In April, we flew out to Arizona for an amazing week in that beautiful state. We saw the Grand Canyon and Meteor Crater and then spent four days at the remote Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch near Yucca, which is in the Mojave Desert in the western part of the state. The guest ranch leg of the trip was Scott’s Make-A-Wish request and it couldn’t have been more wonderful. The ranch was designed and built to be fully handicapped accessible and the staff is experienced in accommodating guests with special needs.

The experience was everything Scott had dreamed it would be: lots of horseback riding, a quiet ranch with an Old West atmosphere, down time to relax, and a place where he felt comfortable. We all had a great time, including our 10-year old daughter.

Thanks to the Pittsburgh and Arizona Make-A-Wish chapters for pulling this dream get-away together. Erin, a volunteer with the Arizona chapter, met us at the Phoenix airport with a personalized sign and loads of enthusiasm for these tired travelers. We felt very welcomed.

J.P. and Tricia, the ranch owners, took excellent care of us from the moment we arrived at the ranch to the send-off hugs they gave us when we departed. The wranglers, Rose, Jerry, and George, made us feel safe and comfortable on the horses and expertly guided us during the twice-a-day rides. Scott loved Scout, the horse he rode the days we were there. They developed a very special bond.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We enjoyed many other activities on the ranch: head wrangler Tex gave wagon rides and Randy, the cook, not only made outstanding meals, but also brought out his vintage Corvette for Scott to drive. We also played pool and board games, gazed at the unbelievably bright stars at night, and gathered around a campfire one evening to swap stories with J.P., Trish, and the other guests.

We’re so grateful to all who made this trip possible, including the Make-A-Wish staff, volunteers, and donors. Our whole-hearted thanks to the Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch for the wonderful memories we made there and will cherish for a lifetime. If you love horses and are looking for a secluded, peaceful place to get away from it all and perhaps channel an inner cowboy or cowgirl, I’d highly recommend this fantastic guest ranch.