We were extremely pleased to have Mick, Karen, and Matt Cheff on our pack trip in July of 2008. The Cheffs operate a very organized, efficient, and well-planned outdoor vacation adventure.  Between the spectacular views, the home made smells from the kitchen tent, and the feel of a well traveled saddle beneath me, I was in heaven.  I have no reservations in recommending the Cheff family to anyone who is looking for the adventure of a lifetime. My group consisted of my partner, friends and family... from age 11 to 50-something. The Cheffs made everyone feel part of the group and made sure all of our needs were met, paying particular attention to everyone's diverse riding abilities as well as what we enjoyed doing when we were out of the saddle.  From finding a good fishing hole in the South Fork of the Flathead, to relaxing in a quiet spot with a good book or learning history from one of the oldest Ranger Stations in the state of Montana, we were thoroughly engrossed and content.  Mick has a great sense of confidence that put us all at ease even before we took our first step up into the stirrups.  Karen made all the girls in our camp want to ride harder and longer and we all loved playing Black Magic and listening to her stories around the campfire.  Matt is the consummate cowboy with his skills and knowledge. He was always there to teach and offer advice (like a new way to tie on your saddlebags and rain gear). He was always conscientious of the group and made sure our travels were safe, enjoyable, and at a pace that allowed us to appreciate the incredible horses we were on as well as the scenery of the amazing Bob Marshall Wilderness.  We always look forward to the next time we pass under the sign that reads "Welcome to Cheff Ranch".

 

  Dear Mick & Karen,
Just a few words to express my appreciation for another great trip into the Bob Marshal Wilderness. This was my third trip and they just seem to get better. The hunting is very good, two elk in three trips is not too bad! I found the camp to be "top notch." I took my son in 2007 and he added his wife to our party in 2008. My son killed a nice 6X6 bull and a nice 4x4 whitetail in 2008. Every courtesy was extended to my daughter in-law; she was the only woman in camp. Good food, a shower, tight tents and a group of guides who have the clients interest at heart. I am no cowboy but the horses were even good to me! One last word, of the camps that I have hunted the Cheff camp is the only one I have ever been in where grace is offered over the meals and the only camp where there was never a vulgarity expressed. For a young person, a woman, or even an old guy like myself the Cheff's run a five star operation. Thanks for every consideration.


 

 

  Packing into the Bob was the best father son bonding trip I could ever of hoped for. Four yrs later my sons still talk about it.

 

 

  I have enjoyed my many fishing trips made with Cheff family I think they are the best.

 

 

  Hi Karen,



 

Roger and I are happy to provide a testimonial about the wonderful trip we took with your family and staff into the Bob Marshall Wilderness during the summer of 2008. We were most impressed with the friendly, knowledgeable guides who were extremely attentive to both the safety and comfort of each member on our trip. Our limited riding experience posed no problem thanks to the patient staff and well trained stock provided during the trip. We appreciated the extra time guides took to stop frequently for personal comfort.

 

The flexibility to choose from a variety of activities once we arrived at base camp allowed us to ride as often as we wanted or just nap in a hammock and read a book for the day:-) Successful fisherman had their catch prepared to be added to the wonderful meals. The food provided throughout the trip was both delicious and plentiful. Who knew we would get ice cream and cake on the trail?

 



The breathtaking scenery provided spectacular photo opportunities and memories which will last a lifetime.

 

Feel free to list us as references.

 

  After a long day of travel from the East coast, the final turn to Cheff Ranch brought anticipation and excitement.  The ranch was more picturesque than the pictures we had seen—situated at the base of mountains with lush, green pastures in the foreground.  The main house, abounding with hunting trophies and memorabilia, immediately revealed a sense of family.  There were plenty of Cheffs to be found at the ranch!  We experienced great meals at friendly tables, great guided scenic horseback rides, great cowboying opportunities, great adventure packages for the taking, and great leisure time.  It was not hard to feel welcome and enjoy the experience of ranch life at the Cheff Ranch.

 

 

  I brought a group of painters to the Cheff Ranch in the summer of 2008 - it was a magical week.  Situated up against the Mission Mountains the landscape is breathtaking and the accommodations were relaxing and comfortable. The Cheffs were extremely flexible with our unique needs as artists. There were easy fieldtrips around the valley to deepen our experience. But the most memorable part of the trip is the atmosphere of the ranch itself - hard to put into words but I don't know any other place like it. There is a coexistence and integration of family values and Western rugged individualism, of peace and contemplation with hard work and action, of modern life with ancient Tribal traditions, of serious concern with intense silliness. The gracious welcoming generosity of Karen and Mick Cheff and their extended family creates a space that is hard to leave and that one dreams of going back to. It is centered and real, easily accessible - don't miss it! To have so much fun, surrounded by so much beauty, while being so well taken care of is just an amazing experience.

 

Ojai, California