Time To Paws

The Ultimate Cowgirl Retreat

Written and Photographed by Ken Amorosano
Curated by Andrea Thorp and Carly Billington

Resort at Paws Up

There’s nothing quite like the exhilaration of envisioning a vacation in the pristine mountains, where the senses come alive. Imagine immersing yourself in the untamed beauty of Montana’s mountains, with the invigorating scent of towering pine trees, the melodious call of wild trout streams, and captivating wildlife sightings at every turn.

At The Resort at Paws Up in Greenough, Montana, you’ll discover a unique experience that surpasses your expectations. While it offers the traditional activities you would expect from a mountain ranch vacation—such as fly fishing, white-water rafting, and horseback riding—it’s the exceptional pampering that truly sets it apart.

Left: Tank and Trough Restaurant. Right: The original owner’s house from the deck of Trough

Nestled amidst 37,000 acres of breathtaking wilderness, The Resort at Paws Up transcends the concept of a typical dude ranch, offering an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence. 

Each richly appointed home combines rustic charm with modern amenities. From soaring vaulted ceilings and majestic stone fireplaces to curated art and plush leather couches, these homes provide a personalized sanctuary where you can unwind and recharge. The slate-tiled master bathrooms, heavenly beds and linens, and gourmet kitchens add to the comfort and luxury. And to top it off, guests staying in the luxury homes enjoy the private use of a Lexus SUV.

Left: A luxury glamping tent interior. Right: Your very own Lexus SUV.

For those seeking a unique camping experience, the luxury glamping tents at Paws Up are a testament to the resort’s refined elegance. These spacious canvas retreats feature plush king-sized beds, rustic-chic furnishings, private en-suite bathrooms, and expansive decks with panoramic views. They allow guests to immerse themselves in the serenity of nature without compromising on comfort.

Above: The great room of our accommodations.

Casting Away

By Carly Billington

There’s almost nothing in life that rivals the feeling of a hefty trout striking your fly and the ensuing fight. Tranquility and adventure blend seamlessly with the fly fishing experience at Paws Up. Nestled in the heart of Montana’s breathtaking wilderness, this remarkable destination offers an unforgettable fly fishing journey. It’s a great way to connect with the outdoors and recharge, no matter your experience level. 

Left: COWGIRL editors, Carly Billington and Andrea Thorp, cast their worries aside on the majestic waters of the Blackfoot River. Right: A hefty whitefish in the net.

We met our guides, Connor Clancy and Lacy Westerlund, bright and early, enthusiastic to take on the upper Blackfoot River. Connor and Lacy possess an intimate knowledge of the local rivers, fish species, and techniques. Before we began our float trip, they briefed us on the basics and terminology we would need for a successful trip, valuable tips, taught us new techniques, and assisted in finding the perfect fishing spots.

With rolling hills, pristine rivers, and majestic mountains, it’s a fly fisher’s dream come true. The resort’s prime location ensures access to some of the finest fishing spots in the region, where you can cast your line in sparkling waters while being embraced by nature’s splendor.

From the stunning setting to expert guidance and abundant fishing opportunities, our trip was the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re a devoted angler or a curious novice, Paws Up will captivate you with its beauty, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your gear, embrace the spirit of exploration, and embark on a fly fishing journey that will forever enchant you.

Carly and Andrea enjoy a horseback ride through the pristine mountainscape surrounding the Resort at Paws Up.

ADVENTURE AWAITS

But the adventure doesn’t stop at the accommodations. The Resort at Paws Up is renowned for its wide range of activities designed to cater to every guest’s adventurous soul. With over 100 miles of designated hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ATV trails, as well as rivers and streams teeming with trout, adventure is always within reach. 

The resort’s Wilderness Center, a cavernous, converted barn that also serves as the Resort’s opulent and well-stocked gift shop, is your starting point for various experiences, from world-class fly fishing and white-water rafting to cattle drives and trail rides. Expert guides and top-of-the-line equipment ensure the utmost safety and enjoyment.

THE SPA TREATMENT

Spa Town at Paws Up is discreetly nestled on the edge of an expansive meadow, shaded by soaring pines. This collection of pristine white tents connected by a wooden boardwalk offers a tranquil haven. The welcome tents provide full baths and showers, while the individual treatment tents feature heated massage tables and picturesque views of the meadows, accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Culinary enthusiasts are in for a treat at Paws Up, where dining experiences are nothing short of extraordinary. With multiple dining venues to choose from, each offering its own atmosphere and culinary delights, the resort caters to all tastes. Renowned chefs prepare gourmet meals using locally sourced ingredients that showcase the flavors of the region. From casual dining at Trough, overlooking picturesque pastures, to award-winning fine dining at Pomp, and rustic relaxation at Tank, the full-service bar, every meal is a memorable experience.

The Resort at Paws Up is more than just a vacation destination; it’s a place that awakens the senses, renews the spirit, and creates lifelong memories. Its seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and natural beauty allows guests to embrace the magic of Montana’s wilderness while indulging in unparalleled comfort and service.

The Green O

On an adjoining piece of the property is the newly opened sister resort aptly named Green O.  This exclusive, but separate resort features a series of Tree Hauses nestled among the pine-covered hillsides all surrounding a bastion of gastronomic excellence they call The Social Haus. 

Soaring windows open to the outdoors, allowing the mingling of cooking aromas with the fresh, pine-scented air. Details like Shou Sugi Ban wood, stained to match the surrounding pine trees, and artisan-designed custom lighting accentuate the feeling that you’re enveloped in the forest.

Left: Chef Brandon Cunningham prepares the evening selections. Right: The inner circle bar.

Masterfully curated and prepared by Chef Brandon Cunningham, the dining experience is like no other.  No menu is ever the same and the chef’s experimental sense of imagination is a treat to the most discerning of palates.

The COWGIRL team got to experience the 8-course dinner tasting menu in the rustic open kitchen space beside the room’s center fireplace. Overlooking the perched Tree Hauses with their ambient lights, the dining room created a romantic mood of tranquility for the privileged guests.

Left: Bacon and Eggs. Right: Shrimp and Grits.

The courses started with Chef Brandon’s whimsical take on bacon & eggs, an inventive and scrumptious amuse that set the pace of what was next to come.  A delightful Hamachi & turnip was followed by fennel & potato and then my favorite, shrimp & grits.  I savored every bite. Halibut & squash were quickly followed by pork & alliums as we slid into the desert phase with a blueberry & licorice treat and ended with a chocolate & banana masterpiece.

Left: A fancy COWGIRL cocktail. Right: The Social Haus dining room.

For foodies, the dining experience at The Social Haus is very much a part of the adventure. Although The Social Haus adjacent to the Resort at Paws Up, it is open to guests of the Green O exclusively.

thegreeno.com

Learn more about the incredible vacation opportunities offered at this exquisite resort:

The Resort at Paws Up
Greenough, Montana
pawsup.com