Guest Ranch FAQ

Where is the closest town?
We are 42 miles south of the closest town of Big Timber (population about 1700). However, the town is well equipped to serve you, so a fishing license, waders, snacks and soda, beer or other drinks of choice can be picked up there. It is a nice place to walk around and enjoy the shops and restaurants. Crazy Mountain Museum is an inviting stop, among others – visit the Big Timber Chamber of Commerce on the web for more detailed information. If you have time for a stop on the way to the ranch, Natural Bridge and Falls is a beautiful area to see that is right off the road.

Do we need a fishing license?
How do we get one? Many guests practice their fly fishing in our trout pond where a license is not needed. If you plan to fish in the river however, you will need a license. You may obtain one at Sweet Cast Angler or The Fort in Big Timber, or online – we have a link on our website, on our fly fishing page. You have the option of a 2 day pass or a 10 day. We recommend the 10 day option since the exact days you will want to fish depends on the weather and scheduled activities at the ranch.

Does the ranch provide equipment for fishing?
We provide fly rods at the ranch, and your first fly is complimentary. A variety of flies are for sale at $2.00 each. Since the river temperature is cool, you may want waders. These should be reserved ahead of time and can be rented from the Sweet Cast Angler in Big Timber which is open on Sundays. We are happy to reserve waders for you if you provide your shoe size.

Are there mosquitoes or other pests?
We do get mosquitoes and some flies at the ranch. We recommend you bring insect repellent.

What is included in the cost?
Your accommodation, meals, and all activities are included in the price of your stay. In addition a 1.75% accommodation tax must be charged, and a 15% service charge for our staff to share is strongly encouraged. A massage therapist comes to the ranch once a week, and that service is paid separately. Another added cost is use of our airport pickup option.

How are the sleeping arrangements different in a cabin versus a lodge room?
Lodge rooms contain one queen bed and one set of bunk beds which are suitable for children, teens and small adults. Cabins A and B have a bedroom with a queen bed, and a loft with 2 single beds. Cabin A also has a rustic sleeping loft that can be a fun option for kids. Our deluxe Cabin C has a bedroom on the first floor with a queen bed, and in the loft there is one double bed and one queen. Each of the cabins and lodge rooms has one full bathroom.

What is the age limit for children riding the horses?
Our minimum age for riding is 6 years old.

Can we ride the horses on our own? How much riding is available?
For a variety of safety reasons we do require that a wrangler is with guests during every ride. Horseback riding is offered each day during your ranch stay. We begin your week with some riding instruction and gradually increase the length and level of the rides. You may ride the same horse for your entire stay. Two of our longer rides include bringing a saddlebag lunch.

Can we run the horses?
Our insurance and most of the terrain in which we ride does not permit us to run the horses. We do offer time in the arena for some riding instruction, and for guests to practice their riding skills. Inside the arena guests are able to practice the faster gaits.

Are there laundry facilities at the ranch?
We do have frontloading washers and dryers which guests are welcome to use. We provide detergent as well.

Do you have internet access?
Wireless internet is accessible in the main area of the lodge.

Do cell phones work at the ranch?
No, we do not have cell phone reception at the ranch. We have a separate line that is for use by guests and staff. The contact number to provide to others while you are away is 406-932-5792. We also suggest you bring a phone card with you for making outgoing calls.

Can we bring alcohol to the ranch, or do you sell it there?
We do not have a liquor license at the ranch, but you are welcome to bring alcohol with you to the ranch. People often bring a bottle of wine to dinner or enjoy a beer during our social hours or cookouts.

What if I have food allergies?
Please let us know of any allergies you have, so we can inform our cook. We are accustomed to making food accommodations for many different allergies.

What should we bring?
SUGGESTED LIST OF ITEMS TO BRING:

• Camera
• Flashlight
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm or chapstick
• Shampoo and other toiletries
• Mosquito repellent
• Hat or cap with a brim
• Bathing suit for pond or hot tub
• Cowboy boots or shoes with a heel for riding
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Raingear (preferably NOT a poncho)
• A warm jacket or parka (a windbreaker is good)
• Gloves for warmth in June and Sept.
• 3 pairs of jeans, 1 pair of shorts
• Phone card (cell phones don’t work at the ranch)

Dress is casual with jeans and t-shirts mostly. With our altitude being at 6400 feet in the mountains, the mornings and evenings can be very cool, while the afternoons can be quite warm. Layering of clothing is a good idea.

Big Timber is your last chance for gas and supplies. McLeod has only a bar and a post office. If you desire alcohol, soda, or extra snacks, you must bring your own. Each cabin and lodge room has a small refrigerator for your convenience.

A library with books and paperbacks, playing cards, and games for children are provided in the lodge. Complimentary laundry facilities are also available.