In the heart of the largest wilderness area in the Lower 48 States, Wapiti Meadow Ranch is surrounded by crystal clear trout streams for discriminating fishermen; hundreds of miles of mountain riding and hiking trails for adventuresome explorers; abundant game - elk, deer, moose, mountain goat - for wildlife viewers.

We were among the lucky ones during the summer of 2000, escaping any disruption of business and any fire damage to our trails or fishing streams surrounding the ranch. The 1000 square miles of valleys and mountainsides, home to our many scenic riding trails and freestone streams, remain pristine, lushly green and wonderfully inviting.

On all of the Wapiti Meadow waters and trails, guests rarely see another person. To experience the West as it used to be - unspoiled timbered hillsides, crystal pure waters and people-free stream banks and trails - the Idaho backcountry stands alone in its natural perfection. The River of No Return Wilderness and adjacent mountain country is a sportsman's paradise, offering limitless miles of freestone stream fishing and mountain trail riding. The hundreds of glacial cirque lakes provide destinations for the fishermen and riders, alike, unmatched in the sport they offer and in the majestic mountain scenery they provide. Active yet relaxing vacations are created by the comfortable accommodations and "hearty gourmet" dining.

Lodging:

The Great Room provides the perfect backdrop for an after dinner cup of exotic-blend coffee. Several comfortable couches and easy chairs focus on a mammoth stone fireplace. The warm glow of flames sets just the right mood while you listen to the fish tales of yesterday and today. This is the place to find an intriguing book from our substantial library, pick a board game from the Game Cupboard, or try your hand at our player piano.

There are few pleasures in life finer than the deep relaxation to be found in the warm, whirlpool waters of our Hot Tub. Indulge yourself and soak your cares away while watching horses graze in our grassy meadow. Our hot tub has hosted many memorable conversations and there's simply no better place to view a mountain sunset.

Tanning aficionados will find our redwood sunning deck and a number of more private locations perfect for absorbing the warmth and golden color from our bright summer sun.

Private Guest Cabins:

You get much more than just a bedroom at Wapiti Meadow. Enjoy your own stunning panoramic view of the timbered mountains flanking this magnificent valley. When you first open your door, you'll be greeted with fresh flowers, snacking goodies, a refrigerator filled with soft drinks, your own coffee maker, and a fruit basket brimming with seasonal selections.

All our cabins are light and airy, each with an ambiance all its own. Newly carpeted and refurbished, they boast of both electric baseboard heat and a functional wood stove resting on a stone hearth. You will find your cabin scrupulously clean and the decor warm and inviting. With separate bedroom(s), a modern bath, large living room, fully equipped kitchenette, and daily maid service, you'll find every comfort and convenience to make your stay a pleasure.

Living rooms are furnished for relaxing (both mind and body) with a sofa, easy chairs, and convenient tables. A game or dining table sits just in front of the picture window in each cabin. Indulge yourself with a quiet afternoon nap or host a gathering of new friends.

Although there is no real need for the kitchenette facilities, we've found guests appreciate a refrigerator for midnight snacks. We'll keep your cabin stocked with your choice of complimentary fruit, snacks, and soft beverages. Most guests enjoy the convenience of their own coffee maker and we also have fresh baked goods in your cabin for a before-breakfast snack with your coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

Executive Suite:

This suite is located in the main lodge and includes two bedrooms, a large sitting/living room and spacious bath. Access to all the lodge amenities is immediate. 2 bedrooms, 2 twin beds, 1 full bed.

Ponderosa Bungalow:

The Ponderosa Pine is one of the predominant trees in our magnificent forest. The Bungalow characterizes the heyday of Idaho logging. 2 bedrooms, 2 twin beds, 1 Queen.

Lafe Cox's Cache:

Named for the man who helped so many people discover the Wilderness in his 40 years operating Cox Dude Ranch, this cabin celebrates the world of packers, guides, and wilderness explorers. 2 bedrooms, 1 Queen, 2 twins.

Thunder Mountain Cabin:

Zane Grey catapulted this area to fame with his novel on the famous Thunder Mountain gold rush of 1901. This cabin commemorates the brave men and women who prospected and mined this rugged land. 1 bedroom, 1 Queen.

The Rendezvous:

The mountain men had to develop a special harmony with Nature. The adventure of these spirited trappers and hunters comes to life once again in The Rendezvous. 2 bedrooms, 2 twin beds each.

Fishing:

We are proud to have been accepted as one of the very few Orvis Endorsed Fly-Fishing Lodges. Orvis bases their endorsement on the high quality of sport fishing available, as well as on the high quality of amenities offered in lodging and dining.

With over 50 miles of freestone stream fishing in and adjacent to the largest Wilderness area in the Lower 48, Wapiti Meadow offers both beginning and experienced fly enthusiasts the best in wade fishing on the headwaters of the legendary Salmon River system, including the blue-ribbon cutthroat waters of the mighty Middle Fork. Nine lakes accessed by horseback, foot, or 4x4 trails provide opportunities to enjoy the alpine reaches of the spectacular Salmon River Mountains, as well as its stream valleys. Secluded, unspoiled, and people-free, the pure waters of this most remote area in the Rocky Mountain West offers the best in wild sport fishing.

Many streams and numerous high mountain lakes ensure variety in a full week of fly fishing adventure.

Fishing Instruction:

If you have always wanted to fly fish but have been unable to find the right teacher and time to learn, consider a vacation that will offer the best of instructors who are eager to share their skills with beginning and novice fishermen and fisherwomen.

Our Orvis trained guides look forward to working with those who have never even held a fly rod, as well as with those eager to improve their skills. We have such a broad variety of water - from small streams to the big water of the mighty Middle Fork, from our stocked pond to the spectacular high-mountain lakes in the alpine reaches surrounding the ranch - that novices can learn casting skills, float tube techniques, water reading expertise and fly selection in a unpressured atmosphere.

If full days of concentrated instruction and fishing seem to "heavy", we have all the other activities of a full service guest ranch at your disposal - mountain trail riding on gentle, trail-wise hoses; hiking; exploring ghost towns; gold panning; lawn sports; a hot tub with the best view in the valley; and lounging on the cabin or lodge porches. Scenery, wildlife, wild flowers and birds - they all turn the learning experience into a wonderfully relaxing vacation.

Other Activities:

Horseback Riding:

Certainly no other backcountry activity can spark your imagination and sense of adventure as does riding the trails on a good horse. Let your horse watch the trail so you can lift your eyes and discover the scenery.

Our horses are professionals; gentle, sure-footed and experienced on mountain trails. We are frequently complimented on our "relaxed and responsive" horses, and we feel that our program creates and keeps them this way for each successive rider throughout the season, whether experienced or more fledgling in ability.

All our rides are accompanied by at least one licensed guide. We have a brief orientation to introduce our guests to mountain riding techniques before we tackle our first trail, and we make sure that first day that you have the horse and saddle that's just right for you.

Walking and Hiking:

Enjoy a leisurely stroll over our gentle rolling paths. Pat the velvet muzzle of friendly horse as you walk along the zigzag fence row. Stop and sit a spell on a sun-warmed rock and let your eyes drink in the vibrant green of swaying grasses sprinkled with a rainbow-profusion of colorful wildflowers. For those with a faster pace on their minds, you'll find mile upon mile of forest trails winding their way through the surrounding mountains. Guides are available if you want to roam off the ranch or if you just like to have an interesting companion who can tell you more about this wonderful environment.

Lawn Sports:

What is your pleasure? You'll find a court for basketball, volleyball and badminton. Quieter action is available with horseshoes and croquet. Choose your favorite and have a ball!

Photography:

There's and infinite number of backcountry subjects to capture on film. Amateurs and professionals alike have found Wapiti Meadow to be a photographers paradise. Camera safaris can be planned in advance.

4x4 Sightseeing:

Several ranch vehicles are available for guided excursions both on-ranch and off.

Wild Salmon Spawning Stream:

Each year, around mid-July, adult salmon colored with a brilliant spawning-orange, return to Johnson Creek. For a 6-8 week period, you can witness their ritualistic mating dance over the spawning gravel that lines the stream. Take a seat on the bridge or at stream side and enjoy a few quiet moments contemplating the secrets of life.

Panning for Gold:

Follow in the footsteps of the first valley settlers and join us on a gold panning expedition. You never know when a flash of color will appear in your pan. Barry has his secret honey holes where he rarely misses some show. A flake of gold, however small, makes a great souvenir of your backcountry explorations.

Mountain Biking:

The trails and old mining and logging roads that spider web the Johnson Creek valley are motor vehicle free and offer a variety of terrain and challenge for the mountain biker. We have bikes available, with reservations at the time of booking, for those who wish to make a whole cycling vacation or others who simply want some variety.

Snowmobiling:

Suit up for some white and wild excitement! We have over 100 miles of groomed trails starting right at the ranch. With the right snow conditions, dozens of small feeder roads provide miles of additional trails to explore. Licensed snowmobile guides are on staff, primed and eager to hit the trails at no extra charge.

Cross Country Skiing:

Ski here and feel like it's just you and Mother Nature. Wapiti Meadow has mile after mile of groomed ski trails and backcountry powder leading from your doorstep.

Executive Retreats and Family Reunions:

Reserve the entire ranch for your exclusive use. Wapiti Meadow understands the needs of professionals and executive-level decision makers. Our spacious facilities and quiet surroundings are conductive to productive conferences with ample resources to provide settings for multiple small work groups. We offer a unique experience for groups of up to 16; meeting space away from the interruptions of your office and access to a diverse array of re-energizing activities and relaxation. We have the perfect facility and variety of activities to accommodate and entertain extended family reunions.