In 1950, a Hollywood Western-style motel was built in Billings, promptly earning a reputation as a unique place to stay in the city. The Dude Rancher Lodge has since earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, and it's as charming as ever... in fact, it seems as if some guests never leave. The Dude Rancher is rumored to be haunted, and the stories are pretty compelling.
The Dude Rancher Lodge is located on North 29th Street in Billings, where it has remained for nearly 70 years. The lodge was constructed by Annabel and Percival Goan in 1950.
When owner Percival Goan died in a car accident in 1962, his wife, Annabel, ran things until her health declined. The hotel staff cared for her until she passed away in a nursing home in 1983… and that's when the paranormal activity began.
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Since Annabel’s death, strange phenomena have been reported at the Dude Rancher Lodge quite frequently.
Employees report seeing dark shapes flying along a maintenance corridor in the basement, and both employees and guests have claimed that Annabel’s ghost is helpful, often unlocking stuck doors or finding missing items.
Sometimes, you might notice lights turning on and off at will. You may even hear a knock at the door, only to find that no one is on the other side.
Once, a mysterious female voice was even caught on tape in the basement of the hotel by the Montana Paranormal Research Society. Rooms 223 and 224 see a high level of paranormal activity; however, it is room 226 that is said to be the most haunted, as it once belonged to Annabel’s grandson, who took over managing the hotel after her death.
Believe it or not, Annabel isn't the only spirit who seems to be enjoying the afterlife here.
The sounds of children's voices and laughter can be heard echoing down empty hallways. And, in 2013, an employee named Andrea Williams began to see the ghost of a man in a blue shirt. The man, who would walk down the hall to the kitchen and disappear, is most likely Bob, a former cook at the motel restaurant who loved to make late night snacks.
So, is Dude Rancher Lodge haunted, or do its guests and employees simply have creative imaginations?
There's only one way to find out, and the motel staff would love to host you.
Address: 415 North 29th Street, Billings, MT, 59101
Book your stay at the Dude Rancher Lodge here, if you dare. And while you're getting spooked in Billings, make sure you take the time to dine at some of these delicious restaurants.
Montanans know how precious the lands that make up our beautiful Wild West truly are. Our state offers some of the most majestic and seemingly untouched terrain, both in the western mountains and across the rolling hills of its eastern prairies; Montana truly lives up to the Big Sky Country label. If you are looking for a truly unique experience as a woman — one that you can share with your closest female compadres — you'll be delighted by this luxurious ranch resort offering the best Wild West experience in Montana.
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An undeniable allure draws people to the sprawling wilderness that can be found only in Montana. One ranch offers a true immersion into this wild world: Mountain Sky Guest Ranch in the small community of Emigrant.
Gather around the campfire with your best girlfriends as you embark on the getaway of a lifetime offered at this luxurious ranch. Horse lovers, this is the adventure for you.
Since its opening in 1929, Mountain Sky Guest Ranch has maintained its status as one of the top-rated luxurious ranch resorts in the country.
This beautiful ranch is situated on 17,000 acres of unspoiled landscape within Gallatin National Forest. It boasts breathtaking mountain views in all directions.
The ranch offers a selection of Wild West packages, but the Wild West Women Adventure provides adult women ages 21 and up with an opportunity to explore the land in the way of the cowgirl. Saddle up, pick your horse, and get to riding!
But first, let's talk lodging. There are a variety of rustic cabin options of all sizes, starting as small as the one-bedroom Pony Cabin shown here, and upwards to 3-bedroom cabins, or you can alternatively stay at the main lodge.
Regardless of which lodging option you and your girlfriends select, you'll be treated to luxurious comfort, plentiful amenities, fine dining, and unlimited outdoor recreation.
Shown here is the beautiful master bedroom of the Tower duplex cabin. Clearly, comfort is the name of the game at Mountain Sky Guest Ranch.
During your girls-only getaway, you'll be treated to daily trail rides, various unique horsemanship activities, and educational interactive demonstrations.
The herb and dijon-crusted rack of lamb is a favorite among guests with its mustard spaetzle, broccolini, and minted yogurt. It's enough to get your mouth watering just looking at it!
You'll have ample opportunity to hike and explore the endless natural beauty that is found in Gallatin National Forest. Yellowstone National Park is only a short drive away and is sure to be one of the most memorable aspects of your adventure package. Speaking from experience, Yellowstone is by far my favorite national park in the country. Seeing the wildlife and watching the geysers erupt is an otherworldly experience you cannot miss.
There are three sets of dates listed for the Wild West Women Adventure in 2025, so be sure to inquire and reserve your spot quickly before they sell out. The experience starts at a rate of $3,250 per person, which includes five nights of lodging, meals, a tour of Yellowstone National Park, on-ranch activities (horseback riding, golf, guided hiking, yoga, archery, and fly fishing instruction), as well as airport transportation. Rates also include the use of all ranch facilities and amenities, such as the heated pool, hot tub, grotto, steam room, sauna, and tennis court.
Check out the video below for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the immersive Wild West experience you'll find at Mountain Sky Guest Ranch:
When it comes to Wild West experiences in Montana, you'll be hard-pressed to find one as authentic and transformative as that offered at Mountain Sky Guest Ranch. That said, I highly recommend you check out these ranches in Montana that offer truly unique experiences that will make you fall in love with the beauty of the Treasure State all over again.
Lastly, be sure to reference our Ultimate Hiking Packing List so that you come prepared for all the outdoor adventuring your Montana getaway will provide.
Need to get away? Life can be hectic, and sometimes it’s nice to slow down and reconnect with nature. You’re in luck if you live in (or near) Montana - this state is full of comfortable cabins and beautiful lodges perfect for your next vacation. From luxurious getaways to remote retreats and everything in between, here are some of the best cabins in Montana for every budget!
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Affordable Cabins in Montana
Looking for an affordable getaway in the Treasure State? From rustic cabins to backcountry log cabins, you have lots of options! Below are some affordable cabins in Montana that offer R&R... without costing an arm and a leg!
Those who enjoy time on the water will appreciate that this cabin is just four miles from Lake Koocanusa. The cabin sits near the Canadian border and offers access to all the fun of Rexford including hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, snowmobiling and more. Be sure to plan a few nights enjoying the fire pit with stories after a long day exploring Glacier National Park. The rustic setting it perfect for those who want to get away from the everyday, but still want to know they can enjoy the best of Montana.
You’ll be surprised at just how affordable this large, but cozy cottage is when you see it. Bright and airy with plenty of room to spread out, visitors will enjoy two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a space to relax. This is a great option for a small family or friends. Be sure to spend some time enjoying the cottage, but the nearby outdoor activities cannot be beat.
Luxury Cabins in Montana
On the other end of the spectrum, sometimes, you just want to treat yourself. You've earned it! When you want to treat yourself to a luxurious getaway surrounded by nature, you'll find these luxury cabins in Montana have everything you could ever dream of... and more!
Size: This 3,500-square-foot cabin has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, with the opportunity to rent the adjoining two-bedroom, one-bathroom guest house.
Price: $2,939/night.
Amenities: Glorious Great Room, concierge amenities available, fully stocked bar, massive rec room, chef's kitchen, lush master bedroom, private hot tub, and access to six bicycles, two closed kayaks, hammocks, yoga mats, a large fire pit, and even a "private island" with a picnic table.
For the vacation of a lifetime, retreat to this Luxury Cabin in Glacier National Park. A massive Great Room and cozy library are perfect for lounging indoors, while outdoor amenities such as a hot tub, private porch, lake access, and more make this the getaway of a lifetime in one of the most beautiful places in Montana!
Size: This luxurious cabin has four bedrooms and two bathrooms and sleeps up to eight guests.
Price: $546/night.
Amenities: This amazing river views, a hot tub, fully-stocked, high-end kitchen, large family-style dining table, and Jacuzzi tub in the master bathroom.
Riverfront Retreat is a well-appointed luxury cabin just minutes from Glacier National Park. With lux amenities and jaw-dropping views, this is the kind of cabin you go to really enjoy the wilds of the Treasure State... in the lap of luxury!
Size: This luxurious cabin has four bedrooms and four baths.
Price: $700/night.
Amenities: California King bed, mountain views throughout, heated tile floors, and more.
Ratings: 5/5.
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Romantic Cabins in Montana
There's nothing more romantic than a cabin getaway in Big Sky Country. Here are the most romantic cabins in Montana that set the stage for an unforgettable escape with your special someone!
This beautifully remodeled log cabin sits on 80 acres, with river access and wildlife galore, it can offer several unique reasons to stay in Seeley Lake!
Cabin on Rock Creek is the perfect place to "get away from it all" with your special someone. With a remote location and cozy features like a luxurious outdoor hot tub, this is the place to go for true R&R in the Treasure State!
Size: This cozy cabin has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Price: $275/night.
Amenities: This cabin has an open floor plan with a private patio and bathtub.
Ratings: 4.98/5.
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Secluded Cabins in Montana
Looking to get away from it all? You're in the right state! Big Sky Country is full of remote and secluded areas that are perfect places to escape for a while. Here are some secluded cabins in Montana that offer true R&R!
Size: This cabin has two bedrooms and one bathroom.
Price: $500/night.
Amenities: This cabin has a fully-equipped kitchen, dining area, living area with wood burning stove, and large deck with BBQ, picnic table, and reclining deck chairs, and amazing game room.
The biggest selling point of this Lake McDonald Cabin is, hands down, the views. Enjoy stunning panoramas from the deck of this very rare to find private cabin actually located on the shores of Lake McDonald inside Glacier National Park. Watch for wildlife to pass by as you sip your coffee on the deck as the sun comes up. Spend your days exploring or relaxing in one of the most beautiful National Parks in the United States!
Size: This rustic cabin has one bedroom and one bathroom and sleeps up to four.
Price: $132/night.
Amenities: This cabin has a remote location, full kitchen, lovely deck/patio, and is family and pet friendly. It is a dry cabin, however, there is a portable toilet on the premises.
Ratings: 4.7/5.
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If you're looking for a remote and quiet escape in the wilds of Big Sky Country, look no further than The Holmestead in Frenchtown! Family and pet friendly, this dry cabin (meaning no running water) is a true escape that will have you reveling in the beauty of our state. The cabin is impossibly charming inside, with a wood-burning fireplace, cozy bedding, and lots of warm wood features.
Cabins in Montana with Hot Tub
There's nothing a soak in a hot tub can't cure, and these cabin rentals prove it! Soak up the splendid scenery of our state when you book a getaway at one of these cabins in Montana with a hot tub.
With its location directly on the Clark Fork River, this large cabin is a nature lover’s paradise. Sweeping views of the area make it beautiful any time of year. Inside, the space is rustic and updated with plenty of space to spread out. There are two bedrooms, but the game room also has sleeping options. Enjoy the day outdoors, then come back and relax around the fire pit before heading directly into the outdoor hot tub.
Those looking for an escape from the everyday will enjoy this small cabin with the most incredible surroundings. The studio sleeps four people, making it ideal for a small family or a couple. The Bridger Mountains and the Gallatin Range can be seen from the front porch. While the views are incredible, there’s a good chance you’ll spend a lot of your time in other areas. There’s so much to do and see nearby, that coming back to your hot tub will be a welcoming treat!
We love this unique home nestled in the forest near Flathead Lake. With sleeping for four people, this is a great place for a friends’ getaway or a small family vacation. The huge ceilings allow the giant windows to let in plenty of light. If you prefer to enjoy your time outside, head out onto the large deck for your morning coffee to take in the forest views and those of Flathead Lake. The full and open kitchen is great for community cooking, too.
Well, there you have it: some of the very best cabins in Montana! Would you book your stay in one of these amazing accommodations? Share your thoughts with us!
