It is almost 2013 at our Wyoming dude ranch and we are under a (very thin) blanket of snow. It is always this time of year that lends itself to reflection and appreciation of the year just passed.
2012 marked our 25th anniversary and we celebrated all summer long. Each one of our 18 weeks of operation was packed with ways to enjoy our surroundings and enhance the western experience for our guests. We had fly casting clinics and personalized fishing instruction on our river with James Lee, our usual horseback rides to Lucy Hill for burgers made by Andrew, family photos taken by Neal and evening entertainment provided by the Linford’s, a brother-sister duo, and by Joel, a veteran Cowboy. In addition, we offered informational programs with Marilyn describing the majesty of Grizzly and Black Bears, guided nature hikes with Jason exploring the flora and fauna specific to Wyoming, an abundance of horseback rides with Kaki, Tess, Alex and Gerad, great food provided by Lisa and Becky and of course, treasured moments on the porch just connecting with our guests. As always, our team penning and team sorting events left us with many great stories to tell around the campfire. Our guests that braved an early morning wake up call to ride in sometimes frigid degrees in hopes of finding wildlife gave us a great reason to make sure the campfire was roaring when they arrived beside the river for a hot breakfast. For many, it was a vacation full of activity. For others, it was a quiet hammock with a good book, a scenic drive through Yellowstone, or a nap in the sun beside the river.
We were blessed with another summer of terrific young men and woman who chose to spend their summer working on the ranch. Most moved on after the season, seeking to further their education, accept new jobs that will challenge and inspire them, and for two brave souls, join our Armed forces (Army and Navy, respectively). A small few decided to see what a winter in Jackson Hole was like and are now living in town, enjoying the snow and a winter season at 7,000 feet.
As for the Weber and McGough families, we are all feeling nostalgic as one more season has passed and another awaits us. As we spend the holidays together at our Wyoming dude ranch, we can’t help but feel the energy of this special place and recognize the importance of what the Gros Ventre River Ranch means to us, as well as to those that have made the ranch their vacation destination. It is our wish that all of you who have come through our gates get that little flutter in your chest telling you that there is something special about this place called Jackson Hole. Maybe it’s the horses. Maybe it’s the Eagle flying overhead. Maybe it’s the simple, relaxed pace of Western living. Whatever it is that gives you that flutter, embrace it. Carry it with you. Share it with others. And we will do our very best to insure that we continue to provide all of you with a place that fosters feelings of togetherness, friendship, adventure and inspiration.
From our home to yours, Happy Trails…
Tori and Sean McGough, Halie, Braidyn and Brooke
Tina and Karl Weber
Izzy, Snip, Wyatt, Cody, Sofie, Ash, Pumpkin, Bear and Parrot, too!
One of our last 2012 sunsets at our Wyoming dude ranch
