From Dude Ranches to Lake Lodges, Here are the Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Montana
When you think of all-inclusive resorts, Montana is probably not the first place that comes to mind. But you don’t have to jet away to some tropical island to experience the relaxation and hassle-free vacation that an all-inclusive resort can provide.
That’s because Montana is home to all-inclusive ranches that basically operate as rustic chic luxury resorts surrounded by mountain peaks, gorgeous valleys, alpine lakes, rolling rivers, and cattle…always cattle. And let’s not forget the horses either!
So where do you need to go to experience an all-inclusive resort amidst the great outdoors of Montana? We’ve got you covered with our comprehensive list.
First though, let’s cover what makes a resort all-inclusive for this list. We consider all-inclusive to be any accommodation that includes meals, drinks, and activities at one price (though a couple of the resorts on this list don’t include alcohol). Some resorts may include options for add-ons, like all-day cattle drives or chef’s tasting dinners, and spa treatments are usually extra, but in general, you pay one price and don’t have to pay anymore once you’re on the property (though always read the fine print for taxes and fees and resort taxes!).
Top Picks by Category
Have a specific type of vacation in mind? Here are some shortcut links to our top choices for popular accommodation types in Montana that are all-inclusive.
- For Romance and Honeymoons: Triple Creek Ranch
- For Families: Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge
- For Luxury: Ranch at Rock Creek
- For Glamping: Paws Up
- For Budget-Friendly: Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch
- Close to Yellowstone National Park: Mountain Sky Guest Ranch
- Close to Glacier National Park: Bar W Guest Ranch
- Close to Big Sky Resort: Lone Star Ranch
Now read on for a breakdown of all 15 resorts. These resorts include dude ranches, lake retreats, and luxe adventuring and are located all around Montana. This list of all-inclusive accommodations in Montana include a variety of price points, vibes, and amenities. Read on to find your favorite!
1. Triple Creek Ranch
Looking for a romantic getaway in Montana that is all-inclusive? Then Triple Creek Ranch in Darby is an excellent choice since you have to be at least 16 years old to stay there. That means no kids running around if you’re honeymooning or trying to escape your own little rug rats at home for an anniversary trip.
Triple Creek Ranch is an intimate dude ranch experience with a main lodge that serves as the hang-out spot. But most of the accommodations are secluded for those wanting to truly get away from it all. There’s also a handful of lodge rooms that are a bit more affordable.
But affordable is all relative. Triple Creek Ranch is a luxury ranch experience and will cost you a pretty penny no matter what accommodations you stay in. But for the price, you get meals, drinks, and onsite activities like horseback riding, archery, and fishing. Or you can just relax in the hot tub at the main lodge and enjoy a glass of the included wine or cocktails while you converse with others staying on the property.Â
Triple Creek Ranch also has a “menu” with extra add-on activities like all-day fly-fishing excursions with a local guide and a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings led by the ranch’s acclaimed chef.
My husband and I stayed at Triple Creek Ranch for our 10-year anniversary and had an amazing, unforgettable time that was full of both adventure and the utmost relaxation. You can read more about our stay at Triple Creek Ranch here.
2. Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge in Bigfork
This family-owned ranch has an enviable location right next to gorgeous Flathead Lake on the southern end of charming Bigfork, MT.
Though its full name is Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge, it’s commonly just referred to as Flathead Lake Lodge. This resort has something for everyone, though it’s particularly special for families looking for a summer camp away experience that is hard to find these days. This is one of the best all-inclusive Montana vacations for families in MT.
Flathead Lake Lodge only offers 7-night stays. You check in on a Sunday afternoon or evening and check out the following Sunday morning. This really lets you relax in the atmosphere and get to know others who are staying at the resort with you.
Your 7-night package includes accommodation (lodge rooms or cabins), meals, drinks, lake and ranch activities, and lots of special extras like bonfire nights, kids clubs, and more family bonding fun.
This resort is owned by the family of Travel Montana Now team member Nancy’s good friend and we’ve always heard such great things about it. When my kiddos are a bit older this unique dude ranch is at the top of my list of where to take a family vacation.
Read More: Best Resorts for Families in Montana
3. Sweet Grass Ranch
Located in Big Timber, one of our favorite small towns in Montana, Sweet Grass Ranch is a family-owned working ranch that offers guest stays in the summer months. Sweet Grass Ranch is close to Gallatin National Forest and the Boulder River. Like Flathead Lake Lodge, it only offers 7-night packages for stays in cabins or yurts.
Along with your lodging, rates include six days of riding, three meals a day, hiking, fishing, and other ranch-related activities.
We love this area of Montana (our family’s cabin is also close to Big Timber) and a stay at Sweet Grass Ranch will let you also experience the beauty of Big Timber and being “on the Boulder” up close and personal.Â
—> Click here for pictures and current pricing for Sweet Grass Ranch.
4. Bar W in Whitefish
The Bar W Guest Ranch is located near beautiful Whitefish, Montana, and is within an easy drive from the west entrance to Glacier National Park.
The rate for Bar W is for six nights and includes lodging, meals, horseback riding, and non-horse ranch activities. You can upgrade your package to also include a cattle drive or whitewater rafting adventure.
Package rates differ depending on accommodation options and start at $2,900 per person for rooms in the lodge with shared bathrooms and go up to $4,600 per person for the new cabins. Bar W offers single rates and is also family-friendly.
Read More: Ultimate Guide to Lodging In and Near Glacier National Park
5. Mountain Sky
Mountain Sky is a luxury dude ranch that has specific times for families (summer months) and dedicated adults-only weeks (in the fall). Mountain Sky also offers women-only weeks.
Mountain Sky is located in beautiful Paradise Valley about halfway between Livingston and Gardiner (the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park).
During the family weeks at the ranch, a kids club is available for kids along with fun family activities like horseback riding, fly fishing instruction, yoga, archery, and hiking – and it’s all included! Those activities are also included during the adults-only weeks.
Rates also include access to property amenities like the heated pool, serenity room, hot tub, steam room, sauna, tennis court, and the unique underground grotto.
6. The Ranch at Rock Creek
The Ranch at Rock Creek is located in Philipsburg, about halfway between the Bitterroot Valley and Butte. Its big claim to fame is being the first Forbes Travel Guide 5-star guest ranch in the world.
This all-inclusive ranch in Montana lives up to the hype with a luxurious atmosphere and packages that includes horseback riding, meals, fly fishing, hiking, and accommodation in lodge suites, glamping cabins, and even a historic barn you can stay in!
The Ranch at Rock Creek is a Relais & Châteaux member and the dining is gourmet deliciousness. This all-inclusive resort also includes unlimited premium beer, wine and spirits, along with other beverages and snacks.
7. Elkhorn Ranch
Not every all-inclusive ranch experience in Montana needs to be crazy expensive. If you don’t mind going without all the luxury touches and living a bit like a ranch hand for your vacation, you can find a dude ranch that includes meals and more for a fair price.
One such place is Elkhorn Ranch in Gallatin Gateway. And before you start to think this doesn’t sound like a vacation, let me remind you that you’ll be getting the authentic ranch experience here while still staying in rustic yet modernized cabins, getting three homecooked meals a day in the dining hall, and enjoying conversations with new friends.
At this ranch stay, instead of going to art classes and archery, you’ll put on your boots and help the cowboys with ranch chores and taking care of the horses and other farm animals.
All the while surrounded by the epic beauty of the Gallatin Valley. Elkhorn Ranch is also close to Yellowstone National Park so guests can do day trips there.
8. Lone Star Ranch in Big Sky
This all-inclusive dude ranch in Gallatin Gateway is close to Big Sky. It’s also located a short drive from the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park and has incredible cabins and other lodging opportunities.
Since it’s so close to the park, Lone Star Ranch offers many opportunities to upgrade your experience with excursions to Yellowstone. However, you can also just stay at the ranch and take advantage of all the fun that comes with your package rate.
That package includes three meals a day at the acclaimed Horn and Cantle restaurant located onsite, hiking, yoga, and transportation to and from the Bozeman airport.
Lone Star Ranch offers many different package options with various perks, including packages for each season plus Montana Honeymoon, Lone Mountain Cowgirl Getaway, Holiday Discover, and Adult Week only packages – with even more available so you can find the perfect week at the ranch for what you’re looking for.
9. Blacktail Ranch in Wolf Creek
Blacktail Ranch is a bit off the beaten path, located about an hour north of Helena. But hey, that may be just what you’re looking for in an all-inclusive ranch vacation in Montana right?
The lodging rates cover six nights. In that 6-night all-inclusive package, you’ll get lodging in one of the cabins or main lodge rooms plus all meals, transportation to and from Great Falls International Airport, and on-site activities like horseback riding and lessons, roping lessons, cave excursions, fishing, Missouri River activities, and even skeet shooting.
10. Paws Up in Greenough
Paws Up is located about 40 minutes east of Missoula and has some mixed reviews – both with locals and visitors – so do your due diligence before booking. But one thing they for sure get right is the all-inclusive resort vibe.
A stay at Paws Up includes meals, drinks, ranch activities, and more. And if you have the money, Paws Up offers a legit luxury stay in Montana. The resort even has luxurious glamping tents you can stay in with gorgeous views.Â
11. Elk Lake Resort
Elk Lake Resort is a picturesque mountain resort located in Lima, 40 miles west (about an hour and 15 minutes to drive) from West Yellowstone, and close to Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
The family-owned Elk Lake Resort offers a wide range of activities for guests of all ages. Outdoor enthusiasts who love getting away from it all will enjoy the opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and more. Those looking for a more relaxing vacation can unwind with a dip in the lake or sunbathing on the dock. Horseback riding is available at an extra charge through their partner, Centennial Outfitters.
The cost of the resort includes lodging in one of their cozy cabins or Ranch House, as well as access to activities and amenities. Guests can book the Montana Mountain Lodge package, which creates more of an all-inclusive experience with three meals a day. There is also a full bar adjacent to the restaurant, but drinks are extra.
Thanks to its sprawling grounds, Elk Lake Resort caters to both families and romance, with family reunion package options and wedding package options.
Overall, Elk Lake Resort is an ideal destination for those seeking a beautiful and relaxing getaway in the great outdoors with easy access to water activities.
12. RiverView Ranch
RiverView Ranch is a beautiful guest ranch located in Alberton, a small town 40 minutes northwest of Missoula. This ranch lodge overlooks a serene lake. Between the lake, mountain scenery, and myriad of trails, RiverView Ranch has a host of activities for guests to enjoy, including horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
This is a luxury ranch with attention to detail that caters to both families and couples. The cost of staying at RiverView Ranch includes accommodation, meals, drinks, and most activities. Even laundry service is included! Suites in the lodge are all well-appointed and beautifully furnished with a deck that has a fireplace on it. A lake house is also available for larger parties traveling together.
Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, such as cabins, lodges, and tents. Each accommodation is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The cost of accommodation includes three meals a day, drinks from a full bar, and a furnished fridge. Meals are created with fresh and local ingredients and served in the ranch’s dining room.
13. Parade Rest Ranch
Parade Rest Ranch is a beautiful ranch located in West Yellowstone, Montana. It is a perfect place for those who want to experience the beauty of nature and the adventure of the great outdoors. The ranch offers a variety of activities, including horseback riding, fly-fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching.
When you stay at Parade Rest Ranch, the cost includes a comfortable room with a private bathroom, three meals a day, and access to all the activities the ranch has to offer. The meals are delicious and are made with locally sourced ingredients. The staff is friendly and accommodating, always ready to help you plan your daily activities and answer any questions you may have.
The ranch has a variety of accommodations available, from rooms in the main lodge to private cabins. Each room is beautifully decorated and provides a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. The ranch also has a hot tub and sauna, which is perfect for relaxing after a day of adventures.
14. Spotted Bear Ranch
Staying at Spotted Bear Ranch in Montana is an unforgettable experience for those seeking a tranquil getaway. The ranch is nestled in the heart of the Bob Marshall Wilderness and offers guests an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The ranch offers a wide range of activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, fly fishing, and wildlife viewing.
The cost of staying at Spotted Bear Ranch includes lodging, meals, and activities. The cabins are cozy and comfortable, with all the necessary amenities to make your stay enjoyable. The meals served at the ranch are made from locally sourced ingredients and are delicious. Guests can also take part in various activities, such as guided hikes and horseback rides, at no additional cost. The ranch also offers fly fishing guides, and equipment rentals for an extra fee.
15. Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch
Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch in Montana is a budget-friendly vacation option that allows guests to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature on a working ranch. A wide range of activities are included for guests of all ages. The ranch is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The cost of staying at Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch includes a variety of amenities and activities, such as comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and access to a range of outdoor adventures. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and more, all in the beautiful natural surroundings of Montana.
The accommodations at the ranch are cozy and comfortable, with a range of options to suit different needs and preferences. All rooms are well-appointed and equipped with modern conveniences, such as Wi-Fi and satellite TV.
Enjoy Your All-Inclusive Stay in Montana!
With so many all-inclusive resorts and ranches in Montana to choose from, it can be hard to pick where to stay. We hope this list made your trip planning easier!
Need extra help planning your Montana vacation? Be sure to check out our First-Timers Guide to Montana!
