A Ride In The Big Sky

Wranglers at Lone Mountain Ranch explore wide open spaces in the Big Sky country of Montana.

- Ken Amorosano

Lone Mountain Ranch has a long history of serving guests, dating back to when Clarence Lytle first homesteaded it in 1915. Nestled in its own little valley on the North Fork of the Gallatin River, the picturesque and historic landmark is studded with rustic yet well-appointed cabins reminiscent of a wild American frontier, but outfitted to pamper its guests with top-shelf amenities and all the creature comforts of home.

Big Sky, Montana, has a world-wide reputation as a ski resort with some of the finest slopes in the U.S., but its first claim to fame was Lone Mountain Ranch, whose founders and subsequent owners over the years established the town that bears the Big Sky name.

Just a 50-minute drive from Bozeman, Lone Mountain Ranch is a wonderland for both summer and winter adventures. It’s an Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing destination, recognized by National Geographic as a property that protects its natural and cultural heritage, and is also highly regarded for its access to a robust array of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Although guests are encouraged to do it all—fly fishing the Gallatin, single- and multi-day nature walks guided by Nat-Geo-qualified naturalists, hiking, whitewater rafting, or merely relaxing, taking a yoga class or having a massage—I opt for the outstanding horseback-riding opportunities on the ranch’s well-trained remuda.

This band of seasoned trail horses is managed by an all-woman team lead by Mary Gandy, a Cincinnati native who could not resist the call of horses and the great big Montana skies.