Top Western Ranches in the United States
Top Western Ranches in the United States
Deeply rooted in American history the ranch lifestyle remains timeless. Why is that?
It provides an escape from the stresses of city life and modern living. The simplicity of
rural life is craved and healing for the soul. The peaceful slower pace of being on the
ranch takes us back to simpler times and allows us to dream again. The allure of riding
in the saddle next to your partner or sitting at the campfire with the family provides a
romance that cannot be found on a phone or computer. If you are looking for this kind of
escape here are some of my favorites.
1) Chief Joseph Ranch (Darby, MT)
Yes, this is the ranch the popular television series Yellowstone takes place.
- The ranch was homesteaded in the 1880 by the Shelton family. The current
owner purchased the ranch in the 1950s. Making the ranch filled with lots of
character and history.
- You may only tour the ranch with a cabin reservation. Cabin reservations are a 3
night minimum. Consisting of a two lodging options both consisting of wood floors
and log cabin exterior & interior, preserving the rustic charm.
- Reservations for 2025 are full, but 2026 reservations will soon open.
2) King Ranch (Kingsville, TX)
- King Ranch is a property of 825,000 acres.
King Ranch offers tours which cater to a person’s particular interest.
Examples Include:
Cattle/horse Operations
Farming
Feedlot/feed mill Operations
Additional Tours Include:
Daily Ranch Tours
Nature Tours (overnight stay options available) King Ranch values wildlife
preservation.
Motor Coach Tours
- King Ranch also has a museum featuring the Ranch’s quarter horses. Hours of
operation are Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. close.
3) Alisal Ranch (Solvang, CA)
- Alisal Ranch is a 10,500 acre property with an incredible number of experiences
to offer for every person in the family ranging from spa activities, cookie
decorating, horseback rides, fishing trips, golfing, petting zoo fun, etc. If you have
family with young children, this is the place I recommend.
- Ranch-style dinning is offered on the property with several different restaurant
style options from bars to grills.
- The ranch offers several staying accommodations to best suit your traveling
crew. The lodging is designed with Western vision and a lavish flair.
If you are looking for an experience to remember and sooth the sole, put on your boots
and jeans and saddle up. Connect with nature in the peace and quiet of open land.
Recharge your sense of freedom and independence while enjoying the simplicity of a
Ranch. Tell stories with and get closer to those who join you on this adventure. Life is
fleeting, so on you go, giddy up!
- Written by Annabelle Astleford (@annabelle.jadee)