March 2008 Issue

A Night to Remember - Smoke House Ranch

John Wayne once said, “Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” 

If you think you have a little of the Duke in you –– and if time spent cattle driving, team penning and cow cutting is your idea of paradise, then the answer is “yes” –– you might be ready for a few days of bringing out your inner cowboy at this working ranch amid the rolling hills of Athens County. The Semingsons are lifelong ranchers, with spurs on their well-worn boots to prove it, and they happily open their gates to greenhorns interested in spending a week living the life of a real ranch hand.

Of course, even those guests not ready to make like  “City Slickers” can enjoy the Wild West atmosphere with a stay in the ranch’s wide range of lodgings –– from primitive-style camping to deluxe, ranch-style homes with washers and dryers. All accommodations grant visitors access to guided trail rides, shows at the indoor arena and clinics that teach the basics of roping, cow handling and horse showmanship (for an additional charge).