Mike adds:  In "A River Runs Though It", Norman Maclean writes, when describing Western Montana rivers, that "The River was cut by the world's great flood and runs over rocks from the basement of time... under the rocks are the words and some of the words area theirs."  To this collection of words and memories we add "breathtaking", "silent", "cleansing", "romantic", and "purposeful".  We have had a wonderful time in the Bitterroot Mountains and especially in the West fork Country where Alta Meadow Ranch is located.  Thank you Beattie, Debbie, and Carrie for a truly great vacation.  I caught 40 fish over the past few days.   Mike and Kim H.  Seattle, WA

Have to ditto all the above!  What a way to bring in the New Year with dear friends!  Our stay has been heavenly and I'm just not ready to leave!  We'll be back again for sure!  Thanks Beattie & Deb.  It was great.  J & P K. Victor MT,  B & N B. Hamilton MT

LIFE IS SINGING

IN MOUNTAIN MEADOWS

OH! THE STILLNESS

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          R&K W.  Mill Valley, CA

I just wanted to thank you for the most marvelous and relaxing vacation!  My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed our (albeit short) time at your ranch.  The weather was picture perfect and we were able to enjoy the abundant wildlife as we hiked, had a marvelous guide on our horseback rides in the hills and valleys and enjoyed a full day floating down the river as we attempted to learn to fly-fish.  Sean was so patient with us!  He is to be commended.

Thank you Beattie for your personal attention to our needs and for making us feel at home.  Even though we were two women alone, I never felt unsafe.  In fact quite the opposite was true.  We were sad to leave and hope to come back next year.  I will recommend your ranch to everyone and anyone who wishes to experience a guest ranch.  The facilities were top-notch (and I can be very picky) and very comfortable.  The views alone from the Ranch House were worth the price.  Don't change a thing - we will be back!  V&B T. San Francisco, CA.

P.S. everyone will remember where they were when our nation was attacked by the terrorists.  We were sleeping soundly  in our beds at Alta Meadow Ranch and were awakened by a phone call from a friend with the shocking news.  After a few hours of viewing the horror on TV it was nice to be able to clear our minds with a nice horseback ride into the forest.  We drank in the clean air and reminded ourselves how lucky we are to live in such a glorious country.  It did our hearts good.  And even though we had to drive back to California because our flight was cancelled, it did nothing to change our attitude about our relaxing vacation.  We wouldn't hesitate to drive there next time as the scenery was lovely.

We stayed at Alta Meadow for two weeks in late August-early September.  It was perhaps the most satisfying vacation we've ever had.  Part of that was due to our own decision to find a good place to rest and write.  But the rest was due to the extraordinary place you have created and to your good fortune in finding Beattie McGill to run it.  We read about Alta Meadow when a satisfied guest wrote a letter to the San Francisco Chronicle.  The moose intrigued us .  Some months later, when we scuttled the idea of a European vacation in order to have introverted time, we remembered the letter, and began to be in touch with Beattie, who is such a genuine man and a steward of nature.  From the beginning he was warm and gracious, patiently answering our many questions, and assuring us that this indeed was not a dude ranch, but seemed to be what we were looking for, a comfortable, quiet retreat, close to nature.  We arrived, hoping that it would be at least half as good as we'd built it up to be, and found it surpassed our highest expectations.  The Homestead "cabin" was entirely adequate for the two of us.  And the meadow... ah, the meadow.  Beattie can tell you we spent hours just gazing at it.  We'd been concerned not to have an ocean or lake, but found we didn't need one.  The meadow with the surrounding mountains was like an inner, still, peaceful container.  The moose had attracted us, and we loved seeing them, but it's the meadow which lives on inside us as a still, quiet place.  Although we could have been more active, it was enough to walk daily and just be there.  When Beattie took us up to the local fire tower, we could literally see the green gem that is Alta Meadow.  In this terrible week of atrocity in our nation, we have found that we've been strengthened and better prepared to cope because of our experience at Alta Meadow.  One of the things that could help us all is to have more retreats like Alta Meadow - small, out-of-the way places to "be", and to reflect.  We thank you and we encourage you to continue Alta Meadow as a retreat for those of us who need and value such an opportunity.  More and more people are going to find it increasingly necessary to have Alta Meadow and places like it.  R & K  W.    Mill Valley, CA.

Thank you so much for you hospitality during our stay at Alta Meadow, we  certainly were not disappointed!  Beattie, you were a wonderful host, we could not have any better tour guide, most of all for your patience with my daughter's chattering and wild fishing techniques.  The cabin was perfect, even down to the bird feeder in the side yard, from which a white tail doe stole the bird seed every night.  That was pretty cool to watch from the window.  We will never forget the moose sightings!  The scenery is unbelievable, the sunsets with the rainbows were breathtaking and every night seemed to outdo the previous one.  I always thought the Smokies were pretty, but Alta Meadow is beyond comparison.  The majestic peacefulness is something that no amount of money can buy, and you and your family are so blessed to be able to witness it every day.  Kentucky has its own beauty, but if given the opportunity, I would move to Montana in a heartbeat.  Once again, thank you for sharing part of your heaven with us.  It was a trip we will always remember and one we plan to repeat every year, God willing.  Peggy and Kayla H. and Lois T.

It's been a few weeks since my husband and I stayed at Alta Meadow, but the great memories are still fresh!  I've never gotten teary-eyed when leaving a vacation accommodation, but that's just what I was as we drove away from the Homestead.  We were both sad to leave what we think is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places we've ever been.  We won't forget the views from our immaculately clean, well-stocked cabin: the long hikes with our adopted dog for the week, Roxie: the terrific hospitality we received from you: the excellent fly-fishing just minutes away from our cabin: and a landscape that no one should go without experiencing.  It was as perfect as vacations get.  We can't wait to come back.  L. S.  Southlake, Texas

Our fourth summer here, it's so gorgeous - great fishing too! K,D,E,&B C. Cupertino, CA

Thanks so much for an incredibly comfortable introduction to the state of Montana!  The Homestead was an ideal home base for hiking and exploring, especially the hot tub for our tired and sore legs.  It was great spending the five days in quiet seclusion with our new friend Roxie.  What a great dog!  There's a lot more we'd like to do, but there's always a next time.  Thanks for your hospitality, Beattie, we will definitely make it back soon.  MP & WM, San  Francisco, CA

This was our first experience traveling with our horses.  We had a great time riding the trails!  The horse facilities were wonderful, and I know that even our horses had a fun time.. B. was able to fly fish to his heart's content and I got to enjoy the peace and quiet of Alta Meadow.  The Stagecoach Inn is a charming and beautifully remodeled cabin.  We wish it was our to enjoy ever year, and who knows, maybe we'll be back next year to enjoy it all over again!  B & R B. El Dorado, KS

The two of us have only been married a week, and we had a wonderful beginning to our new lives together.  Not a day went by when we were not awestruck by the beautiful mountains, the glorious Milky Way, and magnificent wildlife.  There were excellent fish in the ponds, and fishing was even more enjoyable when Roxie would join us.  What was so memorable was the kind people at the ranch.  Beattie McGill and his family were always doing whatever they could to make sure we were the happiest guests. Thank you so much, and we'll be back as soon as possible.  By the way, the Homestead is awesome.  Try the hot tub.  T & M J.   Union Springs, AL

A much anticipated visit to the Bitterroot lived up to its promise... loved the cool crisp mornings and fresh mountain air and certainly the jacuzzi.  We really appreciated the detail of the Homestead, the attractive furnishings and special thoughtful touches.  Thank you so much for making everything so perfect.  D & K D. 

This is a wonderful vacation spot!  We couldn't have asked for nicer lodgings, a better host, or greater fishing.  The Barnhouse has everything a house needs.  We'll be back.  L & S B. Corona, CA.

Thank you for sharing your little corner of paradise with us - our stay was just too short! We will plan for a week next time. Thanks for your hospitality. J & R T.,  Lithonia, GA. 

Last month we had a wonderful vacation in Montana.  Actually we have gone there for the past five years, with fly-fishing being our main interest.  We have stayed in a wide variety of accommodations located in different areas within Montana.  Our last visit (July 10-18) was at Alta Meadow Ranch.   The accommodations, rates and flexibility made us want to know more.  We e-mailed the ranch and Beattie McGill responded quickly, answering all our questions and offered assistance in all facets of our trip.  In the past, many places we considered visiting were too restrictive.  We do not want to fish every day; have to eat three prepared meals (wife is a vegetarian) each day; or have to stay a certain number of nights.  In other words, the "full packages" are not for us.  At Alta Meadow Ranch, we felt at home during our eight night's stay.  The accommodations were sparkling clean and decorated in an inviting and comfortable manner.  The ranch afforded us the hiking and fishing we enjoy, along with our guided trips.  Most importantly, Beattie and his family were friendly, accommodating and helpful in every way.  We even made a new four-legged friend, Jake!  We hated to leave but were so impressed that we re-booked prior to our departure.  We are returning in early October and are anxious to do so.  To have this type of accommodations has provided us with the "best" vacation experience ever in Montana.  We have told all our friends that we have found our favorite place in Montana.  We would like to keep Alta Meadow Ranch our secret but have already recommended it to anyone interested in visiting that part of the country.  Our thanks for having such a fantastic property and to Beattie for making the visit so special.  Sincerely, Elke & Jerry Scholl, Greensboro, GA.

Just wanted you to know that the only thing that was better than our first visit to the ranch was the second visit!  We had a wonderful time and look forward to going back in April.  Elke & Jerry Scholl

I wanted to tell you how delightful my recent stay was at Alta Meadow Ranch.  Not only was the wildlife superb, but your managers, Beattie and Debbie, were the perfect hosts.  Cordial and accommodating, they saw to my every need and made me feel right at home.  They are gems!  Thank you for keeping your property intact for the marvelous moose who so benefit from its' habitat.  I'll be back!   Sincerely, R  B.,  Belgrade, MT.

Each summer five of my fraternity brothers and I meet for holiday.  We want the best of everything ... adventure, accommodations, relaxation.  Alta Meadow Ranch was the perfect destination for us.  We were not limited to a select handful of activities, as the ranch gives its guests the freedom to choose what they want to do.  Thus, we were able to cook for ourselves, when we wanted, in a gourmet kitchen, and choose only those activities of our interest.  The Ranch Manager was extremely helpful with arranging the best fishing guides and having ATVs & horses brought to the ranch.  The accommodations are incredible!  While the entire Ranch House is rustic and made of wood, we enjoyed all the comforts of our homes.  The experience is one that I will always remember as the best trip we've ever taken.  I will recommend this ranch, in this area of Montana, to anyone.  The sheer beauty of the area and ranch is enough to make your next ticket...one way!  Brent Summerville, Houston, TX

Hey Beattie!

Well, we made it back safe and sound to North Dakota missing Alta Meadow all the way.  We searched for a long time on the internet to find just the right vacation spot, and we were not disappointed!  The Stagecoach Inn is fabulous!  It was obvious to us that great care had been taken not only in the meticulous restoration of the building, but also in adding just the perfect amenities to create a dream come true vacation home.  From the fully-equipped, modern kitchen to all the new furnishings and antique accessory tables to the beautifully framed historical photos on the walls to the relaxing whirlpool tub; we felt like we had found paradise in the Bitterroot Valley.  We didn't even mind doing laundry there because of the new washer and dryer!  To top it all off, we were able to walk just a few yards from the door to fly fish in a clear stream where we caught cutthroat and brook trout! We had the best time ever!  (J. has since decided that she will never camp again.)  Thanks for sharing your part of one of the most beautiful areas in the country.  We'll be back - for longer next time!  See ya! and thanks again.  You were a big part of our feeling so good about the place!  J & P L.                                                                                                                                                                                      

B, K, W and I want to say thank you so much for all you did to make our time at the ranch as special as it was.  We spent two weeks in SW Montana, seeing a lot of wonderful places, doing lots of fun and interesting things, and meeting some great people.  But we all agree that being at the ranch brought all of those experiences together in one place.  The scenery was outstanding, the accommodations beautiful and comfortable, the fishing compelling (we just couldn't stay away from the West Fork), and all of the outfitters you recommended obviously the cream of the crop.  Your hospitality, Beattie, really put our visit over the top.  You were so helpful without overdoing it, and you have such a calm and kind way about you that we all looked forward to seeing you appear at our meadow on your 4-wheeler.  Thanks for all you did to make everything go so smoothly.  I took a really nice picture of a double rainbow over the Barnhouse, I'll fax it to you in then next few days.  W. wants to know if Roxie misses him!  We'll be in touch, and thanks again so much for everything.  S. N.  

We had a marvelous time at Alta Meadow Ranch.  Seeing Momma and Baby moose in the meadow within minutes of arriving at the Ranch House sort of set the scene for the week.  The children enjoyed the fishing, horseback riding, river rafting, scenic walks and the fine cuisine.  The accommodations were exceptional.  We had a great time and it was exceptionally peaceful, beautiful and memorable.  Thank you for helping us put the adventure together.                  Sincere regards,   M. M.  Sacramento CA

Deb,

Thank you so very much to you and Beattie for a wonderful weekend at your Homestead cabin!  My friends and I had a wonderful stay, one that we will never forget!!  Kim mentioned over and over again your fully-stocked kitchen and every little thought you put into creating the perfect atmosphere for an "amateur chef".  Kellen, on the other hand, could not get enough fishing in, which was a great thing since that was what this trip was all about.  I, of course, will often think of the hot tub experiences!  And we all thought Friday evening's Northern Lights were awesome!!  What a perfect place, perfect atmosphere to be in to experience such a beautiful sight.  But I think the most memorable part of our stay was that you made us feel very welcome and at home through the entire weekend.  Again, thank you very much!  Sincerely,  C. A.  Missoula, Montana