glamping® montana | The Last Best Blog

October 19, 2020June 30, 2023

the green o Brings the Outdoors In and the Indoors Out

Maybe you read “To Build a Fire” during middle school, the Jack London American classic about a man who falls asleep in the snow? Short story made shorter: It doesn’t end well, for the man or his dog. So if staying overnight inside a frigid Montana forest frightens you, that’s understandable. But let us put your mind at ease. This is a tale with a very happy plot.

Staying at the green o is the stuff of blissful dreams.

Imagine you’re snuggled inside an ultra-sleek snow globe, while powdery flakes fall all around you. Picture yourself watching winter’s night sky from your big, fluffy bed or nibbling on s’mores after an adventurous dogsledding ride.

Paws Up Ranch’s newest resort lets you luxuriate in nature 365 nights a year.

Starting in 2021, the green o will provide visitors the ultimate in wintry getaways with 12 secluded Haus accommodations. It’s a “new level of glamping®,” says Paws Up and the green o owner Laurence Lipson, and it offers guests exclusivity and privacy surrounded by beautiful swaying pines. “The juxtaposition of an architectural and design-forward property in a remote timberland setting really hasn’t been done in the U.S.,” Lipson continues. “When coupled with exceptional service, cuisine and full access to everything Paws Up has to offer, it’s truly a singular experience unmatched by any other property in the world.”

It’s an experience that includes access to hundreds of miles of trails perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing and a multitude of winter wilderness adventures like downhill tubing and ice skating.

For dining, guests at the green o have exclusive access to the Social Haus, a lounge, restaurant and bar in a unique, wooded setting. And because of the green o’s convenient location, guests can also choose to dine at any of Paws Up’s inspired restaurants and dining locations, as well as participate in all of Paws Up’s myriad events throughout the year.

Let’s close the book on any worries about overnight travel up here in the country’s northern reaches. A new chapter is about to begin, and you can be among its very first protagonists.

Introducing Our Very First Story Contest

Speaking of literature, we’ve been creating these splashy Adventure Journals for three years now. It’s been a labor of love, and we’d love to share that feeling with you. So far, we’ve written about everything from constellations in the night sky to trends in Western fashion and what goes into the perfect s’more.

Now it’s your turn.

Tell us what you’d like to read about in our 2021 Summer Adventure Journal. lf we choose your subject, we’ll send you a $100 Paws Up gift card, which you can use at The Resort during your next stay. And if you go ahead and write the story yourself, we’ll feature your name in the byline. Get brainstorming now!

Submit your ideas on or before December 1, 2020. Go to this webpage: go.pawsup.com/StoryContest2021 and fill out the form. We can’t wait to read over your great story ideas! See contest rules for details.

July 30, 2018July 30, 2018

Chef Sunny Jin’s S’mores in a Jar Recipe

If you haven’t heard, s’mores are a very big deal at Paws Up. In fact, renowned Pastry Chef Amanda Rockman from the South Congress Hotel in Austin, Texas, will be joining us as our resident S’moreologist for National S’mores Day (Friday, August 10) as part of her Campfire Chefs appearance (August 10–14, 2018). Executive Chef Sunny Jin is also a big s’mores fan. We sat down with Sunny to find out more about his love for s’mores. As a bonus, he also shared his fantastic recipe, S’mores in a Jar with Cardamom Graham Cracker, Ginger Marshmallow Buttercream and Bittersweet Chocolate Ganache.

1. What’s your favorite way to make s’mores?

I’m very much a traditionalist when it comes to s’mores. The slow rotisserie of the marshmallow off-center from a bed coals, the chocolate pre-melting on the graham cracker on a hot rock near the fire. It all matters. And, it all comes together for a moment that truly makes you forget everything else during that singular experience

2. What is your first s’mores memory?

The cultural shift from moving to the U.S. from South Korea at a young age opened me to so many firsts. So much was new to me, and my first s’mores was no exception. My new neighbor/friend invited me to a campout at their family farm. His dad oversaw the marshmallow roasting while his mom assembled the chocolate and graham crackers. I can still see my friend’s dad hand me the s’mores. It seems obvious what you are about to get, but you’re never prepared for that first bite as all your expectations are met and exceeded. Cheesy, but true.

3. Do you have any tips on making s’mores?

I can offer techniques till I’m blue in the face, but the only important rule is to have fun! S’mores are one of the most food-relatable definitions of friends and family. Enjoy your company and make your s’mores to your liking. Think of it this way—when was the last time you were in a bad mood making s’mores? Probably never.

4. Why are s’mores such an important dessert at Paws Up?

Paws Up is all about sharing moments with those who matter to us. I feel it genuinely on a peer-to-peer level with other team members and that respect for one another naturally filters to the guests we meet. Sharing s’mores is one of our favorite outlets for gathering our guests from around the globe to join us as we do it our own way in Montana.

5. Why do you think they taste better at Paws Up?

Our S’moreologists take their namesake seriously (well, as serious as you can get when you know you’re about to end up with sticky fingers and a big smile). We firmly believe in teaching alternative techniques along with the traditional methods to allow our S’moreologists in Training (the guests) another outlook to pass to their friends. Even the most burnt (sometimes intentionally) s’mores ever made was probably still enjoyable, or at the very least allowed a family to laugh with one another and share their own critiques.

S’mores in a Jar with Cardamom Graham Cracker, Ginger Marshmallow Buttercream and Bittersweet Chocolate Ganache

Makes 12–14 (4-ounce) jars

Ingredients

For the Graham Cracker:

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

3 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cardamom

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of sea salt

1/2 cup melted butter

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, cardamom, cinnamon and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Add melted butter and stir until evenly combined.
Remove the mixture from the bowl onto parchment paper. Roll to 1/4-inch thickness.
Place on a baking sheet and bake 5 to 7 minutes or until dry and golden brown. Set aside to cool. Break into desired shapes and sizes, depending on jar sizes.

Ingredients

For the Buttercream:

10 large marshmallows

3 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup softened butter

2 tablespoons skim milk

2 teaspoons vanilla paste (vanilla extract is a great substitution)

1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Directions

Melt the marshmallows in a large saucepan over low heat. Whisk in powdered sugar, butter, milk, vanilla and ginger until fully incorporated. Remove from heat; scoop the buttercream into a pastry bag. Set aside at room temperature.

Ingredients

For the Ganache:

1 cup heavy cream

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

Pinch of sea salt

Directions

In a medium-size saucepan bring the cream to a boil over medium heat. Remove from heat; add chocolate. Let mixture stand for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to begin to melt. Whisk until emulsified; add butter and sea salt. Continue stirring until the ganache becomes smooth. Scrape the ganache into a bowl and set aside.

To Assemble:

Scoop 1/2 cup of the graham cracker into each 4-ounce mason jar. Top with 1/4 cup ganache. Follow it with a good piping of marshmallow buttercream. Garnish with your favorite sweets, crumbled candy bars or even fruit. Make it your very own and enjoy!

February 7, 2018February 9, 2018

Make Your Memorial Day Plans Now

We’ve stoked the flames of anticipation for this year’s Montana Master Grillers event (May 25–28) with an all-new lineup of grilling greats. This year’s weekend-long event features maestros of the grill who have worked their fiery magic from deep in the heart of Texas to Boston’s Fenway Park. Each has a unique take on BBQ delights.

Join us as we fire up the grills with MMG veteran Chef Tim Byres, newcomers Chef Nicole Pederson and Chef Steve “Nookie” Postal as well as local Chef Burke Holmes from Missoula’s Notorious P.I.G. BBQ and Chef Pat Martin from Hugh-Baby’s BBQ & Burger Shop and Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint in Nashville, Tennessee. Besides their flame-kissed wonders, we’ll add a bevy of beverages from KettleHouse Brewing Company, Glacier Distilling Company and Wagner Family of Wine and nightly music by Dan Dubuque, Andrea Harsell & Luna Roja and the Lil Smokies making this one unforgettable Memorial Day weekend.

In true Paws Up style, our BBQ mastery will be served with healthy doses of stunning scenery, luxurious accommodations and wilderness adventures. May we recommend a few hours riding the range with the Garnet Mountains as your sidekick or rustling up some trout from the beautiful Blackfoot River?

Chef Tim Byres, named the Southwest 2012 Food & Wine magazine’s People’s Best New Chef, is the co-owner and chef of SMOKE, Chicken Scratch, The Foundry, Bar Belmont, Spork and SMOKE Plano. Originally from California but a longtime Texan, Byres is best known for his “live fire cookery,” worldly and approachable flavors and fun, family-style service.

Named Best Al Fresco Restaurant by Boston Magazine as well as Best Neighborhood Takeout Restaurant, Commonwealth is owned by Chef Steve “Nookie” Postal, a veteran chef of Cambridge’s Oleana and Casablanca restaurants. Commonwealth sits proudly in Boston’s vibrant Kendall Square. Fresh ingredients shine and take center stage via simple executions.

After learning secrets, techniques and recipes from world-famous pit masters in his native St. Louis, Missouri, Chef Burke Holmes brought the soul of true barbecue to Missoula, Montana. With such an authentic background, it’s no wonder Holmes’ Notorious P.I.G. BBQ was voted both Best BBQ and Best New Restaurant in Missoula. Always smoking meats over local cherrywood and applewood, Holmes typically applies his favorite rubs and sauces to everything from ribs and beef brisket to smoked cranberry-cayenne chicken wings.

Chef Nicole Pederson has an impressive pedigree in food. After culinary school in her hometown of Minneapolis, she gained valuable experience cooking in the south of France. Pederson also worked at Gramercy Tavern in New York and then headed to the Lula Cafe in Chicago, where she honed her passion for all things local. Pederson also held the post of Executive Chef at C-House.

Before becoming The Resort at Paws Up’s executive chef, Sunny Jin’s culinary journey took him around the world, cooking for some of the planet’s finest restaurants—Napa Valley’s French Laundry, Catalonia’s El Bulli and Australia’s Tetsuya’s. While his culinary skills have impressed discriminating palates globally, it’s the American Northwest where he feels most at home. His formative cooking skills developed in Portland, Oregon, at the Western Culinary Institute, where he won the coveted Grand Toque Award as the top culinary student.

November 1, 2017November 1, 2017

Give Your Thanksgiving Cook a Holiday

Give thanks and go off duty. At Paws Up, you can celebrate Thanksgiving by sitting down to a bountiful spread of locally sourced five-star cuisine. But you won’t have to lift a finger. Instead, you might raise a glass or two from Rombauer Vineyards. And forget cleanup duty; your after-dinner tasks will be s’more-tasting, movie-watching and memory-making. Of course, the feast itself is just one portion of a weekend stuffed with thrilling outdoor activities and cozy nights in.

Note: We have special pricing for Montana locals. Contact Paws Up to talk to our reservations on our live chat.

Schedule:

September 11, 2017September 17, 2017

Blackberry Smash Recipe

At The Resort at Paws Up there are countless ways to get outside and get active. But after all that horseback riding, ATV touring and hiking, there’s no better way to cool down than with a fresh cocktail. Our bartending team gets inspired by the local, seasonal ingredients and Montana-made spirits. This Blackberry Smash recipe is just one of our many favorite cocktails which we wanted to share with you so you can create a little slice of Paws Up at home.

Blackberry Smash

Ingredients

A handful of blackberries

The juice of half a lemon

3/4 oz thyme simple syrup

1 3/4 oz Willie’s Distillery’s Big Horn Bourbon

Club soda

Directions

Muddle blackberries, lemon juice and thyme simple syrup. Add ice and bourbon, and shake well. Strain into a Collins glass, ll with ice and top with soda. Garnish with blackberries and thyme sprig.

August 18, 2017June 30, 2023

Top 10 Personal Paws Up Faves

My Summer at Paws Up

by Cameron Gutierrez, Paws Up Intern

With all the beauty and adventure here at Paws Up, you may wonder what it’s like to work at the most gorgeous place in the United States. I’m lucky enough to have spent the summer interning here at The Resort. At the end of the summer, I’ll return to California State University in Chico, California, where I am a senior majoring in business administration. (Prior to enrolling in college, I spent six years in the military.) However, once I graduate, my fiancée and I plan to make Montana our permanent home. Paws Up and Montana truly are The Last Best Place. Here are my Top 10 favorite things about working as an intern at Paws Up.

Top 10 Personal Paws Up Faves

1. Paws Up is located in a beautiful part of western Montana. Even after two months of driving to work every day, I will never tire of the magnificent views on Highway 200.

2. The Resort is located on vast land that lends itself to deer and jackrabbit sightings, while hoping for an elusive bald eagle to soar above.

3. River Camp and Moonlight Camp are my two favorite glamping® camps. River Camp has a small private beach with an amazing view of the Blackfoot River, located just past the Dining Pavilion. Moonlight Camp, although secluded, has a phenomenal meadow view. Take a small hike down a dirt road, and you’ll find yourself at an access point to the Blackfoot River. The slow-moving water is perfect for a midday swim.

4. The opportunity to meet guests from all over the country and world is incredible.

5. Working in the Transportation Department (Bell Stand) opened my eyes to the inner workings of The Resort, as well as the hard work required to make the entire operation run smoothly.

6. Being a small part of guests’ experiences has been amazing, especially when I hear them talking about how much they enjoyed their time at Paws Up.

7. On my first day at Paws Up, I witnessed the birth of two beautiful baby deer, and I have been able to watch as they grow older each day.

8. A piece of the ranch’s history—and something I really love too—is located off Elk Creek Road, just beyond the pastures. The Morris Ranch House (built in the late 1800s) is beautiful on the outside as well as the inside. Located next to the front door is a picture of the Morris family when they lived in the house.

9. The pasture animals are a great addition to the Montana guest experience. I’ve seen so much unique wildlife here on a daily basis: cattle, horses, buffalo, Watusis and even a beefalo.

10. My time at Paws Up has given me a wonderful summer away from home, and working for The Resort reinforced my dream of living in Montana. I can’t wait to get back!

June 22, 2017June 22, 2017

Wilderness Workshops This Summer at The Resort at Paws Up

Most vacations, most folks just sit back and relax. But at Paws Up, we have a different attitude. We think, why not create spectacular music, learn to take magnificent photographs or find out what it takes to survive in the wild? Self-improvement? Yes. Boring? Never. With workshops taught by world-renowned experts, your instructor could be a celebrated artist like George Van Hook, a national champion horsewoman like Barbra Schulte or a tough-as-nails mountain man like Gary Steele. From art to music to equestrian activities, outdoor adventures and everything in between, Wilderness Workshops at Paws Up will inspire, educate and fascinate you and your kids all summer long. Pick your passion and take time to explore it—while surrounded by the scenery and nestled in the comforts of The Resort at Paws Up.

Gettin’ Primitive: June 20-23, July 23-29, August 3-9, 2017

Learn about the old ways from an honest-to-goodness mountain man—Paws Up’s resident outdoorsman Gary Steele. For four days at his self-built camp, you and your kids will get hands-on instruction in primitive skills like edible plant identification, fire making, knot tying, longbow archery, music making, orienteering, shelter building, storytelling, tomahawk throwing, tracking and woodsmanship.

Designed for families to come together in an environment that fosters confidence, curiosity, enthusiasm, responsibility and self-esteem, the Gettin’ Primitive workshop is sure to ignite your kids’ imagination. And be on the lookout for our resident mountain man at the Kids Corps of Discovery, around the luxury camps and on chuck wagon rides.

Drum Circle Madness: July 2-8, August 15-21, 2017

If a drum circle happens in our forest, you should make sure you’re around to hear it. We’re pleased to welcome Scott Besaw back to Paws Up for his annual event that turns even the most rhythmically challenged into stellar little drummer boys (or girls, or adults). Besaw hails from Chicago’s world-famous Old Town School of Folk Music and brings with him an infectious passion for all things music. It’s a hands-on (literally, no sticks required) course that teaches basic music principles as well as team building. Come learn how to truly march to the beat of your own drum.

Photography with Stuart Thurlkill

Sunset Photography: July 3, July 19 and August 1, 2017

Nature Walk Photography: July 8 and August 18, 2017

Picture this: the sun is making its final breathtaking appearance across the Montana landscape and, this time, you’ll have the skills to capture it with justice. This summer, let Paws Up Resort Photographer Stuart Thurlkill lead you on a wilderness walk as you learn how to capture that perfect photo. It’s a chance for you and your kids to gain a better understanding of light, composition and color, as well as a deeper appreciation for nature. You’ll see the world through a different lens, and head home with a collection of photographs to cherish your time in Big Sky Country.

Brushes With Greatness: July 10-17, 2017

Renowned American painter George Van Hook honed his artistic skill the old-fashioned way. As a young man, he visited the Louvre and traveled through France, Italy and Holland to study and be inspired by the masters. Now, for more than 35 years, this award-winning artist has painted and exhibited on three continents. He has also helped beginner and experienced painters alike improve their techniques and discover new talents. Van Hook will conduct this “plein air” watercolor workshop in a variety of eye-popping settings throughout The Resort. Go ahead, learn from a true pro and take in the unforgettable surroundings at the same time.

Block Printing and Mosaics: July 17-21, 2017

Channel your inner artist at this Paws Up Wilderness Workshop with Artist in Residency Jill Schulman as she teaches adults and children the art of block carving and printing, as well as mosaic making. Schulman is a renowned sculptor and ceramic artist who is passionate about teaching her craft to others. No previous experience is required to take part in the workshop—just a willingness to think outside the “block.”

Paint ‘N’ Pour: July 22, 2017

There’s nothing like a little wine to wake up your inner Picasso, Renoir or Van Gogh. So allow us to pour you a glass while the talented Linds Sanders instructs you on the finer points of painting in a hands-on art session designed for all skill levels. Sanders will join guests at Paws Up throughout the summer as part of the popular Paint ’n’ Pour Wilderness Workshop. With step-by-step guidance in a fun and friendly atmosphere, you’ll be creating your own personal masterpiece in no time. All you have to do is show up with an open mind—the canvases, paint, wine and laughter are all provided.

Starry Night Photography: August 11-14, 2017

Get to know acclaimed ranch-life photographer and Cowgirl Hall of Fame honoree Barbara Van Cleve while taking part in a unique and captivating photography workshop. Known for her spectacular nighttime imagery, Van Cleve will instruct workshop participants on how to capture vivid, dreamy photographs under a starry, moonlit sky. With more than 50 solo photography exhibits to her name and a lifetime of experience in the West and on ranches, she’ll show you new ways of visualizing, conceptualizing and capturing the images you want to share with the world. You might also run into her on a trail ride or around a campfire.

Champion Horsemanship: August 11-14, 2017

Take your horsemanship skills up a notch with instruction from the real deal, National Cowgirl Hall of Fame honoree Barbara Schulte. With an emphasis on mental toughness, she’s helped elite riders all over the country reach their full potential. Here, with her guidance, you’ll focus on control as you wind through obstacle courses along scenic trails, and you’ll practice your aim on horseback with water-gun mounted shooting. Class sizes are small, and you’ll have ample opportunity to get to know this horse-riding legend. It’s a fun and exciting way to learn just what it takes to be an authentic champion cowboy or cowgirl.

June 15, 2017June 15, 2017

3 Summer Picnics Worth Traveling For

It may come as no surprise, but Montana’s culinary resources are as outsized as the landscape itself. Which means, when you take part in a Montana Long Table at The Resort at Paws Up you’re in for an ever-loving foodie kind of evening. Of course, that only partly explains why these events are so popular. There’s also the single, long table set up in a beautiful spot with sweeping views of the ranch and first-rate live music, often from acclaimed local artists.This summer Paws Up is offering three incredible Long Table Events where guests will come face-to-face with an abundant supply of foods and the artisans behind them as well as get to know them by name, hear their stories and have the opportunity to show appreciation for all their hard work.

Artisanal Picnic: June 17, 2017

When was the last time you dined outdoors on artistically prepared fried chicken, sausage garnished with foie gras and hand-cut duck fat fries? This year’s first Montana Long Table is a picnic like none you’ve ever seen. We’re bringing together three of the country’s most talented chefs: the masterminds behind Chicago’s Honey Butter Fried Chicken and cult food icon Doug Sohn of Hot Doug’s. And when it’s time to sit down and dine, you’ll be joined by the very ranchers, farmers and food artisans responsible for the food in front of you.

Note: This event is open to locals.

A Long-Standing Tradition: July 15, 2017

This July, pull up a seat as we celebrate the local food traditions of Montana. It’s a farm-to-white-tablecloth experience, starting with an authentic farmers market featuring local ranchers, farmers and food artisans as well as music from Montana’s own Dan Dubuque. Next, you’ll sit down to an exquisite dinner created by Paws Up Executive Chef Ben Jones. His close relationships with area purveyors always makes for a truly inspired menu. But don’t take our word for it—instead, take advantage of the unique opportunity to dine alongside the very people who made your meal possible. We hope you’ll join us as we pay tribute to all the incredible culinary resources Montana has to offer.

Note: This event is open to locals.

Bounty on the Blackfoot: August 19, 2017

This August, take a tour through Montana’s vast culinary traditions with one of the country’s most celebrated chefs as your guide. Join 2017 Bravo Top Chef winner Brooke Williamson as she creates a true farm-to-table tasting menu before your very eyes. She’ll visit the Missoula farmers market to select peak-season ingredients, then masterfully turn them into a one-of-a-kind dinner. By evening, you’ll sit down to dine on the banks of the legendary Blackfoot River with the local purveyors who helped make your meal possible.

December 20, 2016December 20, 2016

39 Posts on The Resort at Paws Up from 2016

2016 was a big year at The Resort at Paws Up, and we want to share with you 35 media posts that recap the best of the past year. 2017 is going to be even better! For starters, this will be the first year we are open 365 days. We will be introducing a brand new glamping site—North Bank—scheduled to open in June; new culinary events such as Eat Drink and Meet Merry, WildFlavor, AdrenZen, long table events and Smoke & Around the Fire; additional activities and much more, so stay tuned. But first, take a stroll down memory lane as you relive some of our events and accolades from 2016.

10 Affordable Wellness Vacations for 2017 via U.S. News and World Report

Montana Grandeur at Paws Up in Mountain Living Magazine

15 City-Inspired Thanksgiving Menus from Local Chefs via Elle Decor

8 Great Christmas Getaways for Families via The Travel Channel

6 Reasons to Visit the Resort at Paws Up This Winter via Paws Up

12 White Christmas Ideas on Conde Nast Traveler

Five Magical Resorts and Hotels in Which to Spend the Holidays via Huffington Post

5 Fabulous Resorts to Host Your Family Thanksgiving via Community Table Parade Magazine

10 Trips Fun that are Truly Fun for the Whole Family via Town & Country

Q & A with Resort at Paws Up Chef Ben Jones via The Missoulian

I Vacationed Like Gwyneth Paltrow—And It’s Not What I Expected at All via Marie Claire

The World’s Most Remote Resorts via Fodor’s Travel

Paws Up via Gal Meets Glam

The Most Luxurious Glamping Honeymoons in Bridal Guide

America’s Best Wilderness Resort is Now A Year-Round Affair via Insidehook

10 Luxury Dude Ranches Worth Ditching Your Beach Vacation for via U.S. News and World Report

Cattle Drives, Whiskey Shots with Cowboys, and Gold Rush Massages at Paws Up in Montana via Forbes

The Best Honeymoon Locations in America via Country Living

National S’mores Day: Ways to Celebrate via Uproxx

5 Best Summer Spa Views via Spafinder

Best Luxury Kid-Friendly Hotels in the U.S via Conde Nast Traveler

Urban Cowgirl via Southbay Magazine

Where to Glamp in the National Parks via Simplemost

10 Luxe Camping Retreats to Check Out this Summer via Jetsetter

5 Riverside Getaways for Active Families via Dallas News

From California to Maine, The Best Hotels for Fall Foliage via Food and Wine

100 Best Places to have Sex via Men’s Journal

5 Great Rivers for Adventure, History and Beauty via Seattle Times

8 Glamping Sites Across the U.S via Real Simple

Resorts Where You can Channel Your Inner Chef via Bravo TV

Best Luxe Glamping Ranches in the USA via Departures

Amazing Vacation Destinations that Guarantee BIG Thrills via Red Tricycle

7 Stunning Place to Elope This Summer via About Travel

9 Beautiful Places to go Glamping in America via Elle Decor

7 Best Glamping Spots for Summer via Allure

Paws Up on Hey, Miss Carter

Best Glamping Spots for Fall via Allure

The Lowdown on Paws Up via Passported

Be Luxury: Go Glamping the Final Days of Summer via Black Enterprise

September 12, 2016June 30, 2023

10 Fun Facts about Paws Up

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

7. THE MORRIS RANCH HOUSE

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

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.

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.

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.