Beyond Cowboy Core: Authentic Experiences in the American West

Thanks to celebrities such as Beyoncé, Pharrell, Lana Del Rey, and Taylor Swift — the cowboy core trend has been gaining momentum. Between the comeback of weathered double-denim and vintage leather boots, Beyonce’s acclaimed “Cowboy Carter” album and the popular “Yellowstone” series – it feels like the collective Old West obsession has reached a new high.

But let us take you to the real frontier, where the authenticity of the American West is meant to be lived and breathed. These are wide-open spaces where you’ll ride horseback beside seasoned wranglers, meet multi-generational ranching families who’ve cared for their land for over a century, and unplug from the common chaos present in our digital-driven world – all with a backdrop of endless plains, majestic mountains and untamed wilderness. 

Whether it’s learning the timeless art of horse whispering from third-generation ranchers, sharing stories around a campfire under a field of stars, or taking a sunrise horseback ride to a historic homestead for a traditional cowboy-style breakfast – it’s experiences like these that will stay with you long after the trends fade from the front pages.

01 | Learn The Timeless Art of Horse Whispering

Photos courtesy of Diamond Cross Ranch

DIAMOND CROSS RANCH | WYOMING

With the towering Tetons as its backdrop, Diamond Cross Ranch is located in beautiful Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Built originally as a homestead in 1912, Diamond Cross Ranch has been family-owned for over a century, and is one of the few remaining cattle ranches in the Tetons. The ethos behind the equestrian, horsemanship and wrangling activities offered to guests are rooted in the traditions of a working ranch, giving you a  look into the grit and grandeur of life as a cowboy.

One of the most fulfilling and inspiring experiences offered at Diamond Cross Ranch is learning the art of horse whispering. Led by a master trainer, this captivating work shows the power of gentle, trust-based communication over force or intimidation. Witness the transformation of an untrained horse and experience how deep the connection can be between humans and these beautiful animals.

02 | Join a Bison Conservation Expedition

Photos courtesy of Vermejo, Ted Turner Reserve

TED TURNER RESERVES’ VERMEJO | NEW MEXICO

Ted Turner Reserves’ Vermejo sits on a sprawling 550,000-acre wilderness in northern New Mexico. The vast property encompasses nineteen fishable lakes, thirty miles of pristine streams, grasslands, pine groves and alpine tundra. On top of its stunning beauty, Vermejo is home to one of the largest private bison herds in the country.

One of the most eye-opening experiences at Vermejo is joining a bison conservation expedition. Led by expert naturalists, travel into the high alpine forests of the property where these beautiful creatures call home. Along the way, you’ll learn about the conservation efforts spearheaded by Ted Turner, who has dedicated Vermejo to restoring wild bison populations, improving grassland ecosystems, and protecting native wildlife. The herd—now over 1,400 strong—is part of a larger mission to revitalize genetically pure bison, free from cattle DNA, ensuring the survival of the species in its most authentic form.

03 | Enjoy a Drink at a Saloon Once Frequented by Butch Cassidy

Photo courtesy of Dunton Springs Hot Springs

DUNTON HOT SPRINGS | COLORADO

Dunton Hot Springs, an 1800s-era mining town in the mountains of Colorado, might be as quintessential-American-West as they come. After being thoughtfully restored and reimagined, Dunton Hot Springs is now a luxury getaway offering guests year-round solitude in the San Juan Mountains. The hand-hewn log cabins, historic saloon, and outdoor-centric activities for guests add to the frontier aesthetic and pays homage to a storied heritage.

One of the stories told around Dunton that stands out is that of the most famous cowboy in American folklore. It’s said that Butch Cassidy himself not only frequented the saloon on property, but that he carved his name into the actual bar. By paying Dunton a visit, you’ll not only have the opportunity to learn how to fly fish on the West Fork of the Dolores River or ride horseback through the mountains – you’ll get the chance to retire after a long day in the very place Butch Cassidy once put his feet up.

04 | Savor A Traditional Cowboy Breakfast After A Sunrise Trail Ride

Photos courtesy of Tanque Verde Ranch

TANQUE VERDE RANCH | ARIZONA

Tanque Verde Ranch, located on the edge of Saguaro National Park in Arizona, is set against the stunning backdrop of the Sonoran Desert and Rincon Mountains. As one of the country’s most historic and storied dude ranches, it conjures images of the Old West. Spanning 60,000 acres, Tanque Verde offers guests the chance to immerse themselves in the traditions and rituals of a working dude ranch. 

One of our favorite experiences at Tanque Verde is the Sunrise Breakfast Ride. Wake at dawn and saddle up for an unhurried horseback ride, past fields of saguaros and mesquite trees, through the foothills of the Rincon Mountains. After a short-ride, you’ll arrive at the Old Homestead, a 1930s-era outpost with views overlooking the Sonoran Desert, where a traditional cowboy breakfast – complete with perfectly charred bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, golden-brown blue corn pancakes, and fresh-brewed coffee –  will be waiting.

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Curious about embarking on a journey through the American West? Talk with one of our Destination Specialists to learn more.