Area Information
Ranch Activities
Hiking - There are miles of trails for hiking in the surrounding mountains. The area across the road and across the river is open for hiking. Ask about additional trails at the lodge. We don't have any rattlesnakes in the area, but we do have wood ticks, so check yourself after your outing.
History Tours - The Ruby Valley is full of history of the gold mining and homestead era. Bill Tate (Donna's father) explains the Tate family history.
Evening Camp Fire - You are welcome to use the fire pit near the horseshoe pits. Wood is provided. PLEASE make sure your fire is completely out, we get strong winds in the evening.
Outdoor Games - There are balls, bats, and outdoor games in the laundry room (small cabin). There is also a horseshoe pit and volleyball net. Have fun!
Indoor Games - There are board games in all the cabins. And a pool table in the conference room.
Swimming - There is a swimming hole at the river and the small creek near the barn. This is great for the small children to play in.
Auto Tours - If you would like to take a evening drive you will be able to see spectacular scenery along with wildflowers and wildlife. We often see whitetail and mule deer, antelope, moose, elk, and once in a while a black bear. In the lodge, ask about places you can visit in your car.
Mountain Biking - There are plenty of great dirt roads and trails to explore with terrain suitable to both beginner and advanced riders. Long climbs out of the valley lead to great downhill runs.
Local Attractions
Virginia City
A mining town from the 1860's, Virginia City gives you a feel of the old west. Virginia City is not only full of history, it is fun for the whole family to visit. The Virginia City Players and the Opera House offer authentic 19th century entertainment. We have a play schedule in the lodge and will help you with your reservations. We highly recommend seeing one of these plays. Visit the authentic western shops, saloons, historic tours museums, four different restaurants, and other businesses. Virginia City is 33 miles from the ranch.
Ennis
Ennis has some wonderful fly shops, art galleries, golf, unique western shops, fine restaurants, and a wildlife museum. And don't forget fishing the Madison River. Ennis is 47 miles from the ranch.
Yellowstone Park
The world's first national park is renowned for its thermal features, including geysers, mud caldrons, canyons, rivers, lakes, waterfalls and wildlife. Yellowstone encompasses 2.2 million acres. Yellowstone is 90 miles from our ranch.
Lewis and Clark Caverns
Montana's first and best-known park features the most highly decorated limestone caverns in the northwest. Daily cave tours. The caverns are 70 miles from the ranch. 406-287-3541
Dillon
This farm and ranch community is full of history and recreation. The Western Montana College features an art gallery and a wildlife collection. Explore southwestern Montana history at the Beaverhead County Museum. Dillon is 70 miles from the ranch.
Butte
Once known as the " Richest Hill on Earth", Butte is full of history and has many fun shops to visit. Butte has a shopping mall, airport, hospital, and The Lady of the Rockies. This 90 ft statue sits on a mountain top overlooking Butte, and was built entirely by volunteers. Ride a bus to and from where she stands and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck. Butte is 90 miles from the ranch.
Bozeman
Visitors will find a small town atmosphere with big city amenities in Bozeman. Our guests fly into and out of Bozeman. Don't forget to visit the Museum of the Rockies, it has a world class dinosaur exhibit, Native American artifacts, and Montana History. If you need a motel in Bozeman, we recommend the Best Western GranTree Inn 1-800-624-5865. They give our clients a special rate. Bozeman is 90 miles from the ranch.
Whitewater Trips
The Bear Trap canyon of the Madison River is a very special, remote place. All trips are oar powered so you can relax as your guide rows you through this wonderful canyon. The Class IV rapid "Kitchen Sink" will catch your attention, but so too will the eagles and kingfishers. Lunch is provided and a soak at the Bear Trap Hot Springs will end a day which is sure to be a highlight of your vacation. Call Yellowstone Raft Company 406-995-4613.