FAQs

What should I wear/bring to the ranch?

Ranch attire is casual, but if you wish to dress up for evenings, western wear is appropriate. We always suggest dressing in layers as temperatures will vary throughout the day. Below is a list of suggested packing items:

o   Clothing

  • T-shirts/Sleeveless tops/Comfortable shirts

  • Long sleeve shirts – we highly recommend riding in long sleeve shirts to block the sun

  • Comfortable western or denim shirts

  • Bike Shorts / Tights / Underclothing – To minimize possible chafing from riding

  • Jeans/Long Pants – Pairs for riding and pairs for evening/daytime wear

  • Shorts

  • Outerwear – Jackets, vests and layers are suggested

  • Hoodies or pullovers

  • Rain Jacket (we do have limited slickers available to borrow in the barn)

  • Bathing suit – For the hot tub

o   Footwear

  • Walking/Hiking boots

  • Riding/Cowboy Boots – Boots with a slight heel are the safest if you do not have riding boots

  • Sandals/Flip flops – For the hot tub area

o   Accessories

  • Cowboy Hat (w/Stampede String) and/or Ball Cap

  • Gloves for riding

  • A beanie or warm hat for chilly evenings

  • Riding Helmet (recommended, but not required; we do have helmets for lend)

o   Additional Items

  • Sun Protection Items – Sunglasses, Lip balm, Sunscreen, After-sun moisturizer

  • Camera

  • Plug in converter – If you are traveling from outside the USA

  • Reusable plastic or stainless-steel water bottle

  • Lightweight backpack – allows you to carry your essentials around the ranch

  • Flashlight or headlamp

  • Insect repellant

  • Personal fly-fishing equipment for the avid fisherman

What will the weather be like?

Generally, summer temperatures at the ranch will see highs in the 70s and 80s and lows in the 40s and 50s. At 5,000’ in elevation, we offer some of the best of Montana’s summers, but unexpected weather can always happen. Before your trip, we recommend you check the weather forecast for Hobson, MT and plan accordingly. Always pack rain gear and plenty of layers for the unexpected!

When will I be charged for my stay?

We will collect the required deposit at the time of booking. The balance of your stay will be processed upon check in. Please have your payment method ready when you arrive at the ranch. Any incidentals added during your stay will be processed at check out.

What is included in the rate?

Our Full American Plan rate includes: three meals daily, all horseback riding (excluding lessons), ranch activities (UTV Tours, Shooting and Archery) and use of all ranch amenities.

What is NOT included in the rate?

Horseback riding lessons ($30/pp for a one hour group lesson). Our alcohol policy is BYOB.

What if I have never ridden a horse before?

Many of our guests have never ridden before. We have horses that are appropriate for all experience levels. Our wranglers are experienced in working with first-time or inexperienced riders, ensuring that you can learn and ride at your own pace.

I am an experienced rider. Will the riding program work for me?

We have horses suitable for every level of riding, including the most experienced of riders. Many of our guests own their own horses and ride competitively.  

Is there a weight limit for riding?

Our general riding weight limit is 250 lbs. However, we have a limited number of mules and draft crosses that can accommodate up to 280 lbs.

What are the minimum ages for activities?

Per our insurance, children must be at least 5 years old to ride. After completing a slow ride, guests 8 years and older may test to qualify for faster riding (trotting and loping on parts of the trail designated by the wrangler and the terrain). Archery is available for children 5 years and older. .22 caliber shooting is available for those 8 years and older. Clay pigeon shooting is for those 16 years and older.

Is there a separate children’s program?

The ranch is the perfect vacation for families to enjoy the activities, atmosphere and amenities together. We do not offer childcare or a children’s program.

Is the ranch a good place for solo travelers?

Dude ranches are by nature a great place for solo travelers. The safe and welcoming atmosphere offers the opportunity to relax on your own or mingle with other guests/ranch staff. The riding, activities, mealtimes and culture of the ranch create great opportunities to make new friends, be included in the group and feel quite comfortable.

How many guests will be at the ranch at one time?

We will have a maximum of about 30-40 guests at one time.

What about fishing on the ranch?

You are welcome to fish on your own at the ranch. We have a small selection of basic fly fishing equipment available to borrow. We recommend you bring your own equipment if you are interested in fishing, a Montana State Fishing License is required. You can purchase a fishing license for two consecutive days, ten consecutive days or the whole season. Pricing varies depending on residency. Click here to purchase a fishing license.

What are the closest airports?

o   Great Falls International (1 hour 45 minutes away)

o   Bozeman Yellowstone International (3 hours)

o   Billings Logan International (3 hours)

When is check in/check out?

Check in is at 2 p.m. on your arrival day. Check out is at 11 a.m. on your day of departure.

Can the kitchen accommodate special dietary needs?

Our kitchen is happy to accommodate special dietary needs or requests with advance notice. Please notify us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking.

What is the alcohol policy?

Our alcohol policy is BYOB. If you would like to purchase alcohol nearby the ranch for your stay, we recommend you visit:

Blue Nugget Bar & Grill — 5 minutes north of the ranch located at 9393 South Fork Rd. Sapphire Village, MT 59452. The Blue Nugget has limited hours and offers to-go style bottle options from the bar. 

Nancy’s Country Market — Located about 30 minutes northeast of the ranch at 206 Central Ave. Hobson, MT 59452. Nancy’s sells beer and wine.

State Liquor Store – Woody’s Fuel Stop is about 35 minutes north of the ranch at 36653 U.S. 87 Stanford, MT 59479. Woody’s is on the route from Great Falls and sells beer, wine and liquor.

Is there cell service?

There is no cell service at the ranch, but we do have wi-fi available in all guest areas (public areas and guest rooms). If your cell phone is capable of wi-fi calling, we recommend you set it up prior to your trip. For emergency calls, our staff can assist with the use of a landline.

What amenities are in my room?

Each room is equipped with basic toiletries, a hair dryer and free wi-fi. There are no televisions in the rooms.

Are there laundry facilities?

There are no guest laundry facilities on the ranch, except in the Ranch House, however, our housekeeping team would be happy to do a separate cycle for you for a small gratuity. Please arrange this with ranch staff.

What is the pet policy?

We do not allow pets on the ranch.

Is tipping expected?

Our rates are subject to a Ranch Service Fee, which allows us to do the following for our staff: We do not pay tipped wages and instead pay above minimum wage. Many of our staff are provided room and board and all are provided meals while at the ranch. The Ranch Service Fee also contributes to an end of season bonus system. With all of this in mind, tipping is not expected, however it is appreciated if you feel you have received exceptional service during your stay. You are welcome to tip directly or notify the front desk at check out.

Is Trip Insurance Available?

We do not offer Trip Insurance, but recommend an outside provider called TravelGuard, which is an associate member of the Dude Ranchers’ Association.