Q - Susan of Washington, DC writes: We want to have a multi-generation vacation with our two daughters (ages 5 and 8) and our own parents. We are hoping to find a dude ranch with a good program for children where they can be exposed to horses and riding, and can also spend time in a pool. None of us know how to ride so we care that it's run by professionals with a concern for safety. We want nice accomodations and pretty country.

A - First, click on the following link for our story on "Favorite Family Dude Ranches" which contains a link to the Dude Ranchers Association. This resource offers an on-line listing and publishes a catalogue of hundreds of ranches in 12 states and 2 Canadian provinces.  Most ranch's riding programs begin at age 6, but they also have activities for younger kids, including nature study, wildlife hikes, arts'n'crafts, petting zoos and adult-led pony and horseback rides.

Here are some other titles for you to read:

1. Our review of "Rocking Horse Ranch," an FTF Top 10 award winner in New York State.
2. A mom's report on her family's vacation at Lone Mountain Ranch in Montana entitled "Going Home to Lone Mountain."
3. An account of an AAA 5-diamond ranch with all the luxury of a fancy hotel in "Saddle Up At the C Lazy U" in Granby, Colorado.