Top Ten Rules of the Ranch
For your safety and the safety of our animals, we ask you to follow these basic rules:
- Wear appropriate shoes: Leather soled boots are preferred. If you are wearing tennis shoes, please make sure you have socks, and they are laced up. We are not fond of flat soled shoes (no heel definition) because they can slide through the stirrups. No open toe shoes, flip flops, or glove shoes. Footwear is very important for safety!
- Wear long sleeved shirt: Long sleeved, cotton shirts are preferred (like the cowboys wear). Fashion is not a big consideration on a Texas ranch. Long sleeves protect your arms from limbs and sunburn. Stretchy and thin fabrics are dangerous to wear if you are horseback riding through brush. Also, don’t forget a jacket if there is a chill in the air!
- Wear pants: Denim jeans are highly preferred: Absolutely no shorts or capris when riding a horse. Long shorts or capris are ok for attending our chuck wagon events.
- Always use Sun Protection: Hats with strings to secure hat to head (wind!),tight fitting caps, and sunglasses are preferred to protect from the Texas sun. Sunscreen is also recommended.
- Water: Always stay hydrated. If you are attending chuck wagon event – there are plenty of beverages. If you are horseback riding, we will get a drink before the ride and another when you return.
- Timeliness: Be timely (which is 15 minutes early). In the west, early is on time and on time is late. If you are late for a horseback ride, we will leave the barn without you. No refunds. For chuck wagon events- these events start promptly at time listed, and last 1 1/2 hours. If you are running late, please text and let us know. We will not answer the phone during the events.
- Follow Our Directions: Sometimes people are late because they search for us using various GPS Map applications, that are incorrect. Again, please follow our directions.
- Insects: Seasonally, a variety of insects are present. Please use insect repellent as needed. If you have allergies, please bring your epi-pen or allergy solution.
- Natural Creatures : Be aware and cautious of natural creatures to the Texas Panhandle: Aoudad sheep, coyotes, horny toads, deer, wild pigs, rattlesnakes, insects. (remember, they are as frightened of you, as you are of them – if you see them, go the other way, and DO NOT FEED THEM!)
- Have lots and lots of fun here, at Los Cedros Ranch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there restrooms?
Yes, “outhouses” are available. We offer port-a-potties that have customized protection. They are better than a hole in the ground, but not as good as your Chevron station – after all, this is the country!
Can we feed the animals?
No, our horses and cattle need special dietary foods. If you are helping with “chores”, we will direct you for feeding the horses. Wildlife – DEFINITELY NO FEEDING.
Can we take photographs?
Absolutely. We are very proud of the beauty of Texas and our rustic, western vistas, animals, and western folks! Please feel free to document your visit with photographs. We just caution you to be safe taking photographs if you are riding a horse or are near a cliff.
Can we smoke?
NO! ABSOLUTELY NOT! Due to extreme fire danger in West Texas, there is no smoking in any location. Wildfires are real, life threatening, and devastating! Don’t even ask for an exception to this rule! If we see smoking, we politely ask it to be put out immediately! If you don’t, we throw a bucket of water on you. (You’ve been warned.)
Are there weight limits for horseback riding?
Yes, 250 pounds. If you are extremely tall and slightly over this weight, text, email or call Phyllis to discuss your riding possibility.
Are there age limits?
No one younger than 3 may ride. We offer buddy saddle riding, with our experienced wranglers, for children ages 3-6. This is a very safe form of riding for young ones and allows them to ride, with the family, on their own horse and gain a knowledge of what riding a horse is all about. Kids and families love it! Ask us for more information. No double riding is allowed by guests.
What if I don’t want to ride a horse, and I am with a horseback riding group?
We offer a beautiful location in the West. Our picnic area has chairs. You can hang out near the barn and photograph the horses. We also have a sheltered headquarters. In these days of social media, you are also welcome to sit in your call, scroll or listen to Podcasts or Audible books – we would suggest “Empire of the Summer Moon by RC Gwynne” It’s the history of the Comanches and our area.
Can we bring a group out?
Sure! We offer horseback riding for groups and we welcome groups to our chuck wagon events. You may make reservations online, or call Phyllis for some custom event that you may have in mind. We love having groups!!
Will we ride and have the chuck wagon event if it is raining, cold, too hot, or too windy?
It depends. We will postpone if the weather conditions are unsafe. If it is lightening, too hot, too cold, or icy – we will not ride or have the chuck wagon events. We will never do anything if it is unsafe for our guests, horses or ourselves. If we have to cancel, due to weather, we will provide a full refund.
For any other questions contact us at phyl@cowgirlsandcowboysinthewest.com or (806) 672-9256