Suggested Clothing and Equipment List

Clothing

*Hiking boots
**Riding boots (hard heel/sole)
Sneakers/water sandals
Rain gear
Windbreaker
Warm layers (e.g. wool sweater, fleece, down vest, etc)
Long pants
Long sleeved shirts
Shorts/T-shirts/Bathing suit
Hiking socks (preferably wool)
Long underwear (wool or poly pro)
Warm hat/gloves
Hat w/brim

Equipment

*Day pack
*Water bottle
Binoculars
Sun block
Sun glasses
Camera, film, spare batteries
Field notebook
Pencil
Lip balm/protection
Insect repellent
Pocketknife
Hand lens
Bandana
Field guides
Flashlight

Montana Weather can vary dramatically in the summer with temperatures ranging from the upper 40's to the 90's (Fahrenheit) day or night. It can go from bright sun, to gusty wind, to rain or snow within the course of a single day. In the spring and fall, the weather is particularly fickle and snow is a real possibility. So, plan accordingly! The trick for dressing here is to layer your clothing so that you can add or remove layers as the weather changes. Keep it comfortable, casual and don't forget your bathing suit as well as a wool hat and gloves!

Rain gear
Rain gear is a must.

Water bottle
Our climate is very dry and drinking lots of water is very important, so have your own water bottle with you in the field. In keeping with our dedication to sustainability, we don't supply bottled water -- plus the water from our well is great!

* These items are essential if you are attending one of our workshops, but even if you don't, there is a lot of hiking nearby in steep or mountainous terrain. If you plan to hike, a good pair of hiking boots with high-traction soles and good ankle support is highly recommended for both mobility and safety.

** Riding boots -- If you plan to ride a horse, you need to wear riding boots (boots with a 1" heel and hard, smooth sole). Please do not feel you must buy riding boots if you don't have them. We have boots available in many different sizes that you may borrow while you are here. Please note that if you are attending a workshop, riding is not part of the itinerary but can be arranged on an individual basis.

Check the weather in Choteau: NOAA National Weather Service

Laundry
You are welcome to use the ranch laundry facility but please check with the housekeepers first.

Facilities and Services

Gift Store
We have a small gift store on the ranch where you can buy stamps, postcards, field guides, t-shirts, books and other gifts. We do not sell toiletries, film or batteries so please bring these items—especially extra film.

Liquor
We do not have a liquor license but you are more than welcome to bring your own and store it in the lodge or your room. The vans will stop at a grocery store in Choteau before getting to the ranch if you wish to buy specialty items. (They sell beer and wine.)

Fishing
If you plan on fishing while you are here, don’t forget to buy a fishing license in Choteau before you get to the ranch.