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ACTIVITIES Riding on an endless variety of trails is the outstanding feature at the Circle Z. We offer rides twice daily. There is no riding on Sunday. Once you've settled into your room you can head on down to the corral and get acquainted with the ranch's fine western horses. Gentle and well-bred, nearly all of them are sired and trained right on the ranch. The horse that fits your needs best will be yours throughout your entire stay.
Experienced and friendly wranglers lead small groups of riders. You may choose rides for the morning, afternoon, or both, at the pace with which you are most comfortable. Each ride lets you explore different landscapes - through colorful rock canyons, dramatic mountains, rolling rangeland, or along the refreshing and ever-flowing Sonoita Creek. Enjoy any of the ranch's delightful and delicious cookouts and breakfast rides, or perhaps a "saloon ride" into Patagonia for a glimpse of the old west.
During your rides it will not be uncommon to see cattle roaming the lands. Our small cattle operation is managed with environmental conservation in mind. Famous for serious bird watching, our area is a nesting site and migrating route for many rare species. Scattered around the grounds are feeders to bring these birds even closer to you. A stroll along the stream will reward you with sightings of birds attracted to the water and large cottonwood trees. The ranch provides an extensive bird list and many reference books of all nature subjects. While hiking or riding, keep an eye out for the special wildlife that lives in our area. Deer, wild boar, bobcats, rabbits, and coati mundi thrive among the trees and a wide variety of cacti.
After your long day of riding or bird watching, a dip in the heated swimming pool is a great way to relax. Then soak up some sun for an Arizona tan, even in winter. An all-weather tennis court is on the ranch, so don't forget your racquet. When it's time to chow down, the ranch serves up excellent fare which guests rave about. The menus are deliciously varied and fresh, including homemade breads and desserts. Meals are served in the dining room or patio of the main lodge, affording a beautiful panoramic view of the nearby hills.
Hiking, horse shoes, shuffleboard, and ping pong are other diversions on the spacious ranch grounds. Golfers may enjoy any of several courses in the area. By car there are mining camps, historic Spanish missions, or the border town of Nogales to explore. The small nearby town of Patagonia offers a market, quaint galleries, and authentic cowboy bars. Other colorful places to visit are Tombstone. Bisbee, and Ramsey Canyon. Children are welcome and will find ranch life a memorable experience. Riding is available for children who are at least six years old. Parents may be required to ride with children. Instruction is available to those who have never ridden. Youngsters may ride with their families or in their own group. Children have their own dining room (which they may share with their parents at breakfast.) They, too, are sure to enjoy the game room. "It should be noted that there are no formal children's programs nor does the ranch provide child care." |
