Flat Creek Ranch

Wilderness dude ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where you can hike the mountains, ride the wilderness, fish a legendary trout stream and dine outrageously
Ethical-Escapes-Fall-Back-Image

.:

Flat Creek Ranch is a wilderness dude ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where you can hike the mountains, ride the wilderness, fish a legendary trout stream and dine outrageously. It’s a place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature, with cozy log cabins, wood-fired hot tubs and saunas, and a friendly staff who will make you feel like family. Flat Creek Ranch is tucked away in the Bridger-Teton National Forest and the Gros Ventre Wilderness Area, surrounded by stunning scenery of mountains, meadows, lakes and streams. It’s accessible only by a 15-mile jeep track across the National Elk Refuge, which adds to the sense of adventure and isolation. The nearest town is Jackson, about an hour’s drive away. The ranch has a history that dates back to the 1920s, when it was built by a countess and a cowboy. It has been lovingly restored and elegantly appointed, with antique clawfoot bathtubs, wood-burning stoves, flannel sheets and down comforters. The five log cabins are spacious and comfortable, each with a bedroom, a living room, a bathroom and a porch. The main lodge is where you’ll find the dining room, the library, the bar and the fireplace. The decor is rustic chic, with wood-panelled walls, leather sofas, cowhide rugs and Western art.

Sustainability

The ranch is committed to low-impact eco-tourism and environmental preservation. It uses solar power for electricity and hot water, composts organic waste, recycles glass and metal, and sources local and organic food whenever possible. It also supports conservation efforts in the area, such as the Jackson Hole Land Trust and the Wyoming Wildlife Federation. The ranch follows the Leave No Trace principles and encourages guests to do the same, such as staying on designated sites and trails, respecting wildlife and their habitats, and minimizing waste. The ranch also participates in the Jackson Hole Sustainability Code of Conduct, a community initiative that aims to protect the natural and cultural resources of the region.

The ranch is a family-owned and operated business that employs local people and contributes to the local economy. It also offers educational programs for guests and local schools on topics such as wildlife, ecology and history. The ranch fosters a sense of community among guests and staff, who share meals, stories and experiences together. The ranch is also a member of the RRR Business Leaders program, a voluntary recognition program that promotes reduce, reuse and recycle practices among businesses in Teton County. The ranch has achieved the Business Emerald Sustainability Tier (BEST) certification, which recognizes that it meets the standards for the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive environmental, social and economic sustainability criteria.

Rooms

There are five log cabins to choose from, each with its own charm and personality. They are named after local landmarks: Lake Cabin (the largest), Creek Cabin (the most secluded), Elk Cabin (the most romantic), Moose Cabin (the most family-friendly) and Eagle Cabin (the newest). All cabins have king or queen beds, wood-burning stoves, antique clawfoot bathtubs, porches with rocking chairs and views of the lake or the creek. They also have electric lights, fans and heaters powered by solar energy.

Food and drink

The food at Flat Creek Ranch is a highlight of any stay. The chef prepares three delicious meals a day using fresh ingredients from the ranch’s garden or nearby farms. The cuisine is hearty and healthy, with a touch of decadence. Think pancakes with homemade maple syrup for breakfast, grilled trout with roasted vegetables for lunch, and elk tenderloin with red wine sauce for dinner. Beer and wine are complimentary at cocktail hour and dinner. You can dine in the cozy lodge or on the deck overlooking the lake.

Things to do

There’s no shortage of things to do at Flat Creek Ranch. You can hike on one of the many trails that start from the ranch; ride on horseback through the wilderness; fish for trout in Flat Creek or Flat Creek Lake; kayak or paddleboard on the lake; or relax in one of the wood-fired hot tubs or saunas. You can also join guided tours with knowledgeable staff who can teach you about the flora, fauna and history of the area. In winter, you can snowshoe or cross-country ski on groomed trails; or go downhill skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

Wider region

Flat Creek Ranch is located in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. You can explore the nearby Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park, where you can see geysers, waterfalls, hot springs and wildlife. You can also visit the town of Jackson, where you can shop for souvenirs, art and cowboy gear; or enjoy some nightlife at the bars, restaurants and music venues.

Kids

Flat Creek Ranch is a great place for kids to have fun and learn about nature. They can join the Junior Wrangler Program, where they can learn how to ride, groom and care for horses. They can also enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking and wildlife watching with their parents or the staff. The ranch provides cribs, high chairs, games and books for younger children. The minimum age for staying at the ranch is 6 years old.

Getting there

The nearest airport is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), which is about an hour’s drive from the ranch. You can rent a car or arrange a transfer with the ranch. The last 15 miles of the drive are on a rough jeep track, which requires a high-clearance vehicle and some driving skills. The ranch can also pick you up from the end of the paved road and drive you to the ranch in their jeep. Alternatively, you can fly to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) and drive for about 5 hours to the ranch.

Ethical credentials:
  • Actively reduces consumption
  • Certification
  • Ecosystem preservation
  • Recycling
  • Solar powered or renewable energy
  • Employs local people
  • Promotes local businesses
  • Funds projects
  • Local or organic food
  • Education
  • Community conservation
Good for:
  • Nature
Setting:
  • Rural
Facilities:
  • Restaurant
Room capacity:
  • Up to 2
  • Up to 4
Suitable for:
  • Family
Type of property:
  • Lodge
Activities:
  • Hiking
  • Horseriding
  • Watersports
Tags: Family, Hiking, Horseriding, Nature and Rural

Price range: ££££
Website