Flying U Ranch FAQ
Below is a list of our most frequently-asked questions, but if you still need clarification on some finer details please contact us at 1.877.456.7717, email reservations@flyingu.com, or fill out the form on our Contact page.
What should I bring to the ranch?
We recommend you prepare a wardrobe for unexpected weather: a hat, jacket, sweater and some raingear should be considered. In the summer months we recommend you bring swim wear, beach towels, swim goggle and fins etc. Flashlights are often handy for late night trips outside of the cabin. For horseback riding, guests should wear a heeled boot and should bring your own riding helmet if you have one. We have cowboy boots and helmets to borrow at no additional charge if a guest is ill-equipped . If you need snacks, drinks, toiletries, cowboy paraphernalia and Western wear our General Store is open at convenient times. If you bring an ice-chest, we sell the ice for your cooler. Also, remember to bring bug spray and suntan lotion.
Can I bring my dog to the ranch?
Yes, dogs are welcome! The Flying U Ranch management has designated the ranch as an off-leash dog friendly facility under the following regulations
1. Dogs must be kept under control at all times.
2. Stoop and scoop. Clean up after your dog.
3. Owners must always maintain effective verbal control of their dogs.
4. Owners must maintain visual contact with their dogs at all times.
5. Any dogs showing aggressive behaviour to dog’s horses or guests will lose off leash privileges immediately.
I haven't ridden before. Do I need previous experience to ride?
Hundreds of new riders have had their first adventure at the Flying U. A background with horses isn't required, and the horse assigned will be chosen to meet the appropriate needs of the rider. You will also be given an orientation briefing and an orientation ride.
When is my "Check-Out Time"?
Your check-out time is determined by your check-in time. Your vacation is based off 24 hour days, so your check-out time is the time you arrived on your first day. For example, if you arrive at 3 p.m. on Tuesday and are staying for two days, your second day ends at 3 p.m. on Thursday. You can use the facilities until your check-out time, we only ask that you remove your belongings from the cabins before 9:30 a.m. on your final day so the staff can clean them for the next guests. Riding is only available until 12pm on your check out day.
Can I bring my own liquor into the Saloon?
Since the Saloon and Lodge are licensed, outside liquor is not permitted. This also means minors are not allowed in the Saloon. At dinner, guests can bring their own wine but are subject to a corkage fee.
Can I bring my own horse to the ranch?
Due to quarantine reasons and for the safety of the health of our herd, we do not allow guests to bring their own horses to the ranch. With 100 horses in our herd we are sure that we can find you the perfect match to enjoy your ranch vacation with!
I am staying in the area, can I book a trail ride?
We are now offering 2 hour trail rides to people who are not staying at the ranch. Please visit our trail ride page for more information.
What is the weight limit to ride?
The weight limit is 240 pounds. However, this is subject to horse availability and horse should be reserved prior to your arrival. We have a limited number of horses available that can carry a rider at our maximum weight limit. Due to this, if you are close to or at our limit we are unable to guarantee you a horse. If we feel you may be close to our rider limit, your weight will be verified at the barn privately.
What are the rules for the waterfront?
All the waterfront activities are free except the fishing boat rental. We offer complimentary tubing daily at 4:00 pm and there are canoes available on the main lake plus two private back lakes. The sailboat is free as are the evening boat tours. The jet ski at the dock is for water safety response use and not available for guest use. Please note you must have a Canadian Boat Licence to rent the fishing boat and give 48- hour notice to rent the boat.
Who runs the Flying U Ranch?
The Flying U ranch management team is headed up by Mr. John Lovelace. John has been involved in outdoor Canada for 40 years and is well known for his television show, Wings Over Canada. He is a specialist in ranch & farm management and works with both producers and pension funds from blueberry farms, cereal crops producers and cattle ranches across the province.