Republic, Washington's K Diamond K Dude Ranch

There's "The Wild West" gussied up Hollywood style and then there's the real deal. For Urbanites who want to experience life on a real ranch, come on over to the K Diamond K Guest Ranch, a 1600-acre ranch located 125 miles North of Spokane nestled in the rugged Kettle Range just South of the Canadian border. As a working ranch, the K Diamond K is open year round, offering would be cowboys an opportunity to participate in a full range of ranching activities including birthing calves and foals, harvesting hay and timber, and experiencing an Old West Cattle Drive.

For most guests, the highlight of a trip to this family friendly ranch is their 30 horses. The 30 miles of riding trails located throughout the ranch afford a diversity of scenic trails. Riding lessons are given to guests upon arrival.

From June 1st through October 31st, anglers can fly-fish for trout in the San Poil River, which runs through the ranch. Fly-fishing gear is available at the ranch. Also, one can fish in neighboring lakes or the Curlew River. A Washington State fishing license and an Indian Reservation River permit are required to fish this area, which can be obtained from the Republic Sports Shop (509-775-3040).

Other sporting activities available either on the ranch or in the Republic area include cross country skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, hunting (in season), gold panning, motorcycling, canoeing, camping, biking, fossil digging, birding, and golf. Summer spectator sports include family style rodeos and stock car races.

After a full day of activities, relax on the deck or in front of a fireplace with other guests, ranch hands and the Konz family. Steve and June Konz, who moved to this area after they graduated from Washington State University, brought the ranch some forty years ago and have raised 5 children and countless horses, cows, cats, goats, rabbits and other critters on the K <> K Ranch.

The inclusive fee of $125.00 for adults $75.00 for children includes lodging, family style meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and use of all ranch facilities.

For more information contact the K Diamond K Ranch at 888-345-5355, email: dkamond@televar.com, website: www.kdiamondk.com.

For a full listing of activities available in the Republic area log on to www.republicwa.com.