Montana is one of the few places in the United States where you can immerse yourself in real ranch culture. One of the best ways to do this is at a Dude Ranch. You can visit these ranches of the West to rest, partake in a range of activities and taste local, exquisite cuisine.
So, what are the best dude ranches in Montana? I’ve compiled a list of the best dude ranches in Montana to help you narrow down your choice for your next trip.
Many of them cover thousands of acres and are surrounded by gorgeous mountains. Others are tucked away in the forest, offering a quaint, secluded experience. Whichever one you choose, there’s one guarantee: there’s nothing better than visiting one of these ranches and unplugging yourself from the fast-paced, technologically-driven world.
10 Best Dude Ranches in Montana
- The Paws Up Resort
- Bar W Guest Ranch
- JJJ Wilderness Ranch
- 320 Guest Ranch
- Mountain Sky Guest Ranch
- Elkhorn Ranch
- Lone Mountain Ranch
- Circle Bar Guest Ranch
- Sweet Grass Ranch
- The Ranch at Rock Creek
A Taste of the Past – Montana Dude Ranches
Cowboy and cowgirl dreams may still be fulfilled here, even though the moods, surroundings, and setting have all changed since the heydays of the West.
Montana has almost 28,100 ranches, including authentic cattle ranches. Today, many of them remain true to their roots as working cattle ranches, while others have been transformed into top-notch hotels for Montana ranch vacations.
What are the best dude ranches in Montana? Let’s have a look.
1. The Paws Up Resort – One of the best luxury dude ranches in Montana
The Paws Up Resort is one of the best luxury dude ranches in Montana, providing an exceptional ranch getaway. The all-inclusive resort is located on 37,000 acres of a working cattle ranch near Greenough. Incomparable luxury and access to a pristine environment are the hallmarks of this working dude ranch in Montana, and it’s been that way for generations.
Guests have the option of staying in a luxurious villa, a private cabin, or a safari-style glamping tent. It’s easy to get lost in the tranquility of this area, whether you go horseback riding, fishing, cattle driving, whitewater rafting, ATV riding or swimming – there are many activities to choose from.
There are also two outstanding ranch-style eateries on-site. Waking up at this Montana dude ranch is the perfect way to start your day.
Open your eyes to breathtaking scenery as you enjoy your morning coffee on the banks of the Blackfoot River.
2. Bar W Guest Ranch – For anyone: family or friends
Dude ranches are an excellent way for people to experience a unique way of life, and Bar W Guest Ranch is no exception. This Montana dude ranch is for everyone.
While some of the top dude ranches in Montana are only open during the summer, the Bar W Guest Ranch is open all year round. This Western spread is located on about 3,000 acres of stunning scenery, in the area between the Kootenai National Forest and Flathead National Forest. The Spencer Mountain and two pine-covered hills rise up over the property, creating truly spectacular scenery.
There are a variety of lodging alternatives available at the Bar W Guest Ranch, including beautiful lodges, rustic cabins, and luxury glamping. Other activities include skeet-shooting, roping, archery, cowboy games, wagon rides and square dancing.
Staff at Bar W are exceptionally pleasant and helpful in making one’s visit seem more like a genuine ranch experience. After a full day of ranch activities and outdoor enjoyment, visitors may join in on cookouts and campfires with friends and family members nearby.
This ranch happens to be a
3. JJJ Wilderness Ranch – In the stunning north
The triple J Wilderness Ranch is located on Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front, which is a major tourist destination. Its perfect position between the picturesque stretch of Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks makes it one of the best dude ranches in Montana.
The ranch provides private cabin accommodations, superb cuisine, and a plethora of outdoor activities and experiences for those looking for a more personalized getaway. Visitors of all skill levels are usually thrilled to learn they can get a taste of horseback riding while staying at the JJJ Ranch.
In fact, you can rent a horse for the duration of your trip. You may even form a special bond with your new pal while exploring the countryside of one of the best dude ranches in Montana.
The Bob Marshall Wilderness is only a short walk from its back entrance. Standing on the property’s front lawn, you can see the stunning Sun River Canyon and Gibson Lake in the distance.
4. 320 Guest Ranch – With luxury options
The 320 Guest Ranch is another of the best dude ranches in Montana and a typical Montana holiday resort all in one. Located on the banks of the Gallatin River, this Montana vacation getaway is one of the most affordable ranch stays in the state.
There are a wide variety of accommodations available, ranging from enormous luxury log mansions to lavish log cabins and mountain chalets. Furthermore, the 320 Guest Ranch’s vast menu of exquisite cuisine makes it a foodie’s dream destination.
The restaurant’s extensive menu offers many tried-and-true favorites.
Horseback riding, hiking, river rafting, and wildlife watching are all available to guests throughout their visit. Montana vacationers all flock to the 320 Guest Ranch. It’s a perfect dude ranch in Montana for families and friends alike.
5. Mountain Sky Guest Ranch – One of the oldest Montana dude ranches
In 1929, the Mountain Sky Guest Ranch opened its doors to the public. It’s one of the oldest and best dude ranches in Montana. Yellowstone National Park is only a short drive away, making it a favorite destination for tourists who wish to experience both Yellowstone National Park and the dude-ranch life of the West.
Guests here take in the picture-perfect scenery while soaking in the elegance and grandeur of the resort. There are several activities available here, including a world-class golf course, a wellness center, clay shooting, children’s programs, and more.
Walking, horseback riding and white-water rafting are just some of the other options available to guests. In addition, the Yellowstone River is only a short drive away, serving as a wonderful place to take an afternoon stroll and see one of Montana’s primary waterways. If you’re planning a trip to a guest ranch in Montana, Mountain Sky is worth considering.
6. Elkhorn Ranch – Authentic ranch
Elkhorn Ranch, located less than a mile from Yellowstone National Forest’s northwest border, is yet another breathtaking place to rest. Beautifully vast, it’s also one of the region’s few remaining authentic dude ranches in Montana, which makes it all the more special.
It’s the perfect destination for all kinds of vacations, from family vacations to romantic getaways to trips for the elderly. It’s been around since 1922 and not much has changed in that time, even if it’s merely to make things more comfortable for guests. It’s all about the cozy log cabins decorated in a rustic western motif while you’re here.
The old cowboy period ranch feelings are still there, despite the addition of 21st-century conveniences. All of the cabins are tucked away in the National Forest, creating a feeling of remoteness and isolation for the visitors who stay here.
Horseback riding and Whitewater Rafting are just a few of the activities available to guests vacationing here. Without a doubt, the Elkhorn Ranch is one of the best dude ranches in Montana.
7. Lone Mountain Ranch – Year-round ranch experience
This is one of the best dude ranches near Bozeman, Montana. The Lone Mountain Ranch is in Big Sky, Montana, in the meadow below Big Sky Ski Resort, one of the best ski resorts in Montana.
An hour’s drive down the canyon from Big Sky lies Bozeman, a bustling but small city that many people fly into when planning a trip to one of the best dude ranches in Montana. And at only 18 miles from Yellowstone National Park, this ranch is in a preferred location for many visitors.
Live western music and farm-to-table food, horseback riding and ax-throwing, and real ranch activities are all part of a summer vacation at the Lone Mountain Ranch. Its chic-rustic cottages are a treat for those who choose to stay in and enjoy the property’s rustic charm.
Skiers of all ability levels can enjoy Big Sky Resort’s downhill slopes throughout the winter. While the ski resort is practically next door, the Lone Mountain Ranch also offers 80 miles of world-class Nordic skiing right on its land. Many lovers of Montana culture see the Lone Mountain Ranch as one of the best dude ranches in Montana.
8. Circle Bar Guest Ranch – Cozy and historic Montana dude ranch
In summer of 1805, Merriwether Lewis and William Clark made their way up the Missouri River, eventually reaching the mouth of the enchanting Judith river, which Clarked named after his future bride. Today, the headwaters of the Judith River is the location of the Circle Bar Guest Ranch, which dates back to the 1800s.
The Circle Bar Guest Ranch is one of the most popular dude ranches in Montana. A cozy, rustic retreat nestled in the Little Belt Mountains of central Montana. The hosts at this Montana dude ranch resort go above and beyond to ensure guests from all walks of life feel comfortable here.
The ranch features lodge rooms and nine separate cabins, plus a Ranch House for large groups, all of which lies along Montana’s Judith River. Adventures include hiking, archery, swimming, and fat-tire E-bikes. Guests also enjoy square dancing events and sports activities, such as basketball, in the historic red barn.
9. Sweet Grass Ranch – Family-owned Montana dude ranch
Sweet Grass Ranch is part of a sixth-generation family-owned livestock and Montana guest ranch. It’s well-known for allowing visitors to get a taste of the real West, as well as for its welcoming people and breathtaking surroundings. This is one of the largest dude ranches in Montana with many opportunities for exploring the mountains, undulating meadows and plains.
Guests enjoy hiking and fishing in the area as well as gathering around a campfire. Of course, horseback riding is a popular pastime here as well.
10. The Ranch at Rock Creek – Classic dude ranch
The last, but not least, on our list of dude ranches in Montana. The Sapphire, Anaconda, and Flint Creek mountain ranges are all within 10 square miles of this sprawling 6,600-acre Montana guest ranch.
In addition to elaborate bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and massive brass beds covered in plush-down blankets and woolen wraps, the resort’s all-inclusive villas have fireplaces, open kitchens, and screened porches.
Glamping is also offered in the posh creekside tents, heated by enormous potbelly burners, while a private Jacuzzi is only a few feet away.
While fishing and horseback riding are on offer here, there is a range of other activities available on the Ranch at Rock Creek as well, and its locally inspired, world-class cuisine will satisfy your cravings. If you’re considering a Montana dude ranch vacation, The Ranch won’t disappoint.
FAQs About Montana Dude Ranch Vacations
The following sections answer some of the most common questions about dude ranches in Montana – location, ratings and more.
Where are the Best Dude Ranches in Bozeman, Montana?
Bozeman is located in the southwest part of Montana. It’s a lively, young town, making it one of the best places to live in Montana. But if you’re just passing through, it’s definitely one of the top places to visit in Montana.
Here are some of the best dude ranches in Bozeman, Montana:
- Lone Mountain Ranch
As I mentioned above, this Montana dude ranch is in Big Sky, Montana, about an hour’s drive from Bozeman. Not so close, but definitely not too far. Set in the Big Sky meadow, it’s one of the most stunning dude ranches in Montana. (On the map)
- Sweet Grass Ranch
Also on our above list, this enchanting dude ranch lies near Big Timber, Montana, about one hour’s drive from Bozeman. (On the map)
- Mountain Sky Guest Ranch
Also on the list above. This luxury Montana dude ranch sits nearby the Yellowstone River, making it a great place for strolling the serene river banks or even going rafting. The towering mountains behind the ranch make for great hiking. And in the evenings, you can relax your muscles in the pool or hot tub or the local staff may even teach you some Western dance. Just ask! (On the map)
- Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch
This ranch offers access to more than a million acres of Montana wilderness. It’s situated just north of Yellowstone National Park, a short drive from Mcleod, Montana. Guests can enjoy scenic floats down the Yellowstone River, a visit to a nearby Montana ghost town from the gold mining days and much more. The small capacity of this Montana dude ranch ensures a quaint and quiet experience, with lasting memories! (On the map)
Where are the Best Dude Ranches in Missoula, Montana?
Here are some of the top dude ranches in Montana, nearby the splendid town of Missoula:
- Rich’s Montana Guest Ranch (On the map)
Riche’s Montana Guest Ranch is located about an hour’s drive northeast of Missoula. The ranch offers year-round adventures throughout Montana’s Rocky Mountains, including camping, winter snowmobiling and much more.
- Hole in the Wall Ranch (On the map)
Here, old West hospitality meets modern comforts. Cabins at the Hole in the Wall Ranch are equipped with WiFi and television. Guests here enjoy float trips and much more.
- The Resort at Paws Up (On the map)
If you’re looking for a dude ranch near Missoula, Montana, you may want to consider Paws Up. As we mentioned above, luxury amenities, renowned cuisine and fun family adventures await.
How Much Do Trips to Dude Ranches in Montana Cost?
Trips to Montana dude ranches cost anywhere from $1,500 to several thousand dollars. For example, a 14-day trip to some dude ranches, with activities and accommodation included, can cost as much as $9,000. The total price depends on the number of people, length of stay, and activities and amenities you choose to include.
What are the Highest-Rated Dude Ranches in Montana?
We’ve covered the top-rated dude ranches in Montana in this article. If you’re still curious about other ranches, then a quick Google search will show you plenty of them. It’s hard to go wrong in choosing.
The best Montana dude ranch depends on personal preferences – which part of the state you wish to see, what you want to do, whether you want an intimate experience or to make some new friends, and the amenities and activities you want to include in your stay.
Best Dude Ranches in Montana – Let’s Go!
Outdoor activities, quaint nights listening to the crackle of the fire or simply laying back and enjoying the silence of nature – this is what the best dude ranches in Montana have in store.
Good luck, and see you in Montana!
