Ever wondered what a morning at Skyline Guest Ranch looks like? Let us take you on a journey through the sights, sounds, and moments that make it unforgettable.
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The first hints of daylight begin to creep over the peaks of the Beartooth Mountains, painting the sky in soft hues. By 5:30 a.m., alarm clocks chime as our wranglers roll out of bed. The first wrangler steps into the crisp morning air, greeted by the sight of horses waiting peacefully in the hay corral. Still blanketed by the night’s chill, the horses breathe softly, their warm breaths forming faint clouds in the cool dawn.
The meadow below the barn is a scene from a postcard. The wildflowers carpet the grass, while the creek winds its way gently along the treeline. The air is filled with the earthy aroma of pine. Sunshine illuminates the daisy patch. A mare and her foal graze peacefully, their silhouettes softened by the morning mist. It’s the kind of serenity that makes you stop and breathe deeply, filling your lungs with the sweet mountain air.
As the sun begins to climb, its rays gently kissing the landscape, the day’s work unfolds. The horses, eager and curious, are led into the barn. Next comes their favorite part of the morning: oats! With noses buried in the feed boxes, their tails swish contentedly. Meanwhile, the wranglers give each horse a thorough brushing, inspecting their coats and hooves with care. Saddles are fastened with practiced ease, and soon the horses are ready for the day’s journey.
Out by the hitching post, the horses stand tied, their ears flicking back and forth, their eyes glowing with the warmth of the sunlight. Dogs Bella and Ace—wait patiently at the beginning of the trail, eager not to be left behind on any rides. Rugar on the other hand is perfectly content laying on the front porch, more interested in relaxing and a potential snack from the kitchen. Meanwhile, the trailer is loaded with the horses heading into Yellowstone, where renowned fishing streams and sweeping meadows await.
In the lodge, the kitchen hums with life as the guides dash in for a quick bite of breakfast. The aroma of warm rhubarb coffee cake and homemade cinnamon rolls fills the air, paired perfectly with the savory sizzle of crispy bacon and eggs fresh off the griddle. The smell of freshly brewed coffee fills the lodge and laughter is shared between quick bites of food. With plates cleared and hats adjusted, they’re off. Some climb into the truck bound for the trails of Yellowstone where the park’s wild splendor awaits. Others swing right into their saddles and head straight for the forest, climbing to the alpine vistas of the rugged and untamed Beartooth Wilderness.
The day has officially begun, and whether it leads to mountain lakes or meandering rivers, it promises to be unforgettable. Mornings at Skyline Guest Ranch aren’t merely the start of the day—they are the start of unmatched adventure!
Photos by Amanda Tonagel Photographer
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