Averill's Flathead Lake Lodge

Originally built as a boys camp in 1932, Flathead Lake Lodge was purchased by Les Averill after his return from World War II in 1945. His boyhood dream was to build a dude ranch and hunting lodge for folks to experience a part of the West, and that dream came true with the purchase of the Flathead Recreation Ranch for Boys, now Flathead Lake Lodge.

The ranch slowly began attracting people from around the world. Dignitaries, celebrities and families discovered the Montana hideaway near the village of Bigfork and word of the beautiful lodge began to spread.

Doug Averill, one of eight sons, took over as the second generation of the guest ranch operation in 1971. Doug and his wife Maureen raised their three children at the ranch and hosted guests, many of whom have become longtime family friends. Doug and Maureen’s oldest son Chase now manages the ranch, where he is also raising his own family.

The Averills created a concept and philosophy at Flathead Lake Lodge that has survived more than 75 years of changes in the world. While transportation, technology and daily life have evolved since 1945, the Averill's idea of memorable family vacations has remained the same.

Doug, one of Les Averill’s eight sons, grew up at the Lodge and took over as the second generation of the guest ranch operation in 1971. Doug, his wife Maureen, and their three children: Chase, Laine, and Quindee live at the ranch and host the guests, many of whom have become longtime family friends. The Averill’s continue to be completely involved in the ranch’s operation and maintain the personal, inviting and homegrown hospitality Flathead Lake Lodge has become famous for. Whether putting on a steer roping demonstration or captaining one of the historic sailboats, the Averill family makes sure you always feel like you are part of the extended ranch family.

Since 1945, Chase is the third generation of the Averill family to manage the operations of Averill's Flathead Lake Lodge. “The legacy of this ranch is incredible,” says Chase. “It’s an honor for me to build upon the foundation laid by my grandfather and father, and share what makes this place so special with our guests.” Chase was raised in Montana and brings diverse experience in outdoor recreation and hospitality, as well as first-hand knowledge from growing up on the property and the ranch.

Socially sustainable practices run deep at Flathead Lake Lodge. Our operations focus on recycling, composting, using chemical-free cleaners, reclaimed materials and energy efficient fixtures. In addition, our food and beverage department use as many locally sourced ingredients – including meat and produce – as possible.

In addition to operations, the Averill family has spearheaded non-profit organizations that are focused on and dedicated to the improvement and sustainability of the surrounding landscapes.

The guest ranch is open from May through October. Family season runs from June to September, while adults-only retreats, specialty packages and destinations weddings take place in May, September and October.