Over the years, Elk Creek Ranch has found opportunities to do service work in Sunlight. In the early years, Ranchers helped put out a small forest fire started by a lightning strike. In the 1980’s we cleaned the Sunlight Road for a number of years. The recent pine beetle infestation in Shoshone National Forest has created a significant forest fire challenge for the Forest Service. With 40,000,000 acres of trees killed in the West, the local, state, and federal resources are overwhelmed during the summer.

In 2012, Elk Creek approached the Shoshone Forest Service to see what we might do to help. We have long enjoyed the opportunities provided by the Shoshone for the Ranchers. We have practiced low impact camping techniques to leave as small a footprint as possible as we travel through the forest. It seemed right in all ways to expand that idea to take a larger role in the stewardship of the our high country. In 2013, we volunteered with the Forest Service on fire mitigation and forest restoration work on the national forest. We were gratified by the enthusiastic response of the Ranchers to the heavy lifting and hot work of clearing and stacking logs and slash for burning during the winter. We have plans to continue that work in the coming years and to expand our efforts to work on trail maintenance.

Elk Creek Ranch is forty-five miles from Cody, Wyoming, bounded on the north by the Clark's Fork Canyon and the Beartooth Mountains, on the west by Yellowstone National Park, on the south by the Northern Absaroka Mountains, and on the east by the Bighorn Basin. Sunlight Valley is the center of one of the truly spectacular scenic areas remaining in the continental United States.

The surrounding mountains, many of which are snow-capped year round, climb from the valley floor at 6.000 feet to nearly 13,000 feet. To see Sunlight Valley now is to see it much the same way it has always been. Except for several other ranches, the entire valley is part of Shoshone National Forest and much of that area has been set aside for wilderness use only.

The facilities of the camp reflect their wilderness surroundings. The buildings are all log structures, some of which date back to the turn of the 19th century. When we opened the ranch as a camp we added several new cabins, including a girls' bunkhouse, a boys' bunkhouse, and a recreational hall. All additions to our facilities have been built with logs, hand tools, and sweat, reflecting our determination to remain true to the ranch's pioneering past. (Hardy as we may be or hope to be, we are all fond of some "creature comforts" – all bunkhouses have full bathrooms.)

A World of Thrilling Summer Opportunities and Challenges

The Yellowstone-Teton Caravan

Embark on the epic Yellowstone-Teton Caravan, a heart-pounding three-day, 400-mile road trip through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Yellowstone and Teton National Parks. Witness geysers launching skyward, bison grazing in the shadow of towering peaks, and rivers weaving through lush forests. This adventure is a sensory masterpiece, painting unforgettable summer memories. And for the daring, brace yourself for a white-water rafting thrill on the Snake River, conquering rapids and spotting wildlife along the riverbanks. This journey is perfect for first-time Yellowstone explorers, but don't forget to sign up, as space is limited to the first 15 adventurous teens at an additional $375 charge.

Fishing

Delve into the world of fishing in Sunlight country. Elk Creek Ranch offers a plethora of angling experiences. From exhilarating afternoon stream fishing trips to overnight escapades in the enchanting Beartooth lake region, there's something for every angler. Best of all, there's no added cost for these fishing outings, though you do need your state fishing licenses, with day permits priced at around $40, or convenient five-day licenses for those looking to dip their toes into the angler's world.

Backpacking

Discover the untamed beauty of the great outdoors through our thrilling Backpacking program at Elk Creek Ranch. With vast national wilderness areas on our doorstep, we offer a diverse array of experiences. Choose from short day trips or immersive overnight adventures, and for the ultimate challenge, embark on a rigorous four-day backpacking journey or an adrenaline-pumping horse pack-trip. Nature's wonders await – come and explore with us!

Square Dancing

In addition to our exhilarating adventures, Elk Creek Ranch hosts a special Square Dance event during each session. Ranchers and Counselors don their finest jeans and boots, ready to immerse themselves in the lively world of square dancing. Guided by experienced local callers, they learn traditional steps and moves passed down through generations. It's a delightful break from the rugged wilderness, offering a chance to embrace local culture and forge lasting bonds during your stay. Don't miss this fun and memorable experience at Elk Creek Ranch!