Saddle Up in Style: Curated Stays in the American Mountain West

Montage Big Sky – Big Sky, Montana

Opened back in December 2021, this alpine retreat is a dream come true for ski enthusiasts, family gatherings or those simply wanting to disconnect in nature's beauty. Offering a ski-in, ski-out experience, the Montage sets the stage for an unforgettable stay with world-class amenities and a commitment to Western charm.

• Highlights:

• Ski-in, Ski-out Access: The Montage Big Sky is located at the base of Big Sky Resort, one of the largest ski areas in the United States. With Compass Sports onsite, you’ll be able to get fitted for the slopes while enjoying bubbles.

• Family-Friendly: The Montage Big Sky offers unique experiences for families, including Paintbox kids club, golf simulators, a bowling alley and game room. I was so impressed with the programming and activities on site, which is great if you aren’t a skier.

• Variety of accommodations: From a King Deluxe Peak View to multi-bedroom configurations, the Montage is well-set up for romantic getaways and big family gatherings.

• Insider tip: The indoor Spa Pool has family hours, so enjoy a splash session before heading out on an adventure. My toddler loved having the pool all to himself in the early morning. If you’re looking for an extra memorable stay, ask for the Residence that includes a ski room with lockers and a dedicated media room with a home theater system.

The Lodge at Blue Sky – Park City, Utah

Located just outside Park City, The Lodge at Blue Sky is an exclusive, mountain getaway that offers a refined yet intimate experience. Part of the Auberge Collection and known for its rustic elegance, this luxury lodge is set on a sprawling 3,500-acre property, allowing guests to enjoy privacy and natural beauty while being just a short drive from world-class ski slopes.

• Highlights:

• Unmatched Privacy: The Lodge offers a combination of luxurious rooms and private residences, each designed to blend with the surrounding nature while offering unparalleled comfort.

• Gracie’s Farm: Learn more about this one-of-a-kind horse-rescue sanctuary or explore regenerative agriculture with the female-led team. Visit the bees, goats and greenhouse, or get your hands dirty with the seasonal harvest.

• Customizable Experiences: The resort offers bespoke experiences tailored to your interests, like a private yurt dinner overlooking the mountains.

• Insider Tip: I took an easy hike directly from my room to the rustic Blue Sky Tavern, an original cabin dating back to the late 1800’s. Such a cool feature on property! Book a sunrise horseback ride and enjoy a rustic campfire breakfast in the secluded field adjacent to the Tavern.

Rawah Ranch - Glendevy, Colorado

Tucked away in the scenic Laramie River Valley, Rawah Ranch is a historic guest ranch offering an authentic Western experience paired with warm hospitality and timeless charm. Operating May through September, this all-inclusive, family-owned ranch invites guests to unplug and reconnect.

• Highlights:

• Western Living, Elevated: Rawah Ranch blends rustic comfort with thoughtful luxury across its cozy log cabins. Each stay includes gourmet meals, guided adventures and access to the ranch’s grounds along the Laramie River.

• Outdoor Adventures for All: With horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, archery and even hatchet throwing, there’s no shortage of fresh-air fun. The ranch offers daily activities with family-friendly options and more advanced outings for experienced wranglers.

• Intimate & Immersive: With a guest cap of around 30 people, the ranch offers an intimate experience where staff know your name, and communal meals feel like a family gathering.

• Insider Tip: For a picture-perfect start to your day, wake up early and have coffee in a rocking chair on your cabin’s porch — elk sightings are common in the morning mist.

Bonus Ranch: Cataloochee Ranch - Maggie Valley, North Carolina

Can’t make it out West? Set your sights on Cataloochee Ranch, a charming property perched at 5,000 feet on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This newly reimagined destination delivers Southern hospitality with high-altitude, mountain meadow views. Following an extensive renovation, this retreat reopened in 2024 with more amenities to come like an onsite spa and pool.

Insider tip: I stayed in the spacious Haywood cabin, one of their newest and largest two-bedroom cabins. Book this accommodation for gorgeous sunrise views on the back patio and close vicinity to Switchback, the property’s restaurant. Don’t forget to grab a vintage game like Connect Four from the Mercantile to play in front of the fireplace.