Top Hotels in Idaho Ranches
Top Things to do in Idaho
10 Ranches in Idaho: Best hotel deals for 2023
A mixture of forested mountains, alpine peaks, wildflower meadows, deep river canyons, and high plains deserts, Idaho is a paradise for golf, skiing, fly fishing, and river rafting. Boise, the capital, is the state's largest city and airline hub. North of Boise are golf, lake, and ski resorts from McCall in the south to Sandpoint and Coeur D'Alene in the north. East of Boise are the ski slopes of Ketchum and Sun Valley. East of Sun Valley are Craters of the Moon National Monument, Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and the small town of Island Park just across the border from Yellowstone National Park. Boise's Basque Museum and Cultural Center reflects having the largest Basque population in the U.S. Reflecting Idaho's diverse heritage, near the Idaho Historical Museum in Boise's Julia Davis Park is the Idaho Black History Museum's chronicle of the slave York who served the Lewis & Clark Expedition. After a family visit to the Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey and an outdoor performance at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival, the next stop after Boise is likely to be Payette Lake in McCall or Sun Valley and Ketchum. About 100 miles north of Boise, past Cascade Lake, McCall takes you to the shores of Payette Lake. Go golfing, fishing, hiking, biking, waterskiing, sailing, boating, or whitewater river rafting. Ski or snowshoe Brundage Mountain or Tamarack Resorts, as well as Ponderosa State Park in winter. Ice skate year-round at Manchester Ice & Event Centre. About 450 miles north of Boise, there are resort lakes near skiing and golf at Coeur d'Alene, Hayden Lake, and Sandpoint. Golf, tennis, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, rafting, and hunting are popular in Sun Valley and Ketchum. Sockeye salmon may no longer do much spawning in Redfish Lake, but the boating and mountain scenery in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area make the short trip north to Stanley worthwhile. When the snows come the whole family will head for the slopes of Soldier Mountain, Bald Mountain, Dollar Mountain, or the Sun Valley Resort. A tiny forested town of about 250 people, Island Park has a large reservoir with fishing and boating, as well as Henry's Fork of the Snake River for fly fishing. It's only 15 miles from Yellowstone as well.
Things to do in Idaho
1. Moose Creek Ranch
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 214 reviews
Go Glamping Jackson Hole style at the base of Teton Pass.Escape to the heart of the Tetons at a boutique ranch in a stunning mountain valley with Moose Creek burbling happily by. Whether you're establishing a basecamp for Teton or Yellowstone adventures or looking for a beautiful gathering place for your wedding, event, or family reunion, you'll love our quintessentially Jackson Hole location in summer or winter alike.Enjoy horseback rides on site and immediate access to the endless summer activities from hiking to whitewater rafting for which Jackson Hole is revered. Or come in the winter for a skier's paradise equidistant from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Grand Targhee with cross-country ski trails off your deck.Discover our wonderful cabins, lodge and ranch house at this perfect travel destination, near Jackson Hole Wyoming.
Fabulous place to unwind and relax!
Reviewed By atljeannesI can't say enough good things about Moose Creek Ranch. We stayed here for two nights while visiting Grand Teton NP, and while it was a bit of a drive, including going over the Teton Pass, it was so worth it! We stayed in one of the twin cabins, and it was fantastic! The beds were very comfortable, the bathroom was well-appointed, the towels and sheets were high quality, and the kitchen/den room was well-decorated and was equipped with everything you need. All of the staff was super friendly and welcoming, and the property is gorgeous. The nightly campfires and s'mores kits are a fun extra, and the next-door neighbor's dog Penny, who comes often for visits, is a wonderful addition to the experience. I will definitely stay here again if I'm in the area!
2. Red Horse Mountain Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 296 reviews
Idaho's Red Horse Mountain Ranch is known for its all-inclusive dude ranch vacations, including an extensive list of guided adventures, well appointed accommodations, first rate western hospitality, and a famous Kids Program for ages 3 and up. Located on 560 deeded acres, with over 300,000 acres of outfitter area, the ranch is a perfect location for a western dude ranch vacation. Full service, all-inclusive, week long dude ranch vacations are available from May through October for up to 60 guests.
Amazing Vacation
Reviewed By 102lindaoAbsolutely loved our trip. Ranch is amazing, spectacular views and lots of wildlife. From the moment we arrived their entire staff was friendly and welcoming. Lodge, restaurant and cabins are modern, clean and beautiful. Food was delicious and lots to choose from. The have something for everyone, vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian or any you need. Horses are happy and extremely well cared for. The riding is incredible. Lots of options to choose from. So many activities that you can be bus day and night if you’d like or just relax. Evening campfires, music, Dj, dancing, etc. We mer so many nice people. A group quickly formed and friends were made. We already booked for next year.
3. Mackay Bar Outfitters & Guest Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 89 reviews
One of the most unique getaways offered in the lower 48 states, Mackay Bar Outfitters provides top quality guided hunts, fishing trips and all-inclusive vacation packages, all in a beautiful back-country setting. We cater to large groups, families, or individuals who are seeking an adventure of a lifetime. The ranch is located along the banks of the famous "River of no Return" Salmon River and encompasses one of the largest outfitting units in Idaho. Nestled in the Frank Church Wilderness Area, guests can experience over 273,000 acres of road less adventure including 75 miles of the pristine main Salmon River.
Best trip ever on a jet boat!
Reviewed By 1600stanwWe had the best 3 day trip to Mackay Bar. Thank you Buck, Joni, Dax, and Taylor and the rest of the crew for the most exciting and enjoyable trip up the Salmon River. We loved all the stops along the river especially Buckskin Billy Museum, Polly Bemis Ranch, Shepp Ranch, James Ranch , China Bar, Campbell's Ferry. The hike to the Yew wood Grove was exhilarating! The hospitality and the food was that of a five-star restaurant.
4. Diamond D Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 101 reviews
The Diamond D Ranch is Idaho's premier all-inclusive guest ranch, nestled in the Frank Church Wilderness and surrounded by the Salmon River mountains. We offer several wonderful activities, including: horseback riding, fly-fishing, hiking, gold panning, swimming, and many evening festivities. After an exciting day at the ranch, many of our guests enjoy cracking a window at night and listening to the sounds of the bubbling stream and the wind in the trees from the comfort of their cabin.
Love It!!!
Reviewed By JBuzz22My family and I have been guests at the Diamond D on multiple occasions and are eagerly anticipating a return visit this July. This is a family owned & operated business and the owners have a "bend over backwards" attitude towards the guests and will do just about anything to ensure guests have the time of their life. Additionally, the staff feeds off the example of the owners and are friendly, easily approachable and always looking to please. The kitchen provides three hearty meals a day and the cooks go above and beyond to accommodate dietary requests (I am dairy and gluten free) , preferences, and/or just requests for "more" for those with big appetites. The activities vary by day and are well organized and fun for all ages as well as being scheduled around the twice daily horseback rides. The horses are very easy-going and the wranglers knowledgeable and patient even with those who are younger or who just don't have much experience riding. The fishing in both the lake and the streams is fantastic and the scenery is indescribable. The road in is an adventure but is just part of the experience and well worth it once you arrive at the ranch and are welcomed as though you are family or old friends. 98/100 existing reviews rate the Diamond D Ranch as "excellent" so don't just take my word for it. I'm sure you will not be disappointed!
5. Idaho Rocky Mountain Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 77 reviews
The living history of the Old West mingles with the solitude and peace of this 1000-acre ranch, offering freedom, breathtaking natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by the largest protected wilderness area in the "lower 48", guests will enjoy full days of outdoor adventures, our authentic lodge and cabins, delicious meals, rejuvenating natural hot springs pool, and plenty of relaxation time. The atmosphere is friendly and casual, and the view from the front porch –well, you just have to experience that for yourself.This 50-person guest ranch is an ideal homebase to enjoy one of America’s most majestic natural treasures, --- The Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The Sawtooth Mountains are an outdoor enthusiast’s wonderland, with miles of hiking and biking trails, scenic western horseback riding, and countless opportunities for fishing, rafting and exploring the pristine Salmon River.The Ranch property originally was part of Stanley Basin pioneer Dave Williams’ homestead. It was acquired in 1929 by New York Frigidaire executive Winston Paul, who began building the Idaho Rocky Mountain Club. A crew of 60 men, among them a blacksmith and stonemason, camped on the Ranch property in the fall of 1929 until they were forced to leave by severe winter weather. Construction began with the snaking of logs up Williams and Gold Creek to the Big Meadow chosen as the Lodge site. The crews returned the following spring to complete construction, and the Idaho Rocky Mountain Club opened that summer as an invitation-only guest facility.A hydroelectric plant, whose log structure housing still stands at the willowed bend in the pond, generated power for the IRMC providing the first electricity in the Sawtooth Valley. Several of the original power gauges can also still be found around the Ranch.
Very best family stay ever
Reviewed By danasP5449ESI brought our entire family here, all ages, for my 70th birthday. Of all the places we have traveled this is the best. Each family had their own cabin, the staff was excellent, activities every place were amazing. I was told about it by a friend that lives in Idaho. If you can visit do so. I would move in if I could
6. South Fork Inn and Grille
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 21 reviews
Welcome to the South Fork Inn and Grille, where it is our mission to provide you with a superior menu that is based on traditional Idaho and Wyoming fare served in an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. Your friendly staff here have many years of experience in the Hotel and Restaurant service and we can assure you that your complete satisfaction is what drives us to excel. In addition, we provide a variety of rooms with varying styles though a Rustic theme is maintained throughout. All rooms are cozy and offer additional furnishings along with Satellite Television, Air Conditioning, free Wi-Fi etc, everything, in fact, to allow you relax at the end of a day fly-fishing the World Famous Snake River, hiking, sight seeing or snow mobile riding around Swan Valley and Mount Baldy.
Nice spacious rooms
Reviewed By jsn0yI like the spacious room, 2 queen beds, big bath, microwave, small fridge and eating table with 4 chairs. The location is perfect for fishing the South Fork of the Snake. The WiFi was reasonably fast. I'd rather watch DirecTV than Dish though
7. Longhorn Guest Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 24 reviews
The Longhorn Guest Ranch is a working guest ranch, located in the scenic mountains of southwest Idaho. Reminiscent of the Old Wild West with a spectacular main lodge and 8 cozy, rustic cabins on 214 acres of gorgeous meadows and forests with direct access to miles of National Forest trails. Enjoy family-style hearty meals using ranch-raised organic meats and local produce, hot s’mores next to the campfire and a glass of wine on your private porch . The Longhorn Guest Ranch caters to groups for corporate retreats, rustic ranch weddings and family reunions. Enjoy the clean, crisp mountain air, unplug and reconnect with family and friends. Some of the activities that are offered during your event at the Longhorn Guest Ranch are: Hiking, Fishing, Archery and More. Also experience exciting white water rafting, world renowned fishing and endless outdoors activities within minutes of the ranch. Just 1 hour from Boise off the 55 hwy makes this an easy to get there, convenient location. The Longhorn Guest Ranch in High Valley Idaho is under new ownership & management and has undergone significant renovations! Rustic Ranch Weddings ~ the Longhorn Guest Ranch is the perfect location for a magical, memorable wedding! Our ceremony deck overlooks the picture perfect valley, private rooms for the bridal party and groomsmen to prepare, inside dining and dance hall or take it all outside under the stars... It's all up to you! Overnight accommodations including our honeymoon cabin plus 8 other cabins with our all-inclusive weekend package. Now booking 2023 dates!
AMAZING Scenery... Leave your stress behind!!!!
Reviewed By hamiltontravlerAs a self-proclaimed city-slicker, this girl didn't know what to expect. But I fell in love with the animals, the view and the serene atmosphere. If you want an amazing escape, you found it. The drive was pretty easy from the Boise airport and when you get there, you feel like you are in a different world. The staff is fun and attentive and I loved the overall feel of the ranch. To sit out by the campfire and star gaze while cattle roam in the pasture was surreal. This was my first visit, but it will NOT be my last...
8. Granite Creek Guest Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 12 reviews
Do you want to ride horses? Herd cattle? View fantastic landscapes? Eat wonderful ranch and dutch oven food around a fire? Enjoy a comfortable cabin with private bathrooms? Welcome to Granite Creek Guest Ranch, a family-owned working cattle ranch in eastern Idaho. We are only 2 hours south of West Yellowstone and 1 hour west of Jackson Hole. We offer 2-day, 3-day and weeklong stays, as well as overnight if that's all the time you have. Come visit us today!
Wonderful People!
Reviewed By emailtheberrysTook my wife and daughter for the horseback riding. The property is beautiful! Family owned business and everyone, including the patriarch Mother is so friendly and kind. The horseback riding was great. The young man that let the ride was so polite and attentive. We did not know about the cabins, if we had, we would have stayed. I hope people find this great place to get away for a while.
9. Diamond T Ranch
Overall Ratings
5 based on 20 reviews
Horse Camping or kayak, hiking, fishing...at it's finest!!
Reviewed By elizabethbuffyrHorse Camping at it's finest!! Went away for the weekend with a friend to discover new riding trails and fun! This is the destination for both. We stayed in my truck camper with the view of one of the two beautiful ponds. Full water and electricity hook-ups. Privacy and very comfortable. The horses were in their own ginormous pasture, tree lined with ample supply of fresh spring water and clean, weed-free grazing. We only supplemented their food with our own hay, since it was later in the summer and the grass was low. And the adjoining trails were challenging and fun. Water, hills, obstacles... all sorts of opportunity to enjoy! We could have just stayed in one of their 5 cabins along side another of their ponds. We were able to get a peek in a few and they were lovely. A basic log cabin, but in great shape. Our wonderfully gracious hosts, Brenda and Tom, were beyond accommodating. We are returning FOR SURE!!!
10. Elk Creek Ranch
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
Best food but facility needs vital repairs
Reviewed By Y9221VXpbThe food and staff could not be better nor more engaging. Good fishing from even lake shoreline. My problem is the owners aren't putting any $ into maintenance. Cabins are quaint but where are smoke detectors? Our cabin had a rainfall of water around the fireplace and electric wiring was not done by any skilled person. The apartment in the lodge does not meet fire codes in that it does not have required fire wall nor separate egress from the facility kitchen. Linen was torn and staff was unable to replace. Again its not the staff, they are 5 stars but this physical facility and out buildings do not meet minimum safety. Beware where you sleep. Quaint is not safety.
