7. Learn about the cattle industry at Grant-Kohrs Ranch in Deer Lodge
Originally established in 1862 by Canadian fur trader John Grant, then expanded by cattle baron Conrad Kohrs, this ranch was once the headquarters of a 10-million-acre cattle empire. Now a historic site, the ranch serves as a commemoration of the Western cattle industry from the mid-1800s through recent times. It’s also still a working cattle ranch, so travelers can witness some live demonstrations. Visitors can also walk through 88 historic buildings, hike nearly 10 miles of ranch roads and trails and take a tour of the ranch house.
8. Enjoy an all-inclusive dude ranch experience at the Resort at Paws Up
Montana is home to a number of all-inclusive dude ranches, which give travelers the chance to experience Western culture (think: horseback rides, nightly campfires and fly-fishing) in a luxurious setting. For example, The Resort at Paws Up, located about 30 miles northeast of Missoula in Greenough, is home to 28 luxury homes and 36 luxury glamping tents. The resort offers more than 50 activities for travelers to enjoy on its 37,000-acre cattle ranch. Options include backcountry tours, canoeing, dog sledding, fly fishing, geocaching, snowshoeing, photography and more. The rate includes all meals and more than a dozen activities that can be enjoyed solo, and more than 50 guided activities for an additional charge. Travelers describe the resort as “unreal,” “intimate” and a “once-in-a-lifetime experience.”