Fall brings cooler temperatures and the end of monsoon season to Arizona, while winter is a time for sunny celebration. Along with the seasonal changes comes the annual opening of True Ranch Collection’s Kay El Bar Ranch, with its large adobe lodge set among saguaro cactuses and slot canyons outside Wickenburg, and Rancho de la Osa, in the high-desert grasslands south of Tucson, which offer getaways filled with history and adventure October through May. And open year-round are Tombstone Monument Ranch & Cattle Co., outside the iconic Western town it shares a name with, and White Stallion Ranch, bordering Saguaro National Park outside Tucson.
“Fall through winter is a wonderful time for an Arizona ranch visit,” said Jaye Wells, Managing Partner of True Ranch Collection. “Outdoor activities like horseback riding and hiking become more enjoyable as the Southern Arizona desert cools off. And when cold and snow arrive up north, our winter sun offers a warm escape. We can even be a holiday getaway – let us take care of all the decorations, meals and dishes while you enjoy an authentic western experience and each other’s company.”
True Ranch Collection’s Arizona ranches include:
Kay El Bar Guest Ranch: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Kay El Bar Ranch opened to guests over 100 years ago in what was once known as the “Dude Ranching Capital of the World.” Today, explore the cactuses and canyons, sandy washes and rocky ridges of the Sonoran Desert and the Hassayampa River, then relax with a swim in the pool or a cold drink in the adobe lodge.
Rancho de la Osa: Rancho de la Osa is rich in history and Southwestern charm. It’s home to the oldest continually used building in the state, built in 1722 by Jesuit missionaries, and has also hosted John Wayne, Joan Crawford, President Lyndon B. Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson, and others. Ride in the desert grasslands, hike or watch for birds in the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, and rest in the same accommodations where notable guests stayed.
Tombstone Monument Ranch & Cattle Co.: With the Tombstone Monument Ranch built in the image of an Old West town, stay in the Grand Hotel, the Blacksmith’s, the Marshal’s Office or even the Jail, eat at Schieffelin’s Restaurant, and enjoy entertainment and cards in the Old Trappman Saloon. Ride past Native American petroglyphs, abandoned railroad trestles and forgotten mines, or check on the ranch’s Criollo cattle.
White Stallion Ranch: Make memories with family and friends while staying amid the towering cactuses, unspoiled desert and rugged mountains adjacent to Saguaro National Park at the White Stallion Ranch. In addition to classic dude ranch activities, take in cowboy singing, line dancing, trick roping and a weekly rodeo, try rock climbing and fat-tire e-biking, and rejuvenate in the spa.
Late fall and winter promotions at True Ranch Collection’s Arizona ranches include the December Special (Dec. 1-18, 2024) and New Year’s Resolution Special (Jan. 2-11, 2025), which start at $963 per person based on double occupancy for four nights.