Not everyone's idea of a California vacation is Disneyland, hot beaches or visiting Hollywood. Some people wish to take advantage of the wide-open spaces in this populous state and get away from the rigors of everyday life. For them, there are places that will suit their needs and make them feel at home on the range. Scattered about the Golden State there are several ranch vacation spots that offer a different side of California.
Ricochet Ridge Ranch
Located on the coast of Mendocino County in northern California, the Ricochet Ridge Ranch offers a place for city folks to enjoy the isolated part of this region. Ride atop appaloosas and quarter horses through rugged trails and along the cliffs overlooking the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean below. Wander the deserted beaches and take time to relax and enjoy nature. Lodging is available just down the road from the ranch in the Hill House Inn, where guests can relax in luxurious accommodations before saddling up at the stables and heading out for one of many trail rides during the stay. Adventures through Jackson State Forest, trotting along the Noyo River and Indian Springs Trail, are all a part of a typical vacation at the ranch.
Marble Mountain
In Siskiyou County in the Shasta Cascade region of northern California, the Marble Mountain Dude Ranch is the ideal spot to vacation if you've been longing to play cowboy. This western cowboy theme ranch lets you enjoy professionally conduct trail rides throughout your stay as you venture into the Marble Mountain wilderness. Horseback riding is merely the tip of the iceberg. Guests stay in private cottages and have the option to take part in any of a number of thrilling outdoor activities while onsite. White water rafting along the Klamath Rover, shooting sporting clays, kayaking, hay rides, campfire songs, fly fishing for steelhead, swimming and much more await those who wish to cowboy up and head to the California-Oregon state line for an adventure at this scenic locale.
Warner Springs
With Los Angeles just two hours to the west, it is hard to believe the unspoiled open range guests find at Warner Springs Ranch. This ranch and resort offers miles of riding and walking trails as well as more modern facilities that include a full service spa, an 18-hole golf course, aerobics center and three oversized pools. This relaxing destination is complete with 240 cottages that typically feature fireplaces, refrigerators and many of the comforts of home. Roughing it at Warner Springs isn't actually roughing it at all. Those who are skeptical about a ranch vacation and are used to luxury hotels should give it a try and experience the best of both worlds.
Tags: Marble Mountain, Warner Springs, California Ricochet, California Ricochet Ridge, northern California