Kay El Bar Guest Ranch – Wickenburg, Arizona

Kay El Bar Guest Ranch – Wickenburg, Arizona

For over 100 years the Kay El Bar Ranch has been a part of Wickenburg’s history.  It began its life as a working cattle ranch with a land grant from the Mexican government to an Hispanic man names Leonicio Corral around 1887.

It became the Kay El Bar in 1909 when Romaine Lowdermilk and his mother homesteaded the land as a cattle ranch.  In 1918 they started taking paying guests who shared the bunkhouse with everyone who worked on the ranch.  Then in 1925 Lowdermilk took a partner and built the large adobe lodge as guest quarters.  At that time you could rent a room for $8 a day or $55 a week which included all meals plus hot and cold running water.

Over the years there have been little changes to the ranch other than to maintain it in its original condition.  The place warmth, charm and character of the adobe buildings nestled along the Hassayampa River.

There is horseback riding on the varied terrain allowing for a great experience viewing the spectacular scenery.  Horseback rides go out twice every day except Sunday and holidays.  There are also all day rides with a picnic lunch and mountain brunch ride on Sundays.  There is riding instruction included with the program to assure your safety.

Cattle sorting will be offered weekly.  Ride to a nearby arena and try your hand at sorting cattle. ($20 extra charge)

There is a heated pool and hot tub for those that want to soak up the Arizona sun (or to ease the muscles after a day of riding).

Bird watching is great at the ranch where there are some 150 different species to identify.

Check out the website of the ranch for rates since they vary according to number of people and time of year. www.kayelbar.com.

No pets allowed (there are 40 pets at the ranch for you to love)

The scenic hiking trail above the ranch provides panoramic views as does the weekly guided hike up Wickenburg’s Vulture Peak.

Bring a jacket for the cold desert nights and a swim suit for the pool and spa.  You’ll need good tennis shoes or hiking boots.  For horseback riding you’ll need jeans or riding pants and boots with a smooth sole and heel.  Long sleeves and western hat or helmet and pair of gloves.

Directions from Phoenix: I-10 West toward LA, Take I-10 West to I-17 North toward Flagstaff.  Once on I-17 go north 30 miles to Hwy 74 and exit left toward Wickenburg (10 miles).  At the light in town turn right and take US 89/93 for two miles.  Just past mile marker 198 you will see the large sign on the right side of the road.  Turn right at the sign onto Rincon Road.  Veer left at Kay El Bar Sign and the road goes to the ranch.

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