Planning a Guest Ranch Vacation to Montana's Yellowstone Country
Elk River Outfitters, Photo by Andy Austin
Montana's Yellowstone Country is full of fantastic guest ranches, a Western experience that will likely leave you more rejuvenated than you can imagine. For those who live in the city, it can be a staggering change of pace magnified by the sheer silence and dark, starry nights. From working ranches where guests actively participate in ranch chores to scenic rides, fly fishing adventures, and delicious meals, there are plenty of options to entertain the whole family.
When making your plans, there are a few things you'll want to consider. (Don't worry about your skill level; they will match you to the appropriate horse.) But you will want to consider whether you wish to ride in the mountains, the foothills, or the prairies or whether you would like to go somewhere that hosts other activities such as fishing, hiking, biking, or side trips. Some ranches are closer to town, where you can enjoy the nightlife, while others are remote. Some ranches have children's programs; others offer special packages such as all-women groups or photography workshops.
Remember, July and August are the high seasons, but if you're flexible with your time, some ranches offer early—and late-season specials. We've listed a few of our favorites, but there are plenty of options to explore!
Elk River Outfitters, Red Lodge
This fifth-generation Montana family-owned business isn't your typical guest ranch. However, you can take guided rides or a customized overnight adventure in the Pryor Mountains, where you'll ride, hike, and ride a UTV to see the Pryor Mountain Wild Horses. Cabins or tents are available, with homecooked meals and a guide who will teach you basic horsemanship and Native American history and cook hearty meals during your stay.
Paintbrush Adventures, Absarokee
Paintbrush Adventures in Absarokee is another working ranch where you can help move cattle, learn to rope, feed the animals, or try their "Saddle to Paddle" package, which combines a horseback ride with a whitewater rafting adventure!
Lonesome Spur Guest Ranch, Bridger
You'll cover a lot of territory at this ranch nestled between the Beartooth and Pryor Mountains. In addition to rides, which can coincide with gathering or branding cattle, itineraries can include an overnight pack trip, a night at the famous Cody Rodeo, dinner at local steakhouses, and a trip to the Bear Creek Saloon Pig Races!
Sweet Grass Ranch, Photo by Taylar Robbins
Sweet Grass Ranch, Big Timber
In Big Timber, Sweet Grass Ranch is the place for an extra quiet experience. The sixth-generation, family-owned ranch is 40 miles northwest of town and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Here, they let you participate actively in ranch duties, or you can enjoy scenic horseback riding in the Crazy Mountains. They serve family-style meals, and no TVs or planned organized social activities exist. It's pure ranch life, through and through.
Mountain Sky Guest Ranch, Paradise Valley
One of the area's luxury ranches, Mountain Sky is known for its specialty packages, including summer family adventures, all-women's trips, and adult-only trips. Enjoy the Mountain Sky Wellness Center and Rising Sun Golf Course or take a guided tour through Yellowstone—clay shooting, fishing, hiking, whitewater rafting, and kid's activities round out the week.
B Bar Ranch, Paradise Valley
B Bar Ranch, in Paradise Valley, is a great place to learn about regenerative ranching and land stewardship from its holistic approach to raising cattle. It shares a six-mile border with Yellowstone National Park, so it's a great spot for scenic rides or holding a corporate retreat.
Lone Mountain Ranch, Photo by Donnie Sexton
Lone Mountain Ranch, Big Sky
For a luxury experience, Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky has beautifully appointed cabins, each with a gas fireplace. They also have fine dining at Horn and Cantle and plenty of adventures for the whole family.
320 Guest Ranch, Big Sky
Situated between Big Sky, Montana, and Yellowstone National Park, the 320 Guest Ranch is great for families. Choose from log cabins, chalets, or luxury homes, all rustic with modern touches. The onsite restaurant and lounge serve terrific from-scratch food, and the kiddos will love the "Wanna Be a Wrangler" program, which teaches them about horse and ranch life.
Diamond P Guest Ranch, West Yellowstone
This ranch is for those who want to explore Yellowstone and ride around the surrounding area. In addition to horseback riding, they offer wagon rides and ranch portraits—a perfect way to capture family memories!
Parade Rest Guest Ranch, West Yellowstone
Another ranch just outside the West Entrance to Yellowstone, Parade Rest, offers unlimited horseback riding, homecooked meals, fly-fishing instruction, and access to world-class fishing.
Sweet Grass Ranch, Photo by Taylar Robbins