In addition to the central role horses played in the dude ranch experience, dudes and wranglers at White Grass engaged in a variety of non-horse activities. Some were social/interactive, competitive, artistic, nature and spiritual based, relaxing and fun based, and/or exploratory. Oral histories from this era make clear that these activities, particularly for children, adolescents and young adults, impacted later life decisions such as college studies, career paths, avocations, choices in long term relationship and where they chose to live. Some of these young dudes and wranglers later brought their children to the ranch who also learned about themselves through ranch activities.
As many former dudes have said, days at the ranch were busy but also allowed long periods of time to explore while wandering in the woods, meeting new people, playing cards or reading a book. Guests often commented that their freedom at the ranch was an important part of their overall experience.
*CLICK HERE to see Sharon’s book “Letters from a Cabin Girl.”
