As a winter wrangler and sleigh ride driver at 320 Ranch, I have the pleasure of immersing myself in the snow-capped Montana wilderness. With each sleigh ride, I get to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of nature and share it with our guests.

Daily tasks:

To ensure that our guests have the best possible experience, my first task each day is to groom the sleigh-ride trails. I use a groomer or snowmobile to make sure that the trails are smooth and free of any obstacles, providing our guests with a safe and enjoyable ride. It’s a crucial step in our operations and a top priority.  It also helps the team of Percheron draft horses travel easily over the fresh snow.

Once the trails are groomed, I begin my other duties as a winter wrangler. I restock cabins with firewood, ensuring that our guests stay cozy during the long Montana winter. I also plow the roads after it snows, making sure that our staff and guests can get around the ranch safely and easily.

Sleigh Ride:

Next, I harness up the horses and load up the sleighs. Our guests are always eager to experience the beauty of the winter landscape in the Gallatin Canyon, and I take pride in providing them with an unforgettable experience.

As I lead the sleighs over the trails, I’m always on the lookout for wildlife. Montana is home to a diverse range of creatures, including elk, deer, coyotes, and foxes. Our guests are always thrilled to see them in their natural habitat, and I do my best to spot them and point them out.  We’ve even seen river otters in the Gallatin River before. A fox sits in the snow outside McGill's Restaurant.

At the halfway point, we take a break to warm up with hot drinks and appetizers. It’s a chance to take in the stunning views and connect with each other. Many of our guests tell us that the break is one of their favorite parts of the experience.  And we stay warm from the wood stove in the wall tent or around the campfire.

When the ride is over, we return to the front desk.  The guests can continue on to dinner at McGill’s.  Our restaurant serves up delicious meals made from locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect way to end your day and savor the flavors of Montana.  As for the other wranglers and myself, we drive the empty sleighs back to the barn and make sure the horses are fed and ready for the night before clocking out for the day.

Join us!

At 320 Ranch, we’re committed to providing our guests with an unforgettable winter experience. That’s why we invite both guests staying at the ranch and members of the public to join us for a sleigh ride. Our sleigh rides are a great way to experience the beauty of the Montana wilderness and make lasting memories.

Whether you’re a local of Big Sky or a visitor, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Montana wilderness this winter. Book your Montana sleigh ride at 320 Ranch today and experience the magic of Montana firsthand.  Hope to see you soon!