Home to more animals per square mile than humans, the state of Montana offers a scenic landscape filled with hours and hours of outdoor activities for people of all ages. Specifically, nature lovers, or people looking for a beautiful, secluded getaway, will find their paradise at the 6,600 acres of The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, Montana.
Endless acres of Montana fun
Situated 5,600 feet above sea level, the Granite Lodge at Ranch at Rock Creek in Southwestern Montana is the perfect place for luxurious ranch lodging. With the Anaconda-Pintler mountain range enclosing the ranch in a large valley, the Granite Lodge offers not only beautiful scenery, but also thousands of acres of outdoor fun.
The Ranch at Rock Creek is an ultra-lux cattle ranch; it includes many resort luxuries such as a swimming pool, hot tubs, a sauna, spa, saloon, concierge service, and even a bowling alley!
Whether you ride Western or English, this Montana guest ranch has a horse for you. With 6,600 acres of land, including picturesque mountains meadows, lakes, and streams, there are countless trails to choose from.
Gourmet farm to table dining in Montana
The Ranch at Rock Creek offers three healthy meals a day (the word “healthy” may be interpreted as in farm-fresh, or healthy as in large, ranch-style portions…take your pick) prepared by Executive Chef Josh Drage and his staff. Ranch guests are able to eat healthful and natural menu items, but beware of Drage’s delicious desserts at the end of the meal.
Appetizers and drinks are served in the Granite Lodge dining room, Silver Dollar Saloon, and the Blue Canteen.
Rooms at the Ranch at Rock Creek
Guests have many different lodging options. In addition to the nine easily-accessible rooms offered in the Granite Lodge, the ranch features eight private houses, several canvas “glamping” tent cabins, and a historic barn.
The historic barn houses three accommodations: the wrangler, loft, and stable’s bunkhouse. Only a ten-minute walk from the Granite Lodge, the location is perfect for a wedding party or multi-family gathering.
Rooming at Granite Lodge
The Granite Lodge is considered the home base of the upscale ranch, as it includes a large dining room and the Silver Dollar Saloon. Its rooms are decorated in classic Western style. Lower level rooms include high ceilings and access to the saloon and Granite spa.
The winter season runs from October 1st to April 30th, with high season beginning May 1st and ending September 30th.
Private Cabins at The Ranch at Rock Creek
For those interested in more secluded living conditions, private cabins are offered. The two-bedroom Cattail Cabin or three-bedroom Ponderosa House is ideal for a small family or group of friends.
Honeymooners or couples will love the Bluebird Cabin, equipped with a king-size canopy bed and twin pullout.
Glamping Montana-style in canvas cabins
Those hoping for a more live off the land experience can look into one of the four family canvas cabins offered at the Ranch at Rock Creek. Each of the cabins includes two rooms separated by a curtain. Decorated in a rustic, safari style, they feature a bathroom and two beds.
Rock Creek runs beside the cabins, filling the area with the calming sounds of rushing water. True mountaineers may take advantage of the one-bedroom, Trapper Cabin. This 600 square footer is the perfect location for stargazing.
Activities at the Ranch at Rock Creek
No matter how long you stay at the Ranch at Rock Creek, you will never run out of things to do. Favorite activities include fly-fishing, 3-D archery, sporting clay, horseback riding, biking, or kayaking. Those looking for a little relaxation after a long day of play can lounge by the fireplace, pond, or spa.
You won’t get billed for much of anything after you’ve paid for your stay: this ranch is sometimes called out as one of the best all-inclusive places to stay in the USA. Airport transfers, all activities, meals, and drinks are worry-free. Check prices at The Ranch at Rock Creek at their site or call (877) 786-1545.
Before or after your stay, you might want to spend some time in revitalized downtown Philipsburg. See our review of The Broadway Hotel right on the main drag.
The Ranch at Rock Creek review and photos by San Francisco-based travel, food, and wine writer Nancy D. Brown. I was a guest of The Ranch at Rock Creek.