Flathead Lake Lodge

Flathead Lake Lodge

Montana’s premier dude ranch for families, adventure, and unplugged fun

Episode 92 – The Family Vacationer with Rob and Danny

Imagine waking up to the mountains of Montana and spending your days horseback riding, mountain biking, or sailing on a lake bigger than Manhattan. This week, we’re spotlighting Flathead Lake Lodge, a family-owned dude ranch nestled on 2,000 wild and beautiful acres with Flathead Lake as its backyard. Whether you’re new to the dude ranch concept or have always dreamed of going, this all-inclusive experience blends outdoor adventure, family connection, and rustic luxury like no other.

Joining us is Chase Averill, third-generation general manager of Flathead Lake Lodge, who shares what makes this Montana gem the perfect family destination.

🎙️ In this episode:

• What a dude ranch actually is—and how it differs from a resort
• How Flathead Lake Lodge blends horseback trail riding with lakefront activities like sailing and watersports
• Dozens of onsite activities including:
• Archery and 3D shooting courses
• Laser tag in a custom-built five-acre outdoor field
• Guided hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and more
• Evening barn dances, firetruck rides, and cookouts with steak dinners under the stars
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• Kid-focused freedom: children form friendships and roam the ranch safely while parents actually relax
• Why families often return year after year—and how 70% of guests are repeat visitors

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for families with kids ages 5+

• Ages 6 and up can participate in horseback riding
• Tweens and teens can explore independently and unplug
• Programs are flexible—families can do activities together or let kids join their own age groups

🏕️ What to expect from your stay:

• All-inclusive means lodging, meals, recreation, bar access, daily laundry, and airport transfers are all covered
• The ranch hosts around 120 guests per week, allowing for a social vacation that can still feel private
• Guests stay for a full week (Sunday to Sunday), with June–August being prime family season
• Reservations often book a year in advance, with returning guests given first dibs

🧭 Insider tips from Chase:

• Don’t overplan—treat it like a home, not a theme park
• The learning curve for first-time families is real, but you’ll want to come back once you figure it out
• There’s no pressure to do it all, but plenty of room to try something new each day
• Evenings are where the magic happens—with group events that bring families together in unforgettable ways

✈️ Getting there:

• Closest airport: FCA – Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, MT (30 minutes away)
• Complimentary transfers available
• Only one mile from the charming western town of Bigfork, Montana

📍 For more info or to book your stay:

Visit FlatheadLakeLodge.com