Move Over Cowboys: Make Room For the Cowgirls

Roscoe, Mont—The Lazy E-L Ranch, a 12,000-acre cattle ranch, has a rich heritage in agriculture, which they now share with “city slickers” as part of a working guest ranch. Guests are welcome to join the crew as they wrangle horses, doctor calves, ship heifers and perform daily ranch chores. Comfortable accommodations in historic cabins built in the early 1900’s and hearty home cooked meals enhance the western experience.  

The Lazy E-L Ranch has survived in the same family since it was established in 1901. Most of that time it was owned and operated by the men of the family. Now, more than 100 years later, the women of the family have stepped up into more prominent roles. Helen Mackay, third generation family member, is the president of the board for the ranch corporation and Jael Kampfe, fourth generation rancher, serves as the first female general manager. Both titles are rare among women in the ranching industry. Though women as rancher wives have always been a part of the ranching heritage, it is unique when they are able to have decision making authority and are the ones holding the reins. 

This break-down of gender roles is also seen among the crew.  The head wrangler and two of the three cowboy positions are filled by women.  Women are just as likely to be the one roping a heifer, doctoring a calf, or putting time on a colt.  Historically, these “cowboy” duties were often reserved for the men because of the physicality of the endeavor.  Today on the Lazy E-L the most talented is given the task, regardless of whether there’s a braid hanging down from that cowboy hat or not.

At the Lazy E-L Ranch you will find friendly people operating a real cattle ranch; days are long, work is hard, and the food is good. The heritage of the western cowgirl is kept vigorously alive; guests have the opportunity to put on their work gloves as often or as little as they want. Just like the crew, if you are up to the task, then the only limit to your opportunity is the scope of your ambition.

During your stay, log cabin accommodations feature comfortable bedrooms, a living area, kitchen, and full baths, for up to eight people.  If you prefer a more rugged stay, Shorey Cabin retains its old fashioned authenticity: One main room holds four cots, a sitting area and woodstove, and the adjacent kitchen houses a wood burning cookstove.
Shorey Cabin It is fully stocked with basic supplies, guests only need their sleeping bags, pillows, water, flashlights, and perishables. There is no electricity or running water at the Shorey Cabin, and by the light of the kerosene lamps you can feel just as Bert Shorey did while making a meal over the outdoor fire pit.

For groups under eight people, the rate is $1,650 per adult and $1,375 per child per week. Rates include everything you need once you arrive: Accommodations, horses, tack, guide, meals, etc.  For more information, call 406-328-6858 or visit online >MORE