 What is the schedule of activities?Our guests have complete flexibility in choosing their daily schedule - you can make it as action packed or as relaxed as you like. We offer a wide variety of activities available to our guests throughout their entire stay.
When is the best time to come? This depends on what you are looking for, as each season has its advantages:
Spring
Weather is unpredictable but generally not freezing. Wildflowers are best late April through early June. Hillsides are lush green. Elk and deer are seen grazing. Horseback riding is not always possible due to weather conditions.
Summer This is our busiest time. River fishing is best June and July. This is the best time for horseback riding. The hottest weather is late July and August and ranges from: 90 - 100 degrees fahrenheit / 32 - 38 degrees celsius.
Fall Beautiful setting with leaves changing colors. Things slow down which makes it a good time for romantic getaways, groups and corporate events. Riding is not always available in the late fall as temperatures range from: freezing to 60 degrees fahrenheit / freezing to 15 degrees celsius.
What do you recommend I bring for the horseback riding? Riding helmets are not mandatory but are a good idea. We do have a small selection available here but it is best to bring your own for a proper fit. We prefer pull on type boots with a hard sole and a heel. Your foot may slip through the stirrups if you do not have a heel. Lace up boots are not recommended. Jeans or long pants will protect your legs while riding and are a must. Even though our elevation is only 2,200 feet / 670 meters, the sun can still get intense. Sunscreen, lip-balm, long sleeved shirt, sunglasses and a well fitting hat are all appropriate protection from the elements. Stampede strings for wide brimmed/cowboy hats are a necessity and are available in our gift shop. There are plenty of "Kodak moments" so bring a camera and film. A small camera is easier to take on rides than large ones. Some people like to have gloves for riding.
Do you have age and weight limits for the horseback riding? Minimum age is 6 years for the trail riding. For our younger guests, the wranglers are happy to lead them on horses around the corrals. Maximum weight is 230lbs.
What type of clothes will I need for my summer trip? We are pretty informal here at the Bar M so just bring what you are comfortable in. As well as your riding clothes, you should bring your shorts and T shirts for the hot weather and most importantly, don't forget your swimsuits! Summer weather can be unpredictable, so bring a jacket and a raincoat. If you plan on hiking, bring appropriate footwear and small backpack. Insect repellant. If you plan on fishing bring your rod and gear. No license is needed to fish in our stocked pond. To fish in the Umatilla River you must use artificial lures and flies and a fishing license is required for those over age 14. We have some fishing gear for younger children. Summer weather can be unpredictable, so bring a jacket and a raincoat. Any required medications, bee sting kit or allergy medicine. Binoculars, camera and film. If you plan on the camp out bring your sleeping bag and extra warm clothes. Cell phones do not get reception here so bring a calling card if you wish to call home during your stay. There are no alarm clocks in the rooms so you may want to bring your own.
What should I bring on a spring / fall stay? It can get pretty chilly, so pack your warm clothes, long underwear and wooly socks. Layering is best. Bring your swimsuits - remember the pool is 86 degrees fahrenheit / 30 degrees celsius year round and the hot tub gets up to 105 degrees fahrenheit / 40.5 degrees celsius.Hat and gloves. Any required medications or allergy medicine. Hairdryer. Binoculars. Camera and film. Cell phones do not get reception here so bring a calling card if you wish to call home during your stay. There are no alarm clocks in the rooms so you may want to bring your own
What about TVs and phones? We have portable TV / VCR / DVD combos available to take to your room along with an extensive list of movies to watch. This service is available at a charge of $5 per movie. The rooms do not contain phones but with a calling card you are welcome to use the office phone.
What about laundry? There are coin operated washers and dryers available in the guest laundry room along with an iron and ironing board.
Are pets allowed to be brought to the Bar M Ranch? We are animal lovers here at the Bar M but unfortunately we cannot allow pets to be brought along on your visit. For those of you who may miss your pets we have a petting zoo and a variety of ranch dogs who would love to fulfill your canine needs. |
