If you love wildlife, Wyoming is the place to be – take a hike, and you’re likely to see deer, elk, moose and more. The Cowboy State is also home to wild horses, though they can be a little harder to view. Here’s a ranch that’s a sanctuary to a herd of horses, and you’ll want to schedule a visit soon.
Deerwood Ranch is a cattle ranching operation that’s been around in Laramie for more than 30 years. When the Bureau of Land Management reached out to private landowners to help manage a herd of wild horses in Wyoming, ranch owners Rich and Jana Wilson jumped at the opportunity.
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
The 16 herds of wild horses in Wyoming need somewhere to graze, and this beautiful 4,700-acre ranch is just right for this herd, which includes 350 wild mustangs.
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
Here, the horses are able to run wild and free, while being watched over by the Wilsons.
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
Once confined to holding pens, the horses were gelded, and released onto this land, where they’ll live out their lives in a vast, wild setting.
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
Each horse has its own personality, and over the years, the Wilsons have gotten to know many of the horses.
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
You can take a tour to see these magnificent animals close-up! Tours are offered year-round, and last just over an hour. You’ll hop into an ATV and drive out to the herd, where you can observe them and take photographs.
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
If photography is your main purpose for a tour, you can even book a special photographer’s tour that last two hours.
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
Tours must be made in advance by calling (307)399-9956. Because this is a working cattle ranch, tours are not offered on a drop-in basis. Call first and speak to Jana, who will help you set up a tour that’s perfect for your group.
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
Learn more about this incredible ranch on its website, and to see more photos of the horses, and stay abreast of the latest happenings at the ranch, follow its Facebook page. Do you think you’d enjoy a trip to Deerwood Ranch? If so, tag a friend in the comments to go with you!
Deerwood Ranch Wild Horse EcoSanctuary/Facebook
If you’re looking for a getaway to Wyoming’s wilderness, you’ll want to check out this affordable mountain getaway.
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