Frequently Asked Questions

Ranch Facts:

	Flathead Lake Lodge accommodates 120 guests in log lodges and 20 cottages
	Our season runs from May to October 15.
	Conference/Group season is May & June and September & October.
	Averill's Ranch is a 2,000 acre ranch on the east shore of Flathead Lake in Bigfork, Montana.
	Our Stage Stop Store, located at the ranch specializes in western ranch wear and unique western gifts.
	The Averill family established the Flathead Lake Lodge as a working dude ranch in 1945.
	Glacier National Park is a beautiful, 45 minute drive from the ranch.
	Averill's Ranch has a staff of 60.
	Flathead Lake is 386 feet deep and ranges from 68 to 72 degrees in the summer season.

2. What should I bring?

Dress at a dude ranch is casual/western.  We suggest you bring appropriate attire for the activities you will be doing (i.e. cowboy boots, bathing suit, hiking boots, sneakers).  Also, remember that you will be in the mountains, so bring a sweatshirt and pants as well as your shorts.

3. How do we get to Averill's Ranch?

For a minimum charge, the ranch offers a shuttle service to and from Glacier International Airport and Amtrak Station and the local hotels.

By Air...Glacier International Airport (FCA), located in the city of Kalispell (30-40 minutes from the Lodge) is serviced by Delta, Northwest, United and Horizon Airlines. 

By Train... Amtrak has train service into Whitefish, Montana, only a 45 minute shuttle or car ride from the Lodge.  

By Auto...Flathead Lake Lodge is located on the east shore of Flathead Lake, 1miles south of Bigfork.  Turn towards the lake off Highway 35 and follow the signs to the Main Lodge.

4. Should we rent a car?

Shuttle service is available to and from Flathead Lake Lodge to the airport and Amtrak Station.  For day trips to Kalispell or Glacier Park, we reccommend getting a rental car.  We have limited cars available at the ranch. 

5. Do we have to ride horses?

Although horseback riding is the most popular activity at the ranch, all recreation is optional.  Transportation is provided for older folks and those not wishing to horseback ride into the remote areas of the ranch, and to all mountain events.

6. Is babysitting provided?

Individual childcare is available at the ranch, but it is NOT included in the rate plan.  We do have an Arts & Crafts program, for children old enough to participate in organized activities, that is included in the rate plan.

7. Is there liquor available?

Flathead Lake Lodge has a wine selection available. All other liquor may be purchased in Bigfork. Beer and wine are available at the grocery store, hard liquor is available at liquor stores in Montana.

8. What if I have a special diet?

Special diets are easily accommodated. Just let our Chef know when you arrive, and he can cater to your needs.

9. When are meals?

Meals are served at 8:00am, 12:00pm and 6:00pm for children, and 8:30am, 12:30pm and 6:30pm for adults. You may eat at either time. The meals are served this way in order to accommodate the activities offered at the ranch.

10. Can we bring our pets?

Sorry, but pets are not allowed at the ranch. We currently have a number of dogs already at the ranch as well as horses and buffalo that don't accept other pets.

11. Do you have phone service?

There are phones available in the Main Lodge and the South Lodge. Messages and faxes are taken through our office. There are no phones or televisions in the accommodations at the ranch. It is recommended that you bring your cell phones for your convenience.  Wireless internet is also available in and around the Main Lodge

12. When is checkout?

As a guest at Flathead Lake Lodge your stay runs from Sunday to Sunday. Checkout is at 11:00am on Sunday, however if your departure is later in the day, we will store your luggage in the lodge until you are ready to leave.

13. Can we get married at Flathead Lake Lodge?

Sorry, but we no longer offer day function weddings at the Lodge.  We do offer them in our shoulder season (May, early June, September and October).  We require a minimum 3 night stay of at least 50 people.  Please call (406) 837-4391 for availability and details.

14. Do you have activities for teenagers?

Teenagers are welcome to join in on any of our activities. There are also a variety of activities just for teenagers throughout the week including; teen team penning, trail rides, boat cruises and games.

Each week there are a number of teenage guests at the ranch as well as our young staff members, many who are in their late teens.

15. Do you have a children's program?

We have a fun-filled children's program with organized activities throughout the day. Activities include arts

and crafts projects, scavenger hunts, nature walks and more.

16.     What is the tipping policy?

           There is an optional gratuity for the staff.  The average tip is 10% of the total bill.  Tips are collected in the office and

           distributed evenly to the entire staff.