From the moment I got off the plane, I knew I had arrived at an extraordinary destination. Being surrounded by the endless mountains of Montana is a sight you’ll never forget.

But the real epic experience was from the menu of activities, the fantastic people at Hightail Ranch, and the feeling of being a part of something bigger than I could have ever imagined.

Hightail Ranch hosted a wellness retreat called Regeneration Reset, where guests learned about Bison and their contribution to regenerating the land. We also experienced a variety of other ranch activities and culinary delights, and a special guest speaker, Registered Dietician Diana Rogers, talked about the importance of animal protein and the anti-meat narrative.

 

WHAT IT WAS LIKE FOR ME AT HIGHTAIL RANCH

THURSDAY

Upon my arrival at the ranch, I was greeted by the beautiful Brittany, co-owner/operator of Hightail, and toured my cabin. I stayed at Bonner Cabin, named after John W. Bonner, the 13th governor of Montana, which was a harmonious blend of rustic charm and contemporary design.

The main area’s high ceilings and exposed beams added an authentic cabin touch. The modern furnishings and decor were carefully selected to complement the natural setting, featuring earthy tones, cozy textiles, and elements inspired by nature. This versatile space also included a loft that provided additional bedroom space without compromising the open feel. It’s a blend that brings convenience and luxury to cabin living.

 

While sitting on my front porch and taking in the views, I was surprised to find a black bear, probably looking for berries, by my cabin. (Although I should not have been surprised, Brittany warned me about the black bears nearby.) Nevertheless, after snapping a quick pic, I quickly moved inside. He was just as worried about me since he ran in the opposite direction, too! No harm, no foul!

FRIDAY

After a well-rested, long sleep, I awoke Friday to a full day of fun and entertainment on the ranch.

The American Prairie Ecosystem Tour

A few other guests and I started our adventure on a UTV (Utility Vehicle) ride to get a close look at Bison and an understanding of the delicate ecosystem that Bison are a part of and the importance they played in shaping the landscape of Montana. We got a short but fascinating explanation of the native grass species that Bison are grazing on and their significance for regenerating the land.

WHY BISON ARE SO IMPORTANT FOR THE ECOSYSTEM

Bison play a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity and health of Montana’s ecosystems. As natural grazers, bison help shape the landscape by trimming grasses, encouraging plant diversity, and providing habitats for various wildlife.

Their hooves aerate the soil, promoting nutrient cycling and new vegetation growth. Bison also create wallows, or shallow depressions in the ground, which collect water and serve as vital resources for other species. By moving across different areas, Bison contribute to seed dispersal, enriching the plant community across vast distances. These actions foster a robust ecosystem that supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making Bison indispensable to the environmental balance in Montana.

Brunch

Brunch was served promptly afterward, and it was my kind of meal. I had a delicious, perfectly cooked striploin with a poached egg and a side of avocado and tomato salad, all while taking in the incredible and endless views that had me snapping pictures on my phone every five minutes. My biggest fear was not properly remembering the breathtaking sights surrounding me.

 

The Whisky Trail

Next was an ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) ride up to Whisky Trail. The roots of the Montana Whisky Trail date back to the 1860s, when the gold rush brought a wave of settlers to the region, leading to the establishment of the first distilleries. However, the trail’s history is marked by the dramatic impact of Prohibition from 1919 to 1933. Many distilleries were forced to shut down or go underground to continue production illegally. One intriguing tale from this time is that of infamous gangster Al Capone, who had a house near the Whisky Trail with an underground tunnel designed for a quick escape when necessary. During this period, Montana’s distilleries either shut down or operated illegally, creating a shadowy yet fascinating chapter in the state’s whisky lore.

 

 

Tallow Workshop

Before sitting down to dinner, we had the pleasure of being in the kitchen with Chef Nathaniel Cox and owner Brittany for a workshop on making our tallow moisturizer. If you haven’t tried tallow skin care products, run out and buy some now!

A plug for Tallow because I love it!

Tallow is a skincare superpower packed with essential vitamins A, D, K, and E, which are crucial for skin health and repair. Its high conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) content reduces inflammation and improves skin texture. But what truly sets Tallow apart is its natural fatty acids, which closely resemble those found in our own skin. This means Tallow is easily absorbed, providing deep moisturization without clogging pores. Its antimicrobial properties also protect against harmful bacteria and fungi, helping prevent infections and breakouts. Regular use of Tallow can leave your skin softer, smoother, and more supple, giving you that natural, healthy glow. I infused mine with orange and lemon essential oils, which are now my favourite scent.

 

 

Bison & Wine Tasting Menu

One superb feature of Hightail Ranch is the culinary experience. Chef Nate provided various ways to cook Bison while considering nose-to-tail. Bison meat is renowned for its leanness, and each bite bursts with a rich and robust flavour that effortlessly melds the tenderness of premium beef with a slightly sweeter, more intense profile.

I was blown away by the flavours, from the Biltong to Tartare to the Heart & Tongue dish. You read that right; we enjoyed Heart and Tongue as Hightails mission to promote responsible whole-carcass utilization.

THE NUTRIENT PROFILE OF BISON

Bison meat is a nutritional powerhouse that offers a flavorful and health-conscious alternative to traditional red meats. This lean protein source is impressively rich in essential nutrients while maintaining a lower fat content. Bison provide a robust supply of vitamins such as B12 and B6, crucial for maintaining energy levels and promoting neurological function. It also contains significant amounts of zinc, iron, and selenium, vital for immune system support and oxygen transport.

Bison meat typically has fewer calories than beef, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight without sacrificing flavour. With its rich nutrient profile and delicious taste, bison meat is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a wholesome and satisfying addition to their diet.

We capped the meal with a smoked Bison Tomahawk, Bison bone marrow, and thrice-cooked Viking potato paired with a delicious 2021 Bell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, all while surrounded by sweeping plains, majestic mountains, and the charming and captivating sounds of an intimate concert performed by The Local Honeys.

The Local Honeys are known for their rich harmonies and authentic storytelling, the band members blend bluegrass, folk, and country in a way that feels both timeless and refreshing. If you’re looking for music that resonates with heartfelt emotion and genuine artistry, The Local Honeys are a perfect choice to add to your playlist.

SATURDAY

Rifle Target Practice

Although this wasn’t my first time shooting a rifle, I had only shot one once or twice a few years ago. To say that I was nervous is an understatement. Stepping up to shoot with the rifle’s weight in your hands feels both exhilarating and daunting. As you steady your stance, a mixture of anticipation and anxiety courses through your veins, accentuated by the intense focus required to aim correctly at the distant target. With each heartbeat, there’s a subtle shift — a realization that mastering this skill involves not only respect for the tool you’re wielding but the empowerment that comes with conquering that initial fear.

Once I steadied my breath, I fired the rifle and, to my amazement, hit my target on the first try. Thanks to the comfort provided by Jon, co-owner of the ranch, during our safety and use training, my fear seemed to subside quickly, and I hit my target three more times in a row afterward. It was exhilarating!

 

Herding Bison on ATV’s

After another delicious brunch, Jon offered his small guest group the opportunity of a lifetime. And to think, I nearly passed it up because of my fear of the unknown. Fortunately, Jon, with his calm demeanour, gave me a thorough explanation of what entails herding a small group of 50 to 70 Bison. And with that, we were on our way to experience blending the raw energy of the wild with the rugged power of modern machinery.

As you guide these magnificent creatures, you’ll experience a harmonious interplay between respecting the Bison’s natural instincts and the adrenaline rush of maneuvering through the dynamic landscape. It’s rare to witness the Bison’s social behaviour up close as you skillfully nudge them toward greener pastures with gentle coaxing. The experience is both an adventure and a privilege, leaving you with a profound connection to the land and its storied inhabitants.

 

Horseback Trail Ride

Picture yourself horseback trail riding across the breathtaking plains of Montana, where the sky stretches wide and wild, and the golden grass dances in the gentle breeze. At a bison ranch, the rhythmic clopping of hooves is your only companion, giving way to the humbling sight of majestic Bison grazing peacefully nearby.

The experience envelops you in nature’s grandeur, gently reminding you of the world’s innate beauty and power. As you ride alongside these ancient creatures, a sense of adventure sparked when a few coyotes gracefully emerged, darting in the distance away from us uphill and causing one horse to stop in his tracks and assess for danger. Their presence is a thrilling testament to the thriving ecosystem and observing them from your saddle offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the untamed spirit of the Montana plains.

 

Talk with Diana Rogers, RD

Diana Rogers, a Registered Dietitian, is a vibrant advocate for sustainable nutrition and holistic well-being. Her work focuses on integrating the principles of ethical and healthful eating into everyday life.

She is also at the helm of the Global Food Justice Alliance. She channels her passion for ethical nutrition into ground-breaking initiatives promoting food equity worldwide. This non-profit organization is dedicated to improving food systems by advocating for policies and practices that ensure access to nourishing, sustainably produced foods for all individuals, regardless of socio-economic status.

Diana is someone who’s professional work I’ve admired for years. However, getting to sit down with her one-on-one and share a Margarita while we talk all things nutrition, life, and being on the ranch, was an absolute joy for me. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to her public speaking event, too. She was friendly and engaged her audience through connections between food production, dietary choices, and overall health. Diana’s commitment is evident in her hands-on guidance, as she empowers people to make informed decisions that lead to healthier lifestyles while respecting our planet.

Conclusion

With a few more activities for the day, like another delicious tasting menu by chef Nate and a performance by The Local Honeys, this time on the back porch of the ranch’s restaurant, where a stage was set with the mountains and free-roaming Bison as a backdrop, we were blown away by the performance once again and the views for days.

Overall, my long weekend at Hightail Ranch left me feeling tied to the land, its history, and its untamed inhabitants, and it left an indelible mark on my sense of wonder. I look forward to my return one day soon!