RUTHERGLEN FARM FIELD GUIDE
Two Hours at Von Doeler’s Ranch: Trail Gallops, Arena Drills and Real Cattle-Sorting
A hands-on, two-hour ranch program in Rutherglen that pairs one hour of riding with an hour of cattle sorting and farm activities—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Two Hours at Von Doeler’s Ranch: Trail Gallops, Arena Drills and Real Cattle-Sorting.
Experience an exhilarating hour of horseback riding through scenic trails or honing your skills in the arena, followed by an hour of hands-on ranch activities such as cattle sorting, visiting farm animals, grooming horses and trying roping—an accessible, memorable introduction to life on a working ranch.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
One Hour in the Saddle: Trail or Arena
Choose an hour-long ride on scenic trails or spend the hour in the arena sharpening riding skills under ranch guidance—ideal for riders of varying ability levels.
Cattle Sorting and Roping Basics
After the ride, guests take part in active ranch work, including cattle sorting and an introduction to roping—hands-on activities that turn a ride into a working-ranch experience.
Animal Interaction and Horse Care
The program also includes time visiting farm animals and grooming horses, giving riders practical care experience and a closer look at daily ranch life.
What the day feels like
What Two Hours at the Ranch Feels Like
The schedule pairs a focused hour of riding—either winding out on scenic trails or working in the arena—with a second hour devoted to ranch activities: cattle sorting, meeting farm animals, grooming horses and an opportunity to try roping. The format balances instruction, activity, and hands-on learning in a beautiful ranch setting.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this program suits—and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The program is offered in all weather—plan layers and waterproof gear. In winter bring gloves, hats, snow pants and multiple layers; in milder weather long pants and comfortable clothing are recommended.
Wear closed-toed shoes at all times; riders need boots with a 1" heel that cover the ankle (boots available at the ranch if needed). Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 and are available complimentary; long pants are recommended.
Release forms are required for all riders. Riders under 18 must have a legal parent or guardian sign the release form (forms available online or at the ranch).
Bookings are by appointment only and the ranch requires a minimum of two people to run the experience.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the experience?
The program is two hours total: one hour of riding plus one hour of ranch activities such as cattle sorting and grooming.
What are the age requirements?
The program accepts riders aged 6 and up.
Do I need my own helmet and boots?
Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 and are available complimentary at the ranch; closed-toed shoes must be worn at all times and the ranch requests boots with a 1" heel that cover the ankle—boots can be provided if needed.
What if the weather is bad?
The ranch rides in all weather; dress accordingly and bring waterproof layers in case of rain and warm layers in winter.
Are there booking minimums or appointment rules?
Yes—the ranch operates by appointment only and requires a minimum of two people per booking.
Is any paperwork required?
Yes—release forms are required for all riders; those under 18 must have their legal parent or guardian sign the release form, which can be completed online or at the ranch.