Cabins and Guest Ranches
If you’re heading to Montana hoping to stay in your own log cabin, then consider the North Forty Resort (3765 Hwy. 4 W., 406/862-7740 or 800/775-1740, www.northfortyresort.com, $189–249) between Whitefish and Columbia Falls, making it a good base for trips to Glacier National Park. The 22 recently constructed deluxe cabins are located in a quiet pine-shaded grove, and all have full kitchens, baths, and fireplaces. The furniture is handcrafted in Montana. All cabins sleep at least five, and some sleep up to eight. Hot tubs and a sauna are also available. Pets are allowed in some cabins.
Gaynor’s Resorts (406/862-3208, $225–325) has two separate settings: cabins on the family ranch (1992 KM Ranch Rd.) or cabins in the woods (6544 Farm to Market Rd.). The cabins in both places all sleep at least six people and are beautifully designed and maintained. Trail rides are available for an extra fee.
At the Bar W Guest Ranch (2875 Hwy. 93 W., 406/863-9099 or 866/828-2900, $85–250 B&B rate or $1,575 and up per person double occupancy for five days, six nights all-inclusive) you’ll feel a little removed from the town of Whitefish, even though it’s less than 10 miles away. Here you’ll be immersed in the Western life, with plenty of horseback riding, which is the ranch’s main attraction. A variety of packages are offered, including the “Cowgirl Up” women’s weeks; the ranch’s by-the-night B&B rate does not include riding.
© W.C. McRae & Judy Jewell from Moon Montana, 7th Edition