I highly enjoyed my time at Lonesome Dove Guest Ranch. I had just completed a glorious week long voyage to Glacier and Waterton National Parks. Before flying home the following day, I decided to try spending the night here, in the outdoors, well off the beaten path outside the town of Kalispell....in a rustic little teepee.
I discovered this place on Expedia and was surprised how cheap it was, $48 for the evening. I thought....since I enjoy nature and go out of my way to stay in cabins wherever I travel, why not try a teepee!
On all my trips, I have never stayed in something quite like this. Ultimately, I think I was mesmerized by the thought of having a "made for ready tent" and was quite excited for the experience.
Well, this teepee was everything I could have asked for. Although I was traveling alone, it had 2 fully furnished twin beds. This was a pleasant surprise considering a lot of the cabins I stay at don't even provide any bedding, blankets or pillows. Although I have been warned me in the past about this, for someone like myself traveling by plane, I can't just lug along bedding.
Regardless, my bed was real comfortable. I was also provided extra blanketing because it got cold at night.
Another good aspect was....they left me 2 towels for showering and rinsing up. In all....I was satisfied.
Considering northern Montana is quite a tourist and vacation destination during summertime, $48 for the night was by far....the lowest rate going around. For being in Kalispell, Montana....not too far away from majestic Glacier NP, this rate was a bargain.
The Guest Ranch was wonderful. When I arrived in late afternoon, I checked in. They sell snacks, beverages, supplies and anything you may need during your stay.
I was shown to my teepee. The grounds have animals all around. An area for horses, cows, chickens....they even housed 2 buffalo! For anyone who appreciates animals, this place is for you. You can pay to do horseback riding around the ranch.
In all, the vibe was refreshingly mellow and tranquil. Although Lonesome Dove is located maybe 15 minutes from downtown Kalispell, it felt like I was miles from society.
There were virtually no guests staying here with me. I felt like I had the entire ranch to myself. After checking in....I certainly walked around, explored the surroundings and said hello to the animals.
My teepee was situated in the rear section of the ranch. There were about 4 teepees lined up next to each other. And....the teepees were exactly what you'd expect. You have to crawl to get inside them. And you have a hanging cloth "as your door" to enter and exit. No frills whatsoever. I had no issues falling asleep at night. It was peaceful.
They have BBQ pits to cook food. Also nearby were cabins for those who prefer a little more of a homely setting.
There was a porter potty right next to the group of teepees. But....you can walk down a dirt path beside the buffalo pen and eventually come upon men's and women's shared bathrooms, toilets and sinks.
The walk to this outhouse/shack is a simple 10 minute stroll. In case anyone cares, the shower worked fine w/ plenty of running hot water. The toilets were normal, lol... and the sinks ran just fine.
Btw, they do provide lanterns in case you come here after dark and need lighting as you walk to the outhouses.
The staff offer home cooked breakfast in the morning. It was mentioned how delicious their breakfasts were. Unfortunately I had to be awake early for my flight home, so I never made it to breakfast.
Overall...I was genuinely happy I chose to stay here at the Lonesome Dove Guest Ranch. After finishing my final day at Glacier.....coming here, relaxing during sunset, taking in the fresh air, hanging out with the animals and immersing myself in the outdoorsy woods of this place made for a special finale towards my trip.
For me (who's a straightforward person), I'm so grateful I had the chance to stay in such a unique setting along with sleeping in a teepee for the first time. I highly recommend to folks out there who don't need luxury, to absolutely come here and visit. It's a worthwhile experience. read more