Montana Horseback Riding Vacation

Does all or part of your family enjoy horse back riding? Do you relish the view found only on the back of a horse? Are you looking for someplace to escape the crowds and enjoy some quiet time surrounded by unrivaled natural beauty? You have found 'the' spot!

The sun warms your back, the cool breeze fans your face while the wind whispering in the pines overhead adds a soft background to the steady 'plunk-plunk' of your horse's hooves. Your steady stead snorts softly as you break from the scattered timber into a broad, grassy meadow. The rocky face of the Centennial Mountains creates a backdrop to the south while over your shoulder the vast expanse of the Centennial Valley comes into view.

A hawk's forlorn cry sounds from where it circles high above. Smaller birds twitter nearby. Just ahead your guide quietly points to a bull moose, his antlers dripping as he raises his head from grazing in the high mountain lake. Your daughter squeals in delight from the back of her patient mount. Ahhh, this is family time at its best!

Elk Lake Resorts sits in Montana's familiy horseback riding paradise. You can ride across the rolling hills and timbered draws of the Gravelly Range. Or, head across country on your own horse - or - with our local outfitter. The next day, experience a high mountain trip into the alpine regions of the Centennial Mountains - just you, your mount, and your family.

Day Trips

We'll pack you a sack lunch - then saddle up your horse, or just meet up with your guide - and you're off for a day of adventure. Your biggest challenge - which way shall I go? Elk Lake Resort is surrounded by thousands of acres of public lands - most of which is open to horseback riding. Follow game and cattle trails up draws and across ridges, or traverse a developed trail system - it's up to you.

Working in coordination with our local outfitter, Elk Lake Resort offers half-day, full-day, or extended trips into the back country. The Gravelly Range - out your cabin door - is a substantial mountain range which has few access points and thousands of acres of open backcountry. With vast flower-filled rolling ridge tops which average 9,500 feet in elevation and several impressive mountain peaks, the Gravelly Range is a wonderful place to explore. The highest peak in the range is Black Butte (at 10,542 feet). Covering an area of 997 square miles it runs about 50 miles north / south and 30 miles east / west. And, best of all, you can ride all day, every day, for many days - and not see anyone else unless you want to!

The Centennial Mountains offer different terrain and different opportunities. Covering an area of about 120,000 acres, the Centennials are noted for providing some of the most diverse wildlife habitat in the area. It is not uncommon to see elk, deer, moose, pronghorn, and even a bear or cougar. Your guide can take you to the headwaters of the mighty Missouri River where you can view the small stream which spawns one of the Continent's mightiest rivers. Ride through forest and meadow. Fish the small mountain lakes. Enjoy amazing vistas and abundant wildflowers.

Or, change direction a bit and ride the Continental Divide trail. This trail system, which runs down the 'backbone' of America, passes to the south and east of Elk Lake Resort. As it borders the Centennial Valley, the Continental Divide (and thus the trail) takes a east / west track for about 40 miles - as opposed to the general north / south track followed by the rest of the Continental Divide. Enjoy magnificent scenery and the opportunity to view abundant wildlife. And, again, the best part - you'll likely only see members of your own group and your guide - no matter how long you decide to stay 'lost' in the back country!

Pack Trips

Why come out into the middle of nowhere without taking the opportunity to see a bit more of this beautiful and untouched countryside from the back of a horse? Up the experience a notch by spending a night (or more) at a mountain camp. Choose from a two day / one night, a three day / two night, or longer - you just tell us how long. Working in coordination with our local outfitter, we'll provide the fun, the food, and the accommodations, and all you have to do is come along. OR, bring your own horse and we'll do the rest. Best of all, when you add a horse pack trip to your stay at Elk Lake Resort, we figure it into the entire package - thus making the whole experience flow smoothly and cost less.

Our pack trips are in the Centennial Mountains. With the vast variety of terrain, scenery, and outdoor adventure opportunities, there is no limitation to your adventure. Spend a day riding into the back country. Arrive at a comfortable camp - already set up for your camping leisure. Fish the nearby lake. Explore the surrounding countryside on horseback or on foot . Then come back to camp for some 'mountain' country gourmet cooking - the same quality and quantity you've been enjoying throughout your stay at Elk Lake Resort. After an evening around the campfire enjoying mountain tales, let the wind whispering through the evergreens shush you to sleep.

Wake to birds chirping outside the tent door and the smell of sizzling bacon and fresh coffee. After a hearty breakfast, begin another day of adventure and delight - exploring and relaxing - then return to the Resort or your camp, it's up to you. One way or another, you'll leave having spent time in 'pure' nature and with a wealth of memories!

What to Bring

Pricing:

Ala Carte Add On:

• 1/2 day - $85/ each
• 1 day - $140 / each
• 2 day / 1 night - $285 - 345 each (depending on the package you've chosen)
• *20 percent discount for groups of 6 or more

Experience Montana Package

• Enjoy horseback riding every day or as part of your custom designed family vacation package.

If you are bringing your own horse, a price break is available for guided services (inquire as to pricing)

Articles

Will you be traveling with you horse? Do you need to cross state lines ? If so, we've compiled some information to make it easier.

Of course you always want your best friend to feel their best - but when traveling this becomes even more important. Our article on horse health and safety will help you make sure you cover all the basics - and more.

Insects can literally 'bug' you and your horse to the point where riding is no longer any fun. Don't let the local 'pests' ruin your trip. This article will help you come prepared to combat the worst.

Ever wonder what makes your horse tick? If not, I bet he's wondered that about you. In an upcoming article we'll look briefly at horse psychology - particularly as it relates to riding and handling.

Horse Related Links:

• Horse 101: Extensive website for the horse lover.
• Horse Web: Website for horse lovers including articles, horses for sale, and other horse related services and suppliers.