The majority of our horseback rides cater to our weeklong guests, where all the rides are included as part of the all-inclusive experience. However, if you are interested in a trail ride, but don’t have a week to spend with us, we may have some options that suit you. See below for more information.
A stay at a guest ranch wouldn’t be complete without horses and horseback riding. We form the whole ranch experience around putting you in the saddle as often as you want.
Because we’re located just 40 minutes from Glacier National Park, and just minutes outside of Whitefish, Montana, you’ll finding yourself riding through some of the most incredible views in the United States. You might even get the chance to peer into Canada on some of the rides.
Swisher Lake Full-Day Adventure: After a scenic truck ride from the ranch to the quaint town of Eureka, MT, hoof it from the trailhead through the Kootenai National Forest. Pass iconic lakes and mountain views to reach the U.S. Canadian border where you’ll ride alongside Canada, no passport necessary. When you stop for lunch, take a break from the saddle, and enjoy the view overlooking the majestic Lake Koocanusa, a beautiful aqua blue-green lake with wide sandy beaches. Then hit the trail again before loading the horses up in the trailers and heading home.
Timberline Trails on Spencer Mountain: Head into the Montana mountains surrounding the ranch for rides that will stick with you for a lifetime. The trail system on Spencer Mountain is extensive, allowing for truly unique and customizable rides. Trail rides on Spencer Mountain can be anything from an easy one-hour walking ride to a quick paced loping ride down a forest road with your fellow experienced guests. Or perhaps a long four-hour half day outing with lunch on the trail, and some of our more extraordinary views along the way, is more your style. Don’t feel like spending four-hours in the saddle to see some pretty sights? No problem, a few of our views can easily be reached on our more popular two-hour trail rides.
Half-Day Outing At Kuhn’s: Hit the highway for a short trip to the trailhead at Kuhn’s for a half day ride that features meadows alive with birds and wildlife, small mountain lakes, and clifftop views of pristine wilderness for as far as the eye can see.
Sunday Creek Full-Day Adventure: The ride at Sunday Creek is an opportunity for those guests seeking long hours in the saddle. Riding at Sunday Creek offers a little bit of everything; easy, overgrown logging roads, narrow, twisting trails, steep and challenging climbs, and some breathtaking scenery. This ride can be a bit daunting for the novice new to mountain riding and tackling difficult terrain, but for those experienced riders accustomed to long hours in the saddle Sunday Creek might just be what you’re looking for.
Not everyone can spend a whole week at the ranch, which is why we provide trail rides as often as possible based upon availability and trail conditions.
We currently offer two-hour and half-day rides on trails through the woods and into the mountains. (Half-day rides require a 4-person minimum and are only offered on Sundays.) Your trail ride adventure begins when we match you with a suitable horse, followed by an orientation designed to help you feel confident on your horse.
At the Bar W, our emphasis is always placed on your safety and the welfare of the horse. Our trails rides are walking only, and children must be at least seven years old to go out on the trails. Call for our current weight limit, as this can change from week to week.
We recommend contacting the ranch 7 days prior to your desired outing to check on availability of ride space for the date and time that works best for you. Please call our office to discuss booking your trail ride. 406.863.9099
| 2-Hour Trail Ride (Days and times based on availability.) | $85 per guest |
| Half-Day Trail Ride (Sundays, 4-person minimum.) | $150 per guest |
| Cow-Poke Pony Ride (For children under 7 years / 30-40 minute ride / Limited availability in Summer) | $75 per rider |