The Old West and the New West dovetail seamlessly into a Real West experience in the exceptionally comfortable winter getaway offered at Brooks Lake Lodge & Spa, a nearly 100-year-old historical Wyoming guest ranch that features the best of present-day pampering partnered with the simple pleasures of the past.
The exclusive, all-inclusive luxury ranch snugs against the statuesque pines of Shoshone National Forest at 9,200 feet, with the Pinnacle Buttes as a stunning backdrop. An easy five miles beyond the nearest paved road – accessible via dogsled, snowmobile or tracked vehicle – this quiet and remote resort offers a comprehensive roster of on-site winter activities, including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing and ice fishing.
The goal at Brooks Lake Lodge is always to offer guests the experience of nearly a century’s worth of gracious service, as well as fuss-free comforts and access to healthy and enjoyable outdoor adventure, says GM Adam Long. “From the peaceful setting to the attention to details, we love to share our Real West home away from home.”
Guests can immerse themselves in the surrounding alpine environment, with its views of the Buttes, as well as Brooks Mountain and Richard’s Peak, as they ski the groomed area around the lodge or snowshoe around the frozen Brooks Lake and up to higher elevations for a panoramic peek at the Wind River and Gros Ventre mountains. For an ungroomed experience, the backcountry powder of the forest awaits, and Brooks Lake Lodge provides an expert guide to help navigate and spot the plethora of wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, moose and deer, who are out foraging in the fluffy snow. Meanwhile, those who prefer to see it all from the comfort and convenience of a heated vehicle can do so on a guided wildlife excursion.
Snowmobile enthusiasts can spend an exhilarating half or full day exploring the forest and endless snow-covered countryside on a high-performance Polaris RMK, led by a guide who loves to share hidden secret spots and the wide-open boulevards with space enough for speed. Ski and snowshoe rentals with easy, adjustable bindings, aluminum crampons and premium ski boots, as well as fishing rods, lures, bait, ice huts and refreshments – and even the guides – are all included with a stay (additional fees apply for snowmobiling).
Once back at the cozy and elegantly rustic lodge, a crackling fire awaits, along with a peaceful night’s rest. Lodge rooms are individually decorated with handcrafted lodge pole pine furnishings and goose-down comforters, while heated cabins sport wood-burning stoves, an invitation to relax and watch the snow fall and the wildlife mill about.
Also included with a stay: an appealing variety of hearty, from-scratch fireside feasts prepared by Chef Whitney Hall (as described by Food & Beverage magazine), served in the historical dining hall and a unique afternoon Governor’s tea time – all harking back to a more restful and satisfying time. In a nod to more modern indulgences, a full range of spa services – such as a hot stone massage or fruit active glow facial – are available at the on-site Rocky Mountain Spa.