10 Things Fans Love about The Resort at Paws Up

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Last week on our Facebook page, we asked fans what they love about our ranch. Whether you have had the opportunity to visit our 37,000-acre ranch or not, there are many things to love—come see for yourself, and let us know what you adore about Paws Up. We have the perfect opportunity for you to schedule a trip, too: We are thrilled to announce that this is the first year the ranch is open 365 days a year! Read on for 10 things fans love about The Resort at Paws Up.

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Guest from Atlanta Watching the sun rise through the trees over a blanket of fresh snow. The outdoor hot tub while it’s snowing, the food, the snowmobile tour through the ghost town. My list could go on and on!

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Guest from California: It’s not just the natural beauty, which is stunning, but also the way you have of making me feel like you’ve just been holding your breath waiting for me to arrive! You made everything so special. From the horseback riding to the couples massage to a visit from Santa. Christmas in Montana at Paws Up was nothing short of magical!

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Guest from Washington: The people! We just got back this week, and everybody was so nice. The scenery was beautiful and the resort is unbelievable, but the staff made it such an amazing experience!

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Guest from Oklahoma: The relaxing experience at the riverside camps. From the time we got up in the mornings to drink the awaiting hot coffee and watch the mist coming off the river until sunset with a glass of wine while watching deer come down for a refreshing drink of river water, it was the most relaxed we’ve been in a very long time!

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Colorado Fan: We haven’t officially met in person. It looks like the best of the West, from horseback riding to dinners on the hillside, fly fishing, activities for kids and spa treatments. And don’t get me started on those glamping® tents, especially the ones right on the river that boast one amazing Montana backdrop. I would love to meet you, Paws Up—and bring my children, too!

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North Carolina Fan: Well I’ve daydreamed about it and envisioned its serene beauty from the photos posted and shared by the lucky ones who have made it their destination—I will wait for my time.

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Guest from Nevada: I love the setting of The Resort at Paws Up because it’s in the middle of nature at its best. Whether it’s taking a horseback ride, the Ropes Course, dinner on the lawn or a spa experience, it’s blended perfectly so that you can enjoy the beauty of nature and the experience of what you are doing!

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Guest from Texas Do you have a year? It’s beautiful, looks so relaxing and peaceful. I could go on and on and on!

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Guest from California My favorite memory was having huckleberry oatmeal by the fire each morning. Four years later, and we still order huckleberries.

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Pirnie Art Showroom We love Paws Up because they capture the generous spirit of Montana! Thank you for your incredible donation to the local University of Montana Rodeo Team. (So many of our clients rave about the relaxation and luxury they enjoy while at Paws Up!)

An Insiders Look at our Head Wrangler Dustin Call

Dustin Call Wrangler Paws Up

Dustin Call has been riding horses since he was four years old. He grew up riding at his family’s home in Wallburg, North Carolina, and became a member of the United States Pony Club at a young age. Call eventually “fell into the cowboy way” in college, switching to Western saddle riding and even holding down a summer job at a Wild West theme park as a stunt performer. After college, Call knew he wanted to become a professional horseman, so he headed west and became enamored with the cowboy way of life. After landing a job at a ranch in Colorado, Call was able to dedicate his life to caring for and riding horses, as well as educating and leading others in their own horsemanship. Call came to Paws Up as Horse Manager in 2015. He is the leader of Paws Up’s outstanding equestrian program, where he continues to share his love of horses with visitors to the ranch and “anyone with a sense of adventure and an open mind.”

dustin call wrangler paws up1. What’s your favorite thing about working at Paws Up?

Helping to connect people with horses! It’s really at the core of what I love about this resort. I think horses are the most amazing creatures and are truly good for people in so many ways, and here I get to help people rediscover that relationship, or find it for the first time.

2. How is the equestrian experience different at Paws Up than at other ranch destinations?

Our flexibility. For one, we have an amazing array of trails and different times you can ride, anywhere from early morning to chasing the sunset, so no matter what your schedule or vacation style is, we can find a time and a place for you to ride. We also have horses and programs that can engage anyone, from first-time riders to those who ride on a regular basis and have horses of their own. 

3. What’s your favorite thing Chef Ben cooks up on the ranch?

The Gnarly Burger! He serves it at breakfast, but I could eat it three meals a day. Talk about stick-to-your-ribs good!

4. What music are you currently listening to?

Hayseed Dixie! Give ’em a try—they’re a good time.

5. If you could ride horses with one famous person, who would it be?

Buck Brannaman, my favorite horseman. You can never stop learning with horses, and he has an amazing amount of knowledge and insight to share. Or Viggo Mortensen—he’s the coolest.

6. When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?

An astrophysicist, then an architect, then an actor, then an archaeologist. I’ve covered a lot of ground…

7. What is your second-favorite activity at the ranch? (We know horseback riding is first!)

White water rafting! I own my own boat, but I’m nowhere near as good a captain as our guides are.

8. Besides horseback, what is your favorite method of transportation?

My two feet. I love to hike and run and explore. I’ve hiked most of our trails as well.

9. We know you love all of the horses at Paws Up, but which one edges out the others and why?

My go-to good buddy is Ink. He’s an amazing little ranch horse who I can really get a job done with, whether it’s checking miles of fence on our own, roping a cow, bringing in our horse herd in the morning or leading a trail ride. When I first got to the resort he had some serious problems we had to work through, and that journey together makes his reliability and kindness now that much more rewarding. He’s a very good friend of mine.

10. How do horses inspire you?

The thing that inspires me most about a horse is his capacity for forgiveness. What you need to know about a “bad” horse is that—99 percent of the time—whatever he is doing that you wish he wouldn’t, somebody taught him that. But if you treat him right, he’ll trust and love you as deeply as a child. I strive to have that strength in my life, and I think everyone could use at least a little in theirs!

11. What advice do you give to someone who has never been on a horse before? RELAX! This is good advice for any new adventure, but especially true with horses. Our horses are trained extensively to be safe and considerate to novice riders, so there’s no need to worry. The horses want nothing more than to please you, and a relaxed, happy rider is the best reward you can give them.

12. What are some of the funniest moments you’ve witnessed between guests and horses?

Oh boy … too many to count. Kids and horses are always a good bet for hilarity, especially a 6-year-old riding a 1,600-pound draft horse cross! Cattle drives are usually a pretty good time as well. There’s nothing like watching successful, mature adults screaming at cows.The Resort at Paws Up

10 Fun Facts about Paws Up

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The Resort at Paws Up combines luxury with unforgettable adventure on a 37,000-acre ranch— that’s more than 60 square miles—featuring untamed Montana wilderness steeped in Lewis & Clark history. Situated on 10 miles of riverfront on the legendary Blackfoot River (of A River Runs Through It), The Resort at Paws Up opened in June 2005. There’s so much to learn about our incredible ranch (and many exciting new things happening in 2017, so stay tuned). Here are 10 fun facts about The Resort at Paws Up, and we hope to see you very soon!

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1. ADVENTURE

Paws Up boasts more than 120 miles of designated hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding trails and ATV courses. Outdoor adventures include fly- fishing, cattle driving, rock rappelling, whitewater rafting, bird and wildlife watching and sporting clays shooting.

Winter activities include sleigh rides, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating, dogsledding and downhill skiing nearby.

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2. THE NAME “PAWS UP”

“Paws Up” came from a family friend who thought that when dogs are happy, they jump up and show their paws. Hence the saying “Paws Up.”

3. LOCATION

The Resort at Paws Up may feel like it’s a million miles away from the everyday, but it is easier to get to than you might think. Missoula International Airport features a number of major airlines and direct, daily flights. The Resort is located just 35 miles from the airport.

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4. MOUNTAIN RANGES

According to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names, there are at least 100 named mountain ranges and sub ranges in Montana. However, mountain ranges have no official boundaries.

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5. BULL BARN

The Bull Barn is a 75-year-old building that was used to house the black angus bulls of Paws Up. In 2011, it was renovated as a world-class conference center and special events hall.

6. SADDLE CLUB

The Saddle Club is one of Montana’s premier equestrian centers. The largest privately owned in the state, the 72,000-square-foot Saddle Club boasts a 23,000-square-foot riding arena.

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7. THE MORRIS RANCH HOUSE

Built in 1908, this historic home sits next to Elk Creek. The home was acquired during the original homestead.

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8. WILDERNESS ESTATES

Ideal for larger families, multigenerational travelers or groups, the 10 “WEs,” as we call them, each sleep eight guests. The homes are named after the Lewis & Clark expedition.

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9. MOONLIGHT CAMP

Moonlight Camp is situated at the foot of Lewis & Clark’s famous Lookout Rock and just 100 yards from the mighty Blackfoot River. All tents are named after notorious outlaws. When this camp originally opened in 2005, this camp was called Tent City and featured three tents, a tented pavilion, a picnic table and a grill. The bathrooms were housed in two small trailers. The original Tent City was just a test to see if anyone would really want to camp in luxury and to see if the glamping® idea took off! The following year, three more tents were added and a proper pavilion and bathhouse were built. It was renamed Moonlight Camp.

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10. CLIFFSIDE CAMP

Opened in 2013, Cliffside Camp is set atop a majestic cliff that overlooks the Blackfoot River. Each tent is decorated with a chandelier and named after famous cliffs in Montana. This camp also contains two honeymoon tents with copper claw- foot tubs.

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Join The Resort at Paws Up to Help Montana Pets in Need

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The Resort at Paws Up is opening up its ranch for the eighth time to benefit homeless animals and help the Humane Society of Western Montana maintain its 98% adoption rate. The annual Canine Classic at The Resort at Paws Up, a trail run/hike/walk for you and your dog, will take place on Sunday, September 25, 2016. Participants will zip through a course on the trail system of the beautiful private grounds of The Resort in Greenough, Montana. Hikers and runners can choose from a 2-, 5- or 13-mile hike or run.

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All proceeds raised from the Canine Classic will go straight to the shelter to help with the care of animals. This year’s fundraising goal is $50,000. The funds will help with operational costs, including dog and cat food, vaccinations and daily care for each pet until adoption. Since its inception, the Canine Classic has raised more than $200,000 for the society.

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Participants who choose to fundraise will earn one raffle ticket for each $270 they raise ($270 covers intake costs for one animal at the Humane Society). The winner of the race raffle will win a one-night stay for two at Paws Up, including dinner at The Resort’s award-winning restaurant, Pomp®. This year, the person who raises the most pledges for the shelter will win a two-night glamping® getaway at Paws Up.

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“The Canine Classic is truly the quintessential event for pets and their people in Western Montana,” said Emily Adamson, Director of Organizational Advancement for the Humane Society. “From the breathtaking scenery at Paws Up, to the pet-friendly environment and great Montana hospitality, participants get to experience the best of Montana with woman’s best friend.”

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To register and/or sign up to collect pledges, visit https://runsignup.com/canineclassic or call 406-549-3934 (ext. 206). You’ll enjoy a hike or run followed by a complimentary gourmet BBQ lunch and beverages. Participants can also register an hour before the event at the race site. Several shelter dogs will be available to accompany you on your run or walk if you don’t have a dog. Those interested in running or walking with a shelter dog should call the Humane Society prior to the event.

The Resort at Paws Up in Montana

Wine & Bitch Dinner

On Saturday, September 24, 2016, Paws Up will host its annual Wine & Bitch Dinner for Canine Classic participants and their pets. Hosted by The Resort’s Nadine Lipson and her trusty sidekick, Fenway, this unique event offers you and your pooch the chance to bond, relax and enjoy the finer things in life—together. Guests will be able to stroll through a pet expo featuring dog massage therapists, a photo booth and agility demonstrations. Later, a gourmet feast created by Paws Up Executive Chef Ben Jones will be served, complete with fine wine pairings, decadent desserts and scrumptious treats to slide under the table. After the dinner and after the Canine Classic, guests can enjoy music and art by Walter Salas-Humara of the legendary New York band the Silos.

For more information, visit www.pawsup.com.

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Where to Spend Thanksgiving This Year

PAWS UP THANKSGIVING

Kick off the holiday season with something beyond spectacular—a family trip to The Resort at Paws Up. It’s the first Thanksgiving celebration at Paws Up, and we’re planning generous portions of fun activities and excursions. From a petting zoo with pony rides and family game nights to owl watching, hayrides and concerts, plus football and parade watching, there are plenty of options to satisfy everyone’s tastes. Don’t forget we have horseback riding, ATV rides, paintball, archery, hiking, biking, spa town and so much more.

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Of course, we haven’t forgotten the Thanksgiving feast. You and your loved ones will sit down to dine on one sumptuous meal after another filled with locally sourced holiday favorites. We often say our world-renowned executive chef is a culinary artist. You can count on every last bite to be delicious. Giving thanks will surely come easily at The Resort at Paws Up.

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THANKSGIVING SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTS

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

  • Cookie decorating in homes
  • Petting zoo visits and pony rides
  • Lighter, leaner lunch options available
  • Game night in the Bull Barn
  • Fireside s’mores on The Yard at the Cook Shack

Thursday, November 24, 2016

  • Extended breakfast hours
  • Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade watching in the Village
  • NFL game watching with snacks in Tank
  • Petting zoo visits and pony rides
  • Owl Prowl bird watching excursion to Jones’ Pond
  • Hayrides through the Wilderness Estates
  • Lighter, leaner lunch options available
  • Thanksgiving Day Festival with apple bobbing, sack races, archery and more on The Yard at the Cook Shack
  • A grand and glittering Thanksgiving Dinner at Pomp or a private feast delivered to your home and whisked away afterwards
  • Cookie decorating awards ceremony
  • Family movie night and wildlife presentation in the Bull Barn
  • Fireside s’mores on The Yard at the Cook Shack

Friday, November 25, 2016

  • Resort tour, with visits to the Morris Ranch House, Blackfoot River Lodge, Elk Creek and Cliffside Camp
  • Petting zoo visits and pony rides
  • Hayrides through the Wilderness Estates
  • Lighter, leaner lunch options available
  • Black Friday sale at the Wilderness Outpost
  • Happy hour and whiskey tasting and demonstration with the Rattlesnake Creek Distillery
  • A special dessert menu including pumpkin pie flambé, an ice cream station with toppings such as flambéed cherries, Bananas Foster and house-made goat cheese pumpkin cheesecake
  • Pajama party and movie night in the Great Angus Hall
  • Live musical performance from the Beargrass Bluegrass Band in Tank
  • Fireside s’mores on The Yard at the Cook Shack

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Saturday, November 26, 2016

  • Resort tour, with visits to the Morris Ranch House, Blackfoot River Lodge, Elk Creek and Cliffside Camp
  • Petting zoo visits and pony rides
  • Owl Prowl bird watching excursion to Jones’ Pond
  • Kids crafts and photo center family fun projects
  • Lighter, leaner lunch options available
  • Sale at the Wilderness Outpost
  • Happy hour and hard cider tasting and demonstration with Brewmaster Lee McAlpine at the Wilderness Outpost
  • Mini Rodeo at the Equestrian Center
  • Appetizers and cocktails in the Saddle Club
  • Show in the Arena
  • Campfire music jamboree and s’mores on The Yard at the Cook Shack

The Resort at Paws Up bathrooms

Sunday, November 27, 2016

  • NFL game watching with snacks in Tank (Lighter, leaner lunch options available)
  • Family movie night in the Bull Barn

Note: All Thanksgiving weekend activities, apart from dining and shopping, are complimentary. Space is limited. Reserve early. For delivery of an in-home Thanksgiving feast, please provide advance notice 48 hours prior to desired delivery.

Call Concierge Services at 406-244-7333 to make your plans now.

PAWS UP THANKSGIVING BY THE FIRE