Sky’s the Limit at Lone Mountain Ranch
Where the West Is Still Wild (but also Luxurious)
Just beyond the northwest border of Yellowstone, the Montana Rockies descend into patches of rolling ranchland threaded by shimmering rivers. In one of those valleys sits Lone Mountain Ranch, a cluster of hand-built cabins, many dating back to the property’s earliest days as a cattle ranch. Now a wilderness retreat, Lone Mountain is a celebration of the Old West (in the most tasteful sense)—its historic structures restored to their former glory and opening onto rugged wilderness. Here, the mountains are big and the sky is even bigger, stretching above the “Serengeti of North America,” where burly bison and elusive wolves roam. Venture into pine forests and sweeping meadows, exploring on foot or horseback, snowshoe or ski; then join a lodge naturalist to explore the hidden corners of Yellowstone, a mere 18 miles downstream.
Highlights
Seek out Yellowstone’s big five—elk, grizzlies, black bears, bison, and wolves—on a guided full-day excursion in the park.
Venture out on horseback, canoe, or cross-country ski alongside seasoned naturalists to explore a part of Yellowstone most travelers will never see: the vast and untamed backcountry.
Go fly-fishing for trout in some of Montana’s Blue Ribbon rivers—the Gallatin, Yellowstone, and Madison—or try your hand at ice-fishing on high alpine lakes in the wintertime.
Step aboard a horse-drawn sleigh for a magical ride through a snow-blanketed wonderland, followed by a candlelit dinner at a remote woodland cabin.
After sundown, roast marshmallows around a roaring campfire, or head to the saloon for a nightcap accompanied by live Western music.
Why We Love This Lodge
Established in 1915 as a working cattle ranch, Lone Mountain has spent the better part of its history as a family retreat for those drawn to the tranquil wilds of Yellowstone. The lodge fosters feelings of home—the kind of place you return to year after year to meet up with the friends you made in seasons past. The atmosphere is social, whether you’re saddling up for a group trail ride or mingling with guests and locals over drinks in the lodge's saloon. And the staff—many of whom have worked at the ranch for years—add to the family feel, making an effort to get to know each guest and helping them feel welcome. This hospitality reflects the laid-back, friendly spirit of Montana, and it stays with you long after you leave.
