Wickenberg/Kay El Bar Tips

Question

Hi folks,

About a year and a half ago we went to stay at White Stallion but my husband got sick with covid so we weren’t able to participate in anything. We did some drives around Saguaro etc but didn’t get to experience any of the ranch activities.

Now we’re trying to redo the dude ranch experience and we booked Kay El Bar as it’s less of a drive from Las Vegas plus they had a deal on.

We’ve been to Prescott/Sedona/Verde Valley/Jerome before but not Wickenberg. I already looked at the websites etc but wondered if there’s anything anyone here has to add on the area that could be helpful for us. We have four full days so maybe we would be best served just spending our time on the ranch and in Wickenberg itself.

Any tips appreciated.

Answer

Kay El Bar Ranch in Wickenburg offers a more relaxed and accessible dude ranch experience compared to some of the more remote ranches in Arizona. Since you have four full days, you can enjoy both the ranch activities and explore the charming town of Wickenburg without feeling rushed.

Ranch Tips:

Riding Lessons & Trail Rides: Even if you’ve ridden before, consider taking a guided trail ride to experience the desert scenery and wildlife. The ranch often tailors rides based on skill level, so beginners and experienced riders alike are accommodated.
Hands-on Ranch Activities: Participate in cattle drives, roping lessons, or horse grooming sessions if offered. These provide an authentic ranch experience beyond just horseback riding.
Relaxation & Pools: Take advantage of the ranch amenities like the pool and hot tub for downtime between activities. Early mornings or late afternoons are perfect for unwinding.
Dining: Meals at the ranch are included, but check if any special themed dinners are scheduled during your stay. Evenings at the ranch often include entertainment like cowboy storytelling or live music.

Exploring Wickenburg:

Historic Downtown: Stroll along the historic streets, browse the boutiques, art galleries, and small museums that highlight the town’s Western heritage.
Desert Adventures: If you’re interested in exploring beyond the ranch, consider a short drive to nearby desert hiking spots or guided Jeep tours. However, with only four days, focusing mainly on the ranch may make for a more relaxed visit.
Local Events: Check the town calendar—sometimes local rodeos, art fairs, or Western-themed events coincide with your stay and can add a special touch to your trip.

Additional Tips:

Pack layered clothing as desert temperatures can vary widely between mornings, afternoons, and evenings.
Bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable boots suitable for horseback riding.
Plan to spend at least three full days at the ranch to fully experience the activities, reserving perhaps one half-day for a relaxed stroll around Wickenburg if desired.

Overall, focusing your time on the ranch with a brief visit to Wickenburg gives you the authentic dude ranch experience without the stress of extra driving. Kay El Bar’s proximity to Las Vegas also keeps travel manageable, leaving more energy for enjoying the desert scenery and activities.