Independently owned since 1905
Independently owned since 1905
OH WHAT FUN IT IS TO RIDE – Draft horses Doc and Duke (left) pull a sleigh of passengers through winter's wonderland at Western Pleasure Guest Ranch outside of Sandpoint, Idaho. The soft sound of jingle bells is music to the ears.
The sound of bells jingling is perceived, the bite of cold air touches the cheeks, the glorious sight of snow clinging to evergreen branches is appreciated, and the scent of crisp, fresh air is rejuvenating. The wondrous beauty of Mother Nature in winter overloads all senses, bringing glorious smiles to those partaking in an old-fashioned sleigh ride.
Gliding over the snow on a horse-drawn sleigh is quite arguably the most traditional winter experience one could have. So many feelings come to life while on a sleigh ride; serenity, humility, nostalgia, stillness, and peace.
After taking a 40-minute horse-drawn sleigh ride at Western Pleasure Guest Ranch (WPGR) east of Sandpoint, I can honestly say that if you have not had the opportunity to take a ride, it should be at the top of your bucket list. Words are words, and cannot really capture the personal feelings awakened by the experience. Bliss is close, but still not quite enough.
WPGR offers everything you would expect at a typical dude ranch. There are many options for lodging, including single rooms to private cabins which are heated with wood stoves. A recreation room is prepped with foosball, board games, television and pool table for further entertainment. The spacious main lodge is stocked with various beverages for gatherings and meal time, where gourmet, home cooked meals are provided three times a day.
Outdoors activities include a hot tub to warm up, or wind down, after enjoying a day of outdoor activities. There are miles of cross-country ski trails and loops that are groomed daily, along with walking and hiking trails. Horse trail riding and instruction is also offered.
It all began in 1940 when Riley Wood settled in Sandpoint on 1,100 acres of land, what is now WPGR. Wood's granddaughter and her family operate the ranch sharing their love of the outdoors, nature, horses and ranching with guests.
If looking for a glorious get away that is close to home, consider WPGR. The ranch is located eight miles off Highway 200, a few miles east of Sandpoint. For information, visit http://www.westernpleasureranch.com.
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