25 Best Montana Dude Ranch Vacations

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Not only is the sky big, but nearly everything in Montana seems to be larger than life. The valleys seem a bit wider, the lakes a smidge longer, and the mountains a dash taller. The dude ranches of Montana are no different. Each sprawls over thousands of scenic acres with the most magnificent natural backdrops. Travelers vacationing at one of these premier dude ranches will be surrounded by Blue Ribbon trout streams, national parks and forests, and legendary ski resorts. Montana’s top dude ranches offer everything from luxury accommodations to hearty, ranch-style cuisine to world-class outdoor adventures.

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© Mountain Sky Guest Ranch

Mountain Sky Guest Ranch is an all-inclusive resort and dude ranch that is located in the city of Emigrant, in southwest Montana. Travelers from all around the world have been making their way to this little corner of Paradise Valley for idyllic vacations since 1929. Much has evolved since the ranch’s early days; the amenities have grown more opulent, the property lines have expanded, and the programming has become more diverse. The ranch offers a plethora of outdoor activities for guests to enjoy, including white-water rafting, fly-fishing, golfing, horseback riding, hiking, clay shooting, kids programs, and Yellowstone National Park tours. After a long day of outdoor adventure, guests can relax and rejuvenate at the Mountain Sky Wellness Lodge.

480 NF-132, Emigrant, MT, Phone: 406-333-4911

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Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch is a sprawling dude ranch and all-inclusive resort that is located in south Montana. The ranch offers its guests a relaxing, stress-free vacation that is jam-packed with a variety of memory-making adventures. Guests will have the opportunity to experience fun activities that range from scenic-river rafting to Blue Ribbon fly fishing to horseback riding to jeep adventures, all of which will be enjoyed with warm western hospitality. Visitors will have access to over one million acres of pristine wilderness situated just north of Yellowstone National Park. The ranch’s guests will find the accommodations quite charming and cozy, complete with warm showers, comfortable beds, and rustic décor.

4188 Main Boulder Road, McLeod, MT, Phone: 406-932-5791

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© Bar W Guest Ranch

Bar W Guest Ranch is a beautiful, year-round dude ranch that is located in northwest Montana, situated between the Flathead National Forest and Kootenai National Forest. The ranch is nestled on more than three thousand acres of incredibly beautiful wilderness, just below two pine-covered ridges at the bottom of Spencer Mountain. The ranch is also in close proximity to the Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort, Glacier National Park, and the charming town of Whitefish. The ranch offers a plethora of fun and exciting outdoor adventures for its guests to enjoy, including world-class horseback riding, Glacier River white-water rafting, mountain biking, hiking, clay disc shooting, zip-lining, archery, and fishing.

2875 Highway 93 West, Whitefish, MT, Phone: 406-863-9099

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© 320 Guest Ranch

320 Guest Ranch is a classic vacation lodge and dude ranch that is nestled along Buffalo Horn Creek and the Gallatin River in Gallatin Gateway, Montana. Travelers who have been yearning to horseback ride beneath Montana’s clear blue skies, or fly-fish its bubbling trout rivers, or ski the famous Big Sky Resort, will want to give serious consideration to staying at this charming ranch. From the Deluxe Log Cabins to the Mountain Chalets to the Three Bedroom Luxury Log Homes, guests will enjoy cozy accommodations that feature big windows, comfortable beds, log interior walls, and Western motif. The ranch offers many other fun and adventurous activities for guests to enjoy, such as hiking, rafting, snowmobiling, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.

205 Buffalo Horn Creek Road, Gallatin Gateway, MT, Phone: 406-995-4283

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© Covered Wagon Ranch

Established in 1925, Covered Wagon Ranch is one of Montana’s oldest continuously operating dude ranches within the beautiful canyon at the confluence of the Taylors Fork and Gallatin rivers. This sprawling ranch is located only three miles away from the scenic northwest corner of Yellowstone National Park. Guests will appreciate the ranch’s charming and historic log cabin accommodations, complete with private baths, rustic wood furniture, and wood-burning stoves. Visitors will enjoy sensational meals and pampered service from the ranch’s extraordinary hosting staff. There are numerous adventurous activities offered for guests to partake in, such as inner tubing, roping, hiking, world-class fly fishing, and horseback riding.

34035 Gallatin Road, Gallatin Gateway, MT, Phone: 406-995-4237

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© Nine Quarter Circle Ranch

Nine Quarter Circle Ranch is a marvelous dude ranch that is nestled near Taylor Creek in southwest Montana. It’s a ranch that has looked and operated the same for more than a century, amid beautiful landscapes that have taken an unfathomable amount of time to fully form. The ranch’s rhythm is highlighted by many generations of horses trained and born here; families returning time and time again; wildlife repeating its ancient patterns; and adventurers drawn to Yellowstone National Park. This authentic Montana Dude Ranch experience features horseback riding, world-class fishing, hayrides, square dancing, white-water rafting, zipline tours, and Yellowstone tours. The rustic accommodations offer plenty of modern amenities, including Wi-Fi within the main lodge, onsite laundry, and a swimming pool.

5000 Taylor Fork Road, Gallatin Gateway, MT, Phone: 406-995-4276

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© Rich’s Montana Guest Ranch

Rich’s Montana Guest Ranch is a family-owned and operated dude ranch that is situated just south of the Flathead National Forest and east of Cottonwood Park in Seeley Lake, Montana. Summer ranch vacations at Rich’s include cozy cabin lodging, hearty buffet-style meals, complimentary use of ranch amenities, and a variety of fun activities during the week. Guests can enjoy everything from adventurous horseback riding on quality saddle horses to pack trips through the Bob Marshall Wilderness to Blue Ribbon fly fishing to fair-chase hunts for deer and elk. Rich’s also provides opportunities for camping, winter snowmobiling, and hiking. Nestled within the picturesque Rocky Mountains, the ranch overlooks the marvelous Woodworth Meadow near Blackfoot River Valley.

939 Cottonwood Lakes Road, Seeley Lake, MT, Phone: 406-677-2317

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Rocking Z Guest Ranch is an authentic dude ranch that is nestled between the Helena National Forest and Flathead National Forest in Wolf Creek, Montana. Travelers looking to inspire and restore themselves through horseback riding and horsemanship should look no further than Rocking Z. The ranch offers horse-related activities and experiences that meet the needs of beginner, intermediate, and experienced horseback riders. They’ll have the chance to ride long trails, work cattle from the rear of the heard, and play at liberty within the round pen. Aside from horse-inspired adventures, guests can also enjoy archery, clay shooting, pond and fly-fishing, and hiking. The accommodations are comfortable, offer rustic design elements, and provide modern amenities.

2020 Chevallier Drive, Wolf Creek, MT, Phone: 406-465-5534

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© Elkhorn Ranch

Only a mile away from the scenic northwest corner of Yellowstone National Park lies Elkhorn Ranch, a beautiful and sprawling dude ranch that is located in the southwestern part of Montana. Elkhorn is one of the area’s last remaining authentic dude ranches where the primary focus each day is outdoor activities. This countryside getaway is perfect for the whole family, all ages, as well as friends, old and new. The ranch is known for its private, comfortable and western-themed cabin accommodations, hearty and delicious meals, and exhilarating adventures. There’s a large variety of fun and exciting things to do, including hiking, whitewater rafting, Blue Ribbon fly-fishing, horseback riding, children’s programs, sleigh rides, and trips to Yellowstone.

33133 Gallatin Road, Gallatin Gateway, MT, Phone: 406-995-4291

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© JJJ Wilderness Ranch

JJJ Wilderness Ranch is located just inside of the Rocky Mountains, nestled within a scenic corridor between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. This sprawling dude ranch overlooks the shimmering Gibson Lake and beautiful Sun River Canyon in Augusta, Montana. Just outside of the ranch’s back door lies the famous million-acre Bob Marshall Wilderness, unspoiled and unforgettable. The ranch features responsive horses for the beginner all the way up to the experienced rider, private cabin accommodations, hearty meals, and unlimited outdoor activities. Guest’s will appreciate the ranch’s fantastic Kid’s Program and plethora of available adventures, such as fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and pack-trips.

91 Mortimer Road, Augusta, MT, Phone: 406-562-3653

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© The Blacktail Ranch

Travelers looking for both an exciting and relaxing dude ranch experience should look no further than The Blacktail Ranch in Wolf Creek, Montana. This magnificently-scenic ranch is located in the mighty Rocky Mountains, along the state’s portion of the Continental Divide. The ranch is surrounded by beautiful meadows, towering pine forests, and soaring mountain peaks; there’s also a sparkling river that runs through the property. For over forty years this dude ranch has put an emphasis on high-quality experiences and exceptional service. There’s lots to see and do around the ranch, including fishing, rafting, bird watching, yoga; the Blacktail Cave Exploration & Museum, and a 3-day Divide Ride.

4440 South Fork Trail, Wolf Creek, MT, Phone: 406-235-4330

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© Parade Rest Guest Ranch

Parade Rest Guest Ranch is a true, authentic Montana dude ranch that offers memorable experiences in a scenic location that is only 15 minutes from Yellowstone National Park’s west entrance. The ranch’s all-inclusive vacation packages provide all of the guest’s meals, log cabin lodging, world-class fly fishing, unlimited trails to ride via horseback, and unforgettable outdoor cookouts. There are numerous wilderness activities for visitors to enjoy, such as bird watching, hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and Yellowstone tours. The 15 private ranch cabins feature modern baths, comfortable beds, porches, and a few with wood-burning stoves. Travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of their daily lives will find the Parade Rest Guest Ranch quite rejuvenating.

1279 Grayling Road, West Yellowstone, MT, Phone: 406-646-7217

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© Hidden Hollow Hideaway Cattle & Guest Ranch

Hidden Hollow Hideaway Cattle & Guest Ranch is a sweeping dude ranch that is located in central Montana, a couple of miles east of Canyon Ferry Lake. The Flynn’s historic family roots trace all the way back to the early 1860s when their ancestors followed the mighty gold rush to Diamond City. The 15,000-acre ranch they have now features bubbling creeks, beautiful meadows, and rolling mountain peaks. The Flynn family has carved out a little slice of paradise within the mountains and fields of Montana. From horseback riding to wildlife watching to scenic tours, guests will have a plethora of wonderful outdoor adventures awaiting them.

1 Clear Creek Road, Townsend, MT, Phone: 406-266-3322

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© Cheff Guest Ranch

Cheff Guest Ranch offers marvelous scenery of the sweeping Mission Mountains and provides travelers with unique opportunities for experiencing the Great American West. Guests staying here will have the chance to simply relax and laze the days away while taking in the stunning beauty of the Rocky Mountains, or pack the days full of fun and exciting ranch activities. The ranch is equipped with hundreds of picturesque acres and miles of private trails that are perfect for mountain biking, hiking, walking, and guided horseback riding. There’s also a private lake and fresh mountain streams just steps from the guest cabins. Guests will appreciate the close proximity to the nearby Glacier National Park and National Bison Range.

3088 Eagle Pass Trail, Charlo, MT, Phone: 406-644-2557

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© Black Diamond Guest Ranch

Black Diamond Guest Ranch is a picturesque dude ranch that is nestled within the De Borgia/Haugan region of northwest Montana. It features authentic rustic log cabins capable of accommodating up to five individuals, complete with refrigerators, coffee makers, cute handmade quilts, log bunkbeds, and full-bathrooms with hot showers. The two-bedroom and two-bathroom bunkhouse is equipped with a full- kitchen (minus the food) and comfortably sleeps 12 people, but can accommodate up to 17 using a futon and living room sofas. Guests will have a variety of outdoor recreational activities to enjoy amid a breathtaking backdrop, such as horseback riding, fishing, scenic river-rafting, horse-drawn sleigh and wagon hay rides, and guided snowmobile tours.

1281 De Borgia Haugen Frontage Road, De Borgia, MT, Phone: 406-678-4000

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Z5 Guest Ranch is a traditional cattle ranch that is located within the Jocko Valley, about 25 minutes from the city of Missoula, Montana. The ranch features very private, wide-open spaces, a bubbling creek that runs through the property; a fire-pit, pond, and attractive accommodations. With the ranch staff’s creativity, innovation, knowledge, and execution, guests are sure to enjoy the Montana vacation of their dreams. Z5 offers a plethora of exciting outdoor adventures for its guests to enjoy, including shooting, horseback riding, fly-fishing, whitewater river-rafting, helicopter tours, and Chuckwagon dinners. Travelers seeking a relaxing getaway in the Montana countryside will find everything they need at the Z5 Guest Ranch.

1300 Coombs Lane, Arlee, MT, Phone: 406-540-1852

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© Bear Creek Guest Ranch

Bear Creek Guest Ranch is a well-known and highly-touted dude ranch that is located in East Glacier Park, Montana. This sweeping guest ranch has been situated in its current location since the year of 1933. The ranch features a main lodge, rustic cabins, corrals, a roping and riding arena, and a fine selection of horses. The ranch is surrounded by Glacier National Park to the north, the million-acre Bob Marshall Wilderness to the south, and sprawling Blackfeet Indian Reservation to the east. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and foothills, as well as the beautiful nearby prairie. There are numerous outdoor activities available to keep guests entertained, including hiking, horseback riding, float trips, and wildlife tours.

15750 U.S. Route 2, East Glacier Park, MT, Phone: 406-226-4489

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© K Bar L Ranch & Medicine Springs

K Bar L Ranch & Medicine Springs is an extraordinary guest ranch property that is nestled where the South and North Forks of the winding Sun River meet, in northwest Montana. The ranch is situated adjacent to the world-renowned, one-million-acres of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate retreat, family reunion, or friend’s trip, K Bar L offers a magnificent setting, coupled with exceptional service. From fishing to hunting to hiking to horseback riding to pack trips, the ranch provides a large variety of exciting outdoor adventures for its guests to enjoy. Guests can also partake in a little swimming, volleyball, spelunking, wagon rides, and the making of s’mores.

108C, Sun Canyon Road, Augusta, MT, Phone: 406-562-3551

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© The Ranch at Rock Creek

The Ranch at Rock Creek offers travelers unique, year-round vacations on a traditional 19th century homestead in Philipsburg, Montana. This dude ranch perfectly balances lavish all-inclusive amenities with exciting Western adventures. Guests can start their days with ranch-inspired cuisine before heading out to do a little fly-fishing on bubbling Blue Ribbon trout streams. Awe-inspiring views can be enjoyed from The Top of the World via horseback before drifting off to sleep under the shimmering Montana sky within a charming bespoke glamping tent. Guests will also have the opportunity to partake in incredible outdoor adventures that include downhill skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, archery; a ropes course, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, hiking, and photography workshops.

79 Carriage House Lane, Philipsburg, MT, Phone: 877-786-1545

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© Deep Canyon Guest Ranch

Deep Canyon Guest Ranch has been in operation for more than 50 years within the picturesque Teton Canyon, just south of Montana’s Glacier National Park. The ranch is also situated at the edge of the world-famous, one-million-acre Bob Marshall Wilderness Area. This historic and private dude ranch is a hidden treasure that provides endless opportunities for exploring the spectacular Rocky Mountains. Guests will enjoy the finest Western hospitality, sensational home-style meals, and plenty of breathtaking scenery. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home at Deep Canyon Guest Ranch, where they can partake in exciting adventures that include tubing down the Teton River, bird watching, hiking, fly-fishing, and horseback riding.

2055 Teton Canyon Road, Choteau, MT, Phone: 406-466-2044

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© Montana Ranches at Belt Creek

Montana Ranches at Belt Creek is a luxury guest ranch that is located 25 minutes from Great Falls, Montana, and 30 minutes from the Showdown Ski Area. Travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy some of the very best that the West has to offer, from sweeping mountain ranges and plains to honest cowboy grit and genuine history to wildlife and nature so close it will make their hearts race. The Ranches at Belt Creek combine the very best qualities found at a dude ranch, ski resort, fly-fishing retreat, and hunting lodge – in one place. Guests will have unrivaled access to outdoor activities that include snowmobiling, ATV riding, dog sledding, downhill skiing and snowboarding, and photography safaris.

277 Armington Road, Belt, MT, Phone: 406-750-6135

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© Sixty Three Ranch

The history of Sixty Three Ranch dates all the way back to the year of 1863 (where it got the name) and was the first Montana dude ranch to be declared a National Historic Site. This Livingston, Montana dude ranch is situated at an altitude of 5600 feet, just below Elephant Head Mountain, and approximately 55 miles north of Yellowstone National Park. The ranch is joined by the two-million acre Gallatin National Forest; meets Absaroka Mountain’s craggy peaks; and straddles Mission Creek Canyon. Guests will enjoy home-cooked hardy meals, private cabins, and breathtaking scenery. Guests will also have a wide array of fun activities to choose from, including fishing, photography, hiking, spelunking, mountain climbing, and horseback riding.

184 Bruffey Lane, Livingston, MT, Phone: 406-222-0570

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© Dream Haven Guest Ranch

Dream Haven Guest Ranch is a premier horse ranch that is located in the northwest part of Montana, in West Marion. This ranch provides the idyllic family-friendly setting for enjoying an authentic Montana wilderness experience. Guests will have the opportunity to feel what it was like for mountain men and early explorers as they take in breathtaking views of the Salish Mountains. The ranch is available all year-round, giving visitors the chance to enjoy a myriad of outdoor recreational activities, such as horseback riding, skeet shooting, roping, boating, skiing, hiking, and fishing. Throughout their stay guests will enjoy home-cooked meals, attentive service, and magnificent scenery.

11055 Highway 2, West Marion, Montana, Phone: 406-858-2020

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© Lazy E-L Ranch

The Mackay family has long been hosting guests and friends at the Lazy E-L Ranch in Roscoe, Montana, starting way back in 1901. The ranch features over 12,000 marvelous acres of land adjacent to the Beartooth Mountains, approximately 30 miles from Yellowstone National Park. The Lazy E-L Ranch offers over a century of rich history; a traditional working cattle ranch; a variety of terrains for horseback riding; hiking, rafting, fishing, and unrivaled access to the surrounding wilderness. The ranch is also home to a plethora of wildlife species that include wolves, coyotes, Sandhill Cranes, Blue Heron, Bald Eagles, mountain lions, bears, moose, elk and deer. Guests will feel an unrivaled connection with nature at the Lazy E-L Ranch.

Lazy el Ranch Road, Roscoe, MT, Phone: 406-328-6858

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Skyline Guest Ranch and Guide Service is a magnificent dude ranch that is situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, in Cooke City, Montana. The ranch provides guests with convenient access to the wonders and sights of Yellowstone National Park, the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, and the Beartooth Scenic Byway. Skyline Guest Ranch is equipped with six spacious and beautiful guest rooms, complete with private bathrooms and rustic décor. Delicious, home-cooked breakfasts are included with the room prices. There are endless opportunities for ranch guests to enjoy Montana’s great outdoors, including hunting, snowmobiling, pack trips, fishing, and horseback riding. Guests can also enjoy camping out overnight, roasting s’mores over the campfire under the shimmering night sky.

31 Kersey Lake Road, Cooke City, MT, Phone: 406-838-2380

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