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FAQ
GENERAL
Is there a minimum length of stay at Sprucedale Guest Ranch?
We only offer 6-night stays. We no longer offer anything else. Check-in is on Sunday at 2 pm, and checkout is Saturday at 10 am.
Is Sprucedale Guest Ranch family-oriented?
Yes. Sprucedale Ranch has been in operation since 1921 and has been proudly owned and operated by the Wiltbank family since 1941. Now in its fourth generation, the ranch welcomes families and encourages visits to create lasting memories together.
Are there adult-only weeks?
Yes. Although children are welcome, Sprucedale can help identify dates suitable for a “kid-free” week.
Do I have to fill out a waiver to visit Sprucedale Guest Ranch?
Yes. Every person visiting or staying on the property must have a completed and signed waiver — even non-riders.
Is there WIFI at the ranch?
Yes. Wi-Fi is available at the ranch for an additional fee of $100 per week. Internet access is limited and intended for basic needs such as email and schoolwork. Wi-Fi is available only at the lodge.
Is there cell phone service at the ranch?
There is no cell phone service throughout the ranch. However, some carriers may receive limited calls, texts, and emails in a small area around the main lodge. The closest 4G service is in Alpine, about 45 minutes away.
Is there a telephone at the ranch?
Yes. The ranch has a telephone and intermittent service.
How does someone contact me if there is an emergency while I’m staying at the ranch?
Is child care provided while we stay at the ranch?
No. The ranch does not provide childcare. Guests may arrange to bring their own childcare provider. If the caregiver stays in your cabin, their base stay will be complimentary, and they will only be charged for any horseback rides they participate in.
Are pets allowed at the ranch?
Pets are not recommended for safety reasons. For service animals, contact the ranch prior to arrival.
What will the weather be like in the Alpine, AZ area?
Weather varies. Summers are typically warm (average 76 degrees), with cooler evenings. Fall can bring cool mornings or unexpected snow that melts by midday. Guests are advised to bring rain gear regardless of the season.
Will we see any wildlife at Sprucedale?
Yes. Guests often see elk, deer, antelope, longhorn sheep, horses, cattle, and pigs on the ranch grounds. As Sprucedale is located in a wilderness setting, there is also the possibility of encountering wild animals such as bears, mountain lions, and wolves. Guests are asked to remain aware of their surroundings and follow all ranch safety guidelines.
Are there any additional charges during our stay?
Base stay includes lodging, meals, and ranch activities. Horseback rides, extended rides, lessons, and clinics are extra, as are state/local taxes. Gratuities are not included.
Full Ranch Experience-Base stay includes lodging, meals, and standard ranch activities. Additional charges apply for horseback rides, extended rides, lessons, and clinics, as well as applicable state and local taxes. Separate fees are added to all stays, including a 0.02% heritage fee that supports ranching scholarships and an 18% staff service/gratuity fee.
All other experiences, the horseback riding is included with the base stay.
What is the gratuity policy at Sprucedale Guest Ranch?
A staff service/gratuity fee of 18% is automatically applied to all experiences and shared among our team. Due to the exceptional care and service provided by our amazing staff, many guests choose to add additional gratuity. Any extra gratuity is always appreciated but entirely optional.
LODGING & FOOD
Will Sprucedale Guest Ranch cater to special diets?
Possibly — vegetarian, low-carb, and gluten-free can be accommodated for an additional fee with at least one month’s notice. Cabins do not have kitchens or refrigerators, and ranch refrigerator space is limited. Guests should bring an ice chest and ice for additional food and beverages.
What type of meals are provided during our stay at the ranch?
All meals are served family-style at the main lodge, made fresh from scratch, and include salads, fruits, homemade breads, and desserts. Guests with allergies or special diets should contact the ranch at least one month prior.
Is alcohol provided during our stay?
No. Guests may bring their own alcoholic beverages and are encouraged to drink responsibly.
Can I buy ice, beverages, or snacks at the ranch?
No. The ranch does not sell ice, beverages, or snacks. Guests should plan accordingly.
Is there electricity in our cabins?
Yes. Cabins have electricity provided by a generator that runs in the morning and evening until lights-out. Guests who require power for medical devices such as CPAP machines must notify the ranch at least one month prior to arrival. The ranch has two CPAP battery units available for guests at $100 per week, offered on a first-reserved basis.
Are facilities accessible for wheelchairs or otherwise handicapped?
Yes. One handicap-friendly cabin is available. Please note that there are no sidewalks or paved pathways around the ranch; terrain is natural and uneven. Guests may drive to and from their cabins to the lodge. We recommend contacting the ranch in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs and availability.
Is my cabin adjoining to another cabin?
No. Each cabin is free-standing with space between cabins.
Do I have a refrigerator in my cabin?
No. There is no refrigerator in cabins. Guests are encouraged to bring an ice chest and ice.
Is the water safe to drink in my cabin?
Yes. Water comes from a natural spring and is tested for purity.
No. Guests are encouraged to bring bottled water if desired for rides.
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What do I do if I have a CPAP machine?
Guests who require power for medical devices such as CPAP machines must notify the ranch at least one month prior to arrival. The ranch has two CPAP battery units available for guests at $100 per week, offered on a first-reserved basis.
Are laundry facilities available at Sprucedale Ranch?
No. There are no laundry facilities or room service.
Do you have a smoking cabin available?
No. All cabins and buildings are smoke-free and vape-free.
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is after 2:00 PM (dinner is typically at 7:00 PM). Check-out is by 10:00 AM on departure day.
RANCH RIDING PROGRAM & ACTIVITIES
What kind of horseback riding program does the ranch offer?
Guests are matched with a specific horse for the duration of their stay based on experience, height, weight, and ability. Learn more about our Horseback Riding Program here.
Do I get the same horse all week?
Yes. Guests are typically assigned the same horse for the duration of their stay. If you experience any issues with your horse, please let our staff know and you may request a different horse.
Can I ride double with my child?
No. Insurance does not allow double riding.
Will we move cows during my stay?
Depending on the season, rides may involve moving cows. Guests interested in cattle work should check out the Cattle Roundup or Cattle Gathering Experiences.
Will I get to lope or canter?
Advanced rides at faster paces, including loping or cantering, are offered for qualified riders age 13 and older. Participation in advanced rides is determined at the discretion of the corral manager, based on riding ability and safety considerations.
What other activities does the ranch have to offer?
Activities include cow milking, colt leading, fishing (Sprucedale does not provide or rent fishing equipment, and a valid fishing license is required), cornhole, basketball, volleyball, hayrides, western line dancing, bonfires, and a variety of indoor and outdoor games. Activities are subject to availability and may change.
PACKING
What type of clothing should I pack?
Pack jeans or long pants, long- and short-sleeve shirts, outerwear, rain gear, shorts, swimsuit, and riding boots or closed-toe shoes. Layers and sun protection are suggested.
TRAVEL
What airport is the closest to Sprucedale Guest Ranch?
Albuquerque is the closest airport, but Phoenix usually has more flights.
How far is the drive from Phoenix to the ranch?
Approximately 5 hours without stops.
Is there gasoline to purchase at the ranch?
No. Guests should fuel up in Show Low or Alpine.
Do you provide transportation from the airport?
No. Transportation is not provided by the ranch.
Our Policies
DEPOSITS:
The first deposit is $150 per person.
The first deposit is due when making the reservation. Your cabin will be released if you do not make a deposit within 2 weeks. The second deposit is the same amount as the first deposit and is due on or before February 1st of the year of the reservation. Failure to send the second deposit on time can cause loss of the reservation and the deposit. If the reservation is made after February 1st, then both the first and second deposits are due when making the reservation. Balance due 2 months before your reservation.
CANCELLATION POLICIES/FEES:
SPECIALTY WEEKS
A 50% deposit is due upon reservation. We’ll refund your deposit, minus a $100 cancellation fee, up to 90 days before your scheduled Specialty Week. After 90 days, we will refund ½ of your deposit up to 60 days before your reservation. After 60 days, the deposit is lost.
If you would like to move your reservation to the next year, you need to let us know 60 days before your scheduled Specialty Week, and there is a $100 fee. After 60 days, ½ of your deposit can be moved to another year. After 30 days, the deposit is lost.
RESERVATIONS & CABIN ASSIGNMENTS:
Our summer season is getting busier every year, and with that, guests are booking 1-2 years out. We know that some of you have specific weeks that you love to come. Please know that we love you, but we will not hold cabins for you or your group. You are more than welcome to book 1-3 years out.
Cabin assignments are based on size, mobility, and the date of reservation. We do our best to give everyone the cabins they love, but you are not guaranteed those cabins. If you do not want to be moved, you can pay the full price for the cabin and will not be moved.
Cancellation Policy FOR ALL EXPERIENCES:
- We have a 90-day cancellation policy. Cancellations made 90 days before arrival will be refunded, less a 5% fee, if the deposit was made by credit card. For cancellations made within 90 days of arrival, no portion of your payment is refundable.
- We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance to protect all of our interests. We can no longer hold over deposits and payments for cancellations outside our policy period. We will make every attempt to work with guests, yet we provide specialty experiences, and these are difficult to rebook on short notice. Travel Guard is the preferred provider for the Dude Ranchers Association, and you can find a link on their website at duderanch.org.
- Riding Levels
- Please lookover the attached document about our riding levels and what levels each week are: Riding Level Descriptions
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Just your casual Tuesday at 8,500 ft
Nothing like a real working dude ranch where you ride, eat, and live like a cowboy. 🤠 if you’ve been dreaming about trading your desk for the saddle, this is your sign. would you do it?