Elk Creek Ranch

Embrace the spirit of the wild with a dash of western tradition at the Elk Creek Ranch™. Set against the majestic mountains inside the Shoshone National Forest, teenagers can soak up an authentic ranch experience mixed with a variety of adventure-laden wilderness activities. Summers here straddle enjoyment and challenges, giving kids a taste of camaraderie amidst remarkable Western landscapes. The heart of Elk Creek experience lies in the thrill of horseback riding. Participants not only forge bonds with their assigned horses but also venture into the high country, fine-tune their barrel-riding skills, and if they feel adventurous, cap off their riding journey with a four-day pack trip into the untamed corners of northwestern Wyoming. But horse riding isn't the only perk. The young ranchers roll up their sleeves to participate in the day-to-day operations, like watering pastures, building fences, training horses, and sprucing up cabins. This active involvement forms the beating heart of this small ranch community, immersing participants in a truly organic ranch lifestyle. Away from the ranch, the backpacking program quenches the thirst for exploratory adventures. Participants pack their bags for enthralling two-day trips into the high mountains or opt for a rigorous four-day trek embracing the wilderness's raw beauty. At Elk Creek, summer becomes a bridge between past and present. While the ranch activities echo the pioneer spirit of the western past, backpacking journeys mirror the audacious wilderness experience of today's world. In essence, Elk Creek Ranch™ creates an unforgettable summer story, stitching together engaging community contributions, soulful horseback journeys, and adventurous wilderness exploration.