Seeking an inspiring setting to turn their vision of healthy living into reality, Enid and Mel Zuckerman found the perfect site, the Double U Ranch on the outskirts of Tucson – once the center of a sprawling cattle ranch and, from the 1930s through 1970s, a guest ranch. It was the very first property they visited. Mel was moved by “the spirit of the place” where Native Americans once lived in harmony with their environment, using natural means for health and healing – traditions that would become the cornerstone of Canyon Ranch.
Applying the principle of positive change to the Double U’s historic structures, the Zuckermans worked hard to restore and expand the dilapidated, rustic guest ranch into a world-class resort. They also had to find experts in fitness and nutrition who shared their passion: They looked for people who genuinely cared for others and longed to help them. On opening day, in December, 1979, 88 enthusiastic staff members greeted eight guests – only one of whom was a paying guest. During Canyon Ranch’s first year, average occupancy was 26 guests a week.
The Ranch struggled, but began to get some breaks. Canyon Ranch was featured on the popular Richard Simmons Show in 1981, and in 1982, TIME® magazine featured Canyon Ranch as America’s “first vacation fitness resort.” With that coverage, we were off and running.
From the start, Canyon Ranch attracted forward-thinking professionals in nutrition, fitness, skin care and healthy living. In 1988, the Health & Healing Center, dedicated to the memory of Mel’s late father, opened. In that same year, the Ranch opened the Life Enhancement Center® for in-depth programs in healthy living. In this self-contained facility, guests could focus on establishing positive lifestyle habits.
Through the Zuckermans’ unwavering dedication, Canyon Ranch in Tucson evolved into a world-renowned vacation resort with the greatest range of healthy possibilities anywhere. At Canyon Ranch, you can have a complete physical, consult with a licensed therapist, learn about herbal remedies, get your posture aligned, experience relaxing spa treatments, hike, bike and relax, and go home with detailed prescriptions for nutrition and exercise.
