If you’re looking for an all-around guest dude ranch vacation that embodies Montana and the spirit of the Old West, the Summer Discovery Package is the ideal choice. Guests enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, evenings around a glowing campfire, scenic horseback trail riding, and live western music to name a few of the experiences that leave guests returning year after year for our Discovery Package. Recently voted “Best Family Ranch” by Top 50 Ranches, experience the adventure of a lifetime your whole family will enjoy!
Discovery Package Details
Three meals a day at the Horn & Cantle Restaurant
Ranch family-style BBQ
Breakfast in the North Fork Cabin
Western music in the Saloon
Historic Montana cabin lodging
Horseback riding, canoeing/paddleboarding
Yoga, hiking, mountain biking
Tour of Yellowstone National Park
Outdoor Youth Adventures Program (ages 3-14)
In-person and text for service personal Ranch Concierge
Twice daily housekeeping service and guest laundry facilities
Transfers to and from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
2020 Rates
Adult
Child
May 31 – June 20
$595
$495
June 21 – August 19
$775
$625
August 20 – October 11
$595
$495
*Rates are per person per night , minimum occupancy applies per cabin
*All package rates are subject to a 5% tax and a 20% Resort Fee
*Child rate based on children aged 3-12 years of age
Horses have long been essential to the way of life in Yellowstone Country. For over a century, Lone Mountain Ranch’s team of horses has brought ranchers and visitors into parts of the backcountry that are otherwise unseen and untouched. From galloping on the ranch to venturing into Lee Metcalf Wilderness and Gallatin National Forest, our experienced wranglers and horses are dedicated to empowering riders of all ages and abilities to discover real Montana.
To provide specialized attention to every guest, adventures are limited to a few riders per wrangler. Wranglers will spend the first full day assessing abilities and matching riders with their best horses. Previous riding experience is not required – our highly trained wranglers can teach beginners the skills they need to enjoy their time on horseback or advance the skills of more experienced riders. To ensure the safety of horses and guests in the mountain terrain, we enforce a rider weight limit of 230 pounds. (available mid-May – mid-October)
Situated between the world famous Madison and Gallatin Rivers, Lone Mountain Ranch is the idyllic place to fish blue ribbon rainbow, brown and brook trout. The fly fishing guides will provide anglers of all levels with the skills and gear they need to begin or advance their sport.
For some, there is no more relaxing experience than casting a fly rod, for others there is no greater thrill. We will refer you to our local partners where they can custom tailor your experience to your interests, skill level and desire to explore.
Lone Mountain Ranch has a century-long tradition of curating Yellowstone Park experiences – from the history and geology to the backcountry and wildlife. Our naturalist guides are also accredited Yellowstone guides, with lifetimes of expertise and the most comprehensive, turnkey access to the park.
Let us take you for a hike, picnic, photography expedition or to see iconic landscapes and geysers such as Old Faithful. These are our roots, so when you visit Yellowstone with us, you get much more than a tour.
The trails behind the property offer both long, spirited rides and heart-pumping adrenaline rushes. Let us set you up with a map, bike and safety gear, plus a picnic lunch and a guide if you’re interested. Montana offers one of a kind mountain biking, and it would be just as easy to spend an hour or a few days navigating the adventure. (available mid-May – mid-October)
At different points and times of year, the Gallatin River offers class I-IV rapids. Rafting trips are available to guests age 6 and older, guided in partnership with our friends at Geyser Whitewater Expeditions. The river offers many challenging sections or spectacular places to gently float through the scenery. Half day and full day trips are available. (available June-August)
Let the scenery inspire your creative side. Celebrated local artist Jackie Rainford offers sharp understanding of drawing and painting fundamentals through oil painting, block painting, nature drawing and other mediums.
During a 2-3 hour class (which includes art supplies and smocks), you will gain the confidence to let your imagination run as wild as the terrain. Photography enthusiasts can be paired with Lone Mountain Ranch naturalist guides to set up the best shots and techniques for landscape and wildlife imagery day or night.
The Ranch is as much a playground for children as it is for adults. This program builds confidence through outdoor recreation, develops an appreciation for nature, and, most of all, gives young people (aged 3-14) the space to roam, have fun, and connect with each other. Kind and energetic staff will lead kids through a variety of experiences geared to entertain and challenge all age groups. (available June-August)
It’s not just a spa treatment, participating in yoga or massage can help you acclimate to the Ranch’s high altitude more quickly, and may even help prevent injury. Unwind your body and mind after a vigorous day, or start the morning with a routine to kickstart the adventure. Certified yoga instructors will take you through Vinyasa style yoga to warm and condition the body while softening and relaxing the mind.
Massage therapists offer a range of soothing styles, from Swedish, Russian and Thai massage to acupressure, shiatsu and sports massage. Add a head massage, Feet Treat or hot stone therapy for extra pampering. Our massage and yoga studios are located in the Ranch’s original B-K lodge. We recommend signing up for these activities at the beginning of your trip to get the most from your time with us.
Considering a vacation to Montana this summer? Lucky you! There’s a lot to love about Montana and so many reasons why a Montana Vacation is the perfect trip for anyone!
Montana is one of the largest states in the US (the 4th largest), and yet has one of the smallest populations. The “Big Sky” state is the gateway to two iconic National Parks (Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park). Montana is getting the reputation of being “The Last Best Place” because there is still so much open land, wildlife and beautiful scenery and so many activities available throughout the state. With everything Montana has to offer, you certainly can’t fit everything into a single trip (although it’s fun to try).
Lone Mountain Ranch offers the perfect Montana experience. It’s a blend of a luxury resort and quiet mountain cabin. Each day, you can choose your own experience. Whether you are looking for active adventure or peaceful relaxation. For the active guests, you can get your heart pumping by white water rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, or zip lining. Or if you’re in the mood for something a little more quiet and relaxing, you could stay at the ranch for yoga and a massage – or just retreat to your cabin for the ultimate peace and quiet. Of course, you are in Montana, so you can choose some more traditional “Montana Activities” like horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking or visiting Yellowstone National Park.
Dining at the ranch is anything, but ordinary. Executive Chef Eric Gruber oversees a menu that is locally sourced for true farm-to-table culinary delights that reflect the true Montana heritage. You’ll experience a dining experience that weaves together crafted food and drink that will awaken the tastebuds and satisfy your hunger.
Lone Mountain Ranch is a unique place located just up the hill from the small town of Big Sky, Montana – and only an hour from Bozeman, Montana. Without coming and experiencing Lone Mountain Ranch in person, it’s hard to classify this place into a signal category since it is part resort and part ranch. However, it is all Montana, so if you’re looking for a true Montana vacation, you’ll find it at Lone Mountain Ranch. Come join us this summer and experience Montana yourself!
WHY LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH?
Lone Mountain Ranch was homesteaded in 1915. Over the decades the guest ranch has become and remained one of the best places to vacation in Montana. Whether you learn of the ranch by its dining, cabins, horse rides or any of the other activities you can do on or near the ranch, you’ll find that it is the perfect Montana vacation destination.
Lone Mountain Ranch is a destination where guests disconnect from the world, while connecting with others through unforgettable adventures in a natural setting. Moments are crafted through discovery, exceptional people, fun activities, and a breathtaking environment.
Summer Videos
Lone Mountain Ranch Summer Season
If you’re looking for an all-around guest dude ranch vacation that embodies Montana and the spirit of the Old West, the Summer Discovery Package is the ideal choice. Guests enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, evenings around a glowing campfire, scenic horseback trail riding, and live western music to name a few of the experiences that leave guests returning year after year for our Discovery Package. Recently voted “Best Family Ranch” by Top 50 Ranches, experience the adventure of a lifetime your whole family will enjoy!
Lone Mountain Ranch Adult Week
September 24 – 29, 2019
Join us for our annual Adult week at the Ranch! This week long curation is geared towards adults, couples or groups just wanting to let loose, and have a great time in a festive environment against the backdrop of Big Sky. Among the slated activities are wine and cheese horseback rides, wine pairing dinners, and a breath taking outdoor dining experience on the top of our ridge looking down into the LMR Valley. We will play host to a comedy night in the Saloon and your week of parties ends with Saturday night, themed party celebrating Octoberfest and the Rut of the Elk. For those looking to take it easy, we will have brunch in bed, morning yoga sessions and in room couples massage.
Cowgirl Getaway
September 29 – October 4, 2019
This fall, the ladies take over the ranch! Lone Mountain Cowgirl Getaway at Lone Mountain Ranch is exclusively for the ladies, bring your best friends, your sisters, mothers, daughters or visit solo and make a few new girlfriends along the way for this fun filled week of ranch adventures. Guests enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, evenings around a glowing campfire, scenic horseback trail riding, guided tours into Yellowstone National Park and live western music to name a few of the experiences that leave the girls returning year after year!
Lone Mountain Ranch TASTE – a feast of music + food + spirits
August 29th – September 2rd, 2019
Join us for the second annual TASTE at LMR – a feast of food + spirits + music. We love a good glass of wine, a local beer, whiskey and of course an epic meal. This Labor Day weekend we invite you to a feast of all the things we love. Lone Mountain Ranch and Horn & Cantle play host to Wineries and many of our friends from local breweries and distilleries to give you a weekend to enjoy your decedent side. Take a ride in our horse drawn wagon and enjoy Chef Eric Gruber’s famous pickle brined fried chicken and drink rose in our rustic North Fork Cabin. Saturday we are throwing the best party LMR has yet to see. Stroll through the ranch, meet our horses, play bocce ball and taste a selection of our favorite dishes, cocktails, wine and local brews! Later that evening the Hooligans will play under the stars while our Chef prepares an epic BBQ. While you are enjoying all of our culinary events, don’t forget to take a horseback ride, learn to fly fish or have one of our naturalist guides take you on a tour to Yellowstone National Park.
Lone Mountain Ranch Fly Fishing
Lone Mountain Ranch offers guided fly fishing trips on the world-famous trout streams of Montana and Yellowstone National Park. Anglers can enjoy float and wade fishing on Blue Ribbon rivers such as the Madison, Gallatin and Yellowstone. Other options include small stream fishing, high mountain lakes and spring creeks on private ranches. Every package includes lodging, all meals, guided fly fishing trips, rental gear, flies and transfers to and from the Bozeman, Montana airport.
Yellowstone National Park Pack Trip
August 6-11, 2019
Channel the first explorers to discover Yellowstone National Park, the largest national park in the country, on a three-day, 2 night pack trip in Yellowstone National Park. You’ll journey into the serene beauty of undisturbed areas of the park.
Montana Honeymoon
Congrats on your upcoming wedding! Once the wedding is over, the real fun begins! Start the next chapter of your life with a romantic getaway filled with adventure, western hospitality and all the comforts of home in our authentic Montana log cabins. Indulge in our culinary delights that offer fresh flavors inspired by local purveyors and seasonal ingredients, pamper yourself with our spa services and don’t forget the adventure! Touring through Yellowstone National Park, whitewater rafting down class III-IV rapids or Nordic skiing our extensive trail system are just a few of the many adventures Lone Mountain Ranch has to offer!
Montana Summer Honeymoon Package Details
Three meals a day at the Horn & Cantle Restaurant
(2) 1-hour massages
1/2 day private horseback ride with picnic lunch
1/2 day whitewater rafting trip (available June-Aug)
Ranch memento
All ranch activities: Horseback riding, canoeing/paddleboarding, Yoga, hiking, mountain biking
Tour of Yellowstone National Park
Authentic Montana cabin lodging
In-person and text for service personal Ranch Concierge
Twice daily housekeeping service and guest laundry facilities
Transfers to and from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
Montana Winter Honeymoon Package Details
Three meals a day at the Horn & Cantle Restaurant
(2) 1-hour massages
1/2 day private backcountry Nordic Ski Tour
Full day Snowcoach tour in Yellowstone National Park
Ranch memento
Sleigh Ride & Dinner to the legendary North Fork Cabin
Nordic ski gear and snowshoe equipment and full access to the #1 x-country trail system in North America
Morning Yoga in B-K Guest Lounge
In-person and text for service personal Ranch Concierge
Downhill ski & snowboard concierge and transportation to Big Sky Resort
Live Western music in the Saloon
Twice daily housekeeping service and guest laundry facilities
Transfers to and from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
2020 Rates
Starting at
Summer
$6,850
Winter rates start at:
$5,150
*Rates are based on a 5-night package for two guests
*All package rates are subject to a 5% tax and a 20% Resort Fee
Celebrate your love together under the Big Sky at Lone Mountain Ranch. Our Big Sky Big Love Elopement package includes all the highlights of a destination wedding while leaving all the planning to us (and the guest list at home!) Say “I do” at our Ridgetop location surrounded by sweeping mountains and beautiful Lone Peak. Or, choose to say your vows among the trees next to our North Fork Creek. Either location will give you an intimate setting to share your love for each other and start your next chapter in life together. After the “I dos”, start your honeymoon! Horseback ride through the mountains with a private picnic lunch, mountain bike down our thrilling trails or try paddleboarding at the lake. After all the adventure, our authentic cabins welcome you to retreat around a crackling fire while you rest up for the next day’s adventure.
Summer Elopement Package Details
Private Ridgetop or Creekside ceremony with ranch arbor
Big Sky: Still the best place to vacation after all these years!
We came across this video clip that’s now over 40 years old. You can’t help but smile and snicker as you watch the clip. The music and video style are certainly straight from the 1970’s! As we watched the video, it makes us a little nostalgic for the past. A lot has changed in Big Sky over the past four decades, but really it is surprising how much hasn’t changed.
What HASN’T changed in Big Sky
Big Sky is still a sought after destination to escape the city and find outdoor tranquility and adventure.
You’ll still find clean mountain streams and fresh mountain air.
Believe it or not you can still find cowboys in the area. (We are a Dude Ranch, after all!)
Big Sky is still surrounded by amazing breath taking views of high mountain landscapes and wildlife. It’s still a base camp for outdoor adventurers of many types.
Big Sky is still known for some of the best skiing (nordic and downhill) in the country.
Yellowstone National Park obviously hasn’t moved and still draws many people to the area to view the geysers and unique wildlife.
While Big Sky has certainly grown compared to the 1970’s, it is still a relatively small Montana town.
There’s still many of the same activities in Big Sky, whether you like golf, tennis, fishing, skiing, horseback riding, hiking, etc!
What HAS changed in Big Sky
Today it is easier than ever to travel to Big Sky. Whether you’re planning a road trip to Montana or flying into the Bozeman airport, it is surprisingly convenient to get here. (We even provide transportation from the airport!)
From the exterior it may appear that our cabins are the same traditional cabins from the past, but the interior of each cabin have been updated to provide our guests with modern comforts… while maintaining the cozy cabin ambiance.
There’s more than just cowboys in Big Sky today! We also have biologists who will guide you on hikes, yoga instructors to prepare you for the day, massage therapists to help you relax, certified anglers to show you the best fishing holes and an executive chef to do all the cooking!
Big Sky’s downhill skiing has been upgraded and expanded. High-speed chairlifts and trams allow you to get even more runs in each day. And with 5,700 skiable acres and 4,350 vertical feet of terrain you’ll be spending little time waiting in line and more time leaving fresh tracks in the snow!
Big Sky’s Nordic skiing trails have grown too! With 85 kilometers of maintained trails, it’s no wonder why Cross Country Skier Magazine voted Lone Mountain Ranch the #1 Nordic skiing destination in North America.
Yellowstone National Park is no longer simply a summer destination. There are tours available year-round!
In addition to the popular activities of the past, you’ll find even more adventures available in Big Sky: Mountain biking, zip lining, white water rafting, dog sledding and so much more!
As we reflect on what has and hasn’t changed over the years, it makes us so proud of how Big Sky has evolved and how it continues to be such an amazing vacation destination. We are so thankful that we get to not only experience such a special place, but we also get to share it with our guests everyday!
Yellowstone National Park is a trip of a lifetime. Lone Mountain Ranch is only 18 miles from the park boundary and the ranch resides in the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Our Yellowstone vacation package includes tours of the park, incredible meals, relaxing lodging and custom add-on activities to give you the perfect Yellowstone vacation. Don’t just visit Yellowstone, experience activities in and around the park!
LODGING
Returning to a cozy cabin each evening makes your Yellowstone trip feel more authentic and unique. Whether you are looking for a single cabin for a peaceful couple get away or you are looking to book multiple cabins for a bigger group adventure, you’ll find our cabins are the perfect place to stay on your vacation.
Fine dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Enjoy culinary perfection (locally sourced) that is sure to exceed your expectations. You’re on vacation, go explore and let us spend the day cooking and preparing great meals to welcome you back to the ranch and replenish your energy.
Not all visitors are the same. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or the winter, there are so many activities you can choose from. In addition to Tours of Yellowstone Park, you can horse back ride, fly fish, mountain bike, downhill ski, nordic ski, snowshoe, white water raft, hike, go for a dog sled ride and of course take advantage of yoga and massages. There’s so much to do, it’s just hard to choose!
Lone Mountain Ranch was homesteaded in 1915 and has become the treasure of Big Sky, Montana. Whether you learn of the ranch by its dining, cabins, sleigh rides or any of the other activities you can do on or near the ranch, you’ll find that it is the perfect place to stay when visiting Yellowstone National Park.
Working and living at Lone Mountain Ranch is a rewarding experience and one that many folks have enjoyed over the decades. We are committed to providing unforgettable and unique experiences with exceptional customer service to our guests and we focus those experiences on high quality adventures.
To deliver this, it takes an exceptional staff and we make our crew a priority by providing a safe, professional and adventure-filled work environment and experience. We hire dynamic and personable team players and look for both full-time and seasonal staff for positions in our kitchen, dining room, housekeeping, kid’s program, naturalist, ski and horse programs and the office and maintenance departments.
Our crew is one of our most valuable assets. Lone Mountain Ranch guests enjoy the chance to meet and get to know crew and crew are involved with the guest experience from guiding trips to joining them over meals. Excellent crew consistently provides our guests with a unique and exceptional vacation experience.
The Ranch crew consistently receives praise from our guests for their work ethic, helpfulness, great attitude, common sense and their desire to generously share their love and enthusiasm for the Ranch and its surroundings with guests.
Working at the Ranch also provides the opportunity to discover the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem by crew participating in limitless recreational experiences. National Forests and Parks, Blue Ribbon trout streams and wild and scenic whitewater rivers are all easily accessible from the Ranch.
During the winter, we have a world-class Nordic Ski Center and the Biggest Skiing in America at Moonlight Basin and Big Sky Resorts. We are recognized as one of North America’s finest Nordic skiing resorts with 85 km of trails groomed for both skating and classic. With our very dependable snow, the area is great for Nordic, alpine, telemark and back country skiing alike.
Our summer season runs from mid-May to mid-October. Hiring for summer begins in late-February. Our winter season runs from early December to early April with hiring beginning in mid-September. Although there may be some flexibility with the dates of employment, your chances of being hired increase if you apply early and if you can work through the entire season. Dorm style or semi-private housing can be offered for most seasonal employees.
Lone Mountain Ranch is an equal opportunity employer and is proud to provide its employees with a non-smoking work environment. We welcome all nationalities for employment and because of the restrictions concerning the hiring of foreign applicants, you must have your working papers in order before submitting your application for review. Note to international applicants: Lone Mountain Ranch does not sponsor H2b visa’s and only occasionally hires J1 visa students based on our needs. Lone Mountain Ranch hires through specific J1 sponsored agencies that screen and hire on our behalf.
If you are interested and feel you could contribute significant value to the Ranch, please take a few minutes to fill out an employment application. For further information or any employment questions please contact us at hr@LoneMountainRanch.com. Thank you for your interest in working at the Ranch!
If you have trouble downloading this application, right click on “download application,” choose “save link as” and save the pdf to your computer to open.
Positions for Summer 2020
RANCH AMBASSADOR
Seeking outgoing and customer service driven people to work the front desk. This position is responsible for answering phones, checking in/checking out guests, managing guest folio’s and responding to guest requests, work the activities desk, schedule guest activities, arrange transportation, make dinner reservations, act as the main point of contact for guests currently on ranch, and provide other services as requested.
HOUSEKEEPERS
Currently accepting applications for detail orientated and customer service focused individuals to join our Summer housekeeping team. Previous housekeeping experience preferred. Main duties include daily cabin service, laundry, and public area cleaning. Ability to lift at least 50 lbs required.
OUTDOOR YOUTH ADVENTURES COUNSELORS
Qualified applicants must have previous experience working with a wide variety of youth age groups. Applicants must possess some previous experience facilitating activities such as high ropes course, mountain biking, camping, canoeing, games, arts /crafts, and nature and science based programs. Current First Aid/CPR required. Approx. dates June 1-late August.
MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN
Our maintenance department has a current opening for a maintenance/grounds position. Position requires previous experience with basic mechanical skills in vehicle, building maintenance and grounds maintenance including snow removal. Frequent trips to Bozeman Airport may be required. Individual must have superior guest interaction skills and safe driving record.
NATURALISTS
Looking for outgoing, customer service driven, active individuals to join our Naturalist department. Main job duties will include guiding guests in various ranch activities including hiking, canoe and paddle boarding, Mountain Biking, Archery, High Ropes Courses, and off ranch tours to Yellowstone National Park.
WRANGLER
Seeking experienced wranglers for our summer season. This position will be responsible for guides trail rides and maintaining the horses and equipment. Previous experience is required.
DRIVER
Experienced drivers needed to shuttle guests to and from the airport, to and from off ranch activities, and to any other destination they request. Also responsible for cleaning and maintaining the vehicles. Must be outgoing, upbeat, and hospitality driven. Must have a valid driver’s license.
DINING ROOM MANAGERS
LMR is seeking an outgoing, passionate, and detail oriented Dining Room Manager. The Dining Room Manager oversees the day-to-day operation of the dining room to maintain the highest productivity, employee morale, and guest service as possible.
Careers
Openings for 2019-2020 Winter Season:
Horn and Cantle Summer and Winter Restaurant Positions:
Line Cook: Seeking experienced culinarians. This position is responsible for all areas of the kitchen from preparation, execution, and breakdown in a fast paced environment. Time and people management, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills are a must. Two years minimum line cook experience required.
Host/Hostess/Asst Server: Seeking an outgoing and customer service driven individual to warmly welcome and serve our guests to our recently launched Farm to Fork restaurant The Horn and Cantle. FOH experience preferred but not mandatory. Join us for a fun Winter season working in an exciting and dynamic environment.
AM/PM Waitstaff: Seeking full-time waitstaff to join our hospitality driven Front of House farm to fork restaurant for our upcoming Winter season. Previous FOH dining waitstaff experience required.
Deciding what to pack for your dude ranch vacation can sometimes be overwhelming. Since the atmosphere at Lone Mountain Ranch is casual, there is no need to pack anything too fancy. Jeans and comfortable shirts are the essentials during your week at the Ranch.
Summer temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day so we recommend dressing in layers to stay comfortable. As with any outdoor adventure vacation, sunscreen is a must and with over 300 days of sunshine here in Big Sky Country, chances are you will be out in the sun for many of your activities. Staying hydrated is important, as it keeps your body’s systems working properly and can prevent unnecessary fatigue. If you forget your water bottle, we have BPA-Free Nalgene® bottles in our Shop.
In the Ranch B-K (guest lounge area), we have complimentary laundry facilities, so you can rest assured that overpacking is only optional. Also, the Ranch has a convenient Outdoor Shop with t-shirts, socks, cowboy hats, ball caps, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain jackets and more.
So, to help you with your packing list for your vacation to Lone Mountain Ranch, we have compiled a list of suggested items:
Horseback Riding
-Jeans
-Lightweight, breathable shirts
-Riding boots with a 1″ heel and smooth sole (we also have boots available to borrow)
-Light windproof jacket and fleece jacket
-Long socks for riding, wool or wool blend is ideal
-Rain jacket
-Riding helmet (we also have helmets to borrow)
-Cowboy/ cowgirl hat
Fly Fishing
-Lightweight shirt (no cotton preferably)
-Polarized sunglasses
-Synthetic base layer (Patagonia® or Smartwool) for under waders
-Rain jacket
-Warm jacket or fleece jacket
-Gloves and hat (for cooler days)
Hiking
-Lightweight breathable shirt and shorts or pants
-Hiking Boots
-Water Bottle
Teens
-If interested in the overnight backpacking trip, backpack, sleeping pad & sleeping bag
(we also have these items to borrow)
Accessories and Other Items
-Sunglasses
-Hat
-Day pack
-Swim suit
-Comfortable clothing (yoga or relaxing)
-Socks (wool or wool blend; no cotton)
-Gloves and warm hat (chilly mornings and evenings)
-Sunscreen
-Insect repellent
-Lip balm with sunblock
-Flashlight or headlamp (and extra batteries)
-Binoculars
-Camera and memory card
Additional Tips
-If you are unable to fit everything, try sending us some of your items in advance via UPS or FedEx. Before using another carrier, contact our office to find out whether they deliver to the Ranch. Ship your packages to: 750 Lone Mountain Ranch Road, Big Sky, MT 59716 about 10 days before your arrival to allow plenty of time for the items to get here.
-Be sure to leave some room in your bags for any souvenirs or creative items your children make in the Kids Program
-Wear your cowboy boots or hiking boots the day you travel, as it leaves more room for other items if you are wearing the larger, heavier items
Outdoor Youth Adventure Program Packing List
The Ranch is as much a playground for children as it is for adults. The below packing list and helpful hints will ensure your child is fully prepared for any adventure at Lone Mountain Ranch!
The Right Backpack
Is it durable – Select one made of sturdy fabric or nylon. Make sure all of the zippers work properly.
Has a compartment large enough – to hold the extra set of clothes, swim gear, and shoes, socks, etc.
Has an outside zippered compartment – perfect for storing tissues, lip balm sunblock and hand sanitizer.
Has an outside mesh water bottle pocket.
Complete extra set of clothing – shorts, t-shirt, socks and underwear. Put them in an extra-large reseal able plastic bag.
Extra pair of shoes – camp is wet, messy and muddy. Include water shoes / sandals; be sure to also include a plastic grocery bag for the wet or muddy shoes.
Hooded sweatshirt – early mornings and cloudy days can be chilly; make sure your child is prepared.
Baseball cap or sun hat – we spend many hours’ outdoors.
Bathing suit
Towel – small one for the creek, we provide big ones for the Falls and Lake.
Goggles – consider buying multiple sets of goggles at your local dollar store. Goggles will get lost, borrowed and broken.
Flip flops, Chacos, Tevas, etc.
Plastic bag – include a plastic bag for wet swimsuits and towels.
Sunglasses – just like goggles, sunglasses get lost, borrowed and broken. Have a few extra pairs.
Sunscreen – Put it to your child in the morning. The counselors will help your child reapply.
Lip balm with SPF
Hand sanitizer
Tissues
Insect repellent – consider sending insect repellent wipes, as it is easier for them to apply.
Prescription medications – Let councilors know about use.
Water– Freeze two water bottles each night. Put one in the outside pocket of your child’s backpack and the other inside the backpack. As the ice melts, your child will have a cold and refreshing drink.
Rain Jacket
Label everything – use permanent markers to label backpacks, plastic bags and containers. Use iron-on labels for towels and clothes.
Exploring Southwest Montana Backcountry
Reins, lead rope, cinch, stirrup, pannier….
Until this summer most of these terms were still a little foreign to me. Even though I have been around horses and worked closely with a few wranglers over the last couple of years I have not fully immersed myself into backcountry horseback expeditions until recently. In the last couple of months I have been fortunate to lead, and guide, some epic trips into some of the stunning Wilderness and National Forest areas around Southwest Montana.
In the past, I have done hiking or backpacking journeys into the mountains with the objectives of escaping crowds on the rivers, discovering new bodies of water, or chasing different species of trout. By introducing horses into the equation everything becomes a little easier. Horseback makes the deep backcountry more accessible since they can cover 15-20 miles of terrain, and elevations gains of 2,000-2,500 feet, in a day with ease. Since someone else is doing the hard work, you get the chance to sit back and enjoy all the breathtaking scenery and views. Next, horseback can save your back when it comes to camping and overnight expeditions. Horses give you the option to camp in comfort by bringing along cushy pads, warm sleeping bags, plenty of layers, all your fishing gear and, most importantly, cooking supplies and great food. After enjoying a Prime Rib dinner cooked in a cast iron skillet over a camp fire it will be hard to go back to eating freeze dried meals in the backcountry.
Regardless of how you get there, on horseback or by foot, the fishing is always rewarding! In Southwest Montana we are fortunate to have destinations that hold plenty of Cutthroat Trout, some lakes that hold Artic Grayling and a few lakes that have Golden Trout. Through August and into September most of these trout are more than willing to eat a dry fly, which only adds to the excitement. During a recent expedition to one of the Spanish Lakes three of us enjoyed an afternoon of landing 75+ Cutthroat Trout all on dry flies. Some of my go-to backcountry patterns include the Parachute Adams, Purple Haze and any assortment of ant or beetle imitations. For some reason trout cannot resist those little crunchy terrestrials during the late summer months.
The Madison, Gallatin and Yellowstone Rivers get all the attention in this part of Montana, but you can be rewarded with scenery, solitude and hungry trout by getting off the beaten path and exploring the backcountry!
Lucky Skiing
I’m going to take a second to brag about how lucky I am to live in Big Sky and work with Lone Mountain Ranch for the winter season. Having 85 kilometers of pristine Nordic trails to ski on every day would be enough to keep most people satisfied for the season, but as if that’s not enough, our trails connect to Big Sky Resort’s 5,800 acres of downhill ski terrain. I’m talking about enough area to keep someone on skis busy for season after season.
A short ten minute drive up the mountain from the Ranch will put you right at the base area of the Biggest Skiing in America. With terrain ranging from the magic carpet bunny hills to the steeps of the A-Z chutes and The Headwaters, there really isn’t anything that Big Sky doesn’t have for downhill enthusiasts. Anything, that is, except for world class Nordic trails that allow you to get your legs in shape for those 15 inch powder days that will be here soon.
Enter Lone Mountain Ranch. Nordic skiing, whether classic or skating, is a great way to get your body ready for the demands of downhill skiing. You certainly could spend all day on downhill skis, but after a long summer your legs will usually hate you after the first few outings. A wiser alternative is to come out to the Ranch, free the heel for a few days, and get your legs back in shape while exploring our beautiful trail system. Legs aside, Nordic skiing is also a great cardio workout which will help a lot when you are hiking up ridges to find fresh lines as the season progresses.
If you are a die-hard Nordic skier, I would encourage you to take a day and explore some of the incredible downhill terrain we have here in Big Sky. Likewise, if you spend every day up on the mountain, take a day and come visit us here at the Ranch to get some Nordic skis on your feet. With a full line of rental equipment and experienced instructors, we have everything you need to get back in shape and get ready for the long days of downhill skiing that will be here soon. As a rider who does it all, the skate skiing at the Ranch now is epic-the skating conditions can’t be beat. See you out on the trails.
Larkspur
The Larkspur cabin (named after a summer-blooming wildflower) features an expansive porch that’s perfect for quality family time or cozying up alone with a good book and a blanket. Inside, guests can unwind in the spacious living room beside the wood stove, bathed in natural light. This cabin features two bedrooms each with a king bed and bathroom. There is also a sofa sleeper in the living room.
The Ranch
Helpful Information
Getting Here
Lone Mountain Ranch is located in the scenic town of Big Sky, Montana, just 50 minutes drive from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). Included in our all-inclusive packages, we offer on demand concierge service to and from Bozeman airport in our fleet of black-car SUVs.
Staying Here
Guests at the Ranch can make themselves truly at home. With meals and activities included in most vacation packages, you’re free to come and go and relax as you please. Summer guests, plan to stay a full week. All guests, make this your Real Montana home.
Dining Here
Big Sky’s premier farm-to-table fine dining experience is located right on the Ranch at the Horn & Cantle Restaurant. Acclaimed Executive Chef Eric Gruber oversees all menus, from breakfast and brunch at the restaurant to happy hour at the Saloon to the historic sleigh ride dinners. We’re delighted to accommodate all dietary needs with special menus as requested.
Cabins
There are 27 historic log cabins on the property, ranging from 1 to 6 bedrooms. We also offer 5 pairs of adjoining cabins, perfect for families with older kids or group getaways. All of our cabins offer privacy, comfort and top-shelf amenities, beautifully renovated and lovingly restored in 2016. View Cabins
Packages
We can help you custom tailor your best Montana experience. Start with one of our packages, from Winter Discovery to Exploring Yellowstone to an Angler’s Dream, then add any adventures you want to explore on our reservations page.
From finding your boot size to curating the perfect trail map, our Ranch Hands are experienced adventurers who thrive on giving exceptional hospitality. Ask them anything about ranch life in Western Montana or what to expect when you visit Lone Mountain.
