Dude Ranch Foundation

Exhibit Grand Opening: The Wrangle

Torey — Mon, 11 May 2026 20:40:06 +0000

JOIN US FOR THE GRAND OPENING

JUNE 4, 2026 | 4 – 6 PM

Join the Dude Ranch Foundation for the grand opening reception of The Wrangle: 100 Years of Dude Ranching, 1926–2026, a remarkable photography exhibit by Scott T. Baxter celebrating the people, landscapes, and enduring traditions that define the dude ranching industry.

Created in honor of the centennial of dude ranching, The Wrangle documents historic ranches across the American West through powerful imagery and storytelling. Over the course of the project, Baxter traveled thousands of miles to capture the spirit, heritage, and daily life of ranches that continue to preserve this uniquely American tradition.

Opening Reception Elevated by Thrivent “Where Money Means More”

Thrivent – Western Rivers Financial Group

Guests are invited to enjoy an evening of western history, photography, and community as we officially open this special exhibit at the Dude Ranch Museum.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM MDT
Location: Dude Ranch Museum

We hope you will join us in celebrating 100 years of dude ranching and the opening of this extraordinary exhibit.

JOIN US FOR
THE GRAND OPENING

JUNE 4, 2026 | 4 – 6 PM

Opening Reception Elevated by Thrivent “Where Money Means More”

Thrivent – Western Rivers Financial Group

Guests are invited to enjoy an evening of western history, photography, and community as we officially open this special exhibit at the Dude Ranch Museum.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM MDT
Location: Dude Ranch Museum

We hope you will join us in celebrating 100 years of dude ranching and the opening of this extraordinary exhibit.

ABOUT THE EXHIBIT

On many dude ranches in the small hours of the morning, horses are gathered from their pastures and driven to ranch headquarters during a daily ritual often called “The Wrangle.” Ranch guests gather to listen to pounding hooves as their vacation companions arrive to the ranch for the day’s activities, repeating a tradition that has been in existence for decades.

This selection of images by Scott T. Baxter captures the landscapes and people of historic dude ranches that have existed for a century or longer.

For additional information about the exhibit, visit:
The Wrangle: 100 Years of Dude Ranching, 1926–2026

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New Exhibit: The Wrangle

Torey — Mon, 11 May 2026 19:10:41 +0000

ABOUT THE EXHIBIT

On many dude ranches in the small hours of the morning, horses are gathered from their pastures and driven to ranch headquarters during a daily ritual often called “The Wrangle.” Ranch guests gather to listen to pounding hooves as their vacation companions arrive for the day’s activities, repeating a tradition that has existed for decades.

“The Wrangle,” produced by Ranch Preservation Foundation, features a selection of images by Scott T. Baxter that capture the landscapes and people of historic dude ranches that have existed for a century or longer and continue to carry on these traditions today.

Created in celebration of 100 years of dude ranching alongside the Dude Ranchers’ Association, Baxter traveled more than 20,000 miles across the American West to photograph the ranches that have been part of the industry since its earliest days. The exhibit serves as a companion to his book, 100 Years of Dude Ranching, offering a visual journey through the history, heritage, and enduring spirit of the American dude ranch.

“The Wrangle” will be on display at the Dude Ranch Museum from June 4–September 27, 2026.

Learn more at Ranch Preservation Foundation

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A Student’s Story: Josie Meyring

Torey — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 18:00:06 +0000

A Student’s Story: Josie Meyring

A DRF scholarship recipient shares her experience at Cal Poly

Josie Meyring, Dude Ranch Foundation Scholarship Recipient and Cal Poly Rodeo Team member

Hear from a scholarship recipient: Josie Meyring shares how support from the Dude Ranch Foundation has helped her pursue her education while staying connected to the western way of life.

Moving from Colorado to attend college in California was a big step for me, and has come with many challenges, but my experience at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) has been one of growth, opportunity, and connection. Growing up cattle ranching in Colorado taught me the value of agriculture and hard work, and it’s been a great experience for me to learn about the different kinds of agriculture in California.

Josie, Meyring on the Cal Poly Rodeo Team

One of the most meaningful parts of my college experience has been being a member of the Cal Poly Rodeo Team. Through the team, I’ve met incredible people who share my passion and work ethic. The connections I’ve built with teammates and coaches have given me opportunities and are opening doors for me in and beyond rodeo.

Serving on the rodeo officer team has been especially impactful. Taking on a leadership role has strengthened my communication, organization, and decision-making skills. Being part of the leadership team has shown me the value of responsibility and teamwork, and it has helped me grow into a more confident leader, while promoting the western way of life.

Josie, Meyring on the Cal Poly Rodeo Team

While moving out of state has expanded my horizons, it has come with increased costs associated with non-resident tuition and living expenses. Additionally, there are ongoing expenses related to transporting, housing, and maintaining my horses during the academic year. I am extremely grateful for The Dude Ranch Foundation and other organizations that have supported me financially to make it possible for me to continue and focus on my studies.

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The Dude-Halloo Ranch Edition, February 2026

Torey — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:03:51 +0000

Josie Hedderman, Executive Director of the Dude Ranch Foundation

Last week in Montana, our Centennial Convention reminded us how fortunate we are to ride alongside people who embody the true grit, generosity, and enduring spirit of the American West. Celebrating 100 years of the Dude Ranchers’ Association gave us space to reflect on how dude ranching became one of the most enduring and meaningful contributions to American tourism, opening the West to the world in a way that transcends any single ranch or generation.

A true highlight was the world premiere of Call of the West. Emmy Award–winning filmmaker Mat Hames of Alpheus Media captured the heart of our industry with remarkable depth and beauty. This project came to life through the big-picture leadership and determination of Wyoming PBS CEO Joanna Kail. Be sure to catch the digital premiere on the Wyoming PBS YouTube channel on February 19.

Attendees enjoyed a preview of framed images from the centennial hardcover book 100 Years of Dude Ranching, offering a glimpse of the traveling photography exhibition headed to Arizona this spring, with a special opening planned in Cody, Wyoming, in May. Celebrating a century of Western hospitality, the book features Scott T. Baxter’s powerful photography documenting 26 centennial ranches with remarkable honesty and beauty. We are deeply honored that the Dude Ranch Foundation is a beneficiary of this extraordinary project.

Our horse safety seminar, now in its second year under the new format, was another standout, featuring respected industry experts Cheri Amos-Helmicki (Bar Lazy J), Ami Cullen (C Lazy U Ranch), Ryan Eckerson (Totalis Programs), Will Ferguson (Eatons’ Ranch), and Russell True (White Stallion Ranch). Panelists led a robust discussion on horse handling, accident prevention, site safety, equipment checks, and adaptive first aid for the trail.

We were proud to hear from our sponsored speaker, Joe Pokay of the Noble Research Institute, who shared valuable insights on regenerative grazing and its benefits for working ranches.

With gratitude for all who made this gathering so meaningful, we look ahead with excitement to 2026 as we step confidently into the next century of dude ranching.

Ride with Us!

Josie Hedderman

Executive Director
Dude Ranch Foundation

Call of the West:

A Powerful Tool for Promoting Dude Ranching

A film by Mat Hames

The West has always been more than a destination. It is a way of life shaped by land stewardship, horsemanship, hospitality, and generations of families who continue to carry these traditions forward.

Call of the West, a new documentary from Wyoming PBS, offers a rare opportunity to showcase our industry to a broader audience. Spanning Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, and Arizona, the film highlights resilience, multi-generational commitment, and the values that define working dude ranches.

Created by filmmaker Mat Hames and his team at Alpheus Media, the documentary features these ranches:

Drowsy Water Dude Ranch
Flathead Lake Lodge
White Stallion Ranch
Eatons’ Ranch
Triangle X Ranch
Nine Quarter Circle Ranch
Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch

While these seven properties are highlighted, the story told in Call of the West represents all of us. This film provides a professional, authentic introduction to dude ranching that we can collectively leverage to increase awareness, inspire travel, and attract future guests.

Use This Film to Help Grow the Industry

We strongly encourage every ranch to actively promote this documentary. Share it with current guests, include it in pre-arrival communications, post it across your social platforms, and feature it on your website. When guests connect with these stories, they often share them within their own networks, extending our reach far beyond what any single ranch could accomplish alone.

How to Watch

The YouTube premiere takes place Thursday, February 19, at 7 p.m. MST. Viewing details and the premiere link are available on the Wyoming PBS website.

During the premiere, Mat Hames and the Alpheus Media team will be live in the chat, sharing behind-the-scenes insights into bringing ranch life to the screen.

Following the premiere, the film will be available to stream on demand, making it easy to share with guests year-round. In addition, Call of the West will stream on Wyoming PBS on March 19, 2026, eventually expanding its reach to audiences across the country.

This is a chance to amplify our collective voice. By sharing Call of the West, we help elevate dude ranching as an industry and invite the next generation of guests to experience the West.

Russell True

True West Magazine True Westerner of the Year for 2026

Russell True: True West Magazine True Westerner of the Year

For decades, Russell True has served as a steward of Western hospitality, welcoming generations of guests, honoring tradition, and helping guide the evolution of the authentic dude ranch experience. His lifelong commitment to preserving Western heritage and strengthening guest ranching has now earned national recognition.

True West Magazine has named Russell True its True Westerner of the Year for 2026, honoring a lifetime of leadership dedicated to keeping the spirit of the American West alive. Russell currently serves as Chairman of the Board of the Dude Ranch Foundation, where his guidance continues to help advance the mission of preserving and promoting dude ranching.

For more than 20 years, editors at True West Magazine have highlighted outstanding Western places, people, and experiences through their annual “Best of the West” coverage. Long before receiving national accolades, Russell and his family were welcoming guests to White Stallion Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, establishing what would become a multigenerational legacy in dude ranching.

For six decades, Russell and his family have been active leaders within the Dude Ranchers’ Association, helping guide an organization that will celebrate its centennial in 2026. As an owner and operator of guest ranches in Arizona, Wyoming, and Montana, Russell has played a pivotal role in keeping guest ranching one of America’s quintessential vacation experiences for thousands of travelers.

In selecting Russell for this honor, the editors of True West Magazine cited his vision, consistency, and dedication to hospitality. His personal philosophy reflects that commitment: preserving the historic traditions of dude ranching while celebrating Western heritage and its role as one of the nation’s earliest destination vacation experiences.

We are proud to see Russell’s lifetime of service recognized on a national stage and grateful for his continued leadership on behalf of the Dude Ranch Foundation and the broader dude ranching community. His example underscores the importance of stewardship, authenticity, and hospitality at the heart of our industry.

We invite you to read the full feature and learn more about why Russell’s leadership continues to leave a lasting mark on Western travel and dude ranching.

Nonprofit of the Year

Dude Ranch Foundation honored by the Cody Country Chamber of Commerce

Josie Hedderman addresses the audience while accepting the Nonprofit of the Year honor, sharing gratitude for the board, volunteers, donors, partners, and ranch families who make the Foundation’s work possible.

We are honored to share that the Dude Ranch Foundation has been named Nonprofit of the Year by the Cody Country Chamber of Commerce, a meaningful recognition of the collective efforts behind our mission.

This award reflects the dedication of many hands and steady hearts. From our Board of Directors and volunteers to our donors, partners, and ranch families, each plays a vital role in preserving Western heritage and shaping the future of dude ranching. Together, you help advance education, stewardship, and hospitality while ensuring that the traditions of the American West continue for generations to come.

Nonprofit of the Year award presented to the Dude Ranch Foundation by the Cody Country Chamber of Commerce.

We are deeply grateful to be part of a community built on trust, collaboration, and shared purpose. This recognition underscores the impact that can be achieved when individuals and organizations come together in service of something greater than themselves.

Josie Hedderman receives the Nonprofit of the Year award from Jennifer Thoma, Executive Director of the Cody Country Chamber of Commerce.

Our sincere thanks to the Cody Country Chamber of Commerce for honoring nonprofit work and for celebrating the many organizations making a meaningful difference in their communities. We are proud to stand alongside fellow nonprofits working to strengthen local connections, preserve history, and create lasting positive change.

This award belongs to all who support the Dude Ranch Foundation. Thank you for riding alongside us and for your continued commitment to preserving the legacy and future of dude ranching.

100 Years of Dude Ranching – Available Now!

Proceeds Benefit the Dude Ranch Foundation

Released in celebration of the centennial of the Dude Ranchers’ Association, 100 Years of Dude Ranching is a stunning coffee table book that explores both the modern and historic roots of the industry.

The book features ranches that were at the forefront of dude ranching, welcoming guests and offering an authentic taste of the American West as early as 1926. Award-winning photographer Scott T. Baxter documents these historic ranches as they exist today, pairing contemporary photography with archival context to show how each has evolved over the course of a century. The result is a powerful visual narrative reflecting the beauty, grit, and continuity of Western hospitality.

The history of the Dude Ranchers’ Association and the broader story of dude ranching, often described as the West’s first destination vacation, is written by noted historian Lynn Downey, with a foreword by Bob Boze Bell.

This remarkable publication captures a living legacy rooted in land, horses, and hospitality, and we are honored that the Dude Ranch Foundation is a beneficiary of this extraordinary project.

Don’t miss your chance to own this extraordinary keepsake — purchase your copy online here!

PURCHASE TODAY

EXCLUSIVE DEAL

Centennial books are available to all member ranches at wholesale pricing.

Stock up for your gift shops.

Guests are already asking for these stunning photography books, and they will want copies to take home as keepsakes and gifts.

Contact the Ranch Preservation Foundation team for bulk orders at RanchPreservationFoundation.org. Reach out through the form.

PURCHASE IN BULK TODAY

Scholarship Applications Now Open

Dude Ranch Foundation 2026–2027 Academic Year

The Dude Ranch Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2026–2027 academic year. These scholarships are designed to support students who are pursuing higher education while remaining connected to the values, traditions, and future of the dude ranching industry.

This program represents an investment not only in individual students, but in the next generation of leaders, ranch professionals, and advocates who will help carry Western hospitality forward.

Application Deadline: March 15, 2026

Applicants are encouraged to take this opportunity to invest in their education, clarify their goals, and strengthen their connection to the dude ranching community. Whether students are studying agriculture, business, communications, equine science, hospitality, or related fields, Dude Ranch Foundation scholarships help ease financial burdens while supporting long-term success.

We encourage ranch families and industry partners to share this opportunity widely with employees, guests, and community members who may have eligible students.

APPLY TODAY

Valley Ranch Pack Trips through Yellowstone

By Brian Beauvais, Park County Archives Curator

In 1920 Irving “Larry” Larom, the owner and manager of Valley Ranch, announced that he would begin outfitting annual pack trips for children into Yellowstone. Horseback trips like those organized by Larom had been pioneered by another prominent dude rancher, Howard Eaton, who developed a tour itinerary through that the park which was later memorialized by the National Park Service in the form of the Howard Eaton Trail.

The Yellowstone trips organized by Valley Ranch were slated to last some forty days and cover over six hundred miles of trails. They were conceived as an alternative to the summer camps frequented by many of the same children. “Season by season the popularity of pack trips through the wilderness increases,” the ranch’s promotional literature touted, “and because it adjoins the wildest, the least explored, most interesting and beautiful among all the wilderness areas in America it is only natural that pack trips are quite the usual thing at Valley…[ ]…They are carefully planned, expertly managed, and represent the very acme of enjoyable and worthwhile western adventure.” During its heyday, thirty to forty teenage boys and girls were recruited each year to participate in the summer-long experience.

As Valley Ranch’s promotional literature spelled out, “The free, open manner of living, the abundance of wholesome food and water, the opportunity for horseback riding, mountain climbing, and other active sports,” all presented these lucky campers with experiences that surely permeated throughout their entire lives.

The pack trip itinerary was planned with multi-night layovers at the best campsites along the route. Children slept in small tepee tents, six feet square, allowing room for two campers and their sleeping rolls. There were also striped tents called “pintos.” Inside each a foldable wooden stool straddled a shallow pit.

Quite different from modern glamping, the pack trips offered by Valley Ranch were intended to teach their young participants how to take care of themselves, tend camp, and perform needed chores. After all, the ranch did market their youth horseback adventures as an “Educational and Recreational Summer Vacation.”

The expeditions ended with a visit to Valley Ranch, where the children participated in horse races, amateur rodeo events, and a barn dance. After a few days spent in the tranquility of the ranch, the adventure ended and the children were spirited away to their homes and schools back east.

Although popular during the 1920’s, by 1932 pack trip participation was greatly reduced, reflecting the far-reaching economic consequences of the Great Depression on dude ranch clientele. Given these new circumstances trip routes were shortened, reflecting the belt-tightening measures implemented by dude ranches and the broader tourism industry. The trips were discontinued altogether in 1943, although Valley Ranch continued offering horseback tours into Yellowstone for their regular summer guests until 1964.

Pack trip participants posing for a group photo at Valley Ranch following the conclusion of their expedition through Yellowstone National Park and the Absaroka Mountains. (Park County Archives Collection).

Pack trip party riding up a trail in Yellowstone. Groups of horseback riders were required to avoid roadways so as to not conflict with increasing amounts of vehicle traffic. (Park County Archives Collection)

A Shared Commitment to Horse Safety

Dan Schneider, Vice President of Property & Casualty Insurance at NFP, presents a generous contribution to the Dude Ranch Foundation, received by Executive Director Josie Hedderman and Chairman Russell True. Photo by Kaycie Timm.

Thank you to NFP, Outdoor Insurance Group, and Glencar Insurance Company for their generous sponsorship of the Horse Safety Program.

Thank You for Supporting the Dude Ranch Foundation and Western Museum!

The Dude-Halloo Ranch Edition is a bi-monthly publication of the Dude Ranch Foundation. The Dude Ranch Foundation is a duly incorporated nonprofit corporation under the Internal Revenue Service code 501(c)(3). The Federal Tax Identification Number (FTIN) is 74-2519170.

For more information, contact the Foundation at 307-586-1831 or info@duderanchfoundation.org. The Foundation Office and Museum are located at 1122 12th Street, P.O. Box 2307, Cody, WY 82414.

www.DudeRanchFoundation.org

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Dude Ranch Foundation Named Nonprofit of the Year

Torey — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 16:21:33 +0000

Dude Ranch Foundation Named Nonprofit of the Year by Cody Country Chamber of Commerce

The Dude Ranch Foundation has been named Nonprofit of the Year by the Cody Country Chamber of Commerce, recognizing the organization’s work to preserve the history, traditions, and enduring legacy of dude ranching.

The award was presented at the Chamber’s annual Awards Gala, where representatives from across the Cody community gathered to celebrate businesses and nonprofit organizations that contribute to the strength and character of the region.

Accepting the award on behalf of the Foundation, Josie Hedderman expressed gratitude to the many individuals who help support the organization’s mission, including its board members, volunteers, donors, partners, and ranch families. Their shared commitment helps ensure that the heritage, hospitality, and values of the American West continue to be preserved and passed on to future generations.

The Dude Ranch Foundation extends its sincere thanks to the Cody Country Chamber of Commerce for this honor and is proud to stand alongside other nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities and preserve Western heritage.

This recognition reflects the collective efforts of everyone who supports the Foundation and the enduring legacy of dude ranching.

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100 Years of Dude Ranching

Torey — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:37:13 +0000

**New Book Release: 100 Years of Dude Ranching Celebrates the DRA Centennial**

In celebration of the upcoming 2026 centennial of the Dude Ranchers’ Association (DRA), the DRA, Ranch Preservation Foundation, and the Dude Ranch Foundation are proud to announce the release of a remarkable new coffee table book, 100 Years of Dude Ranching: Celebrating the Centennial of the Dude Ranchers’ Association.

This extraordinary volume chronicles the evolution of dude ranching over the past century through the lens of award-winning photographer Scott T. Baxter. Over the course of a year, Baxter captured modern life at 26 DRA member ranches, pairing contemporary images with historic context to showcase how each ranch has grown, changed, and carried forward its unique legacy.

Complementing the photography is an engaging history of the DRA and the development of dude ranching written by historian Lynn Downey. Her narrative traces the roots of dude ranches—recognized as the West’s first destination vacation—and explores the enduring traditions that continue to shape the industry today.

Produced in collaboration with the Ranch Preservation Foundation, this book honors a century of western hospitality, heritage, and adventure.

Proceeds from the project benefit the Dude Ranch Foundation and support our mission to preserve and promote the history of dude ranching for future generations.

Don’t miss your chance to own this extraordinary keepsake.

Click below to purchase your copy today:

PURCHASE TODAY

GET YOUR COPY

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The Dude-Halloo Ranch Edition, December 2025

Torey — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 23:03:13 +0000

Dear Friends,

As we wrap up another year in this incredible industry, I want to take a moment to thank you for everything you do—for your guests, for your communities, and for the legacy of dude ranching. What makes this industry special is you: the ranchers, owners, and families who carry forward a way of life that cannot be replicated anywhere else.

The Dude Ranch Foundation is here to support that legacy, and I’m excited to share some meaningful news:

A generous ranching family has stepped forward to match every donation made to the Foundation through December 31. Your gift will be doubled.

This match comes at a time when our programs are growing and making a real impact across the industry. Your support helps us:

• Provide scholarships for the next generation of ranch leaders
• Strengthen horse and guest safety across all ranches
• Preserve historic documents, photographs, and artifacts
• Expand educational outreach through our museum and archives

These programs aren’t just part of our mission—they are part of the fabric of dude ranching, past and future.

I invite you to ride with us into the new year.

If you are able, please consider making a year-end gift. With the match in place, every dollar you give works twice as hard to protect and strengthen our industry.

If you prefer to give by mail, we are still mighty fond of receiving a classic check at PO Box 2307 in Cody, WY 82414.

Give Today – Your Gift Is Matched »

LEARN MORE

Thank you for your partnership, your generosity, and your dedication to keeping dude ranching strong. It is an honor to serve you and this community.

With gratitude,
Josie Hedderman

Executive Director
Dude Ranch Foundation

Ride with Us!

Call of the West

Worldwide Premiere

A film by Mat Hames

The Dude Ranchers’ Association and the Dude Ranch Foundation are proud to welcome Billings Livestock Horse Sales as the Presenting Sponsor for the worldwide premiere of Call of the West, a Wyoming PBS documentary produced by Alpheus Media and directed by Mat Hames.

Billing Livestock Horse Sales

Call of the West is an epic film chronicling the rise of the dude ranch—an enduring symbol of the American West. Against breathtaking landscapes, ranch families face modernization, economic pressures, and generational change as they work to protect their legacy. Through powerful storytelling and stunning cinematography, the documentary captures a way of life that continues to shape the spirit of the West.

Join us at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27, during the DRA Centennial Convention, for a free screening and panel discussion in the Billings Livestock Horse Sales Ballroom at the DoubleTree by Hilton in downtown Billings.

100 Years of Dude Ranching – Available Now!

Proceeds Benefit the Dude Ranch Foundation

In celebration of the upcoming centennial of the Dude Ranchers’ Association, the DRA, Ranch Preservation Foundation, and the Dude Ranch Foundation have collaborated on a coffee table book titled 100 Years of Dude Ranching: Celebrating the Centennial of the Dude Ranchers’ Association. With photographs by award-winning photographer Scott T. Baxter, this book explores modern dude ranching at 26 DRA member ranches captured over the course of a year, paired with historic information to see how each ranch has changed over a century.

A history of the DRA and dude ranching written by historian Lynn Downey chronicles the story of dude ranches — the West’s first destination vacation.

Don’t miss your chance to own this extraordinary keepsake — purchase your copy online here!

PURCHASE TODAY

Reminder: National Day of the Cowgirl $30,000 Scholarship

Applications Open Through December 31

Apply Today!

Durango® Boots is proud to continue its tradition of honoring hardworking women in the Western industry with the third annual National Day of the Cowgirl $30,000 Scholarship.

In partnership with the Dude Ranch Foundation, this scholarship celebrates passion, grit, and the next generation of trailblazers. It will be awarded to a young woman in her first year of college pursuing a degree connected to the Western lifestyle or industry.

Applications are open now through December 31, 2025 — and we’d love your help spreading the word. Please share this opportunity within your community or on social media to help us reach more deserving young women.

Learn more at www.nationaldayofthecowgirl.com

Apply now!

Join the Legacy!

Call for Articles

Lariat Legacy, The Magazine, Volume 4

As we celebrate 100 years of dude ranching, we’re inviting you to help shape the next issue of Lariat Legacy with the stories only you can tell.

Lariat Legacy is built on the voices and experiences that define the West, and we’re seeking article proposals that highlight the richness of our community. Whether your perspective comes from life on the ranch, guest memories, craftsmanship, conservation, industry partnerships, or a vision for the next century of dude ranching, we welcome your ideas.

Your stories help preserve the traditions we cherish, honor the people who shaped this way of life, and inspire the generations to come.

📬 Submit your article ideas or proposals: info@duderanchfoundation.org

Explore Past Issues

Want to get a feel for the magazine’s style, storytelling, and scope? Volumes 1, 2, and 3 of Lariat Legacy are available to read online. Dive into the photography, history, and firsthand accounts that shape each edition—and find inspiration for your own submission.

📖 Start reading past issues on our website.

Keep the stories alive. Preserve the legacy. Share the West.

Cozy Up This Winter at the Dude Ranch Foundation’s Western Heritage Museum

Winter Hours: Monday–Thursday, 9 AM–5 PM

The DRF Western Heritage Museum

❄️ Winter at the Dude Ranch Foundation & Western Heritage Museum

As winter settles in, the museum remains a bright spot for visitors eager to explore the history, artifacts, and stories that define the legacy of dude ranching. After a strong summer and a vibrant fall, we’re grateful for the continued support of guests who help keep this heritage alive.

Throughout the winter season, the museum will maintain its current hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Whether you’re looking for a cozy indoor outing or planning a visit with family and friends, we welcome you to stop by and enjoy the warmth of the West within our walls.

Thank you for being part of the Dude Ranch Foundation’s mission to preserve and share the traditions of dude ranching. We look forward to welcoming you this winter!

Where the Old West Still Teaches Us How to Lead

Leadership lessons only a horse can teach

Equine Facilitated Coaching

What if the most powerful guidance you could receive didn’t come from a book or a mentor, but from a horse standing right in front of you? Across the West, horses are helping people regulate stress, build confidence, and rediscover their inner steadiness — all without saying a word. Click to read more about why this ancient wisdom matters now more than ever.

Alliance Partners

Thank you to the Alliance Partners that support the Dude Ranch Foundation mission.

The post The Dude-Halloo Ranch Edition, December 2025 appeared first on Dude Ranch Foundation.

New Matching Gift Opportunity Available Through December 31

Torey — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 19:24:32 +0000

Double Your Impact By December 31

A generous member of our dude ranching community is matching every donation through December 31, which means your year-end gift to the Dude Ranch Foundation will go twice as far.

Your support today helps preserve the history, traditions, and future of America’s dude ranching industry.

DONATE TODAY

Your Gift Fuels the Future of Dude Ranching

When you give to the Dude Ranch Foundation, you help:

Support the next generation of leaders through scholarships for students pursuing careers connected to ranching and the Western way of life.
Advance horse and guest safety through our industry-leading Horse Safety Program that sets a gold standard across the dude ranch community.
Preserve historic documents, photographs, and artifacts that safeguard the legacy of dude ranching for future generations.
Share the heritage of the West with students, families, and visitors from around the world through our Heritage Museum, research archives, and educational programs.

Every gift, large or small, helps keep these stories, skills, and traditions alive.

Give By December 31 To Have Your Gift Matched

All donations made by December 31 qualify for the match, up to the full amount of our generous donor’s commitment.

You can give in the way that suits you best:

Donate online using our secure giving form.
Mail a check any time in December to:
Dude Ranch Foundation
PO Box 2307
Cody, WY 82414

Gifts postmarked by December 31 will count toward the match.

Ride With Us Into the New Year

Your generosity helps ensure that dude ranch history is preserved, that horses and guests are cared for safely, and that the next generation is ready to carry this legacy forward.

Thank you for considering a year-end gift to the Dude Ranch Foundation.

Together, we can keep the spirit of the West alive for years to come.

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GivingTuesday 2025

Torey — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 04:58:52 +0000

SPREAD THE WORD

Today is GivingTuesday — and your support can truly make a difference for the Dude Ranch Foundation!

Big News From the Trail: Your Gift Will Be DOUBLED.

Thanks to a generous donor who is matching every dollar, your GivingTuesday gift now rides twice as far, turning $50 into $100, $250 into $500, and so on. And if you prefer the old-fashioned way, we still love a check delivered by mail, cowboy style. Matching funds are available through December 31.

Every gift made today fuels the future of the dude ranching industry. Your generosity helps provide scholarships, advance horse safety, preserve ranching history, and strengthen efforts in wildfire mitigation and ranchland conservation.

Join the global GivingTuesday movement, a worldwide celebration of generosity rooted in the belief that kindness can transform communities.

Created in 2012 with one bold idea, dedicating a day to doing good, GivingTuesday began at the 92nd Street Y and its Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact in New York City. What started as a simple spark has grown into an independent nonprofit and global force, inspiring millions across the world to give, collaborate, and support the causes they care about most.

DONATE TODAY

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Call of the West, a Film by Mat Hames

Torey — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 02:09:31 +0000

Call of the West

The Dude Ranchers’ Association and the Dude Ranch Foundation are excited to announce the upcoming worldwide premiere of Call of the West, a powerful new Wyoming PBS documentary exploring the history and enduring legacy of the American dude ranch.

Presented by Billings Livestock Horse Sales, the film will debut during the DRA Centennial Convention with a special free screening and panel discussion.

Click here to read the full announcement and event details.

The post Call of the West, a Film by Mat Hames appeared first on Dude Ranch Foundation.

Dude Ranch Foundation

Exhibit Grand Opening: The Wrangle

JOIN US FOR THE GRAND OPENING

JUNE 4, 2026 | 4 – 6 PM

Event Details

JOIN US FORTHE GRAND OPENING

JUNE 4, 2026 | 4 – 6 PM

Event Details

New Exhibit: The Wrangle

A Student’s Story: Josie Meyring

A Student’s Story: Josie Meyring

A DRF scholarship recipient shares her experience at Cal Poly

The Dude-Halloo Ranch Edition, February 2026

Call of the West:

A Powerful Tool for Promoting Dude Ranching

Use This Film to Help Grow the Industry

How to Watch

Russell True

True West Magazine True Westerner of the Year for 2026

Nonprofit of the Year

Dude Ranch Foundation honored by the Cody Country Chamber of Commerce

100 Years of Dude Ranching – Available Now!

Proceeds Benefit the Dude Ranch Foundation

EXCLUSIVE DEAL

Centennial books are available to all member ranches at wholesale pricing.

Scholarship Applications Now Open

Dude Ranch Foundation 2026–2027 Academic Year

Valley Ranch Pack Trips through Yellowstone

By Brian Beauvais, Park County Archives Curator

Pack trip participants posing for a group photo at Valley Ranch following the conclusion of their expedition through Yellowstone National Park and the Absaroka Mountains. (Park County Archives Collection).

Pack trip party riding up a trail in Yellowstone. Groups of horseback riders were required to avoid roadways so as to not conflict with increasing amounts of vehicle traffic. (Park County Archives Collection)

A Shared Commitment to Horse Safety

Thank You for Supporting the Dude Ranch Foundation and Western Museum!

Dude Ranch Foundation Named Nonprofit of the Year

Dude Ranch Foundation Named Nonprofit of the Year by Cody Country Chamber of Commerce

100 Years of Dude Ranching

New Book Release: 100 Years of Dude Ranching Celebrates the DRA Centennial

The Dude-Halloo Ranch Edition, December 2025

Dear Friends,

A generous ranching family has stepped forward to match every donation made to the Foundation through December 31. Your gift will be doubled.

I invite you to ride with us into the new year.

Call of the West

Worldwide Premiere

100 Years of Dude Ranching – Available Now!

Proceeds Benefit the Dude Ranch Foundation

Reminder: National Day of the Cowgirl $30,000 Scholarship

Applications Open Through December 31

Join the Legacy!

Call for Articles

Cozy Up This Winter at the Dude Ranch Foundation’s Western Heritage Museum

Winter Hours: Monday–Thursday, 9 AM–5 PM

Where the Old West Still Teaches Us How to Lead

Leadership lessons only a horse can teach

Alliance Partners

Thank you to the Alliance Partners that support the Dude Ranch Foundation mission.

New Matching Gift Opportunity Available Through December 31

Double Your Impact By December 31

Your Gift Fuels the Future of Dude Ranching

Give By December 31 To Have Your Gift Matched

Ride With Us Into the New Year

GivingTuesday 2025

Call of the West, a Film by Mat Hames

Call of the West

JOIN US FOR
THE GRAND OPENING

**New Book Release: 100 Years of Dude Ranching Celebrates the DRA Centennial**