Columnist Muriel Stevens: Cowpokes can check out ‘Bunk Out’

Wednesday, July 19, 2000 | 9:47 a.m.

Muriel Stevens' shopping column appears Wednesdays. Her dining column appears Fridays. Reach her at muriel@lasvegassun.com or 259-4080.

The Quarter Circle Five Ranch near Lund doesn't offer the derring-do of cattle roundups a la the film "City Slickers," but it does offer "Bunk Out West," a working ranch and dude ranch experience for city folk and wannabe cowpokes.

Nevadans don't have to go very far. The ranch is on Highway 318, 35 miles south of Ely. This environmentally conscious spread covers more than 70,000 acres of private and leased lands.

The season lasts until October. It's a terrific family or group destination. "Bunk Out West" can accommodate groups of up to 16 (depending on availability) -- transportation is provided to and from Las Vegas for stays of five days or longer.

Owner and operator Michelle Gubler says there are "nothing but real cowboys and real cows for this working ranch vacation. It's a getaway for visitors who want to experience the true life of a cowboy or cowgirl." Upon arrival guests receive chaps and hats and any other gear they might need during their roles as cowpokes. Get your own calluses.

Among the many activities are: fishing, cave exploring, hay expeditions, horsemanship classes, trail rides, cattle drives, roping and campfire sing-alongs.

Cooking is mainly done over a campfire. Shucks, I was goin' to hang out at the chuck wagon. Steak and potatoes are a mainstay. Not to worry, you'll burn off the calories after a day on the range or with the Western-style dancing taught after dinner.

"Summer is the perfect time for people to get away from the intense heat," Gubler said. It's in the 80s during the day; cooler at night so sweaters are suggested for evenings outdoors.

The cost for a stay at the ranch is $200 per person per night, with a discount for scouting and school groups. For additional information, call (888) 837-2382 or log on to www.qc5.com.

Desert Passage to open: Have the charge cards at the ready; TrizecHahn opens its exotic Desert Passage shopping complex at the Aladdin Aug. 17.

During a recent preview tour I got to see the many new shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities. There are at least 40 retail outlets making their Las Vegas debuts and as many or more shops that already have a presence in our other malls and hotels.

Of course, I soon will be writing at length about the shops and restaurants, but there are a few I just had to share. I'm mad about the Build-A-Bear-Workshop -- create your own adorable cuddler from the stuffing to the finish. Prices start at just $10. Expect to wait in line to make one of these personalized keepsakes.

Home and professional cooks will be happy to learn that Seattle's finest cookware shop, Sur la Table, is opening a large store in Desert Passage. A visit to the Pike's Market Sur La Table is a must whenever I'm in Seattle. This serious cook shop is filled with temptations.

If you're not already getting a Sur La Table mail-order catalog, request one by calling (800) 243-0852.

To fully experience the wide range of beautiful kitchen accessories, cookware, table-top items and gourmet foods found here, you'll just have to wait until Aug. 17.