Our "once in a life time" vacation began with a nightmarish experience with American Airlines, causing us to miss a day and a half of time at the Spotted Horse Ranch, in Jackson Hole Wyoming. When we finally landed at the in Jackson Hole airport in late afternoon, we were met with a smile by ranch manager Kevin Watkins. Aware of our travel troubles, Kevin suggested maybe a quick horseback ride would help ease some of the angst. Man, was he right. After a short trip from the airport to the ranch (which is a big plus), we were met with another smile from office manager (and former head wrangler) Rochelle Latka, who gave us a quick tour of the ranch while making our way to the barn. All of the other guests had been out riding for hours, but she made sure there were two horses saddled and ready for my wife and me, and all we had to do was put our feet in the stirrups and follow the wrangler's lead. Within minutes, all the frustration, grumpiness, and exhaustion from the journey there disappeared into the indescribable landscape surrounding this truly fantastic ranch. And, it just got better from there. For the next week we were fully immersed into what seemed like a fantasy world to a pair of home-body Arkansans. I could go on and on about the great food, log cabin accommodations, the extra activities like white water rafting and pack trip, and the overall movie set worthy scenery surrounding the property. But perhaps the aspect that stood out the most was the hospitality. From the wranglers to the ranch manager himself, everyone made sure we had everything we needed or wanted, and genuinely seemed to be just as happy to be there as we were. I've never been to other dude ranches, and after spending a week at the Spotted Horse Ranch, I see no reason to. This was the place for us, and we will find our way back soon. read more