Property
Travelers frequenting B&B’s often do so for the opportunity to observe a bit of their hosts in action. At Rosse Posse Acres, a working elk ranch with about 85 elk, there’s lots to see: the elk, the petting farm, the Ross daughters, and the family pet wallaby, “Tucker.” Proprietors Alan and Brenda Ross enjoy showing them all off, and invite you to feel like family during your stay.

Location
Rosse Posse is located in Molalla, OR, a rural area with a population of about 7,000. To get there, drive about an hour southeast of Portland. Near the farm is the Molalla River Corridor, which offers up lots of outdoor fun, including fishing, swimming, biking and kayaking, and horseback riding. You can also dive out of a plane with Skydive Oregon, Inc., if you need even more of an adrenaline rush.

Sleeps
2-4 in the single guest room of the B&B, which is on the first floor of the Ross’s 4,800 sq. ft., six-bedroom colonial house they built in 2004. The bedroom, with private adjoining bath, features a luxurious king bed, DSL connection, TV, telephone and alarm clock. The owners can roll in two cots for the kids, but don’t have a crib.

Highlights
Where else can you croon over a baby pet wallaby that loves to be swaddled in its blankie? But wait, there’s more! A petting zoo of pygmy goats, turkeys, bunnies, and chickens awaits in the barn. And if you feel so inclined, the Ross’s invite you to them assist with the farm’s daily chores: feeding the elk, grooming the miniature donkeys, even gathering eggs from the assorted hens. But when you’re ready to relax, count on there being a deck chair with your name on it, so situated as to offer awesome views of Mt. Hood.

Good to know
If you’re a smoker, expect to take it outside, as this is a smoke-free household. Just don’t try to get friendly with the elkherd beyond the fence while you’re out there, no matter how much bugling they do if you visit during the fall mating season. Be sure to stock up on elk meat and jerky when you leave, as the Ross’s sell it right off the farm.

Contact
www.rosseposseacres.com