosa pines at the top of the Black Range Mountains in New Mexico, this dude ranch offers to cut you off from the hustle and bustle of city life. The nearest stoplight is 85 miles away while phone coverage is 70 miles away. The ranch is also cut off the power grid, generating its electricity through solar arrays and standby generators. However, you won’t miss your busy life while at the ranch. In addition to a wide array of activities, you can enjoy the beauty and history of the area through cliff dwellings and rock wall writings. You’ll also love our stream fed wells, which allow you to experience a unique taste that is bound to bring you back every year. If you seek adventure and excitement at Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch, rest assured that you will get what you want. However, the guest ranch also offers you the chance to unwind at the nearby Riverbend Hot Springs. Located in the Historic Bath House District on the banks of the Rio Grande, the resort provides access to an underground volcanic lake that combines both healing minerals and salts. And in case you’re wondering, you won’t spend too much since the dude ranch will secure you a 10% discount at the resort.

Why Book Your Next Holiday at the Ranch  If you’ve been a fan of cowboys and Indians, you can explore the histories of both through Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch. In addition to getting the chance to hike through beautiful historic trails where the Apache warrior fought for his land, you can enjoy the following features which make the ranch worth visiting.

Flexibility of Deciding Your Schedule – There isn’t a one-plan-fits-all scheme at this dude ranch; simply tell the staff how you intend to spend your day. You can help the crew feed and care for the horses, improve your roping skills, or simply kick back and enjoy the serenity surrounding you.

Riding and Hiking Famous Trails – You can take one of the ranch’s trained horses or wear your hiking boots to explore the unspoiled trails of the area. Follow the trails famous outlaws once sought refuge in and get ready to admire miles of pine forests, deep canyons and lush meadows.

Well-Trained, Trustworthy Horses - Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch has gentle horses which adults and children alike can ride on to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. If you want, you can also watch the crew play rodeo games and learn how to twirl around a lariat rope.

Nearby Native Ruins – One of the attractions of the area is the Native ruins dating all the way to 750AD. These untouched historical monuments have been known to amaze visitors, at times even more than the canyons in which Geronimo sought shelter during his campaigns in the 1800s.

Comfortable Accommodation – From March 8^th to November 15^th, you can be the ranch’s guest for as low as $284 per night for double occupancy (5-7 night stay). The cabins are cozy thanks to fireplaces, queen-sized beds, bunk beds, and all the electronics you’ll need during your stay. However, what makes the cabins stand out is their Native American style or Cowboy motif. These will immerse you further in the area’s culture and bring out the cowboy within you.

Delicious Meals for Hearty Appetites – Whether you choose to enjoy your meals in the dining room or the ranch’s picnic tables, rest assured that you’re bound to surprise your palate with a range of flavors. From rib eye steaks to pork tenderloin and all the way to New Mexican scrambled eggs; you’ll discover firsthand why the ranch has been praised for its fine dining experience.

Fun for Wilderness Lovers – If you’re a fan of butterflies, birds, unique fish and proud wildlife, you’ll get to see all of these while staying at the ranch. You can introduce your little ones to different animals and birds they’d never see roam around freely in the city.

Nearby Attractions – Old Town, Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, the International Balloon Fiesta, Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House, and the Catwalk are some of the numerous attractions you can visit while staying at the ranch. These may connect you with civilization for a few hours until you return to the peace and quiet you initially sought at the ranch.

The Bottom Line Promising natural beauty, historic significance and the peace and quiet you seek during a vacation, Geronimo Trails Guest Ranch is one of the top dude ranches to book in New Mexico. So don’t wait long before booking your own cabin.

This summer beverage is the perfect balance between salty and sweet, bubbly and still. It's a favorite at The Ranch at Rock Creek where the Montana summers get quite dry and hot. On the ranch, guests often head to the Great Room around 6 o'clock to relax after a fun day of horseback riding, hiking or archery. The Ranch at Rock Creek is an all-inclusive luxury ranch resort offering a slice of raw western adventure paired with unprecedented comfort and amenities.  Try this at home when you feel a bit adventurous Ingredients: 1 orange slice 4 basil leaves 1 ½ oz. peach-infused bourbon Juice from half a lemon 2 oz. iced tea ¼ oz. agave nectar Instructions:

1. Fill a rocks glass with ice.
2. Muddle the orange slice and three basil leaves in your cocktail shaker.
3. Add peach-infused bourbon, lemon juice and iced tea.
4. Measure ¼ oz. agave nectar, or 1 ½ tsp.
5. Cover the shaker and give it a really good shake. Strain over ice and garnish with a basil leaf.

* To serve straight up, add ice to the glass and shaker. Toss the ice from the glass before you strain the cocktail.

A Specialist in Authentic Western Hospitality Since 1946

Awarded the title of Best of the West 2011 for Working Dude Ranches by Cowboys & Indians magazine, Flying E Ranch offers a relaxed setting where you and your family can truly unwind. Four miles west of Wickenburg, the ranch overlooks the Vulture Peak formation, which is famous for this historic Vulture Gold Mine nestled in it. It’s also a few hours from the Grand Canyon, Sedona and Las Vegas, ensuring something for everyone.

The History of Flying E Ranch

The original Flying E Ranch was established in 1946 when Lee Everly purchased 3,000 acres and built a lodge with eight guest rooms, a barn inspired by Oregon, and a 3,200 ft. airstrip. I 1952, the ranch ended up in the hands of George and Vi Wellik after they spotted the ranch from their private plane in 1949. However, despite dedicating ample time to the ranch, he stayed in Bellflower, California for his tire and land developing businesses. Ranch managers handled everything until 1960 when he, his wife and two children took full control of the ranch.

 George and Vi expanded the ranch by purchasing additional land and leases bringing its area up to 21,000 acres. However, George donated land to the town, prompting it to name its Municipal Airport of Wickenburg as Wellik Field in his memory. Many changes have taken place since then; the airstrip was transformed into a grass horse pasture while the ranch carried out cow/calf operations, gaining fame for its Angus and Barzona stock.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Flying E Ranch Like George and Vi

If you enjoy spending your vacations at dude ranches, Flying E Ranch should be one of your options. Here are some reasons why:  Classy Accommodation with a Hint of the West – The 2013 winner of Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence offers comfortable rooms that feature a western décor as well as numerous amenities such as wet bars, private baths, and electric heating and air conditioning. You can take your pick from any of the 15 rooms offered, each of which comes with a view of the lodge or heated pool. However, if you’re traveling with your family, you can opt for either the Wigwam Family House or Southwest Family House. Western Style, Hearty Meals – Western food lovers and fans of the traditional dude ranch dining style will enjoy their meals at the ranch. While breakfast is made to order, you can sink your teeth into a delicious buffet lunch on the patio. You’ll know when lunch is served when you hear the chow bell ringing. Meanwhile, dinner is served family style in Flying E’s comfy dining room. If you do get hungry in between, you can indulge in fresh fruit, cookies, candy, lemonade, and ice tea from the pantry.

Happy Hour at the Saloon – Flying E Ranch enjoys connecting guests and encouraging them to mingle in its authentic saloon. Between 5:30 and 6:30 pm, you can indulge in a variety of hors d’oeuvres and mixers to complement the beer you bring along. If you haven’t brought any beer on your trip, you can purchase a six pack from Safeway and Bashas stores in Wickenburg.

Wide Range of Fun Activities – There’s never a boring minute at the ranch. When you’re not enjoying Flying E’s traditional western cuisine or interacting with other guests, you can try any of the activities offered. For example, you can join the two-hour horseback rides offered for beginners, intermediate and advanced riders. You can also go hiking or bird watching up Vulture Peak with the help of our professionals or simply soak your stress away at our heated pool or Jacuzzi.

Variety of Ranch Events – The dude ranch is constantly bustling with one event or the other. For the 204-2015 season, you can be part of the Ranch Christmas, cowboy and casino-themed New Year’s Eve, and Annual I Wanna Be a Cowgirl Weekend among other events. You can check the calendar at http://www.flyingeranch.com/events.

The Bottom Line

Flying E Ranch surely has something for everyone. So don’t just read about what you can do there; book your stay at the ranch to truly enjoy the life, comfort and hospitality the west is most famous for.

Christmas cookie making is here again. Add these delectable frosted cookie bars for your cookie repertoire and you won't be disappointed. A buttery flaky crust with gooey chocolate chip flecked filling topped with creamy frosting. Can we say heavenly!! We must thank the folks over at Red Horse Mountain Ranch for the recipe. Crust Flour 1 cup Sugar ¼ cup Butter ½ cup

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl cut butter into flour and sugar until crumbly.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a parchment paper-lined 9”x13” pan. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Filling Graham cracker crumbs 1 cup Baking powder 1 tsp Salt ¼ tsp Chocolate chips ¾ cup Sweetened condensed milk 14 oz can

1. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
2. Spread over baked crust and bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown. Cool completely.

Icing Butter ½ cup Powdered sugar 1 ½ cups Vanilla 1 tsp

1. Blend all ingredients until creamy.
2. Spread over cooled bars.

Cut into 36 bars and enjoy

The Ranch at Rock Creek combines modern  luxuries with rustic ranch living and their Granite Lodge is where all the activity begins. Inside the Granite Lodge is the Great room, dining room, Silver Dollar Saloon, the Granite Spa, outdoor pool with patio, jacuzzi and  Mercantile. Executive Josh Drage serves up world class cuisine featuring Montana raised beef, lamb and chicken accompanied by local organic produce. This Beet Salad is an example of the caliber of dining you can expect at the Ranch at Rock Creek.

Ingredients

6 medium-large beets
1 lemon
1 orange
3 twigs of thyme
olive oil
 sea salt
1 bunch of watercress
1 small bunch of parsley
1 kumquat Marcona almonds to taste
1/2 cup goat cheese
1 cup olive oil fresh mint
1/2 cup white balsamic
salt and pepper  

Directions

1. Trim and clean the ends of the beets and place on a long piece of aluninum foil.
2. Halve the orange and lemon and place on beets along wiht a dash of olive oil and fresh sprigs of thyme
3. Fold foil over and fold again on edges to create a sealed package. Roast in a 400F oven for an hour. The foil will puff to create a pillow shape
4. Remove from the oven and let rest for an hour without puncturing the foil
5. In a blender, add the goat cheese, mint, white balsamic, salt and pepper. Turn blender on and add olive oil by drizzling it through the top of the blender until fully mixed
6. Remove beets from the foil and trim tops and bottoms again. Peel off skin with a paring knife and quarter.
7. Trim the watercress and slice the kumquat removing any seeds. Pick the parsley.
8. To serve, place a small puddle of vinaigrette in the center of the plate and build the salad on it.
9. Garnish with the almonds, white anchovy and parsley

The Creek Beet Salad

With the cold weather comes the crock pot. Here is a recipe from the folks at Sugar & Spice Ranch that will warm your tummies in the Winter. Here's a great recipe for Pasta Fagioli that is bound to be a hit with your family. It feeds a crowd so you can freeze the rest or make it for party.

Ingredients:

2 lbs. of ground beef
1 onion, chopped
3 carrots, chopped
4 stalks of celery, chopped
2 (28 ounce) cans diced tomato's, undrained
1 (16 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (16 ounce) can white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
3 (10 ounce) cans of beef stock
3 tsp. oregano
2 tsp. pepper
5 tsp. parsley
1 tsp. tabasco sauce (optional)
1 (20 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
8 ounces of pasta

Directions:

1. Brown the beef and drain the fat and then put into crock pot with all other ingredients except the pasta.
2. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on High for 4-5 hours. Add the pasta 30 minutes before eating.
3. Serve with crusty warm bread!!! Note: if you do not have a large crock pot, cut the recipe in half.

Note: Pasta Fagioli also freezes wonderfully, so you can make a big batch and freeze the rest!!! Enjoy everyone.

The Ranch at Rock Creek is nothing short of exceptional in every way. From the spectacular Montana mountains that surround the ranch, to the luxurious accommodations and fine dining prepared by their in house chef - every element of The Ranch at Rock Creek experience has been carefully considered to exceed guest expectations.

Many guests choose Rock Creek because they have always dreamed of trail riding in the Montana mountains. Some come to experience the soul soothing treatments and tranquility offered at the Granite Spa. Others are keen to participate in the many other outdoor adventures available nearby, such as hiking, mountain biking and wildlife viewing. The Ranch at Rock Creek is an experience that leaves almost every guest who visits, with a longing to return. It is an amazing place to relax, refresh or awaken your senses.

Depending on whether you are a solo traveller, a romantic couple seeking a getaway, or family and friends getting together - Rock Creek can cater to your every need. With accommodations that range from ‘glamping’, to large, spacious log homes and even a historic, restored barn - Rock Creek provides luxury, with a rustic setting. Each style of accommodation provides incredible views, privacy and the modern amenities needed to feel at home.

Rock Creek always has something extra special prepared for the most adventurous of their guests, the children! The “Little Grizzlies Kids Club” offers daily activities designed to help kids learn about the natural Montana surroundings, while having fun. Rivers and Ponds, Cowboys and Horses and Plants and Rocks are the themes and topics they cover. Give yourself time to explore, or relax, while the trained staff at Rock Creek take care to teach your children through games, crafts, and outdoor activities. The meals prepared at Rock Creek are renowned as world class. Influenced by seasonal produce, locally sourced meats, and organically grown vegetable and herbs, the expert culinary team prepare not only dining room meals that impress, but also weekly special event dining and off ranch excursion picnic lunches. When the day is done, many guests enjoy getting together at the Silver Dollar Saloon to share a drink, or a story of their day’s adventure. It’s the perfect way to unwind, and forge new friendships in a relaxed atmosphere. The combination of natural beauty with the exquisite destination of The Ranch at Rock Creek, is the perfect solution to a well deserved vacation.

This fall, Rock Creek is welcoming guests to join them in celebrating Thanksgiving November 26-30, 2014 with a bountiful selection of well prepared dishes by Chef Josh Drage that will without a doubt be a culinary delight. For a truly unforgettable gathering with friends or family, plan to celebrate Thanksgiving weekend together, enjoying the unparalleled comfort of the accommodations, the rejuvenating treatments at the Granite Spa and special seasonal activities that make Rock Creek an outstanding destination.  The Ranch at Rock Creek is an extraordinary place to visit that will not be soon forgotten. Plan to celebrate the Thanksgiving holidays now by reserving your space for their special promotion.

Imagine a place of balance between natural beauty, and luxury. A place where there is no sacrifice to their high standards of care, or to the surrounding environment. Echo Valley Ranch & Spa is a unique, eco-friendly ranch destination that offers world class accommodations, an incredible spa, and trail riding and outdoor experiences that are unforgettable. It is the perfect oasis for time to yourself, or to share with family and friends. 

Located in beautiful British Columbia, Echo Valley is surrounded by mountains, valleys, forests and streams. If you choose to just sit on the deck and breath it all in, you can’t help but feel the tranquility begin to take its place within your soul.

With over 40 head of horses, and wranglers that are committed to the enjoyment and safe riding of every guest at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa, riding the trails is an experience you won’t want to miss. Other adventures that are available to satisfy even the most insatiable of outdoor enthusiasts are fly fishing, mountain biking, hiking and paddling.

The cool, crisp Autumn air can work up quite an appetite. Healthy and hearty meals are prepared fresh each day for guests to enjoy family style. You’ll even get to observe meals being prepared by the in-house chef in their open kitchen, using many ingredients grown on the premises. Organic, nutritious and delicious are how best to describe the wonderful tastes and flavors you will experience at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa. The spa at Echo Valley is an experience all of its own. Treatments that are a blend of classic Western, with Eastern Thai, create a balanced and relaxed atmosphere. For a one of a kind resheshment for your body and soul, plan to participate in their early morning Thai yoga and other activities, provide your body with exactly the types of nurturing and pampering it deserves.

This Thanksgiving, Echo Valley Ranch & Spa is preparing to share all of their outstanding services with visitors, plus host a Thanksgiving feast at discounted rates. The popularity of this BC ranch means that this offer will quite possibly sell out, so contact them right away to save your spot to enjoy an unforgettable Thanksgiving weekend. For anyone that has never taken a ranch vacation, a visit to Echo Valley Ranch & Spa will confirm how wonderful it can be, and how relaxed you will feel when your stay is through. It will without a doubt be a destination you will want to return to again and again, to refresh your body and mind, and surround yourself with the splendor of BC’s natural beauty. Contact Echo Valley today to take advantage of their Thanksgiving weekend promotion, or to reserve time soon for yourself or your family to reconnect, refresh, and revive your spirit with fine foods, extraordinary activities and an spa that is world class.

Echo Valley Ranch & Spa is a destination that will provide you luxury, in a natural setting that is eco-friendly, and inviting. With stunning accommodations and all you could ask for to fill your days, the only decision left to make is when you want to arrive!

If autumn brings to mind images of vivid color displays of leaves turning, cozy cool evenings perfect for fireside conversations, and a delicious harvest supper of turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie - then you are probably thinking of a vacation to enjoy all of this with your family and friends. If you want all of this, plus spectacular trail riding, comfortable accommodations, and unparalleled hospitality, then you might be thinking of Big Bar Ranch.

Located in a picturesque territory of the Southern Cariboo in Clinton, British Columbia, this old fashioned guest ranch is a welcoming step back into a quieter, simply time. Days at Big Bar are filled with fresh air, open trail rides through grassy meadows and rolling hills, and hearty meals to enjoy. Enjoy some of the many other activities, or choose to just relax in your comfortable cabin or other on-site accommodation.

During this Thanksgiving Season, Big Bar is offering a special promotion that is hard to resist. After a beautiful ride to take in all the glory of the fall colors, return back to the ranch for a refreshing drink, a cozy fire and maybe even a s'more or two. On Sunday, a special ‘Poker Ride’ is in store, with a chance to win an all inclusive 2 night stay for 2 at the Cowboy’s Inn. To truly celebrate the season, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner will be served on Sunday, including Turkey, with all the fixins’ and of course, pumpkin pie for dessert. All of this is offered at a discount rate of 15% off regular adult rates. Reservations are limited, so to take advantage of this promotion, contact the ranch soon! At Big Bar, they are famous for their hospitality, and commitment to ensuring each guest is comfortable, and fully enjoys their stay. If you have never been on horseback back before, they will be sure to introduce you to this new experience gently, and safely. Group rides are divided into skill levels to be sure everyone gets to truly enjoy their time spent riding.

Another way the folks at Big Bar take care of their guests, is by selecting healthy, hearty foods to serve at meals. Special dietary restrictions can be catered to with advance notice. Guests always enjoy the shared conversations to start or end the day in the dining area and Harrison House Lodge. The lodge is a log home where guests can relax and unwind, as well as share stories of their day, and build friendships with other guests.

Although Big Bar Ranch is not designed as a luxury resort, you will certainly be surrounded by the beauty of the area, comfortable accommodations, exceptional trail riding and personal attention to your comfort. Your stay will feel like five star! There is nothing more relaxing than breathing in that fresh autumn air, admiring the views and trail riding on a horse perfectly suited for you. Big Bar is a wonderful, relaxing place to enjoy fall. Don’t wait or you might miss your chance to take advantage of their Thanksgiving promotion, so book your stay today!