IF YOU LOVE HORSES

Paradise Guest Ranch
Buffalo, Wyoming

Surrounded by mountains, rivers, pastures and a zoos worth of wildlife, this dude ranch is the ideal spot to introduce your family (best for 3-year-olds and up) to serious nature, in the form of moose, elk, bobcats and coyotes.

Get active with the kids When youre not playing Uno on the porch of your log cabin or roaming the 15-acre grounds of this rustic yet modern ranch, you'll be exploring it on horseback. Wrangler-led rides (for all levels) into the majestic Bighorn Mountains range from two-hour jaunts to overnight excursions that include a y-shing side trip. Evening entertainment includes a low-pressure family talent show, singing, square dancing and roasting marshmallows.

Head out on your own Guarantee yourself some solo time by reserving a spot for your kids (all ages; only children 2 and up are allowed after noon, though) in the Young Bucks program, which features rides, as well as tie-dyeing sessions and swimming. Choose a quiet hike through wildflowers to see the red rocks at Crazy Woman Canyon, sign up for a y-shing lesson along the Powder River or just grab a lounge chair and read.

The fine print A one-week stay (May 28-Aug. 27) starts at $1,200 per adult, $350 and up for kids 2 and older, including all meals, kids programs, lodging and activities.

Contact paradiseranch.com, 307-684-7876