The ranch is many years along in its breeding program and reproducing this spotted beauty. The Nez Perce Indians of the Northwest originated this breed many years ago and it became almost extinct following their submission to the white man. The tribe through many years of controlled breeding gave to the world the now famous Appaloosa horse, noted for stamina, conformation, hard hoofs, good disposition and beautiful markings.

We have weekly overnight packtrips to whet your appetite for a longer trip under the stars. We also offer extended pack trips in late summer to the Taylor Hilgard Wilderness Area and the National Forest surrounding the ranch. Enjoy photography, hiking, fishing and exploring this magnificent country.

The Kiddie Wrangler and Babysitter spend most of their time with the kids. The Kiddie Wrangler takes charge of the 6-9 year olds teaching them to ride and leading the Rough Riders on their own daily trail rides. The Babysitter looks after those children under six on the playground or at the barn with a short lead ride around the pasture. The weekly picnic and marshmallow roast is a hit with all the kids. There are volleyball and softball games and a Gym Khana (games on horseback) every Saturday at the corral. Mom and Pop will find their responsibilities very limited with lots of time to follow their own interests. Kids will forget TV and be involved with new activities in this land of cowboys and cowgirls.

Trout fishing in this part of Nature's wonderland is full of adventure and never-to-be-forgotten thrills. A wide variety of streams are available. Taylor Fork runs right through the front yard, and then there's Lightning, Buck, Wapiti, Meadow, Snow Flake, Cache, Daly, Bacon Rind, West Fork and the world famous Gallatin and Madison Rivers. All of these streams are near the ranch... some are available only to those who ride in the saddle or hike. You'll catch Rainbow, Cutthroat and Brown Trout. The ranch program includes a fly fishing guide for ranch guests. Fly fishing instruction and loaner equipment are available. Weekly fly casting lessons at the ranch trout pond will entice you to fish our local waters.

The pack horse is the cargo ship of the high ridges. Two day pack trips are scheduled each week. These trips generally go into the high country with a camp on a mountain lake or stream. If you plan on the overnight pack trip, all you will need is a sleeping bag and ground pad - the ranch supplies everything else. There is a nominal extra charge for those wanting to go along. We recommend a minimum age of 13 for the overnight packtrip. (Ten if they are accompanied by a parent.) Everyone has his or her own horse for their visit at the ranch. Trail rides into deep timbered forests or in grassy meadows are experiences you will long remember. It is always cool and refreshing with no routine pattern of trail riding in this limitless wilderness. Four or five rides go out daily from the corrals - The Rough Riders, ages six through nine, under the care of the Kiddie Wrangler; The Turtle Trot for the novices; The Cowpoke Special is intermediate; The Dudes Delight for the truly experienced; and The Kelsey Killer, an all day ride, for those who want a real thrill. There is Western riding instruction every Monday morning and additional assistance given throughout the week. A Gym Khana, or games on horseback, is held every Saturday morning with trophy awards. Our team of Belgian draft horses will also take you on an evening hayride in the valley.