Yahoo Lifestyle Vacation Like a Dutton at This Breathtaking Wyoming Ranch
As we all await the premier of the second half of Yellowstone's final season (we're sure you know this, but it comes out on November 10), you might find yourself preparing for the classic blues that hit when any favorite show ends. How are we supposed to go on each day knowing we'll never hear a sweet line from Rip to Beth again? While we can't wrangle any new episodes after this season (at least we don't think so), we can offer an alternative: why not plan a mountain vacation to live like the Duttons for a weekend?
That's right, ropers and riders: we're going to the ranch.
While you can't currently rent a cabin at the ranch where the show is actually filmed, we can direct you to the next best spot: one of the last family-owned ranches in Wyoming, with over 100 years worth of history nestled in the Grand Tetons — Diamond Cross Ranch. The ranch has hosted the likes of Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins, Luke Grimes, and even Kendall Jenner over the years, but still maintains the hospitality you'd expect from a property that's been in the same family since 1912.
First stop, though, is making sure you've got a cold drink in hand. While some on the show might prefer a stiff glass of bourbon or whiskey, we opt for something lighter for a day on the ranch. Lone River's canned drinks are a popular choice in the area. In fact, cast member Ryan Bingham told us their Ranch Rita is his favorite sipper for a day by the water (might we recommend the Snake River?). Grab a can, slap some Tajin around the rim, and get to drinking.
While you might hear Jackson Hole and think you're staying in a swanky hotel room getting nowhere near the true cowboy experience, the Teton Cabins feature a grounded interior with historic touches that point back to the beauty of the landscape all around. Take a peek outside your window early one morning and catch pink skies unlike you'll see anywhere else, and always be sure to look both ways before walking out the front door for the resident bears that like to come visit. Real log cabins with modern amenities serve as a basecamp for the many adventures that await.
The best part about staying at the Teton Cabins is access to the ranch, though. From horseback riding around the property to bending the ear of renowned horse whisperer, author, and ranch proprietor Grant Golliher, spending a day at Diamond Cross will keep you more than entertained.
Jackson gets a lot of hype in the winter months thanks to their prime location for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, but summer is the best time to visit to get the true cowboy experience, in my opinion. You can take full advantage of the land by horseback riding, fishing, going for a swim (though the water is chilly!), wildlife watching, and so much more — and don't those all sound like more Dutton-approved activities than aprés-ski?
I'm sure Rip and the ranch hands would go for a hike through scenic Grand Teton National Park. There are multiple different hike options of varying lengths and difficulties, but all of them guarantee incredible views of the mountains, valley, lake, and wildlife (don't forget the bear spray!).
But Beth would 100% opt for exploring downtown Jackson and all the shopping it has to offer — naturally, I did, too. Stop for a Lone River Ranch Water at the famous (or infamous, depending on how long you stay) local watering hole, The Million Dollar Cowboy, to start your shopping trip. Then take a short walk around the corner to Kemo Sabe to get a one-of-a-kind signature souvenir — a custom-embellished Stetson with your initials branded onto the side. Of course, what are souvenirs without grabbing a thing or two for the kids? Don't miss Teton Toys and their massive selection of stuffed animals, LEGOs, and so much more.
No matter which you choose, one thing is for sure: you better not miss that Teton sunset. Grab a chair, a blanket, and a Ranch Water and spend the extra 30 minutes watching the sun dip below the mountains and the pink skies fade into a burning amber. You won't regret it.
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