What it is

An intimate, all-inclusive high-end cowboy ranch with a full roster of activities.

What it isn't

A place to just chill and do nothing.

What we think

Jim Manley grew up watching westerns and dreaming of being a cowboy, but took a successful detour into investment banking instead. So the Ranch at Rock Creek, which he opened in 2010, is his no-expense-spared fantasy of life in Big Sky Country. The emphasis is on activities, all expertly executed and nearly all included in the rate: Fly fishing on a Blue Ribbon-designated river. Horseback rides through rolling hills and sagebrush meadows, led by expert wranglers. Archery, shooting clays, a rifle range, plus every imaginable snow sport in winter. The property itself is on 6,600 acres of classic Montana landscape, with a décor that combines Ralph Lauren comfort with authentic Old West elements like nail-head leather armchairs and antler chandeliers. There are only 29 accommodations, ranging from one to five bedrooms and including log cabins, a historic barn and creek-side “glamping” tents. The food (superb—it’s a Relais & Châteaux property) and drinks are also included.

You're here because

You want to experience ranch-style action without getting too dirty.

The Moment

Sitting on a leather saddle barstool at the Silver Dollar Saloon, having a post-dinner drink and deciding what to do next: bowling, billiards or a round of karaoke.

Location

Western Montana, 20 miles outside of historic Philipsburg, and about 90 minutes from Missoula airport.

Restaraunts & Bars

The Dining Room - Regionally and seasonally inspired cuisine, Montana-raised beef, lamb, chicken and dairy products and locally grown organic produce

The Blue Canteen - Regionally-inspired casual fare

Silver Dollar Saloon

Family activities

Carriage rides, horseback rides and lessons, adopt-a-horse program, roping lessons, archery, horseshoes, bike riding, hiking, orienteering and map reading, geocaching, Little Grizzlies children's program, large-screen movie theater, bonfires, shuffleboard, bowling, photo scavenger hunt, photo safari, cross country skiing, downhill skiing, ice skating, ice fishing, Snow Cat tours, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, snowman building, Ghost Town Tours, Sapphire Mining, tours of historic Philipsburg.