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DUDE
RANCH VACATIONS Activities
| Lodging | Rates | FAQs Frequently Asked Questions WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO COME? Montana’s weather is as varied as its landscape. Summer days are often pleasant and dry and evenings are crisp and cool.
We open the Sunday of Memorial Day. Late May and early June are still late spring in the mountains, so it tends to be a little cooler, 60's to low 70's during the day and upper 30's to low 40's at night. Everything has come alive with green, and we have early wildflowers like crocus's and Glacier Lilies. We typically have smaller numbers of guests during this time, and not many children. Late June and early July are when the wildflowers really explode. The average temp is 70's to low 80's during the day, cooling at to 40-50's at night. Mid July to late August are probably the most popular time, so that space fills quickly. This is the warmest time, 75-85 during the day, cooling to 40-50's at night. August is always a nice month for long clear days. By late August, we don't have many kids, and September is an adult only month. As you get into September, the fall colors begin. The days are warm, 65-70's and evenings are cooler, upper 30's to 40's. These weeks emphasize long, scenic rides and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Some special weeks’ events during the summer include:
CAN I RIDE IF I HAVE LITTLE TO NO HORSE EXPERIENCE? Absolutely! We have over sixty head of horses, suited to all riding levels. We teach western horsemanship, spending as much time in the arena and on the trails as you like. Our goal is build confidence in you as a rider so that you may comfortably enjoy the beauty of the area. WHAT IF I'M AN EXPERT RIDER? We have horses with plenty of zip for those guests who want more of a challenge. Our location allows endless opportunity to see new country, and to put in as long of a day as you would like. Our horses are well trained and very responsive. IS ALL THE RIDING "NOSE-TO-TAIL"? We are located in the mountains, so to get to the higher country, the terrain is such that you must ride in single file. However, this area is known for its spectacular, large meadows, and the open prairie is just on the other side of the mountain. We encourage anyone to ride abreast, whenever possible and to get to know your horse. HOW OLD SHOULD MY CHILDREN BE? Our Children's Program is designed for kids ages 6 to 12. Supervised by enthusiastic Kids Wranglers, the kids will learn horsemanship skills through an interactive teaching program with "their own" horse and enjoy a variety of horse games. Kids love to explore the area, fish in the ranch trout ponds, build forts, play, and swim. The Indian Adventure Day features crafts in the Teepee, and painting their horse and themselves as warriors. Parents have the choice daily to ride with their children. Should parents want a little freedom, our Kid's Wranglers are ready with special activities such as wildlife hikes, nature studies, scavenger hunts and arts and crafts. Older children enjoy assisting the wranglers in daily feeding, grooming, and saddling of the horses or to ride with the adults or kids of like ages. The Barker girls, Kelsey (13), and Hayley (10) enjoy getting to know the kids that visit each year! TELL ME ABOUT THE FISHING. DO YOU PROVIDE FISHING GEAR? The Ranch has 3 spring fed Rainbow Trout ponds for fly-fishing instruction (no extra cost) and also spin casting. Just 5 minutes away is the Sun River or Gibson Lake for Rainbow, Brown, or Cutthroat Trout. A fishing license is required for the lake or river, and can be purchased in Augusta before arriving at the Ranch. We have a limited supply of fishing gear for the kids to use on the ponds. If you are a serious fisherman, we suggest you bring your own equipment. WHAT ARE THE MEALS LIKE? Good food and plenty of it! We serve wholesome and hearty home-style meals in our main log lodge. Expect traditional cowboy cook-outs, plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and home-made breads and goodies just like Grandma used to make. Special diets are easily accommodated with advance notice. The ranch does not have a liquor license, but you are welcome to bring along whatever you enjoy. Ice and mixers available. AREA ATTRACTIONS We provide a weekly tour of the Sun River Canyon, which is rich in geology, fossils and Indian history with an authentic Indian pictograph. Ask about nearby buffalo jumps. Glacier National Park is about 100 miles from the Ranch, and well-worth seeing. Many guests visit the park either before or after their stay with us. Glacier Raft Company (800-235-6781) offers spectacular white water rafting. Yellowstone National Park is 250 south of the Ranch. Nearby Choteau (50 miles from the Ranch) has an active dinosaur dig, which hosts a museum and tours. There are seasonal rodeos in the area, with the Augusta rodeo on June 25. Around Great Falls, the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center is a wonderful exhibit depicting the famed exploration effort of Lewis & Clark. The Charlie Russell Museum displays western and Indian cultural art and history. Just outside of Great Falls is the Ulm Pishkin Buffalo Jump, or other raftingopportunities in Fort Benton on the Missouri River. Visit Travel Montana's website for other area information. DO YOU HAVE GUEST LAUNDRY FACILITIES? Yes, we do have laundry facilities for the guests to use during the week. DUDE
RANCH VACATIONS Activities
| Lodging | Rates | FAQs
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