
Planning your visit to Holland Peak Ranch this Summer?
Recommendations & Insider Tips
So, you have booked your dates…now the excitement begins! We know that there is a lot of planning to do and that you may have many questions. We have put together some great recommendations and inside tips to make your visit as perfect as possible.
Getting Here
We are located in the Swan Valley in Northwest Montana, halfway between two commercial airports, Missoula (MSO) and Kalispell (FCA).
If you plan on extending your stay to include a trip to Glacier National Park, pick Kalispell as it is the closer airport.
The top airlines servicing these airports include Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, United and Allegiant. Definitely check both airports to confirm the best prices and flights from your departing city.
Insider Tip: Try to schedule your flights to arrive by early afternoon to maximize your first day with us. Remember, check in is 3 p.m.! Arriving during the day not only allows you to enjoy a beautiful scenic drive from either airport, your hosts, Jim and Stacey are waiting to personally greet you and give you a quick tour of the Ranch.
If your flight comes in later in the evening, we recommend coming in the evening before and reserving a hotel room close to the airport. For the reasons mentioned above along to our secluded, natural location, it is safer to drive to during the day as the highways are not well lit and animals are on the move after dusk.
Getting Around
Try to reserve your rental car as soon as possible, especially during the peak seasons when desired cars, especially SUV’s and minivans become scarce. We definitely recommend reserving a larger vehicle as opposed to a smaller one, remember, you are in Big Sky Country! The highways here are very well maintained but can be quite dark at night.
What should I Pack?
It is all about comfort!
Suggestions include comfortable hiking clothing and shoes (hiking boots are preferable to tennis shoes), a small backpack, hats, riding boots if you plan on horseback riding, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug repellant, bathing suits and water shoes for water sports. The nights can be cool so don’t forget your favorite sweater or jacket.
Insider Tip: A Go-Pro or any waterproof camera is a must to capture all of your amazing adventures!
What should I plan to do on the Ranch?
It is all about you…
We want to ensure that maximize your experiences and will work closely with you to customize all of your adventures!
Horseback Riding
Your hosts, Jim and Stacey have a true passion for horses and would be happy to share their horsemanship skills. Whether giving you your first lesson inside the riding arena or guiding you on a trail on the ranch, they can customize the perfect adventure for you.
Mountain Biking
Grab one of the complimentary mountain bikes and helmet and seek out the crystal streams, stone explore one of many on-ranch roads or evergreen lined trails, crystal streams and stone bridges.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Lace up your shoes and explore the 1,000+ acres at the Ranch. The Ranch is also in close proximity to some spectacular hiking trails, most notably:
Holland Lake and Falls: Located on the opposite side of the highway from The Holland Peak Ranch, this 3.3 relatively easy hike is perfect for all skill levels. Follow the shoreline of the lake on the majority of this trail until the last ¼ mile of increasing rocky terrain. At the top, you will receiveyour reward, Holland Falls along with stunning views of the crystal blue lake and snow-capped mountains.
Morrell Falls: Just on the outskirts of the town of Seeley Lake, this popular 5.4 mile relatively easy hike with moderate incline has spectacular views of the Swan Mountains along with a 90-foot double waterfall.
Water Activities
Swimming
Feel like Tom Sawyer and jump in the property’s private swimming hole or jump off the dock into Lake Michelle.
Tubing
Grab a complimentary inner tube and take a float down a private stretch of the Swan River on the property.
Paddle Boards
We have complimentary Paddle Boards for your use during your stay.
Fly Fishing
Grab a complimentary fly-fishing rod and head out to the dock on Lake Michelle or on the stretch of river to meet your host, Jimmy for a lesson on the technique and tips to catch your first fish.
For the avid fisherman, we would be happy to recommend and assist you in making reservations on day trips to fish on the famous Blackfoot River.
Wildlife Viewing
Guests will have access to complimentary binoculars to view all of the birds and animals that call the Holland Peak Ranch their home.
Insider Tip: Take the complimentary all-terrain vehicle out around sunset, near the pastures. You are apt to see deer, elk and quite possibly, a bear!
Dining
Concierge Kitchen Stocking Services
Why worry about grocery shopping when you arrive?
Let us stock your kitchen with your detailed list as a courtesy, only be charged for the items. With the limitation of grocery stores and restaurants in the area, we are happy to provide this concierge service. We will send you an order form along with a credit card authorization form for you to fill out prior to your arrival.
Chef Services
For those who wish to hire a private chef for their stay, speak with our General Manager, Jimmy for more information. If you plan on bringing a Vacation Chef, we will work with them regarding information and suggestions needed to maximize your enjoyable stay.
Most importantly, we are here to answer any questions that you may have, give recommendations and offer any additional information to ensure your stay here at the Holland Peak Ranch.
