Here's What It's Really Like to Stay at an All-Inclusive Dude Ranch in Montana

15.11.2024 - 09:37 / matadornetwork.com

When most people think of all-inclusive vacations, what usually comes to mind are beach resorts and tropical getaways on remote islands. But if you want your getaway to be more about epic views and mountain adventures than sitting on a beach, you may be surprised to learn that there’s at least one other type of all-inclusive vacation available in the Mountain West: an all-inclusive dude ranch in the majestic state of Montana.

If you’ve ever wanted to stay at a dude ranch, are obsessed with recreating the summer camp fun you remember from childhood, or — like me — are curious what you missed by never attending a sleep-away summer camp as a kid, a resort like Flathead Lake Lodge could be an ideal place to spend your vacation time next year.

The family-owned-and-operated resort sits on the shore of Flathead Lake near Bigfork, Montana, in Big Sky Country. That even includes a 500-acre private elk reserve, home to roughly 37 elk. It’s been open since 1945 and is currently managed by Chase Averill, the third generation of the Averill Family, who seems to have had no problems filling his parents’ shoes — or in this case, cowboy boots.

Flathead Lake Lodge is a modern dude ranch with lots of classic Western activities on offer, all included in the rate. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge

The all-inclusive western resort is open from May through October. In summer, the focus is on families, with the family season running June through August, while fall focuses on adults-only getaways. The adults-only retreats are popular among solo travelers, couples, families with adult children, and multi-generational groups. The lodge is closed during spring and winter, but in 2024, the main lodge will open for seasonal weekend dinners between December and March.

Flathead Lake Lodge’s sheer size and scope of available activities means visitors can choose the type of vacation they prefer, whether that’s a relaxing mountain getaway or a more old-school western adventure, complete with all the trappings of a real dude ranch.

Here’s what to know if you’re thinking about booking a stay, plus tips I learned during my recent visit in August 2024.

A cabin at Flathead Lake Lodge. Photo: Flathead Lake Lodge

Flathead Lake Lodge has multiple lodging options. I visited during an adults-only retreat and was fortunate enough to stay at one of several rustic mountain cabins scattered throughout the property. These individual log cabins are small yet spacious, with plenty of room to spread out while still feeling cozy. Traditional log furnishings create a rustic mountain feel, and a country quilt sat on top of the luxurious bedding in my cabin — I slept peacefully every night.

Each cabin has outdoor seating perfect for watching the sunrise over a hot cup