What Are the Top Dude Ranches You Must Visit in Montana?

Tourist season is right around the corner here in Montana, and soon our state will be buzzing with visitors. So, what do they come here to do? Sure, they’ll hit the national parks, hike, fish, and maybe catch a music festival—but for most, the real draw is experiencing the iconic cowboy lifestyle.

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I know what you're all thinking... "It's Yellowstone’s fault!" And yeah, the show definitely put dude ranches in the spotlight, but truth is, they’ve been drawing tourists long before the Duttons came along.

What Is A Dude Ranch?

Back in the late 1800s, "dude" didn’t mean "bro" like it does today. Instead, it was a term for city slickers—folks from the East Coast who stuck out like a sore thumb in the West. As these travelers flocked west for a taste of the cowboy lifestyle, ranches catering to them became known as "Dude Ranches." And just like that, a Western vacation tradition was born!

Recently, USA Today’s 10 Best released its list of the top dude ranches in America, and—no surprise here—Montana took some of the top spots!

#5 Nine Quarter Circle Ranch

Located in Gallatin Gateway, Montana, this ranch has been a beloved getaway for over 75 years. Guests can enjoy fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking, and more! It's especially known for its scenic trails and a refreshing swimming hole fed by a pristine mountain stream.

#4 Mayan Dude Ranch

The Mayan Ranch in Bandera, Texas, has been in operation for three generations. As they proudly state on their website, "You can be a part of the Western tradition that has produced seven world champion rodeo cowboys. There’s a ‘rootin’ tootin’ cowboy’ in all of us, and we’ll help you fulfill those dreams."

#3 Flathead Lake Lodge

Nestled on the shores of Flathead Lake in Bigfork, Montana, this luxurious lodge offers the best of Big Sky Country—plus a little extra. Established in 1945, it provides a unique blend of water activities, horseback riding, biking, and more, making it the perfect Montana escape.

#2 White Stallion Ranch

Located in Tucson, Arizona, on 3,000 acres, this ranch offers an authentic experience while seamlessly blending modern amenities with traditional dude ranch activities.

#1 Eatons' Ranch

Eatons' Ranch in Wolf, Wyoming, spans an impressive 7,000 acres, offering the ultimate Western getaway. Guests can enjoy archery, fly fishing, hiking, and horseback riding, all while staying in authentic Western-style cabins. With over 140 years in operation, they must be doing something right!