Rumbling across history pulling chariots, carrying heroes and standing for the balance of wisdom and power, the white stallion has long tread vanguard for humanities’ desires, marked fertility and remained a steadfast symbol in myths since before it could be tamed. Surpassing storybook endings, the legendary nature of this beast still exists today, captured in the tale of a historic ranch rooted in the mysterious Old West.

The White Stallion Ranch, decorated by the Sonoran Desert and saddled up with Panther Peak, is among the most exclusive vacation retreats in all of Arizona. Owned and operated by the True family for 3 generations, it has been a member of Historic Hotels of America since 2016. Images of riding a white horse are linked with travel, movement, and desires coming to fruition. Such is the “True” nature of the White Stallion Ranch, an authentic dude ranch situated at the end of the Tucson Mountain range, which has been rated one of the best holiday destinations in Tucson for more than 50 years.

Building a family that thrives and prospers has never been easy. Strength and courage to persevere over nature have made this family great. The third generation now serves, as Russell True’s sons have taken the reins of the 3000-acre working ranch. In keeping with family tradition, the True family is found working all over the ranch, from wrangling and managing staff to serving breakfast pancakes or grilling fish or steak for dinner. Many additional friendly staff are also ready to help and take care of guests.

The ranch sprawls comfortably, with 43 spacious guestrooms situated throughout, each with its own patio and some with fireplaces. The Saltillo tile, handsome dark wood furniture and rich red bedspreads complement the ranch’s style beautifully. For larger families or small groups, a hacienda offers a private four-bedroom, three bath home.

Ranch guests awake to the sound of birdsong, the possibility of a peaceful stroll, and prospects of evening entertainment of all sorts. Embracing an Old West theme, many activities are available for every member of the family daily, bringing back a time of leather and latigos, fire and iron. The knowledgeable, friendly staff are happy to educate guests from start to finish through each activity.

Start the morning with a breakfast ride in the mountains, join ranchers for cattle sorting or team penning, or take a shot at history with black-powder shooting using 1820 Hawken black powder rifles.

The family atmosphere and a feeling of going back in time encourage fun and willingness to try something exciting and new.

Travelers from all over the world regularly return here for the experiential escape and a taste of the desert. It’s an opportunity to reset one’s compass with the Saguaro National Park as its neighbor. Newcomers, Ed and Sharrie Yarber, from Cambridge, Ohio, were excited about having the ranch experience and about the choice made to visit.

“We loved the laid-back feel of the whole ranch, and very quickly felt a part of the family atmosphere. We were looking for sunshine and horses, and coming in from Ohio and not knowing, we are pleased with our visit and plan to return,” Sharrie Yarber said with a smile.

White Stallion Ranch has appeared in movies, on television, in Playboy magazine and even back-dropped a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. Actors like William Holden and Jean Arthur, Gene Autry, Jimmy Stewart and James Garner are just a few of the many stars who have filmed at the ranch. Portraying a simpler time but a dramatically more difficult lifestyle, these pioneers in film give a minute glimpse into what courage and a pioneer family lifestyle was all about.

Today, ranch guests come from all directions to experience the work of the True family, pioneers of hospitality, who have preserved the symbols and traditions of the Old West and the meaning of family. This one must travel pathway to the past is an opportunity to see where the legends end and new ones can begin.

To learn more visit www.whitestallion.com or call 520-297-0252.