Have you always wanted to stay at a dude ranch in the U.S.?   Well, 2010 is the year of U.S. National Parks and the The Dude Ranchers’ Association(DRA) now offers dude ranch holidays in the footsteps of national parks.

Says the association:

“The dude ranch is one of America’s favorite past times for family getaways. Travelers can escape the daily grind, get some fresh air and explore the natural wonders of our great nation. Ranches affiliated with the DRA hold the highest standard of lodging and western activities. Pairing a dude ranch and national park vacation is the perfect opportunity to have adventurous days and comfortable nights.”

The DRA represents 100+ dude ranches in the western United States.  Some of these ranches are located near destinations like Mesa Verde, Yellowstone, Glacier, Yosemite National Parks and more.

On these dude ranch holidays, guests can go on long horseback rides, swim in lakes, try shooting ranges, sit by campfires and stay in traditional log cabins.  Then they can have national parks vacations by taking  day trips in to the nearest national park.

Highlights of U.S. National Parks include ancient Native American ruins at Mesa Verde; scenic day hikes at Glacier National Park and Yellowstone wildlife viewing.

If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone this summer, the DRA has 30+ dude ranch members located within driving distance of the park.  Dude ranch holiday packages include lodging, gourmet meals and guided/instructor led activities.

Images courtesy of the The Dude Ranchers’ Association.