With interest in the Old West as popular as ever, guest ranches are popping up all over the Midwest and western states.
The newer ranches are certainly nice and have a lot to offer, but no one can beat Eatons' Ranch in Wolf, Wyoming for authenticity or longevity. Opened in 1879, it's the oldest guest ranch in the U.S. and, once you visit, you'll want to make it an annual experience.
Eatons' Ranch, 270 Eaton Ranch Road, Wolf, Wyoming, 82844
The Eaton brothers originally opened their cattle and horse ranch in North Dakota.
On the advice of a friend when family and friends began staying for months at a time, the Eatons decided to charge for room and board.
By 1904, the Eaton brothers were looking for a new spread, one that would provide not only suitable land for ranching, but also a beautiful environment and better riding terrain for guests. The Wolf Creek area in the Big Horns near Sheridan, Wyoming was exactly what they were looking for.
Today, guests can stay in suites in the main ranch house or reserve any of the 47 available cabins of various sizes. Whether you choose a one, two, or three bedroom cabin, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Each cabin even includes a living room area and amenities such as refrigerators, coffee makers...
...and a front porch to get the relaxation started.
Eatons' is home to 220 horses, and guests are welcome to schedule riding time unescorted or accompanied by a guide.
Alternatively, you could always get in on a spirited polo match, Wyoming-style.
The ranch has its own rodeo grounds, too, perfect for watching or participating in some team roping.
Horse and ranch-centered activities aren't all there is to do at Eatons', however. An exercise room as well as a hot tub and swimming pool are available for guest use and there are a variety of other activities to participate in.
There's trap shooting, archery, massages, yoga, trail runs, overnight pack trips, and fishing at Wolf Creek or any of the other rivers and streams nearby.
Plus, there's a weekly barbecue down by the creek and a dance too.
Three hearty meals a day are served in the spacious western dining room.
The ranch is in a beautiful spot for those memorable events.
Whether you spend a long weekend or a month, you won't run out of things to do or tire of the gorgeous surroundings.
Have you spent time at Eatons? What did you enjoy most?
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