Description
This is not your typical nose-to-tail trail ride. Saddle up for a half-day mountain ride through the national forest bordering Glacier National Park, where local, knowledgeable guides lead you across some of the most scenic country in Montana. You will ride through rivers, meadows, and forest with big sweeping views of Glacier Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness, and the Great Plains opening up all around you.
The day begins at Bear Creek Guest Ranch, where you will meet your guides, sign your liability release, and grab a few snacks before heading out. From the ranch you will follow the crew about 10 miles up the road to the trailhead. Once there, you will unload, check saddles, and get a brief safety and horse talk before mounting up. After everyone is comfortable and stirrups are adjusted, your guide gives a fuller talk on how to ride and how to stay safe on the trail.
On the Trail
Our main route climbs through diverse terrain with some ups and downs along a safe, well-traveled, and well-maintained trail. You will ride to an area called Buffalo Lakes, where you stop for a 20-minute break with 360-degree views of the entire area. Then you turn around and ride back the way you came, seeing the country from a fresh perspective the whole way home.
We also have a flatter alternate route that is special in its own way. It winds deeper into the mountains and crosses the South Fork of the Two Medicine five times, with lunch on big rocks beside a little waterfall right near the river. On a warm day the swimming hole is an awesome spot for an optional dip. This trail follows the CDT hiking route, and in August and September you will find huckleberries and raspberries growing along the way.
Our guides are local and have been riding for many years. They are fluent in the native plants, animals, mountains, and history of the area, and we keep groups small, with no more than 6 riders per trip. We take our time and enjoy the trip.
Rider Requirements
Riders must be at least 7 years old, with a maximum weight of 225 pounds. Riding experience is not necessary, but this is an active, strenuous experience that requires use of your muscles. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are required. A long sleeve shirt and hat are recommended but not required, and helmets are available upon request.
This experience may not be suitable for guests with certain physical limitations, including but not limited to: pregnancy; recent hip, knee, back, ankle, or shoulder surgeries or replacements; significant mobility or balance limitations; chronic pain conditions affecting riding ability; conditions that make mounting, sitting, or dismounting difficult; or severe fear of horses or heights. If you are unsure whether this experience is appropriate for you, we strongly encourage contacting our team prior to booking.
--
Montana Outfitter #4292
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the meeting point?
Meet at Bear Creek Guest Ranch, 15750 US-2 E, Essex, MT 59916. After introductions and waivers, you will follow the crew about 10 miles to the trailhead.
How long is the ride?
About 3 hours in the saddle, with a 20-minute break at the halfway point to stretch your legs, use the bathroom, and take pictures. Plan for roughly 4 hours from check-in at the ranch to your return.
What should I wear?
Long pants and closed-toe shoes are required. Layers for your upper half and a hat are recommended. Helmets are available upon request.
Do I need riding experience?
No riding experience is required, but you must be interested and engaged. This is an active experience that is strenuous and requires use of your muscles.
What are the physical requirements?
Riders must sign a waiver and be able to independently mount and dismount with wrangler assistance. All participants must be at least 7 years old. Maximum weight of 225 pounds.
This experience may not be suitable for guests with certain physical limitations, including but not limited to: Recent hip, knee, back, ankle, or shoulder surgeries/replacements, Significant mobility limitations, Balance concerns, Chronic pain conditions affecting riding ability, Conditions that make mounting, sitting astride, or dismounting difficult, Pregnancy, Severe fear of horses or heights. If you are unsure whether this experience is appropriate for you, we strongly encourage contacting our team prior to booking.
Can we take photos?
Yes, there are plenty of places to take photos along the ride, including 360-degree views of the entire area at the break stop.
What if I'm pregnant, or had a recent surgery or have other physical limitations?
This experience may not be suitable for guests with certain physical limitations, including but not limited to: Recent hip, knee, back, ankle, or shoulder surgeries/replacements, Significant mobility limitations, Balance concerns, Chronic pain conditions affecting riding ability, Conditions that make mounting, sitting astride, or dismounting difficult, Pregnancy, Severe fear of horses or heights. If you are unsure whether this experience is appropriate for you, we strongly encourage contacting our team prior to booking.