Frequently Asked Questions
Who can attend these clinics?
Anyone who has a horse to ride and some riding experience! It is not necessary for you or your horse to have experience with cattle.
Our Cattle Drive Clinics are very family-friendly. You and your horse will get to try some new experiences. Clinics are popular with stable groups, girls getaways, couples, and families. Children are welcome to participate in Cattle Drive Clinics, but must be independent riders and travel with an adult.
why should i attend these clinics?
To have a challenging and educational weekend. Fun awaits!
When and where are the clinics held?
Clinics are held on weekends from May through October. Check out our Clinic Schedule to find a weekend that works for you!
All clinics take place at the Devil's Hole Ranch at 20117 Mesabi Avenue, Norwalk, WI 54648.
What are the ranch facilities like?
The ranch road leads to our campsites, which include electrical hook-ups for trailers, and covered horse stables, which have water available for your horses. Campsites are available for $30 per weekend. We also have several stalls available for an additional fee of $20 per weekend. Please note that campsites and stalls are limited, so reserve one right away if you are interested. There is plenty of room for picket lines and portable fencing as well.
If you do not prefer camping, lodging at DHR’s GREAT LODGE is available. Enjoy a comfy bed, warm shower, and privacy at the end of a long day!
The bunkhouse, saloon, deck area, cook-pit, and chuck wagon are central to the camp. Running water, hot showers, and flush toilets are located in the bath house.
For more detailed lodging information, visit our Lodging page.
For more detailed information regarding horse stalls, please see our Registration page.
What is the food like?
Paula is going to be spending more time as “Hostess” in 2024. Since it’s very hard to get a cook for only eight weekends a season, and food prices are impossible to predict, the food aspects of the weekends will be changing. After lengthy discussions with staff and 2023 clinic participants, it’s been decided to offer a “continental” style breakfast on Saturday and Sunday mornings consisting of coffee and other hot beverages, a selection of Amish baked muffins and coffee cake, and fresh fruit (bananas and “cutie” style oranges). We will continue to offer lemonade, iced tea, and bottled water during the day and evenings. Participants will provide their own choices for lunch, although cookies and bars will be served for dessert and everyone is encouraged to eat together on the deck. The cook pit gas grill, bunkhouse microwave and stove, and several refrigerators will also be available for those without these things in their trailers. The Lodge also has a gas grill, coffee bar, microwave, and a full size refrigerator. Our evening meals on Friday and Saturday night will feature camp style favorites such as beef stew, cowboy beans, or perhaps chili. Doc is looking forward to making his famous cherry or peach cobbler over the open fire!
We do not serve alcohol (BYOB only).
What can I expect in terms of weather and terrain?
It is important to come prepared and be able to dress for ANY weather. The weather can be unpredictable, and clinics are held rain or shine. Participants should bring layers of clothing, hats, boots, and protection from sun, wind, and rain along with them.
The terrain is very hilly and can be an exciting challenge for many “flat-landers”. Our ranch has many creeks, trees, and rocky areas. Some of our ranch horses are barefoot, while others are shod. Your horse should be conditioned for hilly terrain and accustomed to other horses and sounds. Your horse will be crossing several creeks over the weekend. It is helpful if your horse can cross water, but if not, we will help you with that training and can focus on these specific skills on Friday.
How does devil's hole ranch ensure the safety of clinic participants as well as the animals?
Safety is our number one priority. We do safety trainings and briefings throughout our clinics. We maintain a focus and attention on safety. We will never proceed with a task until safety is ensured for all riders, instructors, and animals.
Remember, “helmet hair goes away, but a brain injury lasts forever” (Author Unknown).
Please note that Coggins papers must be presented upon arrival.
What if something comes up? Can I reschedule or cancel?
Life moves fast on the ranch, and we know it does for you too! Please carefully review our rescheduling and cancellation policies.
When booking your weekend, 100% of the clinic fee is due. Reservations are on a first-come-first-serve basis. We must have at least 60 days notification for any cancellations in order to get a full refund. You can pay an additional $25 for the flexibility of a one-time reschedule through the ranch for the 2025 season.
What is the alcohol policy for the clinics?
There is no alcohol sold on the ranch. You may bring your own for your own consumption. Our policy is no drinking until the clinic activities are finished for the day!
What should I pack?
We have created a packing list for clinic participants. Please note that it is merely meant to serve as a guide when preparing for your weekend. You should determine what they see as necessary for themselves and their horses.