Make a list of your answers and use it as you talk with the ranches that seem to interest you. Questions to ask yourself. This will determine which ranches are operating and open to guests. Due to snow conditions, northern ranches of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming and those at higher elevations, often open later in the spring than more southern ranches in Colorado or those at lower elevations. On the other hand, many Arizona ranches are open through the winter months but less active during the summer.
Some ranches are open all year but have different activities to fit the season.
The background for your fantasy may be the wide-open sagebrush country, the hills and cactus of the Southwest, or the lodgepole pine forests of the Rocky Mountain Region. It may also include a side trip to visit Aunt Marie or one of the marvelous national parks that are sprinkled throughout dude ranching country. While anyone can fit in at almost all ranches, you may have particular preferences. For example, if you have children or teens, you may want to select a ranch with organized activities for the kids. If you are a single, you may wish to locate a ranch that is more adult oriented.