It's possible to travel just 3 hours and feel like you're in another world. When we booked our adventure over the phone, Susan asked about our riding experience, any food sensitivities and how much we wanted to dive in with the ranch experience. When we arrived, Susan came out of the house to welcome us and showed us our cabin (which they just finished last year). I wanted every experience the ranch had to offer and Tim and Susan did not disappoint. From waking up at sunrise to feed the horses, to witnessing the birth of a calf (they didn't have control over that but a total bonus), fixing fences, riding all day, cattle pushing, taking care of the horses, riding in the back of a truck after a long day, taking care of calves, glorious sunrises and sets, magnificent landscape to wonderful home cooked meals. We would swap stories at the table as I stuffed my mouth with biscuits, steak and homemade jam. I would watch the day break from the loft in our cabin. There was something so comforting and so right to put on the same pair of dusty jeans and boots as I got ready to tackle the day. I never once felt stupid for still not grasping how to cinch my horse by the third day or accidentally splitting up a herd during a push down the mountain. Susan made sure she snapped a photo or got a video during our glory moments. We were all treated like family and it was hard to say goodbye when the time came. Your adventure will be worth every penny, every sore butt and dusty face. In my 43 years next to my daughter's birth, this was the greatest moment of my life. My soul was alive the whole week and have found my calling after my daughter flys the coop. There is no better place to heal the soul than on the back of a horse. read more

Suz and Tim are wonderful hosts! There was a welcome sign on the porch which made us feel right at home. My sweetie had scheduled us for a two hour horse back ride but I've never ridden. The original destination seemed a bit daunting, so we spent some time in the Arena letting me get used to the feel of the horse and learning how to "drive" her, so to speak. I was a little embarrassed, but neither of these horse pro's made me feel anything less than fine. They kept telling me how good i was getting and that they saw me go from tense to comfortable in the short time we were on horseback. I'd love to see them again and I think I would like go on horseback again.... I'm so thankful for their patience and hospitality. read more

The ranch is a truly special and beautiful place in a part of Oregon that you must see to appreciate. Getting to know the O'Crowleys and the ranch made this so much more than just a sightseeing trip. My husband and I stayed at the ranch for two nights in late November and went for a 2 hour trail ride. We enjoyed great weather with crisp nights, amazing stars, and temperate days. We enjoyed exploring the area before we arrived -- there's a lot to see here: the Alvord Desert, Steens Mountain, the Diamond Craters area, the local hot springs, the Malheur Wildlife Refuge, and the beautiful sage brush country. But our favorite parts of the trip were our trail ride up above the ranch to the rim of the Kiger Gorge with beautiful views, and the family meals with Tim and Susan. We hope to be able to return for more riding and a longer stay! read more

Steens Mountain Guest Ranch is tucked away in the scenic high desert of Southeastern Oregon, far from city lights, sounds, and fast pace. We arrived at the beautiful log home built by Tim and Susan O'Crowley and were warmly welcomed as though we were family. We sat and chatted, getting acquainted while they got a better idea of which horse would be best suited for us during our 5 day stay. Tim and Susan gave us a general idea of what we'd be doing and answered our questions. We went for a short ride to get acquainted with our assigned horses who were gentle and well mannered, and test out the saddles, then enjoyed a hearty and delicious dinner before heading up to our charming and comfortable room. The next morning after a filling breakfast we headed out to the cow camp cabin where we would spend the next 3 nights. We loved the "Cow Camp Experience"! There is no electricity but we had hot showers, comfortable bunks, a propane fridge and stove, and even a flush toilet. Our bellies were always full and happy after breakfast and dinner at the cabin. Lunch was packed in our saddle bags and eaten down the trail under the shade of a willow or next to the creek where dinner might be caught. The O'Crowleys are truly wonderful people who love their lives and enjoy sharing their way of life with anyone adventurous enough to give it a try. We highly recommend this experience and look forward to our next visit. read more

October 2016 Two retired RNs with wonderful childhood memories involving horses. At least 5 years talking about planning a "dude ranch" vacation. We finally did it! No dude ranch for us.......no, we wanted an authentic cowboy experience. And that is exactly what we got. Such a picturesque and beautiful setting. Susan and Tim could not have been nicer and were so comfortable to be with we felt like we'd been part of their ranch forever. We had the pleasure of meeting their revered neighbor, Mary who is in a class by herself. A lovely and interesting storyteller, sharing her wonderful experiences. Many thanks to Susan for making that memorable introduction. We had undivided attention from both Susan and Tim during our 3 day stay. Each meal was healthy, hearty and definitely delicious. Evening storytelling consisted of giggles and even tears at times. Such fun and laughter. Pushing cattle was a new experience and not soon to be forgotten. Lodging was perfect: clean, quiet and very comfortable in every aspect. I cannot imagine adding or changing anything about our experience. I encourage anyone who has ever dreamed of being a "cowboy" to contact the O'Crowley's and turn that dream into reality. You will not duplicate this amazing experience anywhere. Susan and Tim gave my soul a much-needed lift and will always have a special place in my heart. Many thanks to you both. Patti Swan Vancouver, WA read more