A week on a Montana ranch: horses at sunrise, cattle to gather, trout in the river and a sky so wide it gave the state its nickname. Guided in French or English by someone who lived here.
The pace follows the cattle and the light. Everyone pitches in at their own level, beginner riders included.
Saddling up while the sun clears the ridges.
Gathering cattle, mending fence, real ranch life.
Fly fishing, a swim, or a nap in the shade of the cottonwoods.
Dinner, stories of the West and a Milky Way with no light pollution.
The dude ranch, or guest ranch, is an institution of the American West: a real ranch that welcomes guests for a week of life in the saddle. You get your own horse for the stay, meals are shared, and in the evening everyone gathers around the fire.
Cabin lodging, meals and riding are usually included in the rate.
Many ranches run six-night stays, often Sunday to Sunday.
Beginners welcome, with kids programs at most ranches.
Peak season runs June to September; a few ranches stay open year-round.
Seasons and capacity are indicative, based on the Dude Ranchers' Association and each ranch's website. For rates and availability, contact the ranch directly.
In Montana, every ranch has its own brand, registered with the state and burned onto the cattle. Ours is RM: the promise of an authentic West, told by someone who lived it from the inside, in Helena, at the foot of the Rockies.
Eighty-five ranches and farm properties, from $260,000 to $20M, found through about ten specialist Montana brokers. Each card links to the original listing.
Prices and availability are indicative as of the selection date: always check the broker's listing. Ranch Montana is not a real estate agent and receives no commission; each sale is handled by the listed broker. 1 acre = 0.405 hectare.
Stays from June to September, in small groups. Write to contact@ranchmontana.com.