A river literally runs through this 6,600-acre guest ranch deep in Montana鈥檚 cowboy country. Winters here have a way of separating the rhinestone cowboys from the genuine, and the is plenty genuine鈥攖he owners raise cattle in addition to hosting guests, and the lodge鈥檚 decor is inspired by archival photos of the area from the 19th century.
You鈥檒l arrive to a roaring fire and a steaming mug of mulled wine before you鈥檙e escorted to your room. We recommend 鈥攁 romantic spot on Rock Creek that鈥檚 half insulated canvas tent, half plush cabin, with a woodstove, Persian carpets, and a private hot tub on the deck. Daylight is scarce this time of year, so make the most of it with a foray into the pines along the property鈥檚 20 miles of cross-country ski trails, try a on snowshoes, or strap on some skates for a spin around the frozen pond near the main lodge. Better yet, sip a cup of hot cocoa and let a team of Percherons pull you through snowy meadows in an .
Once the sun sinks over the John Long Mountains, repair to the lodge for more mulled wine and dinner of local leg of lamb and cabernet-poached pears. It鈥檚 usually tough being a cowboy in the Montana winter. Not here.
What You Need to Know Before You Pack Your Boots and Go
Access: Fly into Missoula International Airport; a driver will meet you. From $850, .
Forecast: February: 38掳 high, 17掳 low
Detour: Take a break from the slopes to kick and glide on groomed nordic trails circling the lake. It鈥檚 the most peaceful way to experience the old-growth snowscape around the lodge.
Indulge: After a chilly day out, nothing warms the bones like a Saddle Sore soak and full-body massage at Rock Creek鈥檚 ($300). Just have them wake you for dinner.