Truth time: some of the best meals I’ve ever had were at a guest ranch tucked into the Bitterroot Mountains of Montana. The dining experience at Triple Creek Ranch was one comprised of culinary delights that you’d expect to find in a city, as opposed to the quiet mountains of Montana.

Located a short drive southwest of Darby, Triple Creek Ranch isn’t a typical ranch getaway. It’s comprised of beautiful log cabins, an outdoor pool, mountain meadows and trails that are ideal for horseback riding. Oh and in 2014 it was named the #1 hotel in the world by the readers of Travel + Leisure.

The entrance to the main lodge at Triple Creek Ranch.
The entrance to the main lodge at Triple Creek Ranch.

During the two days and nights I spent at Triple Creek Ranch, one of the elements that impressed me was how comfortable it was. Of course, you’d expect to be comfortable at any place with the word “ranch” in its name, but there was something extra special about Triple Creek Ranch. Maybe it was the elk that came to fill their tummies in the mountain meadows or the lush green landscape that seemed to surround the property no matter where I looked. Perhaps it was the extra attention to details made by their staff that had me (and my traveling partners) feel so welcome and comfortable. Or maybe it was the palate pleasing culinary delights that left me looking forward to the next meal and seeing what the chef would whip up. (Sidenote: Chef Jacob introduces a new dinner menu every night using fresh ingredients he has on hand. Um, hello deliciousness). More than likely, it was the effortless combination of all of those that left me with a big Montana crush on Triple Creek.

Welcome bags and handwritten notes greeted us in our cabin.
Welcome bags and handwritten notes greeted us in our cabin.
I LOVED the outdoor pool. I'd say it has one of the most beautiful pool settings in all of Montana.
I LOVED the outdoor pool. I’d say it has one of the most beautiful settings in all of Montana.
I spent a lot of time at this pasture. The reason: the brand new colt that made its debut two days before my arrival.
I spent a lot of time at this pasture. The reason: the brand new colt that made its debut two days before my arrival.
Hey baby.
Hey baby.
The bartender whipped up huckleberry cocktails. Rumor has it they were TASTY.
Unwinding with handmade huckleberry cocktails in the rooftop lounge. 
My favorite: the huckleberry lemonade.
My favorite: the huckleberry lemonade.
I loved my cozy room!
I loved my cozy room!
Yum.
Yum.
One of my favorite moments was at breakfast. I was trying to decide between the pancake and french toast and the waitress said "Get both!" I listened to her.
One of my favorite moments was at breakfast. I was trying to decide between the pancake and french toast and the waitress said “Get both!” I listened to her.

The ranch also offers a variety of activities both on- and off-property. My favorites included mining for sapphires and the on-ranch trail ride.

Mining for sapphires.
Mining for sapphires.
My buddy Ruger.
My buddy Ruger.
Upon our return to the cabin, we had these framed photos from our ride.
Upon our return to the cabin, we had these framed photos from our ride.
Taking in the view.
Taking in the view.

Needless to say, it was the best two days.

And if you’re planning a trip to Triple Creek Ranch, here’s a few things to keep in mind:
-The ranch is open year-round and is an adults-only getaway. All guests must be at least 16 years old to stay at the ranch.
-Throughout the year, the ranch offers signature and holiday events that include vitner, women’s adventures, fly-fishing and cowboy school getaways.
-If you’re coming to Triple Creek, be sure to spend some time in nearby Darby. I recommend a stop to see Jimmy at Double H Hat Company, check out Bandit Brewing and Old West Antiques Gallery & Candy Store.

xo,
TT

July 24, 2015

Related: Guest Ranch, Summer Fun

Comments

Hugh Naylor III
Interesting place. What are the best times to visit for wildflowers and wildlife viewing?
Jayne Anthony
This looks like a fantasy come true! I hope to do a camping trip that way this October and will see if the $$$ will stretch. What a paradise! This would be perfect for a 63rd birthday ... I'm still learning and adding experiences.

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