YRC Cowboy Cookout & 1-Hour Ride in Gardiner, MT
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic stamina needed for a gentle 1-hour horseback ride.
Overview
Ride through Montana ranchlands with expert wranglers and enjoy an all-you-can-eat Cowboy Cookout under the stars. Discover an authentic Wild West experience near Gardiner, MT.
YRC: Cowboy Cookout w/ 1 Hour Ride
Ages 7+ • 3 Hours Total • Ride & Dine • All-you-can-eat under The Montana Sky!
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of the Wild West on a working ranch with a guided 1-hour trail ride led by expert wranglers. Afterward, savor a hearty all-you-can-eat Cowboy Cookout under the expansive Montana sky, featuring delicious grilled meats and traditional dishes. A memorable evening awaits!
Saddle up and experience a Western Tradition on a Working Ranch!
Duration
3 Hours Total
Important Details
Available: Sunday-Thursday; from late May through mid-August
- Participants: Ages 7+
- Ride Time: 6:00pm
- Ride Duration: 1-hour
- Cookout Time: 7:00pm
- Ranch Check-in: 30-min. before ride
- Depart Gardiner: 1-hour before ride
- Guests Provide Transportation: Plan on a 30-minute drive on a gravel road
About
Join us for an evening at a working ranch with a 1-hour trail ride, guided by our expert wranglers and after the ride enjoy a traditional all-you-can-eat, Cowboy Cookout meal under the big Montana Sky. The meal is hearty, home-cooked, and includes dishes such as grilled meats, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, salads, cornbread, and traditional Western Fare. Vegetarian options available with prior request.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy boots with a heel
Proper footwear helps keep your feet secure in the stirrups and protects against rough terrain.
Bring a hat and sunscreen
Montana’s sun can be intense, so protect your skin during the ride and outdoor meal.
Notify about dietary restrictions
Contact the company ahead if you have special dietary needs for the cookout.
Arrive early to meet your wrangler
Arriving 15 minutes early ensures enough time for safety briefing and horse preparation.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Bald Eagles
History
Gardiner sits at the northern entrance of Yellowstone National Park and has deep roots in ranching and Western frontier history dating back to the 19th century.
Conservation
Yellowstone Raft Company supports local conservation efforts focused on protecting native wildlife habitats and minimizing environmental impact on ranch lands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe riding boots
Provides grip and protection during horseback riding.
Sunhat or baseball cap
Keeps the sun off your face during the ride and cookout.
summer specific
Light jacket or fleece
Adds warmth for cool mornings and evenings on the ranch.
fall specific
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the ride and while outdoors.