Policies and Procedures
As an isolated family ranch deep in the mountains of Montana, Upper Canyon Outfitters is a great place to escape from the craziness of this world. Our mission and values are dedicated to creating an authentic Western experience for a range of people from many different places, where here feels like home.
We have updated our operating standards, protocols, and procedures for the ranch and each department. Below, you will find useful information on how we operate.
Client Responsibility
All clients will be required to follow the ranch/stable and guides’ safety policies and procedures, and all clients will be required to sign a Participant Assumption of Risks, Acknowledgment of Inherent Risks, and Indemnity Agreement in favor of Upper Canyon Outfitters, Inc. This form will be provided to sign online.
How to Check In
Arriving outside the listed time windows may impact our ability to provide the full check-in experience.
Summer Reservations
• The recommended check-in time is between 1 PM and 5 PM.
• We will show you to your room upon arrival and assist with bags if needed.
• Please visit the office within 15 minutes of unloading your bags unless otherwise instructed.
• During your office visit, we will go over your itinerary, get fishing license information, and answer any questions about your stay. You will receive a small tour of the ranch if you so choose.
Archery Hunting Reservations
• The recommended check-in time is between 1 PM and 5 PM.
• We will show you to your room upon arrival and assist with bags if needed.
• Please visit the office within 15 minutes of unloading your bags unless otherwise instructed.
• During your office visit, we will collect payment, go over hunting areas, safety information, and answer any questions about your stay. You will receive a small tour of the ranch if you so choose.
Rifle Hunting Reservations
• The recommended check-in time is between 9 AM and 1 PM.
• We will show you to your room upon arrival and assist with bags if needed.
• Please visit the office within 15 minutes of unloading your bags unless otherwise instructed.
• During your office visit, we will collect payment, go over hunting areas, safety information, and answer any questions about your stay. You will receive a small tour of the ranch if you so choose.
• Guided hunters will be scheduled to go up to the shooting range before 3 PM. Unguided hunters may use the shooting range after 3 PM unless otherwise stated.
• Guided hunters are required to attend a 3 PM meeting in our lodge that will further explain the details of your guided hunt.
Payment Policy
Taxes, hunting licenses, and gratuity are not included in the prices listed. The customary gratuity for satisfied guests is 15-20% of the total stay.
• A Deposit of 30% of the total booking is required to confirm a reservation; failure to pay the deposit may result in the loss of the reservation.
• We accept checks, debit cards, and credit cards. There is a 3% processing fee for credit cards. There is no fee for debit cards.
• Summer Reservations: The remaining balance is due the day before departing from Upper Canyon Outfitters.
• Hunting Reservation: The remaining balance is due the day of arrival to Upper Canyon Outfitters.
All package prices are based on double occupancy. Single occupancy incurs an additional fee as listed on the rates page. Gratuity, Lodging Tax, and fishing/hunting licenses are not included in package prices.
Cancellation Policy
Due to the nature of our business, vacancies are extremely difficult to fill on a short notice. As such, we retain the right to keep deposits or charge cancellation fees as stated below.
Summer Reservations
If a cancellation is made 90 days or more prior to the arrival date, a refund of the deposit will be issued, minus a $100 cancellation fee.
• For cancellations made within 90 days of the arrival date, the cancellation fee will be determined at our discretion up to the deposit amount, taking the specific circumstances into consideration.
Hunting Reservations
If a cancellation is made prior to February 1st of the reservation arrival year, a refund of the deposit will be issued, minus a $100 cancellation fee.
• For cancellations made after February 1st of the reservation arrival year, the cancellation fee will be determined at our discretion up to the deposit amount, taking the specific circumstances into consideration.
• If Upper Canyon Outfitters applied for all your preference points and license, and a tag is not successfully drawn, the deposit will be returned in full or rolled over to the next year.
Roll-Overs
• Alternatively, the deposit may also be rolled over to the following year. If a reservation is rescheduled, the cancellation policy will still apply based on the original arrival date.
• The original price of the trip will be honored for the first year a deposit is rolled over; any subsequent years will be charged at the current year’s price.
• In the occurrence of any unforeseen shutdown of Upper Canyon Outfitters, such as a forest fire, all money received will be transferred to the following year.
Partial Cancellations
Partial cancellations are held to the same cancellation policies stated above and will be subject to a cancelation fee. A partial cancellation may include, but is not limited to: one or more members of a group canceling, arriving later than the originally booked dates, departing earlier than the originally booked dates, and canceling activities.
Refunds
• If a deposit is returned, it will be returned to the original payment method unless otherwise stated.
• Credit card, shipping, or any other extra fees associated with the transactions are not subject to a return.
We strive to provide an exceptional experience from start to finish and are always willing to work with our clients to handle cancellations with fairness.
Licenses
Fishing License: Upper Canyon Outfitters can assist you in purchasing a fishing license. You are welcome to purchase a fishing license ahead of time if you are fishing every day of your reservation, or if you are purchasing a season-long fishing license.
Hunting License: To avoid any possible issues, Upper Canyon Outfitters will purchase preference points and hunting licenses for all confirmed clients.
Meal Schedule
Summer & Non-Hunting Reservations
• Breakfast: 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
• Lunch: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
• Appetizers & Happy Half Hour: 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM
• Dinner: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Hunting Reservations
• Breakfast: 4:30 AM – 6:00 AM
• Lunch: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
• Saturday Only – Appetizers & Happy Half Hour: 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM
• Dinner: Serving starts at 6:30 PM
Dietary Restrictions
Please make sure to let us know about any dietary needs ahead of time. A survey will be sent to all clients to provide this information.
Happy Half-Hour
During the summer season, we are pleased to offer appetizers and two complimentary beverages per guest each evening. Available drink options include beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks; please note that liquor is not provided. Guests are welcome to bring their own beverages if desired, and we kindly ask that consumption be kept to a respectful level.
As we do not sell alcoholic beverages due to not having a liquor license, we recommend purchasing any additional drinks in town prior to arrival. The closest liquor store is 34 miles away.
Leisure Time and Wifi
There are plenty of areas to enjoy your time at the ranch when not participating in activities. These areas include the fully enclosed sunroom, wrap around porch, gazebo, and a comfortable common area in the lodge. Lawn games such as horseshoes, corn hole, and spike ball are also available.
Wi-Fi is available in the lodge and all cabins. Passwords are provided in your room/cabin.
Travel Insurance
We encourage you to obtain travel insurance. This protects you from damage or loss of equipment and provides medical benefits and emergency evacuation coverage during your hunt.
Signature Travel Insurance, endorsed by the Montana Outfitter and Guide Association (MOGA).
Travel Guard Insurance, endorsed by the Dude Rancher’s Association (DRA).
Transportation
If you are flying, we highly recommend renting a vehicle. Having your own car gives you the freedom to enjoy evening activities and wildlife viewing on your own.
Shuttle services may be accommodated depending on availability. Please call for more information.
Pets
UCO is the home to many pets and livestock; for this reason, we do not allow any outside pets at the ranch.
Summer Activity Procedures
Summer Activity Schedule
We take pride in tailoring your vacation to your needs and offering flexibility to your activities. The following will explain how we can provide you with the best experience.
All activities are offered from Sunday – Thursday.
• Activities will be scheduled prior to your arrival.
• Every guest’s activities will be reviewed with them in the office after a timely arrival. If you would like to make any last-minute changes to your itinerary, this would be the best time, provided we have the availability for it.
• If you have days with no scheduled activities, you may add activities throughout the week, provided we have the availability. Please ask for these changes early, on the day before the activity would take place.
• If you plan to explore on your own and would like us to pack a to-go lunch for you, please let us know early, on the day before your adventure.
For safety reasons, trail rides are not available for children 12 years old and younger.
Fly Fishing Trips
• All guided fishing trips include waders, boots, rods, and tackle.
• You will meet your guide in front of the office around 8:30 AM unless otherwise instructed.
• Your guide will set you up with waders and boots. They will also let you know what time you will depart to your fishing area.
• Be sure to bring a filled water bottle!
Horseback Rides
• Helmets are available to wear during the ride.
• You will meet the wranglers in front of the barn around 8:30 AM, unless otherwise instructed.
• They will provide further instruction depending on the length and location of your ride.
• You must be 12 years or older to go on a trail ride. Arena rides are available for kids 8 – 12.
• Be sure to bring a filled water bottle!
For safety reasons, trail rides are not available for children 12 years old and younger.
Equine Facilated Wellness (EFW)
• You will meet the wranglers in the sunroom around 9:00 AM for the first portion.
• You will then transition into the round pen.
4×4/Auto/History/Hike Tours
• You will meet your guide in front of the office around 8:30 AM unless otherwise instructed.
• They will provide further instruction depending on the length and location of your ride.
• Be sure to bring a filled water bottle!
Introduction to Fly Fishing Class
• You will meet your guide in front of the office around 8:30 AM unless otherwise instructed.
• Lessons will take place on our lawn and spring-fed pond.