A wide-brimmed hat shields your face and neck from the sun. The straw variety is most comfortable in summer. Planning makes good horse sense If you're seriously considering a ranch vacation this year, now is the time to start rounding up information. Most places operate under the American Plan, with lodging, all meals and activities included in the basic rate. Taxes and gratuities are usually extra.
Some ranches offer child care and organized children's programs.
The 26-page Old West Dude Ranch Vacations brochure lists packages for 64 ranches. Arizona Dude Ranch Association, P.O. Box 603, Cortaro, AZ 85652. Write for a brochure describing 12 ranches in the state. This town in central Texas Hill Country has eight major dude ranches. A directory lists 38 ranches.