On this family operated ranch, we run 1,300 head of cattle on 25,000 acres - and that means lots of places to ride and lots of work to do!

The ranch was originally homesteaded in 1877 by Norwegian immigrants looking for a better life. Today their fourth and fifth generations own and work the ranch. It won't take you long to see that they chose this area not only for its good water and grasses to graze cattle and sheep, but also for its beautiful scenery. Bonanza Creek Country lies between the legendary Crazy Mountains and picturesque Castle Range.

Kim, Vance and Gavin Voldseth; Sonia Voldseth and Grant McDonald; Chris, Laura, and Oliver Hunter; in front: David and June Voldseth

. David and June Voldseth

Great Riding Other Activities Accommodations Rates Other Info


Great Riding

Great riding, good ranch horses, and the glory of moving herds of cattle are the reasons most guests come to Bonanza Creek. There's no head-to-tail, we let you ride to your ability, and we do lots of it. Riding is our main activity with morning and afternoon rides as well as all day rides.

Cattle work is usually once or twice a week. Moving herds from pasture to pasture, bringing the bulls home, checking for sick or injured cattle or moving the cattle to better grass and water is all great fun. Riders should be proficient enough to ride on their own without a wrangler by their side.

We welcome all levels of riders in July and August, and we especially enjoy families. We have lots of horses and will match you to the right horse for your riding ability

Experienced riders join us anytime, but the months of June and September are reserved for you. Any age is fine, but make sure you are very comfortable on a horse and can safely trot and gallop.

Children eight and older can join the trail rides, four and five year olds can ride in the corral. Childcare can be arranged for those three and under while parents are out riding. Families can ride together or children can have their own wrangler.

Riding lessons are available Monday morning, and they sure help the beginners learn the ropes a little quicker, and help both horse and rider eliminate some of those sore muscles! Its a good deal at $25 an hour or $15 an hour if you are in a group of 3 or more.

We offer specialized riding for those families who love to ride but may have a member who needs a little more help - - we have a special team of people for them, and of course one cabin that is handicapped accessible.

Adult Only Weeks are the first week in June and all of September. Come and enjoy a kid free atomosphere with other experienced adult riders. Lots of riding and lots of fun.

For those looking for a little variety and sport in their riding, team penning can't be beat! It will test your skills whether a beginner or advanced rider. Who will win... the cows or the riders??

 


Other Activities

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Fishing- Enjoy the beauty and privacy of our own stocked lakes - test your skill against feisty rainbow, cutthroat, or brook trout. A little basic equipment is provided, but if you are a serious fisherman, by all means, bring your own. A Montana fishing license is required for fishing on and off ranch property (please purchase ahead)

Hiking - Take your camera along as you venture out on wild game trails for a little wildlife watching and soak in some of the most beautiful scenery in the world! Local wildlife includes golden eagles, whitetail and mule deer, elk, antelope, bear, coyotes, fox and cougars as well as the smaller chipmunks, squirrels, gophers, badgers and jack rabbits.

Local Points of Interest - Visit nearby buffalo herds, Native American ceremonial sites and old ghost towns. See prehistoric pictographs on the all day ride.

Rodeos - Local rodeos are scheduled for the Fourth of July and on Labor Day. They are a fun part of the cowboy's life with great stock and fun western dances. There are also rodeos throughout the summer within an hour or two drive. Call for more info.

 

Accommodations

Lodging - While staying with us, you'll be living in one of four cabins. Each is privately spaced among the trees, yet within walking distance of each other, the main lodge and the stable. Each cabin is unique in size and style to fit each individual or party and has a view that you won't soon forget. There is also a refrigerator, coffee pot, coffee and tea in each cabin.

 In the Lodge you'll find the Dining Room, Laundry Room and a big Family Room complete with fireplace. We also have a large deck for relaxing at the nightly social hour ;perfect for telling stories from your day.
The Cowboy Cabin is a log cabin with bedroom, bath, living area, kitchen & loft. It's a family cabin with cowboy decor and sleeps up to 6.
The Indian Cabin is a log cabin with bedroom, bath, living area and porch. It's suitable for a couple or small family, has Native American decor and sleeps up to 4.
The Mountain Man/Prarie Bunkhouse is a log cabin duplex with separate entrances to 2 bedroom and bath suites with an adjoining porch. Suitable for couples or singles. Each sleeps up to 2.
The Pioneer is a cabin with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, living area, kitchen and porch. It's perfect for families or 2 couples, is handicapped accessible, and sleeps up to 6. It even boosts a clawfooted tub in one bedroom!
 

 

  

 

Meals - Your appetite may surprise you (it's that sparking Montana air). Meals are served family style in the lodge and are prepared to satisfy and please -- from hearty country breakfasts to sizzling steaks off the grill! And don't forget those tempting desserts...

Rates

Prices are for a six night stay from Sunday at 3 pm to the following Saturday at 11 am. Reservations are confirmed upon receipt of 30% deposit.

June 1 to September 27, 2008
Adults - $1600 each
Kids 4 - 12 - $1000 each
Kids 3 and under - $500 each

 

Rates include lodging, three meals a day, horseback riding, herding cattle, team penning, hiking, private lake fishing, wildlife watching, evening ride and cookout, campfires,all day rides, wagon ride with a team of horses great scenery and good ol' peace and quiet.

Spring and fall -- In May and October come and enjoy a cabin on your own to fish, hunt, hike or just enjoy the scenery for $125 a night. Horseback riding and meals are not included.

Adult Only Weeks - The first two weeks in June and all of September.

Ranch Buy-Out -- Book the whole ranch with just your family and friends- $17,000 for 2-12 people.

If cancellation must occur, 50% of the deposit will be refunded prior to April 1st if that time can be rebooked. After April 1st, deposits are non-refundable with the exception of unexpected health reasons. These deposits may be applied to a time within the next year. We recommend trip insurance to cover any cancellations.


Other Information

What to Bring - You will want to pack clothes that are easily layered. Bring jeans or riding pants, long and short sleeved shirts, boots with a riding heel (required), and a jacket or sweatshirt for evening. Optional gear include gloves, hat or helmet, rain gear, insect repellent, sunscreen, fishing equipment and a camera.

Check In - After 3 pm on Sunday. Check-out is by 11 am the following Saturday.

 

Shopping - Bonanza Creek clothing, hats, caps, and gloves as well as gift items at our little trading post in the Lodge. Check some of our items out online!

Guest Laundry- Is available at the lodge at no extra charge. However, we do run on solar power, so try to do your wash on a sunny day.

Liquor - BYOB is our policy. Each evening before dinner, for those who would like to join us, there is a social hour at the lodge. Light hors d'oeurves will be provided.

Massages - Dayna is available to sooth away away any aches and pains.

Hot Tub- Another way to relax is our rustic hot tub -- a natural hot springs back out in the hills. So don't forget your swimming gear. Only the deer and antelope around for company!

Smoking - Is not allowed in the lodge or while out riding.

Riding Limitations- You must be physically able to mount your horse unassisted, as we have some all day rides. We do have a weight limit of 225 pounds give or take 25 pounds due to your physical condition. Our insurance company will not allow pregnant women to ride or for you to ride on your own without a wrangler.

Airport Pick Up - Is available in Bozeman (100 miles) or Billings (140 miles) for $200 round trip per group. However, if you can, rent a car and soak up the scenery on your way.

Directions - From Billings, follow your map to Martinsdale, turn west onto Hwy 294 for 12 miles. Turn into Lennep (church, school & a few homes). From Bozeman, follow your map to Ringling, go another 4 miles north and turn right onto 294 and go 15 miles to Lennep. Follow the gravel road past the church for 6 miles. Watch for Bonanza Creek signs.

Gratuity - Recommended at 15%

 

Member, Montana Dude Ranchers Association


 Member of the Dude Rancher's Association

 

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