April 10, 2024 • 31 mins
As the sun sets over the rugged peaks of Saratoga, Wyoming, a sense of untamed beauty and luxurious comfort envelop you at Brush Creek Ranch.
From the adrenaline rush of river rafting and horseback riding to the serenity of goat yoga and sound baths, this is where the Wild West meets unwavering luxury. The Cheyenne Club tantalizes your taste buds with culinary masterpieces like Chef Ricky’s bone broth soup and Wagyu beef, while a 30,000-bottle wine collection awaits to be uncorked.
In this episode, Eddy Young, the Director of Activities imparts his wisdom on the endless escapades at your fingertips, promising an experience that's tailored just for you.
RESOURCES
- All-Inclusive Luxury Ranch Resort, WY | Brush Creek Ranch
- Embark on an Unforgettable All-Inclusive Retreat at Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming – Itinerary (globaljourneyswithjilldutton.com)
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:01):
Welcome to Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, the
podcast where we embark on ajourney through culture and
place, one fascinating story ata time.
I'm your host, jill Dutton, anavid traveler and writer,
passionate about exploring theworld and uncovering the unique
tales of the people I encounteralong the way.
Join me as we delve into theheart of destinations, offering
(00:24):
an insider's perspective throughthe captivating narratives of
individuals who shape theircommunities.
Whether it's chatting with adistillery owner crafting
artisanal spirits, an anglercasting lines in remote waters
or a chef mastering the flavorsof a region, each episode offers
a glimpse into their world andexpertise.
(00:44):
Stick around till the end ofeach episode offers a glimpse
into their world and expertise.
Stick around till the end ofeach episode to discover more
about my travels and writingadventures.
In the meantime, get ready tobe inspired, enlightened and
transported to distant lands onGlobal Journeys with Jill Dutton
.
I just returned from a gloriousvisit to Brush Creek Ranch in
(01:19):
Saratoga, wyoming, and I'm soeager to share the experience
with you of Wyoming and I'm soeager to share the experience
with you.
Visitors to Brush Creek Ranchfind a mix of rugged adventures,
epicurean delights, wellnessactivities and luxurious
accommodations, with themountains of Wyoming as a
backdrop, termed a dude ranchDisneyland by a fellow guest.
(01:40):
The comparison is accuratebecause of the broad mix of
activities such as river rafting, hunting, fishing, llama hikes,
skiing, goat yoga, soundbathing and massages, and so
much more.
In July there's even a rodeoset up on their 30,000 plus
acreage.
Guests stay in the lodge orcabins, depending on the size of
(02:02):
their group.
A short shuttle ride takesguests on an Epicurean adventure
to the farm home, to theon-site distillery event space,
cheyenne Club restaurant and bar, where the chef, chef Ricky,
creates Wagyu delights,delicacies and farm-inspired
dishes.
His bone broth souppresentation is an art form in
(02:23):
itself.
Plus, there's a wine tunnelthat's home to their 30,000
bottle collection, which isthird largest in the US and the
sixth largest wine collection inthe world.
There's a spirits vault that isalso a hidden speakeasy, plus
three greenhouses, 300 head ofWagyu cattle and a goat cheese
creamery.
Whew, as you can imagine, thescale of the operations is
(02:49):
massive.
But even more impressive is theranch's commitment to
sustainability, locally sourcedingredients and quality, plus
deep, deep levels of luxury.
Brush Creek Ranch is not just adestination, it's an experience
unlike any other.
From the moment guests arrive,they are enveloped in a world,
where luxury seamlessly blendswith the rugged beauty of the
(03:10):
American West.
During my stay, I was fortunateto sit down with Eddie Young,
the Director of Activities atBrush Creek Ranch, where we
discussed the plethora ofactivities available to guests.
Enjoy this very special episodeof Global Journeys with Jill
Dutton.
Eddie, thank you for taking thetime to join me today to speak
(03:36):
about Brush Creek Ranch and themultitude of activities and
experiences the guests canexpect when they come here.
And I am awed just in a day anda half that I've been here, of
seeing how much there is.
And you know you've got theoutdoor recreation guns and the
horseback riding and fly fishing, and then on the flip side,
that wellness aspect of a soundhealing bath and yoga and a spa,
(04:01):
and you know things like that.
So I'm really excited to talkmore about it with you and
everything that you do providehere.
So can you give just a anoverview of the types of
activities the guests canexperience at North Creek Rage?
Speaker 2 (04:13):
Yeah, absolutely so.
We kind of have a whole arrayof activities that we can do
with guests, everything fromleisurely trail walks up to a
high, exhilarating ATV orsnowmobile ride.
So, as you kind of highlighted,we have wellness experiences,
farm experiences and alsoactivities.
So we kind of have a full gamutof an array of activities that
we can create a full itineraryfor guests however long they're
(04:35):
here, kind of doing somethingthat's different every day.
So some of our main activitieswe offer are going to be
horseback riding, fly fishing,the gun club, hiking, mountain
biking, rock climbing we have a,we have a ropes course so tons
of different options I saw theclimbing wall and I was thinking
I was going to be brave and tryit.
Speaker 1 (04:53):
She said that's for the kids.
Yep, so you have actual rockclimbing experiences.
Speaker 2 (04:57):
We do.
We have 12 to 13 differentroutes that are kind of
throughout our property.
You know that are on actualrocks.
So that's what we mainly usefor kids, sometimes adults that
also need a little bit ofpractice.
Speaker 1 (05:07):
Just are scared of heights to break into it, you
know yeah.
Speaker 2 (05:10):
But we have 30,000 acres you know that is a giant
playground out here.
So there's tons of space tokind of get out and explore.
55 miles of trails during thesummer so we can hike, mountain
bike all those trails.
So just tons of area to exploreout here.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
Excellent, excellent, and I didn't even touch on when
I was saying I went to the farmyesterday, so there's a
distillery and the greenhousesand I was able to take a pasta
class and so we, you knoweverything came out of the
greenhouse that was used inmaking this wagyu ragyu.
Absolutely, and it was the mostphenomenal possibility I've
(05:43):
ever had and that was a class.
So that was another type ofactivity that you offer.
Speaker 2 (05:47):
Absolutely yeah.
So we offer what we kind ofcall farm experiences.
You know we're definitelytrying to become kind of the
Epicurean destination.
You know we have our own herdof wagyu beef that's here on
property, but we also, as yousaid, have a creamery.
So we have goats that are upthere.
That you know.
They're constantly makingcheeses and things for the chefs
to use, and tons of greenhousespace and a beautiful wine
(06:08):
cellar, so that farm is kind ofan immersive experience in
itself yes, and I believe thechef told me that, or, excuse me
, maggie, the greenhouseassociate, she had said that
that those three greenhouses,which they're massive, the
listener can't get it.
Speaker 1 (06:22):
You know, as it's seen them, that they're feeding
the guests here, fiverestaurants and also selling at
the farmer's market.
I mean, that's a huge amountand I don't remember how many
pounds she said, but just hownice to have that, you know,
locally sourced.
Speaker 2 (06:38):
I mean, when you talk about seed to table, it's
authentic absolutely everythingfrom the beef to the cheese that
you might eat kind of as anappetizer.
It's very authentic and it'sawesome.
A beautiful operation up thereas well.
We do greenhouse experience anda tour up there where you can
see the hydroponic lettuce andkind of go through all their
operations and kind of see howthey're capturing the different
(06:59):
bugs and go through and tastethe edible flour.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
I was going to say I got to taste.
I don't remember the name of it, but it was yellow flour and it
was real sweet at first andthen the stem was more like a
horseradish.
Yeah, had a little bite and itwas so interesting to get that
range of flavors from the flourthat I wouldn't even think he
could eat.
Speaker 2 (07:15):
Absolutely so.
It's kind of that awesomeexperience for the chefs as well
to piggyback on.
To have that fresh produceright next door is just world
class.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
Yes, and to get to use it in that pasta making
class.
And I did get to have a tour ofthe greenhouse and they let me
taste the strawberries.
It was my thing when I travelis I always go to local farmer's
markets and I'm passionateabout where our food comes from.
So to see it firsthand.
You know it's not like you'renot hiding the process.
You know I got to see the beesthat they had in there and she
(07:48):
showed me that there's bugs thatsave having pesticides and
things.
Speaker 2 (07:49):
Yeah, and Clayton, maggie and Stacy the ones that
run are very knowledgeable.
I mean, you can go in there andlearn something new every day.
As you said, walk through thosethree greenhouses.
Speaker 1 (08:01):
You can kind of get lost in there and learn
something new every day.
As you said, walk through thosethree greenhouses.
You can kind of get lost inthere with all the different
options.
I can imagine it was justphenomenal.
So well, that gives us a broadrange, because there's way too
many to mention of all theactivities.
But what is it then that youthink that really sets Brush
Creek Ranch apart from someoneelse, another ranch?
Speaker 2 (08:14):
Absolutely, you know, I think that Epicurean aspect
is one of them.
You know, obviously you'reEpicurean aspect is one of them.
You know, obviously you'relooking for great food when you
come to a destination like this.
But having that greenhouse andthe fresh white goo and being
able to, you know, see that meatbeing dry aged kind of right in
front.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
And Chef Ricky.
He's a big part of that.
Speaker 2 (08:30):
Absolutely so knowledgeable and passionate too
.
You know, those guys are justpassionate about the menus they
create and that food that theycreate.
So I'd say the food really setsus apart, as well as this
destination.
You know I call thissportsman's paradise.
You know, with our 30,000 acreswe have so much playground, but
we're also backed up next to anational forest that has over a
million acres, so we have accessto so much land and awesome
(08:53):
land that's out here.
You know it is remote and canbe tough to get to, but once
you're here there's somethingthat sinks your teeth and it
looks great.
Speaker 1 (09:00):
You know it's such a quick flight from denver to
laramie and then the shuttlepicks you up at laramie or other
people are driving here fromdenver.
It's just a few hours rightabsolutely and I know people
have private planes can.
Speaker 2 (09:10):
Yeah, they land in saratoga or yep, typically
that's most commonly they'lleither fly into Laramie and we
can pick them up in Laramie, or,if they have a charter plane or
private plane, into Saratoga.
Okay, but it's beautiful justsitting in this valley Once you
get here, being able to soak itin.
You know you'll sit in thelodge at breakfast and looking
at the Sierra Madres that are 30minutes away you know 20 miles
(09:31):
as a crow flies, but it justmakes this space feel so large
and big.
Speaker 1 (09:34):
It's pretty fun.
It does.
I know it's overused, but it isliterally breathtaking.
Well, because also there's thealtitude for people like me from
Kansas, but, like at dinnerlast night, I just would stop at
the open door because it'scaptivating.
Speaker 2 (09:48):
It is.
Speaker 1 (09:48):
It's just the scenery .
Looking at the valley, what arethe mountains that we're seeing
?
Speaker 2 (09:52):
Yeah, so we're backed up to the snowy range behind us
and that's the Medicine BowNational Forest that we do
border, and then the SierraMadres are on the other side of
the valley, and is that whereyou're skiing?
That is, yes, tell me aboutthat.
Yeah, so we have a private skimountain during the winter so we
can host up to about 16 guests.
It's all inbounds cat skiing,so there's no chairlifts up
(10:13):
there.
You actually ride up and downwith a cat, but those cats will
groom the runs as you're goingup and down, so it's almost
fresh groomers every time you'reriding.
But it's about 1100 feet ofvertical.
We have 12 to 13 runs, sometree runs in there, some glades
as well for the advanced skiers.
But it's really an awesomeexperience, especially nowadays
(10:33):
with the resorts being so busy.
This is an awesome privateexperience that you can get up
there with just your family or asmall group of people.
It's an awesome property too,very breathtaking.
It's a fun experience as well,because it's a kind of
door-to-door experience and afull day experience yes,
everything is so personalizedenough.
Speaker 1 (10:51):
I was telling mike, the ceo, yesterday when I spoke
with him, that I've never seenthis level of attention to
customers, to you know, just thefamiliarity and really happy
people work.
You, you know, I mean, and thenand it affects it and and I
keep hearing their wonderfulstories about someone may be a
skiing enthusiast so they comehere for the winter, or you know
.
So you know it's really reallyyou've got a great staff, or you
(11:14):
know that it enhances theexperience a lot.
I mean it just really adds toit.
So we've got the skiing.
I wanted to ask you.
Oh so, when I was speaking withMike, you mentioned that 60% of
the guests tend to come fromthe East Coast.
Yeah, is that pretty common?
Speaker 2 (11:31):
I'd say pretty common yeah.
Speaker 1 (11:32):
Okay, and then what I'm curious is is it primarily
men, is it primarily couples orfamilies?
Speaker 2 (11:38):
I mean, do you have, or I'm sure it's a mix of
everything, but Absolutely Kindof a large mix of everything you
know a lot of couples, families, but we also have generational
stays and a lot of alumni guestsas well.
So you know we'll havegrandparents all the way down to
the grandkids coming with kindof that family buyout, so it can
be anybody and everybody thatwants to come kind of get that
Western experience can come.
Speaker 1 (11:58):
And there are activities for kids as well.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
Yeah, absolutely so.
We have a full little Wranglersprogram and a little Buckaroos
program so we can cater to kids,you know, newborns all the way
up to about 10 years old.
Then when they can get into ournormal activities, it's about
that 10 year age range.
But our little Wranglersprogram is awesome.
It's kind of been hand builtand there's kind of a weak set
of programming where you knowone morning there'll be a
(12:21):
wrangler for a day and go hangout with their horses and then
head to the greenhouse andactually plant some seeds with
clayton and maggie, yeah, andplay with the goats.
Speaker 1 (12:30):
so it's kind of a weak programming immersive
experience, you know, for kidsto be um introduced to.
You know where the food comesin.
I think, just, it's a valuable,valuable thing and an immersive
experience for everyone,because a lot yep, not everyone
enjoys going to farmer's marketor they're not familiar with you
know.
Absolutely so it's a greatexperience, okay, of some of the
activities that stood out thatI just want to hear more about
(12:51):
the llama hikes.
What is that?
Speaker 2 (12:53):
yeah.
So last year, um, we kind ofpartnered with a local vendor
who has just a small pack ofllamas that they're, you know,
renting out for birthday parties, hikes for us, but they'll also
rent them to like local hunters.
But llamas are great, actuallypack animals and they'll just
follow you along on a hike.
We actually have littlesaddlebags that we'll put on
them and we can pack a coolerwith a lunch for you or drinks,
(13:19):
cooler with a lunch for you ordrinks.
But a really great familyexperience where you can get out
and, you know, see how they'resaddled and groomed, and go up
and feed them and meet them.
They're very docile creatures,so very nice to kind of just
leisurely walk with a hike andif the kiddo is small enough,
you can actually kind of get onthe back of one of them and kind
of get ponied around, so tospeak.
So really funny and an awesomephoto opportunity for the kids
too.
Speaker 1 (13:38):
Excellent, excellent.
And then how about the riverraft?
So I've heard that people wouldgo fishing.
Could someone just do a raftingexperience?
Speaker 2 (13:47):
Yeah, absolutely.
So, kind of in conjunctionthere with our fly fishing, we
offer fly fishing floats, yeah,where you can actually get in a
boat or a drift boat with aguide and float the river.
But what you're alluding tothere is our scenic floats.
So, yeah, we can hop onto araft with your family Usually
fit upwards of eight people inone raft, so your family can be
in all one raft with a guiderowing you down the river.
(14:08):
That guide will talk about thehistory of the area, flora,
fauna, and it's just a great wayto get the family out on the
river and see the sights.
Speaker 1 (14:15):
Someone called it a dude ranch Disneyland.
Yeah, and that is so apt,because I mean, we can't even
express the multitude of optionsthat there are to do here.
It's just so interesting andI'd already mentioned to you,
but this afternoon I'm going togo on the UTV tour with rangers,
so what's the kind of thatinvolved?
Speaker 2 (14:35):
Yeah.
So the ranger tour.
That's usually one of ourfavorite activities to do
towards the start of the statebecause it gives you a great lay
of the land.
You're going to get out ontomost of the trails um kind of be
able to see a good area.
You get a good view of the area.
I heard about look out yeah,again, you'll go over a lot of
the history of the area and aspecial spot that we go to is
called robber's roost and I'mgoing to ruin the story for you
(14:56):
ahead of time.
But it's called Robber Roostand there was a gentleman, kind
of an old outlaw, that used tobe up there, named Big Nose
George, and this was obviously acommon thoroughfare for, like
the Oregon Trail and the MormonTrail when they're all heading
west.
So he was obviously kind of abig train robber and robbed all
the locals there and became afugitive.
But the kind of big tale behindhim is that once he was
(15:18):
actually captured he was broughtto the Rawlins jail and once he
was actually, once he was hung,the governor had such a
vendetta against him.
Is that for robbery?
They do Well in killing hissheriff there's a bunch in there
but they actually made bootsout of his skin and those are
actually still in the RollinsMuseum oddly enough, I've heard
(15:41):
about books made out of skin inPortland.
You can choose to add that one.
That's a fun little weird piecethat is, they are kind of
creepy but they are actually inRollins.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
And so obviously with you know I'm here which you're
coming into your busier summerseason, so it's seasonal
activities so, but like in thewinter, someone can come and
expect more.
Tell me what different seasonalkinds of things.
Speaker 2 (16:07):
Absolutely.
So you know the activities justkind of obviously match or
mixed with the season.
So you know, in the summerwe'll offer hikes, but in the
winter we'll do snowshoeing.
In the summer we'll do ATVs,but in the winter it's
snowmobiling.
So obviously we have a lot ofthose quintessential winter
activities such as snowshoeing,cross-country skiing, sleigh
rides Our downhill skiing isvery popular and snowmobiling.
(16:29):
So we can kind of match thoseseasons.
And you know, if you're lookingto get on a horsepower machine
versus an actual horse, we canget you on a snowmobile in the
snow ATV in the winter.
Speaker 1 (16:39):
So we kind of just match those seasons depending on
what's available different and,like I said, I I heard that, so
now everything's kind of well.
Today it snowed, but yesterdayit was 66 degrees and so
everything was still kind ofbrown.
But I do come here pretty soon.
The water starts coming off andyou've got the, so it ends up
(17:02):
having like almost canals.
Speaker 2 (17:03):
Yeah, for the excavation yep, yeah, just as
you said.
You know we're kind of cominginto like a mud season now.
Um, the snow also kind ofstarts to melt very quickly.
But that's one of the funnestthings for guests to do is come
in the winter and then come inthe summer.
You see such a different beauty.
I mean absolutely, you know,you'll have just green grass and
green trees, so kind of that.
Different seasons is also funto see.
Speaker 1 (17:25):
Wonderful and they talked about how you cater to
different ages.
Can you think of any memorableexperiences that guests have had
at the at Fresh Creek Ranch?
Speaker 2 (17:34):
Yeah, that's something that we can do is?
You know, we can cater any ofthese experiences kind of to
what you want to do.
You know, for example, twoyears ago we had a family that
desperately they're big birdwatchers but they desperately
wanted to find an arrowhead.
So we kind of catered a hikeslash ranger tour to them where
we were able to go out on aranger tour to destinations,
take short hikes from there toareas that we might be able to
(17:57):
find in arrowhead but also havea big bird population.
So we're able to cater a lot ofthose experiences to what you'd
like to do.
Sometimes we can just offer aranger tour with cocktails.
You know it's your arrival dayand you want to get here and
just have a nice westerncocktail.
Speaker 1 (18:12):
So we can kind of cater those experiences and make
them very unique and kind ofspeaking of that you have, you
really cater to the activity ifsomeone wants to have a relaxing
cocktail, so you've got thesaloon yeah there's.
The Cheyenne club has a bar.
Is that correct?
I hear downstairs is a spiritvault.
Are we allowed to talk aboutthat?
(18:32):
Yes, speak easy yeah's aspeakeasy.
Speaker 2 (18:34):
Yeah, so that's at the farm actually.
So there's kind of a coupledifferent secret rooms there.
So if you ever do get to thefarm, I recommend doing a farm
tour, but that's where you cansee those secret rooms.
But that one's called thespirits vault, which is kind of
a speakeasy style room, butthere we have, you know, spirits
that are around the world andrare ones as well.
Speaker 1 (18:53):
Oh, and the wine cellar itself.
Is it 30,000 bottles?
It's the third largest in theUS and six largest in the world.
Speaker 2 (19:00):
Is that correct?
Absolutely.
So 30,000 bottles, so you knowjust tons of bottles.
Our owners are very big intothe wine world, so everything
from you know magnums down tojust exquisite kind of local
bottles.
But even in that spirit we havelike one bottle of Macallan
1950.
Yeah, I think it's one of 350left in the world, so it's just
(19:21):
very rare.
You're obviously not going tomake 60-year-old whiskey very
quickly.
So just unique experiences thatwe can do.
And, as you said, not only dowe have passionate chefs but we
have passionate bartenders andpeople at that farm who can talk
about those spirits and get youtaste from, you know, japanese
whiskeys to scotch, to Americanwhiskeys and talk about those
flavor profiles.
Speaker 1 (19:41):
Yes, very interesting .
And there's the distilleryexperience as well and someone
can go there and have a tasting.
I tried that.
It was fun, and I think myfavorite was probably the rye.
I liked the pepperiness of it.
It was very good, so I had aManhattan last night using the
rye from the Brush CreekDistillery.
Speaker 2 (19:59):
And that's always the best.
Like you said, we can use thosespirits as well on those kind
of ranger tours, do those things.
But it's always a fun gift togo home with as well.
Bring a bottle of Brush Creekwhiskey home with you.
Perfect gift to go home with.
Speaker 1 (20:10):
Yes.
So what role does thesurrounding the natural
environment play in shapingactivities and experiences?
We kind of touched seasonally,but being in this wonderland or
outdoor nature, I mean, I guessthere's not really an answer to
that question?
Speaker 2 (20:26):
No, we're definitely.
You know that's a big thing isbeing stewards of the lands and
conservationists.
Speaker 1 (20:31):
Well, and actually, since I didn't phrase my
question very well, what mightexplain it better?
Is Bruce, the original owner?
I had heard about him searchinglike five different sites for
this, and so can you tell me alittle bit?
About how he found and why thiswas the one he wanted.
Speaker 2 (20:48):
Yeah, so obviously we're owned kind of by White
Lodging, our parent company,which is one of kind of the
premier lodging destinations orcompanies in the world.
Yes, they started in the 80sand we have a profile of
restaurants and hotels, butaround 2007, 2008,.
Bruce really wanted to purchasea ranch and this was kind of
like his passion project.
Speaker 1 (21:07):
He wanted to bring this to guests.
Absolutely yeah, in thatexperience.
Speaker 2 (21:11):
Yeah, he wanted to kind of open up his you know
passion to the outdoors and alsobring that kind of guest
experience, the white lodgingway, into that ranch world.
So him and one of his sonsactually went on a summer road
trip and they traveled aroundkind of the northwest and west
looking for a ton of ranches.
And this was actually one ofthe last ones, I think the last
one they stopped at and kind ofjust stuck out to them.
I mean, it's, it's been aworking cattle ranch.
(21:33):
It's beautiful.
In this valley there's a lot ofcentury-old ranches, you know,
ranches that have been in thesame family for hundreds of
years, which is pretty rarenowadays.
So this area just kind of stuckright out to them.
I guess when they pulled in itkind of sung to them, stuck
right out, and then since 2008,they've built this beautiful
property to kind of express thatpassion and get their way out
(21:53):
to the guests as well.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
So yeah, perfect, perfect, and I realized that I
just met.
Whatever drew him here is is avery special thing that guests
get to experience.
So thank you for sharing that.
And as far as like maybespecial packages or themed
experiences or things like that,I believe there's a
bachelorette group.
(22:14):
Do you have the people come inand request?
Speaker 2 (22:17):
Yeah, absolutely so.
We do a ton of different events, everything from weddings to
group incentive trips, to groupbuyouts, to bachelorette trips,
like there's one here onproperty now.
Speaker 1 (22:26):
Corporate bond brand.
What's that called?
Speaker 2 (22:28):
Yeah, kind of a buyout.
No, I'm thinking of where it'sa bonding event, where they go,
yeah, yeah, kind of like a teambonding, team building type
things.
Yep, absolutely.
So.
Tons of corporate events likewe have one coming up that's an
incentive trip for kind of thetop like 30 producers of the
group.
So this is an awesome place.
Those groups can come out anddo like a morning meeting mixed
with a morning or an afternoonactivity and, just as you said,
(22:50):
do that team bonding and youknow they get out to there and
be able to bounce ideas back andforth.
So we can kind of host an arrayof a group buyout from 10
people, you know, to a family of10 as well.
That we can kind of cater thosedifferent things to.
That's excellent, excellentoptions.
Speaker 1 (23:05):
And I know we're speaking about activities, but I
think listeners would want tohear about the whole experience,
so I'm curious can you talkjust a little bit about the
variety of lodging options?
I'm staying in the lodge, whichis a gorgeous room, but there
are cabins as well.
Absolutely yeah.
Speaker 2 (23:20):
So we have everything from you know kind of guest
rooms like you're in kind of astandard more guest room.
That's in our lodge, all theway up to large cabins.
Our biggest cabin is called thehomestead, which can sleep up
to 12 guests.
Yeah, so very large andsprawling.
Um, so we have everything fromone, two, three bedroom cabins
where you can kind of mix thatfamily in and kind of find that
(23:41):
need for them, whether you wantto be that close to your family
or not that close that's a greatidea.
Speaker 1 (23:47):
okay, I've touched on how impressed I am with every
single encounter I've had withstaff.
I mean they remember your nameInstead of saying, oh, it's down
the hall, they take you there.
You know what I mean.
It's a very personalizedexperience, and so, on those
lines, I've also heard somestories about you know there
have been people meet each otherhere.
(24:08):
So it's just, it becomes like afamily, doesn't it?
Absolutely, Because you guysare living.
I know some live in town, butthe people live here.
Speaker 2 (24:17):
Yeah, definitely.
You know I always say our teamit's definitely more of a family
than a team.
Yeah, we hire a lot for kind ofthat culture fit, just as
you're saying.
You know we want thosepassionate yet professional
people who can kind of relaythat white lodging way.
You know we do an intensivetraining process that usually
takes at least 10 days and kindof get them into that mindset.
You know that we're here forthe guests but most of our
(24:38):
guests are passionate about whatthey do, which makes that easy
to relay onto you.
You know we have passionateoutdoorsmen that just love to go
hiking or rock climbing, sorelaying that passion really
helps.
Speaker 1 (24:49):
That's true, because Michael gave us a ride.
He shuttled us from Laramie andwe started talking about fly
fishing.
He's very passionate, he's oneof the guys, so each coming in
with their own interests andexperience, that really elevates
the, you know, because whensomeone loves what they're doing
, it comes across.
Speaker 2 (25:07):
Absolutely yes.
We have so many passionateindividuals like Geyser.
He's one of the you know, oneof the most passionate fly
fishermen we have out there.
Speaker 1 (25:15):
Wonderful.
Well, I think this is perfectand you know and I'll share the
website in the show notes andhow people can make reservations
, and do you have a favoritetime of year for to come?
For if it's somebody's firsttime, yeah, you know, but with
what month or season do yousuggest?
Speaker 2 (25:32):
Yeah, it'll be kind of like a long answer for me
because you know my Depends onwhat they're into, absolutely
Depends on what you're into.
But one of my favorite times tocome is around that 4th of July
time.
You know, awesome for families.
We do a huge rodeo and afirework show.
So there's here, yeah, so bullriding I I mean it might be the
first time people have seen arodeo, so we'll do a rodeo, a
(25:53):
firework show, there's a 5K thathappens during the 4th of July.
So that's a really fun time.
But personally, the fall couldbe one of my personal favorite
times.
I'm an avid outdoorsman, sostarting in August we can
actually start bird hunting.
So we offer wing shooting hereon property.
So we do pheasantsers andhungarian partridge okay and
then, starting in middle ofseptember september we're able
(26:14):
to do waterfowl hunts as well,so we can hunt ducks and geese
and is it correct that someone Iknow it costs quite a bit but
can do like a elk hunt yep?
Speaker 1 (26:22):
guided trip absolutely so.
Speaker 2 (26:24):
We can also do big game hunts, um you know, we do
elk, deer, moose, um, antelope,mountain lion as well.
So that shoulder is personallymy favorite.
The days are usually prettywarm, typical like yesterday.
You know, days will be in the60s, but nights are cool where
you'll need that sweatshirtaround the fire.
But fishing is also really goodaround that time.
So personally I like the fall,but also family-wise Fourth of
(26:47):
July is probably my favoritetime that might be.
Speaker 1 (26:49):
It all sounds wonderful, yeah, and just awed
by the options and the level ofthese experiences, is there
really anything like this?
I mean, I know there are otherranches out there, but it just
seems like you guys have justtaken a rodeo.
I mean, it's just a mess.
Speaker 2 (27:05):
Absolutely.
Like you said, there'sdefinitely other ranches out
there, but I'd say no one reallydoes it like we do.
Like you said, all of ourguides are super passionate
about what we do.
When you go snowmobile with ourguides, you know that's what
they're doing on their days off.
It's not just a job for them,so they can relay that passion.
And again back to the area.
We have to offer these kind ofexperiences.
It's just one of a kind here.
Speaker 1 (27:26):
Wonderful Well, Eddie , Unless there's something I
forgot to ask you.
Speaker 2 (27:30):
I don't think so.
No, it's been a pleasure havingyou and being able to show you
around.
Speaker 1 (27:33):
I love my business.
We're still here.
We fly out tomorrow, but todayis just booked up with.
I'm going to go see the winecellar and the speakeasy I can't
wait to find that and the meals, because you've got the Wagyu,
yep, and at first I was like Idon't want to eat Wagyu at every
meal.
It's like I don't get to eatWagyu so I better eat it you
(27:54):
know what I mean and it's been.
I had the Wagyu tenderloin thefirst night and the last night I
had the Wagyu.
I think it was filet with theOscar with the crab on it.
Every time it's like this isthe best piece of meat I've ever
had there's always somethingnew on the menu.
Speaker 2 (28:10):
You've got to try, which makes it exciting.
Speaker 1 (28:12):
And Jeffrey talked a little bit about the marbling
and the fat and people were like, oh no, it's not good and he
said it's more the omega-3s andthe fat.
Yeah, absolutely, Yep, and it'sjust so tender.
But thank you so much forjoining us Absolutely and for
sharing with the listenerseverything about Brush Creek
Ritz.
Speaker 2 (28:27):
Absolutely, it's been a pleasure.
Speaker 1 (28:36):
Welcome to Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, the
captivating travel podcast thattakes you on an extraordinary
adventure around the world.
I'm your host, jill Dutton, andI am thrilled to be your guide
through the mesmerizing tapestryof cultures, landscapes and
experiences that await us.
Global Journeys with JillDutton is more than just a
(28:56):
travel podcast.
It's an exploration of humanityitself.
Through the power ofstorytelling, we illuminate the
lives of the remarkableindividuals we encounter along
the way, whether it's throughthe eyes of a fishing guide, a
distillery owner, a mixologist,a historian, chef, or even a
farmer.
Each person we meet adds a richlayer to the narrative of
(29:20):
culture and place.
In this podcast, we embark on atransformative journey where
the focus goes beyond thetypical tourist attractions.
Instead, we dive deep into thehearts and souls of the places
we visit, uncovering the hiddengems and untold stories that
make each destination trulyunique.
Join me as we venture off thebeaten path, seeking
(29:43):
authenticity, connection and adeeper understanding of the
world we inhabit.
Together, we'll unravel thetapestry of cultures, one story
at a time.
Although my writing careerbegan in the late 90s, when I
created and launched a wellnesspublication called Evolving
Magazine, since 2015 I've workedas a travel writer on a mission
(30:03):
to seek out the locallycelebrated foods, liquor trends,
outdoor activities and storiesof those I meet along the way.
My work has been published inWine Enthusiast, afar, woman's
World, first for Women, insider,road Trippers, modern Farmer,
chilled Magazine and many moredigital and print publications.
(30:24):
I'm also the creator of GlobalPlates the People we Meet, the
Food they Eat a syndicatedcolumn.
Creating this podcast is thenext step in my journey of
sharing the stories of thepeople I've met along the way.
So pack your curiosity, leaveyour preconceived notions behind
and let's embark on globaljourneys with Jill Dutton, where
(30:45):
each episode promises toinspire, educate and awaken the
wanderlust within us all.
As we travel on this excitingpodcasting journey together, I
invite you, our incredibleaudience, to be a part of it.
Share your own travel stories,insights and recommendations
with us.
Whether you have a hidden gemin your hometown or a dream
(31:07):
destination that has capturedyour imagination, we want to
hear from you.
Your suggestions will helpshape the future episodes of
Global Journeys, with JillDutton guiding us towards
extraordinary locations andexperiences that deserve a
spotlight.
Remember, this podcast is notabout just the host or the
guests.
It's about the collectiveexploration and discovery that
(31:28):
unites us all as wanderers inthis vast world.
So reach out to us through ourwebsite, social media channels
or email and let your voice beheard.
Send your suggestions to me atjill at
globaljourneyswithjillduttoncom.
I can't wait to hear from you.
Until next time, may yourtravels be filled with endless
(31:49):
curiosity, open-heartedencounters and transformative
adventures.
Safe travels, fellow explorers,and keep wandering.
Welcome to Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, the
podcast where we embark on ajourney through culture and
place, one fascinating story ata time.
I'm your host, jill Dutton, anavid traveler and writer,
passionate about exploring theworld and uncovering the unique
tales of the people I encounteralong the way.
Join me as we delve into theheart of destinations, offering
(00:24):
an insider's perspective throughthe captivating narratives of
individuals who shape theircommunities.
Whether it's chatting with adistillery owner crafting
artisanal spirits, an anglercasting lines in remote waters
or a chef mastering the flavorsof a region, each episode offers
a glimpse into their world andexpertise.
(00:44):
Stick around till the end ofeach episode offers a glimpse
into their world and expertise.
Stick around till the end ofeach episode to discover more
about my travels and writingadventures.
In the meantime, get ready tobe inspired, enlightened and
transported to distant lands onGlobal Journeys with Jill Dutton
.
I just returned from a gloriousvisit to Brush Creek Ranch in
(01:19):
Saratoga, wyoming, and I'm soeager to share the experience
with you of Wyoming and I'm soeager to share the experience
with you.
Visitors to Brush Creek Ranchfind a mix of rugged adventures,
epicurean delights, wellnessactivities and luxurious
accommodations, with themountains of Wyoming as a
backdrop, termed a dude ranchDisneyland by a fellow guest.
(01:40):
The comparison is accuratebecause of the broad mix of
activities such as river rafting, hunting, fishing, llama hikes,
skiing, goat yoga, soundbathing and massages, and so
much more.
In July there's even a rodeoset up on their 30,000 plus
acreage.
Guests stay in the lodge orcabins, depending on the size of
(02:02):
their group.
A short shuttle ride takesguests on an Epicurean adventure
to the farm home, to theon-site distillery event space,
cheyenne Club restaurant and bar, where the chef, chef Ricky,
creates Wagyu delights,delicacies and farm-inspired
dishes.
His bone broth souppresentation is an art form in
(02:23):
itself.
Plus, there's a wine tunnelthat's home to their 30,000
bottle collection, which isthird largest in the US and the
sixth largest wine collection inthe world.
There's a spirits vault that isalso a hidden speakeasy, plus
three greenhouses, 300 head ofWagyu cattle and a goat cheese
creamery.
Whew, as you can imagine, thescale of the operations is
(02:49):
massive.
But even more impressive is theranch's commitment to
sustainability, locally sourcedingredients and quality, plus
deep, deep levels of luxury.
Brush Creek Ranch is not just adestination, it's an experience
unlike any other.
From the moment guests arrive,they are enveloped in a world,
where luxury seamlessly blendswith the rugged beauty of the
(03:10):
American West.
During my stay, I was fortunateto sit down with Eddie Young,
the Director of Activities atBrush Creek Ranch, where we
discussed the plethora ofactivities available to guests.
Enjoy this very special episodeof Global Journeys with Jill
Dutton.
Eddie, thank you for taking thetime to join me today to speak
(03:36):
about Brush Creek Ranch and themultitude of activities and
experiences the guests canexpect when they come here.
And I am awed just in a day anda half that I've been here, of
seeing how much there is.
And you know you've got theoutdoor recreation guns and the
horseback riding and fly fishing, and then on the flip side,
that wellness aspect of a soundhealing bath and yoga and a spa,
(04:01):
and you know things like that.
So I'm really excited to talkmore about it with you and
everything that you do providehere.
So can you give just a anoverview of the types of
activities the guests canexperience at North Creek Rage?
Speaker 2 (04:13):
Yeah, absolutely so.
We kind of have a whole arrayof activities that we can do
with guests, everything fromleisurely trail walks up to a
high, exhilarating ATV orsnowmobile ride.
So, as you kind of highlighted,we have wellness experiences,
farm experiences and alsoactivities.
So we kind of have a full gamutof an array of activities that
we can create a full itineraryfor guests however long they're
(04:35):
here, kind of doing somethingthat's different every day.
So some of our main activitieswe offer are going to be
horseback riding, fly fishing,the gun club, hiking, mountain
biking, rock climbing we have a,we have a ropes course so tons
of different options I saw theclimbing wall and I was thinking
I was going to be brave and tryit.
Speaker 1 (04:53):
She said that's for the kids.
Yep, so you have actual rockclimbing experiences.
Speaker 2 (04:57):
We do.
We have 12 to 13 differentroutes that are kind of
throughout our property.
You know that are on actualrocks.
So that's what we mainly usefor kids, sometimes adults that
also need a little bit ofpractice.
Speaker 1 (05:07):
Just are scared of heights to break into it, you
know yeah.
Speaker 2 (05:10):
But we have 30,000 acres you know that is a giant
playground out here.
So there's tons of space tokind of get out and explore.
55 miles of trails during thesummer so we can hike, mountain
bike all those trails.
So just tons of area to exploreout here.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
Excellent, excellent, and I didn't even touch on when
I was saying I went to the farmyesterday, so there's a
distillery and the greenhousesand I was able to take a pasta
class and so we, you knoweverything came out of the
greenhouse that was used inmaking this wagyu ragyu.
Absolutely, and it was the mostphenomenal possibility I've
(05:43):
ever had and that was a class.
So that was another type ofactivity that you offer.
Speaker 2 (05:47):
Absolutely yeah.
So we offer what we kind ofcall farm experiences.
You know we're definitelytrying to become kind of the
Epicurean destination.
You know we have our own herdof wagyu beef that's here on
property, but we also, as yousaid, have a creamery.
So we have goats that are upthere.
That you know.
They're constantly makingcheeses and things for the chefs
to use, and tons of greenhousespace and a beautiful wine
(06:08):
cellar, so that farm is kind ofan immersive experience in
itself yes, and I believe thechef told me that, or, excuse me
, maggie, the greenhouseassociate, she had said that
that those three greenhouses,which they're massive, the
listener can't get it.
Speaker 1 (06:22):
You know, as it's seen them, that they're feeding
the guests here, fiverestaurants and also selling at
the farmer's market.
I mean, that's a huge amountand I don't remember how many
pounds she said, but just hownice to have that, you know,
locally sourced.
Speaker 2 (06:38):
I mean, when you talk about seed to table, it's
authentic absolutely everythingfrom the beef to the cheese that
you might eat kind of as anappetizer.
It's very authentic and it'sawesome.
A beautiful operation up thereas well.
We do greenhouse experience anda tour up there where you can
see the hydroponic lettuce andkind of go through all their
operations and kind of see howthey're capturing the different
(06:59):
bugs and go through and tastethe edible flour.
Speaker 1 (07:02):
I was going to say I got to taste.
I don't remember the name of it, but it was yellow flour and it
was real sweet at first andthen the stem was more like a
horseradish.
Yeah, had a little bite and itwas so interesting to get that
range of flavors from the flourthat I wouldn't even think he
could eat.
Speaker 2 (07:15):
Absolutely so.
It's kind of that awesomeexperience for the chefs as well
to piggyback on.
To have that fresh produceright next door is just world
class.
Speaker 1 (07:21):
Yes, and to get to use it in that pasta making
class.
And I did get to have a tour ofthe greenhouse and they let me
taste the strawberries.
It was my thing when I travelis I always go to local farmer's
markets and I'm passionateabout where our food comes from.
So to see it firsthand.
You know it's not like you'renot hiding the process.
You know I got to see the beesthat they had in there and she
(07:48):
showed me that there's bugs thatsave having pesticides and
things.
Speaker 2 (07:49):
Yeah, and Clayton, maggie and Stacy the ones that
run are very knowledgeable.
I mean, you can go in there andlearn something new every day.
As you said, walk through thosethree greenhouses.
Speaker 1 (08:01):
You can kind of get lost in there and learn
something new every day.
As you said, walk through thosethree greenhouses.
You can kind of get lost inthere with all the different
options.
I can imagine it was justphenomenal.
So well, that gives us a broadrange, because there's way too
many to mention of all theactivities.
But what is it then that youthink that really sets Brush
Creek Ranch apart from someoneelse, another ranch?
Speaker 2 (08:14):
Absolutely, you know, I think that Epicurean aspect
is one of them.
You know, obviously you'reEpicurean aspect is one of them.
You know, obviously you'relooking for great food when you
come to a destination like this.
But having that greenhouse andthe fresh white goo and being
able to, you know, see that meatbeing dry aged kind of right in
front.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
And Chef Ricky.
He's a big part of that.
Speaker 2 (08:30):
Absolutely so knowledgeable and passionate too
.
You know, those guys are justpassionate about the menus they
create and that food that theycreate.
So I'd say the food really setsus apart, as well as this
destination.
You know I call thissportsman's paradise.
You know, with our 30,000 acreswe have so much playground, but
we're also backed up next to anational forest that has over a
million acres, so we have accessto so much land and awesome
(08:53):
land that's out here.
You know it is remote and canbe tough to get to, but once
you're here there's somethingthat sinks your teeth and it
looks great.
Speaker 1 (09:00):
You know it's such a quick flight from denver to
laramie and then the shuttlepicks you up at laramie or other
people are driving here fromdenver.
It's just a few hours rightabsolutely and I know people
have private planes can.
Speaker 2 (09:10):
Yeah, they land in saratoga or yep, typically
that's most commonly they'lleither fly into Laramie and we
can pick them up in Laramie, or,if they have a charter plane or
private plane, into Saratoga.
Okay, but it's beautiful justsitting in this valley Once you
get here, being able to soak itin.
You know you'll sit in thelodge at breakfast and looking
at the Sierra Madres that are 30minutes away you know 20 miles
(09:31):
as a crow flies, but it justmakes this space feel so large
and big.
Speaker 1 (09:34):
It's pretty fun.
It does.
I know it's overused, but it isliterally breathtaking.
Well, because also there's thealtitude for people like me from
Kansas, but, like at dinnerlast night, I just would stop at
the open door because it'scaptivating.
Speaker 2 (09:48):
It is.
Speaker 1 (09:48):
It's just the scenery .
Looking at the valley, what arethe mountains that we're seeing
?
Speaker 2 (09:52):
Yeah, so we're backed up to the snowy range behind us
and that's the Medicine BowNational Forest that we do
border, and then the SierraMadres are on the other side of
the valley, and is that whereyou're skiing?
That is, yes, tell me aboutthat.
Yeah, so we have a private skimountain during the winter so we
can host up to about 16 guests.
It's all inbounds cat skiing,so there's no chairlifts up
(10:13):
there.
You actually ride up and downwith a cat, but those cats will
groom the runs as you're goingup and down, so it's almost
fresh groomers every time you'reriding.
But it's about 1100 feet ofvertical.
We have 12 to 13 runs, sometree runs in there, some glades
as well for the advanced skiers.
But it's really an awesomeexperience, especially nowadays
(10:33):
with the resorts being so busy.
This is an awesome privateexperience that you can get up
there with just your family or asmall group of people.
It's an awesome property too,very breathtaking.
It's a fun experience as well,because it's a kind of
door-to-door experience and afull day experience yes,
everything is so personalizedenough.
Speaker 1 (10:51):
I was telling mike, the ceo, yesterday when I spoke
with him, that I've never seenthis level of attention to
customers, to you know, just thefamiliarity and really happy
people work.
You, you know, I mean, and thenand it affects it and and I
keep hearing their wonderfulstories about someone may be a
skiing enthusiast so they comehere for the winter, or you know
.
So you know it's really reallyyou've got a great staff, or you
(11:14):
know that it enhances theexperience a lot.
I mean it just really adds toit.
So we've got the skiing.
I wanted to ask you.
Oh so, when I was speaking withMike, you mentioned that 60% of
the guests tend to come fromthe East Coast.
Yeah, is that pretty common?
Speaker 2 (11:31):
I'd say pretty common yeah.
Speaker 1 (11:32):
Okay, and then what I'm curious is is it primarily
men, is it primarily couples orfamilies?
Speaker 2 (11:38):
I mean, do you have, or I'm sure it's a mix of
everything, but Absolutely Kindof a large mix of everything you
know a lot of couples, families, but we also have generational
stays and a lot of alumni guestsas well.
So you know we'll havegrandparents all the way down to
the grandkids coming with kindof that family buyout, so it can
be anybody and everybody thatwants to come kind of get that
Western experience can come.
Speaker 1 (11:58):
And there are activities for kids as well.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
Yeah, absolutely so.
We have a full little Wranglersprogram and a little Buckaroos
program so we can cater to kids,you know, newborns all the way
up to about 10 years old.
Then when they can get into ournormal activities, it's about
that 10 year age range.
But our little Wranglersprogram is awesome.
It's kind of been hand builtand there's kind of a weak set
of programming where you knowone morning there'll be a
(12:21):
wrangler for a day and go hangout with their horses and then
head to the greenhouse andactually plant some seeds with
clayton and maggie, yeah, andplay with the goats.
Speaker 1 (12:30):
so it's kind of a weak programming immersive
experience, you know, for kidsto be um introduced to.
You know where the food comesin.
I think, just, it's a valuable,valuable thing and an immersive
experience for everyone,because a lot yep, not everyone
enjoys going to farmer's marketor they're not familiar with you
know.
Absolutely so it's a greatexperience, okay, of some of the
activities that stood out thatI just want to hear more about
(12:51):
the llama hikes.
What is that?
Speaker 2 (12:53):
yeah.
So last year, um, we kind ofpartnered with a local vendor
who has just a small pack ofllamas that they're, you know,
renting out for birthday parties, hikes for us, but they'll also
rent them to like local hunters.
But llamas are great, actuallypack animals and they'll just
follow you along on a hike.
We actually have littlesaddlebags that we'll put on
them and we can pack a coolerwith a lunch for you or drinks,
(13:19):
cooler with a lunch for you ordrinks.
But a really great familyexperience where you can get out
and, you know, see how they'resaddled and groomed, and go up
and feed them and meet them.
They're very docile creatures,so very nice to kind of just
leisurely walk with a hike andif the kiddo is small enough,
you can actually kind of get onthe back of one of them and kind
of get ponied around, so tospeak.
So really funny and an awesomephoto opportunity for the kids
too.
Speaker 1 (13:38):
Excellent, excellent.
And then how about the riverraft?
So I've heard that people wouldgo fishing.
Could someone just do a raftingexperience?
Speaker 2 (13:47):
Yeah, absolutely.
So, kind of in conjunctionthere with our fly fishing, we
offer fly fishing floats, yeah,where you can actually get in a
boat or a drift boat with aguide and float the river.
But what you're alluding tothere is our scenic floats.
So, yeah, we can hop onto araft with your family Usually
fit upwards of eight people inone raft, so your family can be
in all one raft with a guiderowing you down the river.
(14:08):
That guide will talk about thehistory of the area, flora,
fauna, and it's just a great wayto get the family out on the
river and see the sights.
Speaker 1 (14:15):
Someone called it a dude ranch Disneyland.
Yeah, and that is so apt,because I mean, we can't even
express the multitude of optionsthat there are to do here.
It's just so interesting andI'd already mentioned to you,
but this afternoon I'm going togo on the UTV tour with rangers,
so what's the kind of thatinvolved?
Speaker 2 (14:35):
Yeah.
So the ranger tour.
That's usually one of ourfavorite activities to do
towards the start of the statebecause it gives you a great lay
of the land.
You're going to get out ontomost of the trails um kind of be
able to see a good area.
You get a good view of the area.
I heard about look out yeah,again, you'll go over a lot of
the history of the area and aspecial spot that we go to is
called robber's roost and I'mgoing to ruin the story for you
(14:56):
ahead of time.
But it's called Robber Roostand there was a gentleman, kind
of an old outlaw, that used tobe up there, named Big Nose
George, and this was obviously acommon thoroughfare for, like
the Oregon Trail and the MormonTrail when they're all heading
west.
So he was obviously kind of abig train robber and robbed all
the locals there and became afugitive.
But the kind of big tale behindhim is that once he was
(15:18):
actually captured he was broughtto the Rawlins jail and once he
was actually, once he was hung,the governor had such a
vendetta against him.
Is that for robbery?
They do Well in killing hissheriff there's a bunch in there
but they actually made bootsout of his skin and those are
actually still in the RollinsMuseum oddly enough, I've heard
(15:41):
about books made out of skin inPortland.
You can choose to add that one.
That's a fun little weird piecethat is, they are kind of
creepy but they are actually inRollins.
Speaker 1 (15:51):
And so obviously with you know I'm here which you're
coming into your busier summerseason, so it's seasonal
activities so, but like in thewinter, someone can come and
expect more.
Tell me what different seasonalkinds of things.
Speaker 2 (16:07):
Absolutely.
So you know the activities justkind of obviously match or
mixed with the season.
So you know, in the summerwe'll offer hikes, but in the
winter we'll do snowshoeing.
In the summer we'll do ATVs,but in the winter it's
snowmobiling.
So obviously we have a lot ofthose quintessential winter
activities such as snowshoeing,cross-country skiing, sleigh
rides Our downhill skiing isvery popular and snowmobiling.
(16:29):
So we can kind of match thoseseasons.
And you know, if you're lookingto get on a horsepower machine
versus an actual horse, we canget you on a snowmobile in the
snow ATV in the winter.
Speaker 1 (16:39):
So we kind of just match those seasons depending on
what's available different and,like I said, I I heard that, so
now everything's kind of well.
Today it snowed, but yesterdayit was 66 degrees and so
everything was still kind ofbrown.
But I do come here pretty soon.
The water starts coming off andyou've got the, so it ends up
(17:02):
having like almost canals.
Speaker 2 (17:03):
Yeah, for the excavation yep, yeah, just as
you said.
You know we're kind of cominginto like a mud season now.
Um, the snow also kind ofstarts to melt very quickly.
But that's one of the funnestthings for guests to do is come
in the winter and then come inthe summer.
You see such a different beauty.
I mean absolutely, you know,you'll have just green grass and
green trees, so kind of that.
Different seasons is also funto see.
Speaker 1 (17:25):
Wonderful and they talked about how you cater to
different ages.
Can you think of any memorableexperiences that guests have had
at the at Fresh Creek Ranch?
Speaker 2 (17:34):
Yeah, that's something that we can do is?
You know, we can cater any ofthese experiences kind of to
what you want to do.
You know, for example, twoyears ago we had a family that
desperately they're big birdwatchers but they desperately
wanted to find an arrowhead.
So we kind of catered a hikeslash ranger tour to them where
we were able to go out on aranger tour to destinations,
take short hikes from there toareas that we might be able to
(17:57):
find in arrowhead but also havea big bird population.
So we're able to cater a lot ofthose experiences to what you'd
like to do.
Sometimes we can just offer aranger tour with cocktails.
You know it's your arrival dayand you want to get here and
just have a nice westerncocktail.
Speaker 1 (18:12):
So we can kind of cater those experiences and make
them very unique and kind ofspeaking of that you have, you
really cater to the activity ifsomeone wants to have a relaxing
cocktail, so you've got thesaloon yeah there's.
The Cheyenne club has a bar.
Is that correct?
I hear downstairs is a spiritvault.
Are we allowed to talk aboutthat?
(18:32):
Yes, speak easy yeah's aspeakeasy.
Speaker 2 (18:34):
Yeah, so that's at the farm actually.
So there's kind of a coupledifferent secret rooms there.
So if you ever do get to thefarm, I recommend doing a farm
tour, but that's where you cansee those secret rooms.
But that one's called thespirits vault, which is kind of
a speakeasy style room, butthere we have, you know, spirits
that are around the world andrare ones as well.
Speaker 1 (18:53):
Oh, and the wine cellar itself.
Is it 30,000 bottles?
It's the third largest in theUS and six largest in the world.
Speaker 2 (19:00):
Is that correct?
Absolutely.
So 30,000 bottles, so you knowjust tons of bottles.
Our owners are very big intothe wine world, so everything
from you know magnums down tojust exquisite kind of local
bottles.
But even in that spirit we havelike one bottle of Macallan
1950.
Yeah, I think it's one of 350left in the world, so it's just
(19:21):
very rare.
You're obviously not going tomake 60-year-old whiskey very
quickly.
So just unique experiences thatwe can do.
And, as you said, not only dowe have passionate chefs but we
have passionate bartenders andpeople at that farm who can talk
about those spirits and get youtaste from, you know, japanese
whiskeys to scotch, to Americanwhiskeys and talk about those
flavor profiles.
Speaker 1 (19:41):
Yes, very interesting .
And there's the distilleryexperience as well and someone
can go there and have a tasting.
I tried that.
It was fun, and I think myfavorite was probably the rye.
I liked the pepperiness of it.
It was very good, so I had aManhattan last night using the
rye from the Brush CreekDistillery.
Speaker 2 (19:59):
And that's always the best.
Like you said, we can use thosespirits as well on those kind
of ranger tours, do those things.
But it's always a fun gift togo home with as well.
Bring a bottle of Brush Creekwhiskey home with you.
Perfect gift to go home with.
Speaker 1 (20:10):
Yes.
So what role does thesurrounding the natural
environment play in shapingactivities and experiences?
We kind of touched seasonally,but being in this wonderland or
outdoor nature, I mean, I guessthere's not really an answer to
that question?
Speaker 2 (20:26):
No, we're definitely.
You know that's a big thing isbeing stewards of the lands and
conservationists.
Speaker 1 (20:31):
Well, and actually, since I didn't phrase my
question very well, what mightexplain it better?
Is Bruce, the original owner?
I had heard about him searchinglike five different sites for
this, and so can you tell me alittle bit?
About how he found and why thiswas the one he wanted.
Speaker 2 (20:48):
Yeah, so obviously we're owned kind of by White
Lodging, our parent company,which is one of kind of the
premier lodging destinations orcompanies in the world.
Yes, they started in the 80sand we have a profile of
restaurants and hotels, butaround 2007, 2008,.
Bruce really wanted to purchasea ranch and this was kind of
like his passion project.
Speaker 1 (21:07):
He wanted to bring this to guests.
Absolutely yeah, in thatexperience.
Speaker 2 (21:11):
Yeah, he wanted to kind of open up his you know
passion to the outdoors and alsobring that kind of guest
experience, the white lodgingway, into that ranch world.
So him and one of his sonsactually went on a summer road
trip and they traveled aroundkind of the northwest and west
looking for a ton of ranches.
And this was actually one ofthe last ones, I think the last
one they stopped at and kind ofjust stuck out to them.
I mean, it's, it's been aworking cattle ranch.
(21:33):
It's beautiful.
In this valley there's a lot ofcentury-old ranches, you know,
ranches that have been in thesame family for hundreds of
years, which is pretty rarenowadays.
So this area just kind of stuckright out to them.
I guess when they pulled in itkind of sung to them, stuck
right out, and then since 2008,they've built this beautiful
property to kind of express thatpassion and get their way out
(21:53):
to the guests as well.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
So yeah, perfect, perfect, and I realized that I
just met.
Whatever drew him here is is avery special thing that guests
get to experience.
So thank you for sharing that.
And as far as like maybespecial packages or themed
experiences or things like that,I believe there's a
bachelorette group.
(22:14):
Do you have the people come inand request?
Speaker 2 (22:17):
Yeah, absolutely so.
We do a ton of different events, everything from weddings to
group incentive trips, to groupbuyouts, to bachelorette trips,
like there's one here onproperty now.
Speaker 1 (22:26):
Corporate bond brand.
What's that called?
Speaker 2 (22:28):
Yeah, kind of a buyout.
No, I'm thinking of where it'sa bonding event, where they go,
yeah, yeah, kind of like a teambonding, team building type
things.
Yep, absolutely.
So.
Tons of corporate events likewe have one coming up that's an
incentive trip for kind of thetop like 30 producers of the
group.
So this is an awesome place.
Those groups can come out anddo like a morning meeting mixed
with a morning or an afternoonactivity and, just as you said,
(22:50):
do that team bonding and youknow they get out to there and
be able to bounce ideas back andforth.
So we can kind of host an arrayof a group buyout from 10
people, you know, to a family of10 as well.
That we can kind of cater thosedifferent things to.
That's excellent, excellentoptions.
Speaker 1 (23:05):
And I know we're speaking about activities, but I
think listeners would want tohear about the whole experience,
so I'm curious can you talkjust a little bit about the
variety of lodging options?
I'm staying in the lodge, whichis a gorgeous room, but there
are cabins as well.
Absolutely yeah.
Speaker 2 (23:20):
So we have everything from you know kind of guest
rooms like you're in kind of astandard more guest room.
That's in our lodge, all theway up to large cabins.
Our biggest cabin is called thehomestead, which can sleep up
to 12 guests.
Yeah, so very large andsprawling.
Um, so we have everything fromone, two, three bedroom cabins
where you can kind of mix thatfamily in and kind of find that
(23:41):
need for them, whether you wantto be that close to your family
or not that close that's a greatidea.
Speaker 1 (23:47):
okay, I've touched on how impressed I am with every
single encounter I've had withstaff.
I mean they remember your nameInstead of saying, oh, it's down
the hall, they take you there.
You know what I mean.
It's a very personalizedexperience, and so, on those
lines, I've also heard somestories about you know there
have been people meet each otherhere.
(24:08):
So it's just, it becomes like afamily, doesn't it?
Absolutely, Because you guysare living.
I know some live in town, butthe people live here.
Speaker 2 (24:17):
Yeah, definitely.
You know I always say our teamit's definitely more of a family
than a team.
Yeah, we hire a lot for kind ofthat culture fit, just as
you're saying.
You know we want thosepassionate yet professional
people who can kind of relaythat white lodging way.
You know we do an intensivetraining process that usually
takes at least 10 days and kindof get them into that mindset.
You know that we're here forthe guests but most of our
(24:38):
guests are passionate about whatthey do, which makes that easy
to relay onto you.
You know we have passionateoutdoorsmen that just love to go
hiking or rock climbing, sorelaying that passion really
helps.
Speaker 1 (24:49):
That's true, because Michael gave us a ride.
He shuttled us from Laramie andwe started talking about fly
fishing.
He's very passionate, he's oneof the guys, so each coming in
with their own interests andexperience, that really elevates
the, you know, because whensomeone loves what they're doing
, it comes across.
Speaker 2 (25:07):
Absolutely yes.
We have so many passionateindividuals like Geyser.
He's one of the you know, oneof the most passionate fly
fishermen we have out there.
Speaker 1 (25:15):
Wonderful.
Well, I think this is perfectand you know and I'll share the
website in the show notes andhow people can make reservations
, and do you have a favoritetime of year for to come?
For if it's somebody's firsttime, yeah, you know, but with
what month or season do yousuggest?
Speaker 2 (25:32):
Yeah, it'll be kind of like a long answer for me
because you know my Depends onwhat they're into, absolutely
Depends on what you're into.
But one of my favorite times tocome is around that 4th of July
time.
You know, awesome for families.
We do a huge rodeo and afirework show.
So there's here, yeah, so bullriding I I mean it might be the
first time people have seen arodeo, so we'll do a rodeo, a
(25:53):
firework show, there's a 5K thathappens during the 4th of July.
So that's a really fun time.
But personally, the fall couldbe one of my personal favorite
times.
I'm an avid outdoorsman, sostarting in August we can
actually start bird hunting.
So we offer wing shooting hereon property.
So we do pheasantsers andhungarian partridge okay and
then, starting in middle ofseptember september we're able
(26:14):
to do waterfowl hunts as well,so we can hunt ducks and geese
and is it correct that someone Iknow it costs quite a bit but
can do like a elk hunt yep?
Speaker 1 (26:22):
guided trip absolutely so.
Speaker 2 (26:24):
We can also do big game hunts, um you know, we do
elk, deer, moose, um, antelope,mountain lion as well.
So that shoulder is personallymy favorite.
The days are usually prettywarm, typical like yesterday.
You know, days will be in the60s, but nights are cool where
you'll need that sweatshirtaround the fire.
But fishing is also really goodaround that time.
So personally I like the fall,but also family-wise Fourth of
(26:47):
July is probably my favoritetime that might be.
Speaker 1 (26:49):
It all sounds wonderful, yeah, and just awed
by the options and the level ofthese experiences, is there
really anything like this?
I mean, I know there are otherranches out there, but it just
seems like you guys have justtaken a rodeo.
I mean, it's just a mess.
Speaker 2 (27:05):
Absolutely.
Like you said, there'sdefinitely other ranches out
there, but I'd say no one reallydoes it like we do.
Like you said, all of ourguides are super passionate
about what we do.
When you go snowmobile with ourguides, you know that's what
they're doing on their days off.
It's not just a job for them,so they can relay that passion.
And again back to the area.
We have to offer these kind ofexperiences.
It's just one of a kind here.
Speaker 1 (27:26):
Wonderful Well, Eddie , Unless there's something I
forgot to ask you.
Speaker 2 (27:30):
I don't think so.
No, it's been a pleasure havingyou and being able to show you
around.
Speaker 1 (27:33):
I love my business.
We're still here.
We fly out tomorrow, but todayis just booked up with.
I'm going to go see the winecellar and the speakeasy I can't
wait to find that and the meals, because you've got the Wagyu,
yep, and at first I was like Idon't want to eat Wagyu at every
meal.
It's like I don't get to eatWagyu so I better eat it you
(27:54):
know what I mean and it's been.
I had the Wagyu tenderloin thefirst night and the last night I
had the Wagyu.
I think it was filet with theOscar with the crab on it.
Every time it's like this isthe best piece of meat I've ever
had there's always somethingnew on the menu.
Speaker 2 (28:10):
You've got to try, which makes it exciting.
Speaker 1 (28:12):
And Jeffrey talked a little bit about the marbling
and the fat and people were like, oh no, it's not good and he
said it's more the omega-3s andthe fat.
Yeah, absolutely, Yep, and it'sjust so tender.
But thank you so much forjoining us Absolutely and for
sharing with the listenerseverything about Brush Creek
Ritz.
Speaker 2 (28:27):
Absolutely, it's been a pleasure.
Speaker 1 (28:36):
Welcome to Global Journeys with Jill Dutton, the
captivating travel podcast thattakes you on an extraordinary
adventure around the world.
I'm your host, jill Dutton, andI am thrilled to be your guide
through the mesmerizing tapestryof cultures, landscapes and
experiences that await us.
Global Journeys with JillDutton is more than just a
(28:56):
travel podcast.
It's an exploration of humanityitself.
Through the power ofstorytelling, we illuminate the
lives of the remarkableindividuals we encounter along
the way, whether it's throughthe eyes of a fishing guide, a
distillery owner, a mixologist,a historian, chef, or even a
farmer.
Each person we meet adds a richlayer to the narrative of
(29:20):
culture and place.
In this podcast, we embark on atransformative journey where
the focus goes beyond thetypical tourist attractions.
Instead, we dive deep into thehearts and souls of the places
we visit, uncovering the hiddengems and untold stories that
make each destination trulyunique.
Join me as we venture off thebeaten path, seeking
(29:43):
authenticity, connection and adeeper understanding of the
world we inhabit.
Together, we'll unravel thetapestry of cultures, one story
at a time.
Although my writing careerbegan in the late 90s, when I
created and launched a wellnesspublication called Evolving
Magazine, since 2015 I've workedas a travel writer on a mission
(30:03):
to seek out the locallycelebrated foods, liquor trends,
outdoor activities and storiesof those I meet along the way.
My work has been published inWine Enthusiast, afar, woman's
World, first for Women, insider,road Trippers, modern Farmer,
chilled Magazine and many moredigital and print publications.
(30:24):
I'm also the creator of GlobalPlates the People we Meet, the
Food they Eat a syndicatedcolumn.
Creating this podcast is thenext step in my journey of
sharing the stories of thepeople I've met along the way.
So pack your curiosity, leaveyour preconceived notions behind
and let's embark on globaljourneys with Jill Dutton, where
(30:45):
each episode promises toinspire, educate and awaken the
wanderlust within us all.
As we travel on this excitingpodcasting journey together, I
invite you, our incredibleaudience, to be a part of it.
Share your own travel stories,insights and recommendations
with us.
Whether you have a hidden gemin your hometown or a dream
(31:07):
destination that has capturedyour imagination, we want to
hear from you.
Your suggestions will helpshape the future episodes of
Global Journeys, with JillDutton guiding us towards
extraordinary locations andexperiences that deserve a
spotlight.
Remember, this podcast is notabout just the host or the
guests.
It's about the collectiveexploration and discovery that
(31:28):
unites us all as wanderers inthis vast world.
So reach out to us through ourwebsite, social media channels
or email and let your voice beheard.
Send your suggestions to me atjill at
globaljourneyswithjillduttoncom.
I can't wait to hear from you.
Until next time, may yourtravels be filled with endless
(31:49):
curiosity, open-heartedencounters and transformative
adventures.
Safe travels, fellow explorers,and keep wandering.
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