"Ranch Activities"
Fishing
Trout fishing in this part of the "Blue Ribbon" Gallatin River drainage is full of adventure and never-to-be-forgotten thrills. A wide variety of streams and rivers, as well as a private trout pond on the ranch, awaits your fly. We are within driving distance of the Gallatin, Madison and Yellowstone Rivers. We have a fly-fishing guide on the ranch, at no extra cost, to help with your fishing needs and instruction. We also have licenses and flies for sale right at the ranch. Loaner equipment is available. Weekly fly-casting lessons at the trout pond will entice you to fish our local waters.
Horseback Riding
The trail rides into deep, timbered forests or in grassy meadows with incredible views are experiences you will long remember. The Kelsey family raises and trains their herd of 120 Appaloosa horses personally, so they know each horse’s temperament and stamina in the mountains. Western riding instruction is every Monday morning and additional assistance is available throughout the week. We offer two two-hour rides per day for all levels of riders. We also have two all -day rides during the week for the intermediate to advanced riders. We also offer a weekly overnight pack trip, the cargo ship of the high ridges, for riders ages 13 and up. This ride takes you into the high country where you camp near a mountain lake or stream. We hope this will whet your appetite for a longer trip under the stars, as we also offer extended pack trips in late summer to the Taylor- Hilgard Wilderness Area and the National Forest surrounding the ranch, as well as Yellowstone National Park. We have a Gymkhana (games on horseback) on Saturday morning so you can show off your newly- acquired riding skills.
Other Activities
What child doesn’t want to play games and share activities with their parents while also being able to spend time with newfound friends? We have a weekly softball game for all to participate in. The hay ride is always popular with everyone, and the Gymkhana (games on horseback) is a great way for parents and children to show their horseback skills. The square dance takes place at the end of the week and is the highlight for all. Everyone loves to dance, and some may be shy, but NOT here. We all kick up our heels for a good time!
What to Bring
Below are a few items that Nine Quarter Circle suggests that you bring along during your stay. Please note: Cowboy boots are required for horseback riding.
- Clothes of wool or cotton
- Blue jeans
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Riding breeches
- Sweaters
- Rain parka
- Leather gloves
- Bandana
- Casual Wear
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Camera
- Fly-fishing equipment, if you currently own it
Off-site Activities
Yellowstone Park: We'll pack you a lunch and an easy 110-mile "lower loop" day trip will allow you to see many of the most-popular sites.
Rafting: Two local raft companies are available to take you on a scenic day raft trip down the Gallatin River.
Montana Whitewater: 1-800-799-4465 | Website
Geyser Whitewater: 1-800-914-9031 | Website
Fishing: Here’s your chance to enjoy the "Magic Circle" which includes the headwaters of the Missouri. The Gallatin and Yellowstone rivers are within close proximity and the Madison and Henry’s Fork of the Snake just a bit further. For a guided trip contact:
Gallatin Riverguides: (888) 707-1505 | Website
East Slope Anglers: 1-888-Fly-Fysh (1-888-359-3974) | Website
Museum of the Rockies (Bozeman): A premier museum with many excellent displays covering a variety of interests including Dinosaurs, American Indian Culture and Northern Rocky Mountain History. 406.994.DINO (3466) | Website
