This is a comfortable log cabin with great attention to detail set on our cattle ranch in the Melville area where our families have lived for generations. Otter Creek is a small, beautiful stream and is just steps away from the back door. There are miles of hiking, bird watching and photographic opportunities; scenic and wildlife views surround you. This is for the nature lover, those who love the outdoors and all it offers. We have a private reservoir a short walk from the cabin, and with prior arrangements (check with Annie upon arrival for available days) you are welcome to use our kayaks and paddleboards to enjoy the water. There is also an opportunity for horseback riding for an additional fee mid-June to mid-Sept at the nearby Sweet Grass Ranch.
The space
The hand-built cabin has a living room with lovely views of the Crazy Mountains, comfortable stuffed hickory chairs and sofa, wagon wheel lights. The dining area has a hickory table which seats 6 easily by a picture window or there is a back deck for eating where you can listen to Otter Creek and watch one of our glorious sunsets as you watch deer, fox and birds enjoy the evening. The kitchen has a full refrigerator with freezer section, microwave, toaster, sink, dishes, utensils and cups and glasses. The stove has 4 burners and an oven. There are cooking utensils, pans, etc., in the cupboards as well as some cooking essentials. There is also a wood burning stove in the living room for that unbeatable wood heat.
Through a hallway is the bathroom with tub and shower and another mountain view. The bedroom downstairs has a queen bed, cozy comforter, bedside lights for reading and an overhead light, dresser and closet. This window looks out on the lawn and Bill and Shelly’s log home.
Up the stairs is a half loft with two twin beds, oak dressers, chairs and a spotting scope with a view that goes for miles. There is a ceiling fan in the living room which circulates the propane heat. All the rooms are well-appointed with Indian rugs, pictures, plenty of lights and books.
Guest access
There is hiking for miles on the ranch, which runs all the way up to the base of the Crazies. Please check with Rocco or Annie upon arrival, and we will point you in the right direction and answer any questions. Hiking recommendations may vary based on if you have dogs with you and where our cattle are at the time of your stay. We do not allow you to drive anywhere on the ranch other than to the cabin.
Other things to note:
We do ask a pet fee of $25. Pets must be kept on a leash anywhere around the ranch buildings and livestock. If you are hiking well away from the ranch buildings and there is no livestock in the area, you are welcome to let your pet off the leash, but please be aware that we do have lots of wildlife so a good recall on your pet is a must. Well behaved pets are allowed in the cabin, but not on the furniture or beds. We have a new, sturdy kennel set up outside the cabin for your use; if you are going to be gone for the day and wish to leave your pet at the ranch we ask that you use the kennel and not leave them unattended in the cabin.
We do have four male boarder collie ranch dogs. Our dogs are kenneled unless we are outside with them (these are working dogs and will go straight to livestock) but they go with us everywhere around the ranch as we work, so you may come into contact with them, especially if we are working in the shop. They are friendly dogs but this is their home and they may react to new dogs.
We love dogs and understand that you would want to bring yours. But first and foremost, we are a working cattle ranch and our dogs are a big part that. If you are unsure if this is the right situation for you and your pet, please check with us.
The Otter Creek Cabin provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with family and enjoy the simple pleasures as there is no television. We do have WiFi.
We ask that you do not smoke in the cabin.
