Horseback riding, rodeos, rocky mountains, and rustic ranches: there’s plenty to be discovered in the American West. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or perhaps with a group of friends, this is the perfect place to have an authentic old-time American experience.

For the all-American trip of a lifetime, here are four tips for a ranch holiday in the western states of the USA.

1. Choose the kind of ranch you want to experience

Your ranch holiday can be as immersive as you wish it to be. Most holidaymakers seek an authentic experience of the Wild West, in which they stay on a working ranch to truly live like a cowboy. On a working ranch, you’ll become a part of the team, taking part in horse drives and cattle roundups as and when they happen. 

Life at a working ranch can be a little unpredictable, but that’s all a part of the charm and makes for a truly exciting experience. Just make sure that you’re willing to get stuck in and are eager to get a little messy if you’re looking to experience a genuine working ranch holiday.

For those after something a little more slow-paced, a guest ranch is the perfect choice. Here, you can kick back and enjoy each passing day exactly as you please. Whilst you’ll still have all the usual activities available, there may be extras that’ll appeal to people of all ages and abilities – as well as a few added amenities.

Want the respite of guest accommodation but with all the excitement of a working ranch? There are many locations that offer both experiences for a little taste of all that the American West has to offer.

2. Sample authentic Western food

Cookouts are part and parcel of a ranch holiday in the American West. Of course, they’ll consist of all your traditional favorites – steak, brisket, ribs, and cornbread – with a sweet apple pie to finish.

While the option is available, you don’t have to stick to the tried-and-true way of dining on your ranch holiday – particularly if you have dietary restrictions or are traveling as a family with a fussy eater on your hands.

In fact, you’ll find all sorts of delicious food options at ranches across Western America, from spicy eats to sweet treats, as well as world favorites and even some high-end five-star culinary experiences.

So, which foodie treats you choose to sample on your ranch holiday is really up to you – just make sure you try some of the locally sourced food for a true taste of this part of the country. Don’t fret, as you won’t be eating hardtacks and beans – you’re free to indulge in plenty of modern delights on your American ranch holiday.

3. Try a range of activities

While there will already be plenty of activities to partake in at your chosen ranch, there’s likely to be lots more to see in the area, too. On-site, you may have the opportunity to take a cooking class or to head out fishing or camping with other guests. Of course, there will be all the usual activities – likely plenty of horseback riding and social line dancing.

Outside of the ranch, you may want to head into the nearest local town or explore the natural surroundings – there are a great many scenic hikes you can take in the west. You could even opt to stay at a luxury ranch retreat to while away your days in a refreshing spa. The sheer number and variety of activities available on a ranch holiday really make for a well-rounded experience that’s perfect for all tastes and preferences.

4. Do plenty of prep for your trip

Ready to set out on your dream trip to the American West? Of course, there will be a few tricky decisions to make and practicalities to consider. For example, which activities are must-try bucket list experiences? Are you hoping for a calming holiday escape, or would you rather get stuck in and socialize with like-minded holidaymakers? These are all questions to ask yourself to ensure that you’re choosing the perfect ranch destination for your American holiday. 

Don’t forget to figure out a budget, pack the essentials, and create a detailed itinerary for your adventure. Usually, the staff on hand at your chosen ranch will have lots of recommendations and will be more than willing to offer advice so that you get the most out of your trip. Take the time to plan this big holiday escape from start to finish to ensure that you leave the American West having experienced all the great things that it has to offer eager adventurers.