Ride to the ranch, early 1900's. Saddle Mountain in background.

Through high country cattle ranching, they gained an intimate knowledge of the nearby wilderness and in the l930’s they put that knowledge to use by bringing a group of photographers on vacation from California up into the mountains. This group said they "had traveled to Europe and over the United States but this was the best vacation they ever had".

In l939, Grant and Mamie made their guest ranch official, opening to visitors from all over the world. They led these early outdoor enthusiasts on pack trips and fishing trips and guided big game hunters into the vast wilderness surrounding the ranch. They were successful enough to construct a lodge, cabins, guest house and restaurant. In the mid l940’s they dug and stocked six trout ponds to attract more fishermen. The Ferrier family ran the guest ranch successfully for over thirty years before selling it to absentee owners in the l970’s. Over the ensuing years the ranch suffered neglect and fell into disrepair.

Guests at early ranch camp

Mamie leading pack trip

In early 2000, the ranch was rediscovered and purchased by the Hodgson Family. They have worked hard to restore the ranch, savoring its original character and renaming it Smith Fork Ranch. It is open now as a world-class destination for vacationers and outdoorsmen.



History Page 1

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