Montana is known for its majestic mountains and expansive wilderness; but enjoying nature’s scenic wonders doesn’t have to be a rough affair. The Resort at Paws Up, nestled in Montana’s Rocky Mountains allows you to experience the best of nature while still enjoying the height of luxury. Set among 37,000 acres, Paws Up offers honeymooners a host of outdoor activities with the amenities typically found only at five-star hotels.
This was my first visit to the pastoral Montana resort. After landing at Missoula Airport, I arrived 45 minutes later. Rolling green pastures, gentle hills, horses, and stately trees, visible to the horizon miles away, gave me an idea of the scope of this place.
After a short orientation, I was assigned a golf cart, the main means of getting around, and escorted to my cabin. Quaint, I thought. But, I was surprised to learn my “rustic” accommodation was a 1,930 square foot Big Timber Home called the “Douglas Fir.” It came with every modern convenience, including 300 thread count linens; flat-screen TV’s with satellite reception; DVD players; outdoor hot tubs; large, lavish bathrooms with heated granite floors; and full-length decks that overlooked a pastoral meadow.
If you and your fiancée have ever dreamed about getting married amidst the mountains, trees and big sky of Montana, the staff at Paws Up will work with you or your wedding planner to make sure your wedding is truly a spectacular event. The resort includes three Big Timber Homes with the other properties ranging from 1,400-2,430 square feet. But what about really roughing it? For those who like to sleep under the stars, Paws Up offers Tent City, close to the banks of the Blackfoot River, where the movie A River Runs Through It was filmed. Not to be confused with old-style tent living, these babies come fully loaded with feather beds, artwork on fabric walls, private baths and shows adjacent to the tents, and even electricity. You will also appreciate your own Camping Butler, who attends to your every need, including helping you with your fishing gear and creating gourmet breakfasts and dinners.
City dwellers can chuck their cell phones and PDA’s in favor of some truly spectacular scenery on guided wildlife tours or while horseback riding, hiking or biking through 120 miles of trails. In late spring or fall, adventurers can shoot sporting clays on a mountainous course designed by a national champion WHO. There are also daily All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) rides and fly fishing expeditions that can be arranged by Paws Up Outfitters.
During my summer visit one highlight was the river float on the Blackhawk. While I have been on level five rapids, I much preferred this gentle river with mild whitewater. It was just enough to cool me off from the hot sun. Along the way, our river guide docked our raft on the banks where gourmet snacks and refreshments had been prearranged and waiting. If rafting, hiking or fishing isn’t your thing, then make your way to Spa Town. After parking my golf cart, I walked down a wooden boardwalk, coming upon 11 tents overlooking a meadow. The various body treatments and massages combine natural light, tranquil sounds and fragrant scents. I opted for a relaxing massage which was just what I needed after a day of rafting and horseback riding and the treatment quickly soothed sore muscles. Exercised, exhausted and rejuvenated by my spa treatment, I was ready for my next meal.
Speaking of food, Pomp, the Resort’s gourmet restaurant, serves what they call Western eclectic fare. Chef Eric Stenberg uses fresh local, organic ingredients to create an innovative menu that features Montana-raised pheasant, elk and buffalo. The food was wonderful and you must try their raspberry lemonade with fresh basil—an unusual but delicious combination.
The resort also has in-home dining where the friendly and courteous staff brings hot meals and sets everything perfectly on your dining room table. The last time I experienced this was on a luxury cruise liner.
The staff at this resort is truly exceptional. I was waiting for a delivery of a camera lens and an employee spent nearly five hours, including her own time from home, trying to secure this wayward delivery. The staff goes out of their way to make you feel welcome, as though this is your own home.
Newly married couples looking for romance will enjoy the luxury of Spa Town where they can enjoy a couple’s massage, late night dinners or a soak in the hot tub by moonlight. Outdoor adventurers will be hard-pressed to fit everything in that is available here. But, choose you must and come back you will as this will no doubt become your new favorite getaway in America’s Last Best Place.