Southwestern Dude Ranch Surrounded by Scenic Desert Mountains

It's almost as if the Wild West had never been tamed at Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch: horses trot freely across miles of cactus-dotted Arizona desert, and the wide empty expanse throws the secluded retreat into vivid relief amid a skyline dominated by the Hualapai, Mohave, and Buck Mountains. Southwestern-style dwellings sprawl across the grounds, where friendly pet dogs wander freely. And a sense of laid-back, familial friendliness permeates the premises thanks to the helpful staff members—many of whom make their home on the ranch and are related to one another.

For those craving a taste of the cowboy life, Stagecoach Trails' horseback-riding program lets aspiring equestrians traverse the winding desert trails. Experienced wranglers match riders to one of the ranch's many equines for 60- to 90-minute treks through rugged natural landscapes of varying difficulty. Solo riders must be at least 8 years old, and children age 6 or 7 can ride with the assistance of a staff member. Stagecoach Trails also offers a brief walking horseback ride around the ranch for younger cowpokes.

Buffet-style, home-cooked meals are served three times a day at the main Frontier Lodge’s dining room. Through numerous windows inside, guests can look out to dazzling sunrises and sunsets over jagged mountaintops as they dine. In nice weather, the courtyard transforms into an alfresco eatery where guests can loll in the sun while nibbling on pecan pie or homemade bread. Otherwise, a large fireplace inside creates a cozy environment for chitchat, reading, or crocheting a pair of sunglasses.

Windows in the guest rooms also act as portals to the mountain scenery. Sunlight pours in on two sides of the room, illuminating blond-wood furnishings and décor inspired by the American Southwest. Visitors can swan dive into a queen-size bed resting under a colorful desert-themed mural.

Mohave County, Arizona: Old West Desert Towns Lining Historic Route 66

Dry, rocky scenery characterizes Mohave County, Stagecoach Trails' rustic homeland. The legendary Route 66 snakes through the rugged desert, connecting motorists to once-booming mining villages sprinkled along its path. Many of these ghost towns now have been revived as destinations for visitors interested in the Wild West days; there are old mine shafts and equipment, and one city hosts staged gunfights. Stagecoach Trails lies within 50 miles of Lake Havasu City, current home of the famed London Bridge, which was relocated from England in the 1960s. It now sits on Lake Havasu, right along the border of Arizona and California. Numerous boating activities take place on the lake, and landlubbers can soak up the Uptown neighborhood's many shops and restaurants.