For visitors seeking a unique, Canadian cowboy experience, 100 Mile House is well-known for its wide variety of small, but good guest and dude ranches located within the surrounding area. These ranches offer every level of services and amenties and cater to those seeking anything from pure luxury, to something more basic and rustic – several even have teepees for rent! Accommodation on a ranch may be rooms within in the main lodge and most have self contained cabins. The services and activities can vary widely.
Horseback Riding and Trips
All ranches offer horseback riding for guests and some offer the opportunity to visitors from other accommodations or campgrounds. Young children are allowed by some (check with the individual ranch) to ride, and a few offer riding instruction. Many have trail rides and overnight trips, as well as sleigh or hay rides. A few bill themselves as "working guest ranches", inviting guests to participate in daily chores. All ranches have either a restaurant or a private dining room for guests, so there's no need to run to town for a meal.
Ranches with Spas, Buffalos and Dog Sledding
Guest Ranch stays are not all about horses, however. The Hills Health & Guest Ranch, located in 108 Mile Ranch, just outside of 100 Mile House, has an award-winning, world-class spa and beginner ski hill as well.
One ranch features buffalo, another has Alpacas, and a third doesn't accommodate people at all, but houses dogs in its boarding kennel. The SnoSibeHusky Ranch offers tours by dog sled throughout its private trail system and provides instruction on how to command and work with the dogs.
Many ranches offer some form of camping , from basic tenting to full-service RV sites, and several border a lake where visitors can take advantage of fishing, bird watching, boating or canoeing.
Ranch Activities
The area has hundreds of miles of trails, some mapped and maintained, with ranch trails connecting to them. Horseback riding is almost always a given via these ranches, but the trails around 100 Mile House are great for ATVing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.
Best Times to Go
Because the animals need constant care and attention, most ranches are open year round with winter and summer activities. Pets are not always welcome, however, and services and amenities can be so varied, so it is important to make inquires in advance. The South Cariboo Visitor Centre may be contacted for trail maps and information on Guest Ranch services, including equipment rentals.