Wednesday, June 28, 2017

Day 12: 320 Ranch (Big Sky, Montana)

Picture a quiet place just north of Yellowstone Park, and just south of Big Sky Ski Resort, where the pristine Gallatin River winds through sage and towering pines, and mountains rise up all around you against crystal blue skies. That's where you'll find the 320 Guest Ranch. And it's where our kiddos discovered a bit of cowboy and old west for themselves.




Groups split into two as half saddled up horseback to tackle some winding, climbing trails, while the other half laced up their sneakers and boots to explore the same wildnerness on foot. The morning hikers found out very quickly the importance of sticking together on hikes as a wolf was spotted. Thankfully, bluetooth speakers and loud clapping helped secure a safe scenic trek. The horseback riders were guided through the forest trails by professional wranglers. They quickly learned their horse's names, how to steer, and how to stop. Some of the horses were talkative and feisty, making a few kids a bit timid, but the only comments heard once both groups finished was how absolutely "awesome" and "fun" the horseback riding experience turned out to be, even though the skies opened up, and the weather turned from picture perfect to thunderous and torrential. Some got soaked, some snuggled up, but they all found ways to relax with limited wifi! We took our annual GWT group picture, getting creative and working around the weather. 







Later in the evening, we walked down to The Point for a community BBQ. The entirety of 320 Guest Ranch has been treating us like family. This place really feels like visiting friends, rather than just a place to lay our heads. A few of the wranglers complimented our kiddos saying they just loved their southern manners and that they were a very well behaved group of teens. The kids continued their singing shenanigans down at the barbecue by serenading in unison with the guitarist of the tent to tunes like Brown-Eyed Girl, Big Green Tractor, and Wagon Wheel to name a few. Free time was given, before another storm rolled in, so the fire was stoked, the pigskin got thrown, hoops were shot, washers thrown and a small group even practiced their lassoing skills. The kids are finding the great outdoors to truly be just that; GREAT! :)














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