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Fun Travels Across the United States 

WYOMING

NEWS: (Note) Cities and Towns Follow, alphabetically, after the NEWS

Wyoming's Historic Vee Bar Offers a Great Home Base for Legendary Snowmobiling and Skiing Vacations (For details check below under Laramie)

BUFFALO

When guests hear the dinner bell ring for mealtime at Paradise Guest Ranch in Buffalo, Wyoming, they know itís time to enjoy some hearty cowboy cooking with gourmet flair. Meals are served at the dining hall at the heart of the ranch, and guests make new friends at long, communal tables.

'We go beyond the expected dude ranch food,' says owner Clay Miller. 'Everything is made in the ranch kitchen with a western flair. Guests can literally experience a different cowboy dish at every meal.' Breakfast is served from 7:30 to 9 a.m., with a plentiful buffet spread of fresh fruit, juice, cereal, oatmeal and yogurt. Guests can also order off the hot breakfast menu (from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.), which includes pancakes, French toast, eggs, bacon and sausage, as well as a daily special, which might be biscuits and gravy, eggs benedict or chocolate-chip pancakes.

Lunch is buffet style and served at noon. Salad and sandwich fixings are available, as well as daily hot entrees, such as blackened chicken breasts, hickory grilled burgers, pork and veggie stir fry, pizza, taco bar and pasta. Lunchtime sweets include peanut butter cookies, lemon bars, homemade granola bars and bread pudding.

Dinner is served at 7 p.m., with main dishes plated individually and accompaniments on the table, passed around family style. Delectable entrees served regularly at the ranch include herb-roasted prime rib with roasted red potatoes and citrus green beans; grilled pork chops with balsamic-marinated black-eyed peas and Southwest cornbread; Cajun shrimp kabobs with bacon and cheddar polenta and oven-roasted asparagus; and BBQ ribs with charred corn on the cob and slow-roasted baked beans . Save room for dessert: New York cheesecake with berry sauce, homemade apple dumplings with ice cream and cinnamon sauce, homemade carrot cake with cream cheese frosting.

Childrens' dinners: On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the kids are served an optional early childrenís meal at 6 p.m. Food is geared toward picky palates, and the meal is supervised by activities staff, who then play with the children until 8:15 p.m., allowing mom and dad to enjoy a kid-free meal themselves.

Special dinner events: Typically, an outdoor Cookout on the Hill takes place on Monday night, where everyone gathers for an al fresco meal, followed by a sing-a-long around the bonfire. A grownup Gourmet Night takes place Thursday night (when the kids are at their campouts) with hors díouevres and special dinner menu followed by western music and dancing. The whole family rides horses to a special site for a Chuckwagon Dinner on Friday night (a mule team and wagon transport little buckaroos and those who are not able to ride a horse to dinner).

Wine, beer & cocktails: A full bar is available at the French Creek Saloon; alcoholic drinks cost extra. A selection of bottled wines and beers may also be pre-ordered and are delivered to guest cabins upon request.

For specific details on a week-long stay, special itineraries, and photos, visit <http://www.paradiseranch.com>www.paradiseranch.com. Call 307-684-7876 or email fun@paradiseranch.com for reservations.

Buffalo and Johnson County are nestled between the rolling plains of the "Old West" and the foothills of the breathtaking Big Horn Mountains and Big Horn National Forest. This area offers endless outdoor adventure opportunities like hunting and fishing for those that want a fall getaway that includes fresh air, active freedom, and endless action in this vast outdoor playground.

Hunting

Johnson County offers marvelous hunting opportunities for several types of big game species including elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, black bear, mountain lion and pronghorn antelope. There are also a variety of upland game birds. Outfitters in the area are available for guided hunts, but visitors can also choose to go on a hunting expedition solo.  With the crisp mountain air, breathtaking scenery, and the advantages of not having to deal with overcrowded hunting spots, Buffalo is a great hunting vacation find.

Fishing

There are over 200 lakes in the Big Horn Mountains and Bighorn National Forest and provide ample opportunities for fishing adventures. Some lakes are easily accessible by hiking - others are best accessible by horseback. Guided fishing trips, pack trips and drop camps are available in the Buffalo area. Many of the area’s streams and lakes provide excellent trout fishing. Fish species include brook, brown, and cutthroat trout, and grayling. Fishing opportunities abound in the Middle Fork of the Powder River near Kaycee, area reservoirs, and the mountain streams and lakes within the Bighorn National Forest and Cloud Peak Wilderness Area near Buffalo. Two of the most popular fishing sites near Buffalo are Lake DeSmet and Healy Reservoir.

More Information

Hunting is allowed on National Forest lands but, Wyoming statute requires that nonresidents must have a licensed guide or resident companion to hunt big or trophy game in national forest wilderness areas. The resident companion will need to obtain a free non-commercial guide license from a G&F office. The law does not prohibit nonresidents from hiking, fishing or hunting game birds or coyotes in wilderness areas. Only nonresident big and trophy game hunters must have a licensed guide or resident companion. For Wyoming License information, telephone (307) 777-4600.

For more information or to plan your hunting and fishing getaway, contact Margaret Dunfee at 307-684-5544 or go to http://vocuspr.vocus.com/VocusPR30/Url

JACKSON TOWN

In the heart of Jackson Town at the foot of the Grand Teton Mountain Ranges of Wyoming, Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa is ideally located for you to enjoy the atmosphere of an American Ski Resort while still offering a peaceful respite after a long day in the snow. This charming, rustic lodge indulges in spacious, sumptuous rooms with open fireplaces and decadent bathrooms. With three fantastic ski fields in close proximity you have a variety of different ski terrain to choose from. If you need a day’s rest from the slopes embark on a wildlife expedition, snow shoe tour or spend the day snowmobiling nearby. The hotel’s award winning Wild Sage Restaurant offers exceptional regional cuisine paired with your choice of wine from the hotel’s extensive cellar. To top off an unforgettable stay, relax in the outdoor hot tub under the stars or indulge in a reviving treatment at the highly acclaimed Body Sage Spa.  

For more information, check web site www.slh.com/rustyparrot. (All ski lifts running)

LARAMIE

Nestled in the shadows of the Snowy Range Mountains along the banks of the Little Laramie River, the Vee Bar Guest Ranch has a rich history that stretches back over a hundred years. Located just 2 1/2 hours north of Denver, it offers the ideal home base for an unforgettable winter vacation. Every winter season, the Snowy Range Mountains lure winter sports enthusiasts to explore the vast winter landscape where skiing and snowmobiling opportunities are plentiful.

Just a short trip from the city of Laramie are miles of well-groomed cross country skiing trails and the Snowy Range Ski Area offers renowned downhill skiing and snowboarding with over 25 trails that range from novice to expert level. Miles of snowmobile trails wind through the forests, and many forest areas are open to traveling by snowshoe. The entire Snowy Range area has over 160 miles of groomed trails and seemingly limitless amount of land is available for snowmobiling throughout Medicine Bow National Forest. Often less crowded than other winter recreation destinations and much more economical, this area of Wyoming can be an attractive choice for winter vacationers who are looking for something unique.

The Vee Bar Guest Ranch, which operates as a Bed and Breakfast during the winter months, is a great starting point for a winter getaway. This cozy respite features easy access to area winter recreation activities along with quaint accommodations, a full breakfast each day, optional pre-arranged fine dining, a hot tub for soaking after a day of winter fun, wireless internet, and much more. With a past that at various points in time includes being a stagecoach stop, a post office, a freight line to local mines, and a government training school for boys from low-income families, the fascinating Vee Bar has warm accommodations that make it a great place to keep warm after a day of powdery bliss.

Bed and Breakfast Rates: October 1-April 30th, 2009: $120 PPDO in Riverside Suite or Cabin. Each additional person $30 (ages 6 and up).

For more information about the Vee Bar Guest Ranch, visit www.veebar.com or contact Kari Kilmer at 307-745-7036.

SHOSHONE NATIONAL FOREST 

Located at 9,200 feet, and within the Shoshone National Forest, nestled in a valley between the Pinnacle Mountains (part of the Absaroka Range), the Continental Divide to the west and the Wind River Mountains to the South, Brooks Lake Lodge offers the perfect escape for families looking to break out from everyday life. Families are welcomed during either season at Brooks Lake Lodge but summer is a special time for children. Brooks Lake Lodge present summer children’s programs that include horseback riding, canoe trips, fishing lessons, story telling around the camp fire, and arts & crafts. Families are invited to Indulge on the gourmet meals prepared by only the finest chefs, or pamper mom at the complete Spa which features massage, facials, body treatments guaranteed to relax, refresh and rejuvenate! Amazing activities are ever present at Brooks Lake Lodge. Hike thru the wilderness surrounding the Brooks Lake Lodge, take a historic tour of the area, challenge the sense of nature by perfecting casting techniques with expert fly fishing instruction, and witness the incredible world of Wyoming wildlife on horseback. If a rustic wilderness experience in the West is desired, family horse pack trips are available with profession guides leading guests to the wonderful wilderness camp in the backcountry of Wyoming.  Winter also offers an array of activities for families including Skiing, Dog sledding, Snowshoeing, Snowmobiling,  and the newly added Ice Fishing, that includes a personal guide escorting guests to Brooks Lake, drilling the hole with an auger, and even supplying the cocoa or coffee to see that everything is in perfect order for an ideal day on the ice.
 
The upscale accommodations include family vacation cabins as well as luxuriant lodge rooms. Rates vary; please click here to view. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Brooks Lake Lodge combines history and luxury to provide the perfect retreat for families.
 
For more information, call Theresa King at 307-455-2121 or e-mail her at theresa@brookslake.com.

WAPITI

(For more information, contact the UXU Ranch at 1710 Yellowstone Highway City, Wapiti
WY 82450; 800-373-9027, or at web site www.uxuranch.com/adventure.cfm and Email:
info@uxuranch.com

UXU Ranch is Drenched in Natural Beauty

Spend an inclusive week at the UXU Ranch in the midst of what Teddy Roosevelt called “the most scenic 52 miles in the United States.”
 
Cross the North Fork River onto UXU Ranch property and exist in a world of no television, phone, or email. For the minimum stay of six nights (Sunday to Saturday), guests are immersed in fresh mountain meadows, soaring pines, and the tumbling river in this quiet western retreat from the outside world. Take a guided horseback journey through the trees, mountains and river to explore the untouched country while possibly spotting wildlife such as grizzly bears, moose, eagles, big horn sheep, and mountain goats to name a few. The itinerary also includes, but is not limited to, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, golfing, and one day is set aside to visit nearby Yellowstone National Park.  
 
Ten deluxe guest cabins ranging from one to three bedrooms are situated amongst the towering trees and include custom made western furniture, lavish bath robes and hand-made soaps. The Hollister Cabin has two open air, river rock showers that give guests a chance to freshen up while experiencing the crisp mountain air and amazing landscape.
 
Two resident Chefs combine New American Cuisine with Southern flare to serve delicious four-course meals thrice daily. Tasty appetizers, hors d'oeuvres, and the Ranch’s extensive wine list add even more to the guests dining experience. And for the kids there is an old fashioned marshmallow roast with hot chocolate around an evening campfire. 
 
The summer guest ranch has been operating since 1929 and sits on the North Fork of the Shoshone River, 17 miles from Yellowstone National Park and 35 miles west of Cody, WY. Reservations for 10-30 guests can be scheduled for corporate meetings, family reunions, weddings, and other events.
 
The UXU Ranch and its owner, Grant “Tuff” Flaharty, are members of the Dude Ranchers Association.

The UXU Ranch’s gourmet western food is prepared by two chefs, Cary Wolfe and Jon Campagna, who come from South Carolina and have worked at several high-end southern bistros and restaurants. New American Cuisine is mixed with Southern flare by combining regional and southern ingredients in dishes such as: buttermilk fried trout with green onion grits, elk tenderloin with blackberry-merlot reduction and seared pacific halibut with smoked tomato butter.
 
Every evening the dining experience starts with ‘cocktail hour’ where guests can taste test some of the more than 60 different wines, most of them out of California. Mouthwatering hors d'oeuvres made from scratch such as smoked trout mousse are also served to wet the appetite. All breads, pastries, and desserts are loaded with high quality ingredients and baked fresh daily. 
 
Guest may choose from a selection of dishes that change daily for four out of the six evenings spent at the ranch. The other two meals will consist of a traditional barbeque with baby-back ribs, blackened catfish and barbeque chicken and a lamb, turkey, and duck feast at the Old Trail Town Museum. A wide selection of beer, wine, and premium spirits are available at the honor bar.
 
Horsing Around at the Ranch
 
Take a guided horseback ride across the open Wyoming countryside each day and witness the awesome mountain views, colorful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife such as: buffalo, deer, elk, moose, wolves, eagles, big horn sheep, mountain goats, and grizzly bears. The UXU Ranch boasts fifty head of trail horses, one for every level of rider. Leisurely guide the horse through streams, around mountain ridges and back country trails while breathing the fresh country air and discovering nature.
 
Bike Riding at the Ranch

Bike riders may grab one of the six Specialized and Gary Fisher mountain bikes and head out onto one of the many intermediate to advanced trails only to discover rushing streams, giant rock formations, and overlook the towering Absaroka Mountains. Also one night can be spent at the annual Cody Rodeo where everyone will get to witness an authentic ‘old west’ competition complete with a ‘wild calf chase’ where the children get to participate in the action. Play a friendly game of softball or golf, head to the Shoshone River for some fishing, take the family hiking, river rafting, and to nearby Yellowstone to be inspired by the Grand Canyon.
 
Fly Fishing with UXU’s Experienced Guide

UXU Ranch has a resident fishing guide that will take guests to his favorite fishing holes to catch trout, cutthroat rainbows, and the occasional German brown trout.

There are many noteworthy nearby rivers to choose from such as: Madison, Yellowstone, Firehole, North Fork and the Shoshone (which just happens to wind right through the ranch). The knowledgeable fishing guide will provide instruction to help everyone have a successful trip on the river and can also arrange for fishing in other local waters, including the Clarks Fork and Big Horn rivers.
 
They do promote catch and release however if guests would like to have the chef cook their trout they will gladly do so. Fishing is best in late July and all of August.
  
Luxurious Western Beauty Inside and Out
 
Families, honeymooners, and seniors will all appreciate the beautiful surroundings, western hospitality, and luxurious accommodations at the UXU Ranch. With ten cabins total it has room for up to 35 guests but enough heart for hundreds.
 
Five of their deluxe guest cabins come with fireplaces and all ten have decks adorned with porch swings and custom made chairs. Down comforters, fluffy robes, crisp linens, and all the amenities from Q-tips to plush towels are provided for each guest.

The Deluxe ‘Hollister cabin’ was a stagecoach stop on the way to Yellowstone Park in the late 1800's. The 100-year-old cabin was purchased in 1999 and moved to the UXU log by log and re-assembled. It has been restored into a deluxe two bedroom, two bathroom cabin overlooking the Shoshone River and features a river rock fireplace in the master room and a wood burning stove in the other. This luxurious cabin which can accommodate up to six is also decorated with cozy award winning furniture from New West, and two open air showers that were made from river rock found nearby. These unique showers were built with rock wall that is three quarters of the way up, leaving the rest wide open for a showering experience like none other.
 
White Weddings in Green Pastures
 
The bride is escorted to the countryside isle by horse and carriage then walked down the grassy path to the groom while being surrounded by family, friends, and amazing mountain views. Then the party gathers under an enclosed white tent beautifully decorated with candles, lanterns, and fresh flowers. After toasting the newlyweds with champagne the guests savor gourmet dishes such as; pork tenderloin with fennel sauce, spinach and artichoke stuffed mushrooms, and smoked duck canapés. Then finally the happy couples’ first dance is followed by a horse and carriage ride to a private cabin nestled in the trees.
 
A destination wedding at the ranch can be planned for a day, week, or something in-between. The staff at UXU can assist in the planning process along with wedding planning partner Juniper Events.  Plan a one day celebration that includes the wedding, reception, and food. After the nuptials guests may nibble on hors d’oeuvres such as; smoked salmon, fruit, and shrimp cocktail, then feast on varying dishes such smoked turkey breast with mango chutney and pork tenderloin with fennel sauce served buffet style (sit down dinners are available at an additional charge).

From the bridal shower to the newlywed’s first dance—all can be arranged for a full weeks stay. The plans include use of all of the facilities, three delicious meals daily, one to ten cabins, all activities, and full wedding and reception for up to 50 people. Starting at *$50,000 for the week during the main season (June 15th thru Sept 15th) and *$40,000 during the off (May 15th-June 14th and Sept 15th thru Oct 1st), the bride and groom can plan the week to their specifications. Cabins may be rented individually to wedding guests to cut down on the costs to the couple and their families. Daily cabin rates start at $250 per night per person based upon a two night minimum stay and that includes all meals, wine and cheese hour, and Ranch activities throughout the day. Prices for second, third, or fourth person per cabin are lower.
 
*Pricing for tents, tables, chairs, silver will be in addition depending on the styles chosen.
 
Girlfriends Getaway
 
Horseback riding, champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, and crisp mountain air are just some of the essentials offered at the UXU Ranch in order for women to truly ‘get away from it all’.
 
Ride horseback, hike or mountain bike in the Absaroka Mountains, or walk in the vast countryside, all in the crisp mountain air. Recover from the eventful days in the hot tub, or in the underground sauna. Then gather on the large deck at the main lodge for lounging and catching up on ‘girl talk’.
 
Cuisine is expertly prepared thrice daily by gourmet chefs and served with wine and champagne. Leave room for one of the decadent desserts made with only the freshest fruits and finest ingredients.
 
Find retreat in the luxurious, private guest cabins, each with down comforters, custom made western furniture, and amazing forest views. Fluffy robes, fireplaces (in some cabins), and wood burning stoves keep the guests warm on the cool evenings (lows at night can get down to 40 degrees). All ten cabins at the ranch are complete with decks and porch swings, perfect for taking in the natural beauty and stillness of UXU.
Back To TOC
 
What's in a Name?
 
In 1929 Bob Rumsey, a Yale graduate with a colorful background founded UXU Ranch. The smart and eccentric Rumsey was experienced in education, cattle ranching, dairy farming, politics and dude ranching.
 
Rumsey and his wife Elizabeth ran a boys camp four miles up the road from what is now the UXU Ranch. After a bitter divorce Bob started his own ranch down the river and called it the ‘U Bitch U’ Ranch. His thinking was that Beth would have to pass the unsightly sign every time she had to make a trip into town. The rangers of the Shoshone National Forest however were not going to allow language of that nature and painted a large ‘X’ over the offensive word, thus the name ‘UXU Ranch’.

 Up until the 1960’s Mr. Rumsey made sure that the only way for guests to enter and exit the ranch was to cross a four-foot-wide swinging bridge that he built himself. Travelers would need to ring the front desk for assistance with luggage before they could enter the property. Bob, being a sly businessman, figured his guests would stay longer in order to put off crossing the precarious bridge again. The bridge has been replaced with an old railroad truss bridge and is now passable by automobile without any trouble.
 

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All information and photography © 2007-2009 Arline Zatz. All rights reserved. Contact us if reprint permission is needed.

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