Winter at the Flying U

Happy New Year 
from all of us at The Flying U!
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In January 2016's Flying U Gazette:
Become a Savvy Horseman  |  Prospector Ridge   |  Fly & Ride   
Weddings at the Flying U   |  Open House  |  1 Month Left at 2015 Prices
Languages  |  Winter Program   |  Flying U Ranch Staff Bios      |  Next Month 


We would like to take this opportunity to dedicate our commitment to retaining the things you've come to love most of about The Flying U, first and foremost being our herd of 90 amazing horses.

Our equine partners are what make us who we are, and in order to ensure their sound keep, the Flying U is pioneering some exciting new programs for today's modern cowboy.


The Flying U equine-focused ethical care program aims to educate ranchers, cowboys, and pleasure riders alike on the safe maintenance of the animals who work so hard for us. Come learn everything you need to know about equine health maintenance while enjoying a relaxing vacation at Canada's oldest and best loved guest ranch.

Our first Equine First Aid Certification is scheduled for June 11-12, 2016.
Become a Savvy Horseman!
We always hope it doesn't, but things do go wrong on the trail. Preparation can save the lives of riders and horses alike. Will you be prepared this summer?

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Saturday June 11, 2016:
Equine First Aid Fundamentals - ages 10 and up

This is a half day fast paced clinic covering the fundamentals of first aid.  Working hands on with the horses, you will learn to take vital signs, recognize pain in the horse, detect colic, and participate in lots of bandaging in realistic scenarios!  All attendees receive a first aid reference booklet.

Complimentary guided trail ride, or Equine Assisted Wellness clinic option in the afternoon.


Sunday June 12, 2016:
Equine Health and Emergency First Aid Course

Join us for a one day course covering: what your vet needs to know, conditioning a horse to accept treatment, taking vital signs, dealing with lacerations, punctures, colic, choke, collapse, casting, shock, hoof issues, recognizing pain in the horse and pain source identification, saddle fit for spinal health, injury prevention and so much more!  All attendees receive a certificate of completion, first aid manual and this course earns you professional development credits with Equine Canada as well as equine-related insurance discounts with Capri and Intercity!
  • Save 25% on all Equi-Health classes when you book one or more night at The Flying U.
     
  • Only 25 spots available.
     
  • Taught by Equi-Health Canada certified instructor.
Prospector Ridge
New for 2016

A century and a half ago, when the Flying U was first established, The Cariboo explorers, outdoorsmen and pioneers slept in Prospector Tents.

The Flying U Ranch has recreated this era by introducing 14 safari-style, luxury canvas tents overlooking the Ranch, mountains and lake up on a place we're proud to call, Prospector Ridge.
Here you can stay in your own custom 12 x 16 ft. Prospector Tent where you'll experience the Canadian wilderness in private luxury. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Cariboo from the quiet seclusion of your own expansive deck, nestled in the trees just outside the main grounds.

At Flying U it's all about the total experience. The tents of Prospector Ridge are each erected on their own dry wood platforms with wooden decks and porch overhangs. The tents are each outfitted comfortably with sturdy wood beds, plush linens, and electricity. Cars are not allowed on the ridge; instead, your bags are delivered by horse-drawn wagon upon arrival. Enjoy private meals, including daily breakfast delivery, cooked in front of you on an open flame, as well as a private cocktail hour in the peaceful quiet of this enclave. This is the quintessential  Canadian outdoor experience: perfect for those looking to enjoy the history and beauty of the region, without the bustle of ranch life.

Guests of Prospector Ridge are welcome to enjoy all the great amenities at Flying U, with some added luxuries. The same great food in the cookhouse, the riding packages, the waterfront privileges, square dancing, the saloon, and so much more.

For 2016 we are pleased to offer Prospector Ridge accommodation at no extra charge. Book these remarkable tents by February 1st, 2016 and you'll pay 2015 rates!

View the Prospector Ridge map HERE!
Fly & Ride - 2 Day Getaway Package for Aircraft Owners


Did you know The Flying U has its own licensed 4000 ft aerodrome? This is ideal for pilots who want to escape up the the ranch for some riding, fishing, golfing or just to lay back for some R&R at the lake. 
 
For 2016  we are introducing a special 2 day getaway package which includes the following:
  1. Complimentary landing fees and and parking
  2. Complimentary shuttle from your aircraft to your cabin
  3. Two evenings  at the ranch in private accommodation  
  4. Gourmet meal plan
  5. Full use of ranch facilities, dock, walks, driving range, saloon, theatre and activities centre  
  • $299.00 per person for 2016
     
  • Must be booked by May 31st, 2016
     
  • Guided horseback riding, fishing, and golfing packages available, starting at $40 per person.
To take advantage of this special offer, please call Reservations at 250-456-7717 

Weddings at the Flying U Ranch
come visit us at A Wedding Affair, at the River Rock Resort and Casino, Richmond BC, February 28, 2016.

Know someone getting hitched next year? Why not at The Flying U!

We can't think of anywhere more perfect to celebrate finding that one person, than at The Flying U. That is why we are working on a complete wedding package overhaul.

Think dancing under countless twinkle lights and unobstructed stars, bride and groom being whisked away by our impressively elegant Percheron draft team, and world class catering options.

Flying U has teamed up with Imagine That Events to create one of a kind packages to fit any couple.

Please contact us for more info
We have a few dates still available for 2017 weddings:
  • May 13th
  • June 17th
  • July 8th
  • August 26th
  • September 2nd
Open House

July 6 Frontier Day Celebration at the Flying U!

Open House to all the residents of Green Lake to drop in and enjoy  the Flying U ranch.
 
"This is a day when range dwellers meet city  folk in a grand and glorious day"
- From a Flying U poster dated 1931
  • Free horse rides and balloons for the kids
  • Tour the museum, blacksmith workshop, jail
  • Get your picture taken in the antiques: 1926 Model T; 1956 Mahogany Boats; 1948 Willys Jeep
  • Visit our Saloon and listen to our 'honkey tonk' piano
  • Meet the Ranch cowboys
  • Intro to EAPD games and exercises
  • Barbecue lunch and weenie roast

Walk, drive, fly, paddle or swim!  

Free admission: 11:00 am till 4:00
Languages:
For 2016, we have a truly international staff!
The languages you'll hear around the Flying U keeps growing!
We now speak: English, German, French, Czech, Mandarin, and Cantonese!

1 Month Remaining to Book at 2015 Prices!

January 31st is the last day to reserve your time at the ranch at 2015 prices.
On February 1st, 2016 is when the new rates begin.
Flying U Ranch Staff Bios:
This month introducing our new resident managers, the Kaspers!


Jeanette Kasper: Grounds Maintenance & Hospitality Personnel

We're pleased to welcome Jeanette Kasper to our staff as yard maintenance, gardener, and Jill-of-all-trades. Jeanette was born and raised in Saskatchewan and has an intense, life long love of animals since smuggling a kitten home when she was 5!  Every minute spent outside, is a happy minute, and her passions and hobbies reflect that -- from gardening, berry picking, hiking, hunting, running, cross country skiing. She will be putting all of this experience working with young students in our school programs. She's also excited about creating an organic garden and flower beds. She is really looking forward to being part of the dynamic team; especially meeting all the guests who come our way.


Theode Kasper: Property Manager
 "My earliest memory of horses was when I was about 3 yrs old & my parents & I were riding in a covered sleigh drawn by a team, there was a little wood stove in the front area to keep our feet warm, and the snow was almost up to the horses' bellies and it was very cold outside."
 
 Theode will be our property manager 12 months of the year. His job will be to keep the Ranch running smoothly. He was born and raised in rural Saskatchewan, on one of Canada's first certified organic grain farms. It was there that he developed a lifelong love of horses and the great outdoors.

Theode had his first true 'cowboy' experience at Griffin Valley Ranch where he would help saddle 250 horses every morning. It was also here that Theode participated in his first 'roundup' of approximately 200 PMU mares in the foothills near Cochrane, AB.

Led by a passion for skiing, and winters in general, Theode, spent 4 winters in the Montafon Valley in Austria where he worked as a ski instructor for 3 years, while spending his summers at an estate in southern France, working with their world-class jumpers horses.

We are excited about Theode joining our team. He brings world class equine experience, extensive skills in property management and a solid love for the Canadian outdoor life!
family-snowman.jpg
Winter Program
Holiday's left you needing a Holiday? Next year, why not let us take care of you and your family over this special time. No mess, no stress, just pure winter bliss!
 
Reserve now for next Christmas and New Years because we'll be fully booked!

Introducing cross country skiing, snowshoeing, tobogganing, outdoor hockey and ice skating, winter trail rides and horse-drawn sleighs, Christmas and New Years Eve festivities, and so much more!

Our executive log homes are receiving extensive renovations. From soaker tubs to plush new carpeting, enjoy the winter from cozy comfort. A selection of traditional cabins are to be winterized, giving you several ways to enjoy the season!
 
Here are our top ten reasons why you should join us next winter!
  1. The Muffling Effect of Snow
    You're never going to find silence as complete as being in the woods after a snowfall. Snow muffles everything
     
  2. The Smells and Sounds
    There's nothing more soothing than the crackle of a wood fire and the gentle smell of smoke as the snow drifts down outside. Throw in a cozy blanket and you've got heaven on earth. Always a home fire burning at the lodge so grab a book and come enjoy some fresh baking.
     
  3. The Chance to Rest
    It seems like the summer to-do list never ends, but we savour the slower pace up here in the quiet winter months.
     
  4. The Activities
    That's not to say we don't still have fun up here! Pristine snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowy trail rides, pick up hockey games. Specialty ice fishing, dogsledding, and snowmobiling options as well!
     
  5. The Lack of Crowds
    Get away from the crowds, skip waiting in holiday lineups and enjoy the friendly company up at the ranch.
     
  6. The Excuse to Stay In
    Watch as the kids build snowmen outside while you enjoy a Hot Toddy by the fire.
     
  7. The Opportunity to Indulge
    Fill up on holiday comforts, but skip the preparation and cleanup. Then, relax in one of our soaker tubs before you enjoy a relaxing message. The luxuries are endless.
     
  8. The Festivities
    Help us decorate our 'Enchanted Tree' in the woods, come along on horse-drawn carolling sleigh rides, enjoy festive cocktails by the fire, learn practical crafts, participate in our well-loved dances to live music.
     
  9. Remember Tradition
    Has the holiday spirit disappeared from your family? Get back to basics and reconnect by skipping the commercialized urban rush next year. Santa's even been known to stop by and see his friends at The U!
     
  10. The Bragging Rights
    Come back from your vacation actually rested. You'll have so many stories, you'll be the envy of your social circle.
     
Next Month!
Meet our new chef and learn about our dedication to food excellence. 
Find out about our Sarsaparilla Tea & Coffee shop as well as our new garden .
And meet the wranglers for 2016!
Thanks again for your continued support.

Sincerely,

The Flying U Ranch
1.250.456.7717
flyingu@bcinternet.net
www.flyingu.com