Spotted Horse Ranch | Jackson Hole, Wyoming
“Wyoming is what America was.”
– Theodore Roosevelt
There’s something timeless about a dude ranch. It’s where wide-open skies meet the steady rhythm of hooves, and days are shaped more by the sun’s rise and fall than by clocks or calendars. In the foothills of Wyoming’s rugged mountains, just south of Jackson Hole, Spotted Horse Ranch carries on this tradition with a mix of authenticity and comfort. Here, guests trade traffic for trails, Wi-Fi for winding rivers, and the noise of daily life for the soft hush of pine forests and pastures. It’s not about pretending to be a cowboy for a week—it’s about slowing down, reconnecting with the land, and experiencing the West the way it’s meant to be lived: one ride, one meal, and one starlit evening at a time.
Photo: Kara Lifka
Other Photos by Kara Lifka | Click Photos to Enlarge
Jackson Hole’s Classic Dude Ranch Experience
Live Stream…
A True Wyoming Escape
Spotted Horse Ranch is a traditional Wyoming guest ranch located just south of Jackson Hole, surrounded by national forests and mountain ranges. Family-owned and operated, it blends authentic Western traditions with comfortable lodging and a focus on outdoor adventure.
The ranch sits along the Hoback River, offering direct access to horseback trails, fishing spots, and some of the area’s most scenic landscapes. Guests come for a chance to unplug, spend time outdoors, and experience the slower rhythm of ranch life.
The Setting
Location: About 16 miles south of Jackson, Wyoming.
Surroundings: Bridger-Teton National Forest, the Snake River, and sweeping views of the Gros Ventre and Wyoming Ranges.
Elevation: Approximately 6,200 feet — cool mornings, warm afternoons, and crisp evenings throughout the summer.
The ranch’s property includes a main lodge, cabins, horse pastures, and easy access to hiking and riding trails. Nights are quiet, with clear skies perfect for stargazing.
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Lodging
Spotted Horse Ranch offers private log cabins and lodge rooms, designed to be simple, comfortable, and reflective of the region’s rustic character.
Cabins: Standalone buildings with private baths, porches, and views of the surrounding meadows or river.
Lodge Rooms: Located in the main lodge, ideal for couples or solo travelers.
Common Areas: A main lodge dining room and lounge for meals and gatherings.
There are no TVs or heavy modern distractions — the focus here is on being outside, connecting with nature, and enjoying a slower pace.
Activities
Spotted Horse Ranch specializes in horseback riding and Western-style outdoor experiences.
Horseback Riding: Twice-daily guided rides for all skill levels, ranging from short scenic loops to full-day rides into the backcountry.
Overnight Pack Trips: Multi-day horseback excursions deep into the Wyoming wilderness (summer only).
Fly Fishing: Both on-site along the Hoback River and through guided trips to nearby streams and lakes.
Rafting: Access to local whitewater and scenic float trips on the Snake River.
Hiking & Wildlife Viewing: Trails and open space directly around the ranch, with frequent wildlife sightings including moose, elk, and deer.
Hot Springs Excursions: Day trips to local natural hot springs are offered throughout the week.
Dining
All meals are included in a stay at the ranch and feature hearty, Western-inspired menus:
Breakfast: Made-to-order hot meals.
Lunch: Served at the lodge or packed for day rides and excursions.
Dinner: Rotates between lodge meals and outdoor cookouts.
Fresh, local ingredients are emphasized, and meals are designed to fuel active days in the outdoors.
Season & Stay Information
Operating Season:
Early June – Late September for standard weekly stays.
October offers a shorter, adults-only fall season with discounted rates.
Typical Stay: Guests usually book 6-night packages running Sunday through Saturday.
Best Time to Visit:
Summer (June–August): Peak season for horseback riding and river rafting.
Fall (September–October): Fewer crowds, cooler weather, vibrant foliage.
Why Guests Choose Spotted Horse Ranch
Authentic Ranch Experience: A working guest ranch with skilled wranglers and well-trained horses.
Proximity to Jackson Hole: Close enough to explore the area, but far enough to feel remote.
All-Inclusive Simplicity: Lodging, meals, and most activities included.
Family-Owned Hospitality: A hands-on team that focuses on creating a welcoming, comfortable environment.
Quick Facts
Nearest Airport: Jackson Hole Airport (about 30 minutes away).
Nearest Town: Jackson, WY.
Accommodations: 10 private cabins + 4 lodge rooms.
Specialty Offerings: Overnight horse pack trips, guided fly-fishing, fall adults-only weeks.
Ideal For: Couples, families, solo travelers, and anyone wanting a traditional Western vacation.