America's Sweetest Retreats

Papoose Creek Lodge, Cameron, MT

Nestled in Montana’s Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Papoose Creek Lodge pampers romantic adventurers with rustic luxury. Stay in one of the five lodge rooms or three reclaimed-lumber cabins surrounded by aspens, with shaded paths leading to the meandering creek and adjacent outdoor hot tub. Sunken whirlpool tubs and stone fireplaces grace many of the smartly appointed rooms, and most are wrapped by private decks.

Get your fly-fishing fix on the Madison River, then try a guided horseback ride or set out to paddle on nearby Quake Lake. Hikers can get their adventure fix on the eight-mile Papoose Creek Trail, which starts behind the stables and runs through canyons and meadows to the azure Crater Lakes. After the day’s excursions, enjoy a cocktail at the main lodge before tucking into a candlelight dinner of smoked-trout chowder, carmelized goat cheese salad, and gnocchetti with lemon-scented shrimp—served (if you like) on your room’s balcony.
(Three-night “Big Sky Romantic Package” from $1,550, includes accommodations and all meals for two, a welcome bottle of champagne, one day of guided fly fishing, one day of horseback riding, two one-hour massages, plus guiding hiking and canoeing, a take-home gift, and more. 1-888-674-3030, www.papoosecreek.com)