Home, Home on the Range

Spirit Riders Lodge & Retreat

Buffalo, WY

4 Rms, 10 Guests

Campfire Meals

Private, Quiet, Just 10 Minutes from Town

Your Base Camp to Explore Buffalo & the Bighorns

Spirit Riders Lodge offers a rustic, private western ranch home on 50 acres surrounded by wide open space. The antelope & horses graze & you have room to roam & relax. Views are expansive and the rooms are cozy, quiet and comfortable.

This is a great base camp to explore historic Buffalo & the many trails/recreation areas of the Big Horn Mountains. This home offers expansive views or Crazy Woman Canyon. It’s a great place to relax, sip a cold one and catch up on that much needed R & R. 

The night skies can be viewed so clearly and are absolutely amazing.

Enjoy a meal cooked over the campfire and a good nights sleep after an adventerous hike on one of the many trails in the Big Horn Mountains. Simple pleasures rock.

Join the Journey

A Real Western Experience – The Blog

Cooking on the Woodstove

Settle in with some homemade organic chili, cooked on the woodstove...

Schoolhouse Park – Bighorn Mountains

Join Mikel and her dogs on a beautiful sunny day in the Bighorn...

Rock Gardens in the Red Hills

Mikel, Elly and Woodros take you through a tour of the rock gardens of...

Wyoming Winter Run

Muddy Guard Reservoir Take a run with Mikel, owner and operator of Spirit...

Lodge Antelope

When you're at home on the range in Wyoming you can expect to see all...

Meadowlark Music of Wyoming

Join Mikel and her dogs Woodrow and Elly, on a run through the hills of...

It is my pleasure to welcome you to Wyoming, wide open spaces and enjoy what both the property and this state has to offer. I look forward to discussing what your needs are and providing a space that is relaxing and quite enjoyable. May your journey always include adventure! With best regards…

Mikel, Your Host

Remote, Easily Accessible, Private

Spirit Riders Lodge

Just 3 miles off I-25, the lodge is rustic, convenient to historic Buffalo, and very comfortable and inviting. Rent the entire lodge, or a single room. The large acreage with expansivie views of the Big Horns are at the end of the road so privacy and quiet are welcomed by my guests.

Perfect for a retreat, romantic getaway or family gathering of all sorts. Need a unique small business setting? This is it. Buffalo is just minutes away, and is also close to I-90.

Take a leisurely walk exploring the acreage and meet the horses or just sit on the front porch and enjoy watching the wildlife and over a 100 species of birds. With 2 covered porches you’ll find great places to gather and enjoy a glass of wine, relax and take in the majesty our Wyoming sunsets.

Guests

Acres

Booking.com Rating

Bedrooms

Baths

Airbnb.com

Rentals

Side Effects Include Joy, Laughter, Relaxation & Rejuvenation

The Full Lodge

Rent the entire lodge and acreage. Perfect for family gatherings, corporate retreats, couples retreats and holidays…or a much needed relaxing vacation. Private and quiet, you’ll wake to meadowlarks singing and enjoy the most amazing mountain sunsets you can imagine.

 

  • Entire Lodge, 51 Acres
  • Lodge: 3 Bedrooms | 5 Beds | 9 Guests
  • June-October (weather permitting) Range Teepees Available: Sleeps 3 each
  • 1 Full Bath & Shower
  • Ranch Meals can be Included
  • Explore the Acreage, Enjoy Horses and Antelope, Relax on the Covered Porches
  • Minimun Stay – 3 Nights
  • Cleaning Fee: $275 per stay
Price Per Night

$489

Large Loft

Spacious loft with cozy sleep space for up to 4 guests, next to lovely office space with antique desk. Settle in for some inspired writing or take the crew out for adventure. Sunny space with great views.

  • Access to Full 51 Acres of the Ranch
  • 3 Memory Foam Beds – 1 Queen, 1 Single, 1 Fouton Sofa Bed
  • Shared Bathroom
  • Up to 5 Guests
  • Just off Office with Antique Desk
  • Cleaning Fee: $55 per stay
Price Per Night

$189

Crazy Woman View

Cozy, rustically decorated room with beautiful view of the Bighorns and Crazy Woman Canyon. Lodge pine bed with new memory foam mattress you can sink into after a day of adventure.

 

  • Access to Full 51 Acres of the Ranch
  • 1 Queen Memory Foam Bed
  • Private Half Bathroom
  • Shared Full Bathroom
  • Private Entrance/Deck/Plate Glass Door
  • Up to 2 Guests
  • Cleaning Fee: $55 per stay
Price Per Night

$169

Cattle Kates Rustic Rendezvous

Simple, cozy, tastefully decorated room with views of the corrals and occasional antelope. Sleep peacefully and restfully, relax, rejuvenate.

 

  • Access to Full 51 Acres of the Ranch
  • 1 Queen Memory Foam Bed
  • Shared Bathroom
  • Private Entrance/Deck/Sliding Glass Door
  • Up to 2 Guests
  • Cleaning Fee: $55 per stay
Price Per Night

$149

Rustic RV Camping Spots

Simple, cozy spaces with gorgeous views of Crazy Woman canyon, Cloud Peak & the Big Horn Mountains. Rustic camping, so no hookups available.

Price Per Night

$115

Board  Your Horses

Have horses? Bring them along! We offer boarding when you rent a room or range teepee. Take a ride around the property or we can give you great tips on nearby public land to explore. Guided trail rides available through local, reputable, professional outfitter.

 

  • Small Barn
  • Round Pen/Small Corral
  • Feed Not Included, Water is Included
Price Per Head, Per Night

$20

Food & Drink

Rustic Campfire Meals

Campfire Grilled Dinner

Upon arrival, I offer a rustic, steak dinner with western sides cooked over the campfire. Using only organic ingredients on a campfire tucked at the base of the Bighorn Mountains, you’ll experience vittles and atmosphere that are second to none. Just $31.50 per person. Gratuity not included.

Other Meals Upon Request

I also offer a full spread breakfast meal for just $15.75 per person.

Staying a While? I am available cook meals for you while you’re here. Let me know you’re interested when placing your booking.

Coffee, Tea, Water, & Assorted Beverages

Adult beverages also available at the ranch.

All Food is Organic. Vegan, Vegetarian Options Available
Information

Amenities & Policies

Heat & Air Conditioning

Electric Heating, Window AC

Woodstove Fireplace

Beautiful woodstove in the living room

Bedroom Comforts

All beds are comfy, 12 inch memory foam mattresses, blankets, bed sheets

Bathroom Essentials

Towels, soap, bathtub, shower

Kitchen

Ranch Kitchen

Wifi

Wifi is available and FREE

Washing Machine & Corral

Indoor washing machine, Wyoming sun and wind clothes dryer using corral rails as a clothes line

Office Space

Loft area desk with space for a laptop and a chair that’s comfortable to work in

2 Covered Porches, Outdoor Grill

Invigorate with the sunrise, or relax and wind down with the sunset. Kick back and grill your favorite outdoor meal on the porch

Checkin & Checkout
Check-in: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Checkout: 10:00 AM
Mikel prefers an early check-in for her guests. There are no streetlights out here, so after dark it may be difficult to find. Plus, you won’t want to miss that first Wyoming sunset!
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation for 48 hours
After that, cancel up to 7 days before check-in and get a 50% refund, minus the service fee.
House Rules
  • No smoking
  • Pets are allowed – assessed on an individual basis. $22/night per pet
  • Parties & Events are allowed with prior discussion with Mikel
You must also acknowledge
  • Pet(s) live on the property – I have two cats and a lab. Dogs are welcome. Everyone has different needs. Please discuss options and more than happy to help.
  • Must climb stairs – One bedroom is upstairs with queen bed.

Additional rules

  • Horses must not be hand fed. Dogs chasing horses is not allowed.
  • Fires only when there is no wind and they must be put out when not attending fire ring.
  • Shoes off at the front door, please. No shoes on carpet in the bedrooms.
Mikel Carmon

About Your Host

Adventurer, Author, Wagon Train Owner, Passionate About Life in General and Connecting with Human Beings of All Walks

I am a professional woman that has been involved in adventure travel, tourism and hospitality, for over 35 years. As former owner and operator of Spiritrider Wagon Train Adventures for years, I understand what it is to soak in and become one with nature and the impact it has on those who do so.

I am passionate about facilittating quine assisted learning and offer leadership workshops on a regular basis. I am also an Eden Energy Medicine certified practioner and author of CreateEnergy which teaches about intentional living and creating a life of balance and wellness. Enjoy great conversations and showing off Wyoming and its rich history and . I enjoy connecting with a wide variety of people from all over the globe. 

I enjoy learning and challenging myself. Horses and life in general is a passion. Camping and travel are at the top of the list for me. I am passionate about transformations that benefit the planet, people, animals and appreciate the simple pleasures of life. It is my intention to make every guests stay a 5 star experience with a memorable stay, great service and an authentic taste of Western culture.

A little History, A lot of Experiences

For 35 years, I owned and operated Spirit Riders Wagon Train Adventures. Facilitating this type of adventure for folks, taking care of the horses and wagons, and soaking in the expanse of nature showed me the heart connection it creates that makes us better people.

In the beginning, I learned the craft from George Miller, beloved friend and mentor. In 1990 I participated in the Wyoming Centenial Wagontrain taking us through the Bridger Trail on a 30 day journey from Casper to Cody. That same year, I participated in the Idaho Centennial Wagontrain, along the Salmon River through the Saw Tooth Mountains. I’ve been up the Bozeman Trail in it’s entirety, a 3.5 month journey and road into Virginia City, with Percherons leading the way, and found when the trip was over I was so used to sleeping outdoors, I slept in my teepee for weeks.

Spending so much time with my draft horses, Duke & Doc, created a heart connection only a horse and their person can find. These horses grew and developed to become my most trusted companions. Years later, they went to Ardenwood Farms in California to fill our their team, after close inspection and then referral by Doc Hammill of Glacier, MT.

In short, I love people, I love space and I am passionate about connecting with people on a heart level. I look forward to serving you, opening my home to you and helping create an experience you’ll never forget, here at Spirit Riders Lodge.

True Story

Mikel is smart, funny, welcoming, and her property is a horse and nature-lover’s dream! We loved approaching the house and being surrounded by seemingly free-roaming horses. She is welcoming, and the spaces are cozy and accommodating. We also enjoyed interacting with her other guests.

In the morning she provided a delicious, healthy breakfast and coffee, and Mikel went above and beyond to help me book a horse ride with Black Tooth Excursions – the best ride of my life, in the Bighorn National Forest.

Oh, and we were traveling in celebration of my mom’s upcoming 70th birthday, and Mikel even provided a cake and sang Happy Birthday along with us for my mom – so unexpected and kind! It’s not far from some great restaurants in nearby Buffalo, but pay careful heed to her check in time requirement – it’s for your own benefit to find the property in daylight. Would love to stay there again for longer.

Rachel

Georgia

Information

Location & Nearby Attractions

Our area is home to gorgeous scenery, unmatched outdoor opportunities and a plethora of historical sites and centers, just minutes from the Lodge. There’s nearly no end to the activities you can enjoy. Find out more below.

Equine Assisted Learning

Learn the language of horses, gain insight into your inner self, spend a day rejuvenating under the Bighorns.

What We Do – Option I

We’ll begin with a meet and greet with the horses and Ms. Mikel Carmon M.A. EEM-CP, your host and equine professional facilitator.

Next, describe the exercises designed for the next hour with Cherokee. Ask for a volunteer and gather information about what the person would like clarification with in their life.

This is open ended work and the horses are the leaders in these exercises done solely on the ground.

Choosing a halter for example is highly illuminating (process, reasoning, logic, fear, confidence frustration, anger are all addressed).

Catching a horse is next and then “leading” the horses. Whose leading who in this exercise always brings up profound insights.

Next is an exercise called: “life happens” and is about the challenges and obstacles we encounter in life and how we either respond or react.

Western horsemanship – Option II

We will cover everything from body language to a quick release knot. Learn how to properly saddle a horse, tie a quick release knot and basic horse language…the horses and I would enjoy having you.

My Experience

My history in the wellness field has always challenged me with new ways of achieving effective results. My Masters degree in Counseling from the University of Northern Colorado led me to become certified with Greg Kersten, founder of EAGALA. My certification as an Equine Learning Professional was achieved in 2004. As an operator and owner of Spiritrider Wagontrain Adventures I had to really understand and know horses and mules for successful adventures.

I have spent years teaching folks Western riding and horsemanship. It’s a great way to spend a day.

And if you would just prefer to start with the basics of horsemanship and learning the language of horses…this experience is for you. Learning the language of horses is fascinating.

Rooms available upon request.

Day Horseback Rides

Bringing Horses?

We can recommend a number of beautiful, easily accessible public land areas to ride, explore and take in the beauty of the Bighorns.

Don’t have horses? No Problem.

We work closely with Blacktooth Excursions, a local outfitter offering 2, 4 and 6 hour day rides, close to town, perfect for a quick getaway.

Enjoy amazing views, vistas you can’t imagine, beautiful lakes, streams and so much more.

They’ve covered nearly every in ch of the eastern slope of the Bighorn Mountains and will customize a day ride based on your wants and needs. If you’re looking for a ride you’ll never forget, let us know and we’ll get you set up.

Restaurants

The Buffalo area is home to a plethora of restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines.

From steakhouses to local burger joints, you’ll find nearly anything you’re looking for. Visit www.buffalowy.com for a full list of restaurants.

Some of Our Favorites

The Occidental Hotel – The origination of Buffalo itself, the Occidental is a historical saloon, restaurant and hotel nestled along Clear Creek in the heart of Buffalo. A fully restored saloon sports the original back bar and historical artifacts from the 1800’s, and offers a western menu. 

The Busy Bee – Located in the Occidental building, the Busy Bee is a community staple, featured in Craig Johnson’s “Longmire” series. Expect excellent breakfast and a historical atmosphere.

Winchester Steakhouse – Located east of Buffalo on highway 16, the Winchester is an area favorite for fine dining and cuisine.

Bozeman Trail Steakhouse – The Bozeman Trail offers a variety in family friendly atmosphere. With a full dining room, and a more relaxed lunch / bar area, you’ll dine on excellent lunch and dinner entrees and house cocktails surrounded by wildlife mounts and western art.

Sight Seeing

Crazy Woman Canyon

Just a few miles from Spirit Riders Lodge lies Crazy Woman Canyon. A beautiful drive, this road winds up through the canyon offering fishing, gorgeous scenery and hiking.

Jim Gatchell Museum

At the corner of Main and Fort St in Buffalo, this museum will take you through the history of Johnson County. From the Indian Wars to Cattle Wars to the wreckage of Bomber Mountain, historical buffs from all over enjoy this accredited museum.

Ft. Phil Kearny

This historical battlefield and interpretive center lies a short drive north of Buffalo near Banner, WY. The interpretive center offers guided tours and information about the history of the indian wars and Bozeman Trail.

Bars & Lounges

The area offers a variety of Bar and Lounges as well.

Enjoy a relaxed, historical atmosphere with live music nearly every night, plus a local bluegrass jam every Thursday, at The Occidental.

Crazy Woman Lounge offers a classy, relaxed atmosphere, specializing in top shelf whiskeys and scotch.

The Outback and Century Club offer a crowd of local color, for that “hole in wall” bar feel.

Shows & Entertainment

Buffalo Theater – Take in a film at our local twinplex theater, offering a great movie experience, complete with concessions and comfy seats.

The Occidental – Enjoy nightly music with the Bitter Creek band, and a local jam Thursday nights at 7 pm. Are you a musician? Bring your instrument and join in, the jam is open to the public!

Biking, Hiking, Fishing

The Bighorns are home to some of the most scenic, unforgettable trails in the country, with fishing opportunities that are second to none…just minutes away from the lodge.  We can offer suggestions based on your interests and needs, or direct you to the local Forest Service where you can get even more information with maps available.

Day Trips

This area offers a variety of Day Trip activities.

The Hole in the Wall country, a hide out for outlaw Butch Cassidy outside of nearby Kaycee, Wy offers gorgeous scenery and history.

Across the mountain lies Hot Springs State Park, near Thermopolis, WY. A short 2.5 hour drive, this area offers Star Plunge, an indoor/outdoor hot springs swim park complete with 2 pools, water slides, vapor cave and fitness area.

On the way to Hot Springs State Park, you’ll wind your way down the other side of the Bighorns through Ten Sleep Canyon. A beautiful scene of mountains and water falls, you’ll end up in the town of Ten Sleep. This area offers summer rodeos, food and a craft brewery.

True Stories

Guest Reviews

Memorable, Enjoyable, Peaceful

I was recently (September 7-10-2021) a guest at SPIRIT RIDERS LODGE & RETREAT in Buffalo, Wyoming. There are magnificent views and easy access to the Majestic Big Horn Mountains, Mountain range.
Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted and welcomed by owner, Mikel Carmon. My room (Crazy Woman Canyon) was very comfortable. Meals were delicious, healthy and well prepared by Mikel. Mikel possesses a wealth of knowledge about the nearby surrounding areas and the larger area.
I was accompanied by two female friends. I would recommend this Lodge/Retreat as a “girlfriend getaway”.

In conclusion, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Spirit Riders: excellent food, awesome hiking, beautiful scenic surroundings, absolutely memorable Sunsets, great and informative conversations with owner Mikel.
As previously noted, I visited the Lodge with two girlfriends, I am planning on a visit with my family.
I highly recommend Spirit Riders Lodge & Retreat for a memorable, enjoyable, peaceful, restful vacation.

Frankie

Breathtaking & Inviting

Mikel is an excellent host. Her breakfasts are delicious. I celebrated my birthday there and she gave me a card and a piece of cake. The location is breathtaking and Mikel is very knowledgeable about the area. Her home was inviting and it was a real pleasure to stay there. We definitely plan to come back!

– Lillah

The Best Place We Ever Stayed

“We traveled around the west for 16 days, and have had 5 hotels. Spiritriders is the best place we ever stayed at. Mikel is just awesome! It’s rare to meet a person with such a big heart and amazing personalities like her. And amazing hospitality!! The rooms are great, the location is just breathtaking and she cook awesome light breakfast. We are without a doubt coming back!
Thanks Mikel.”

– Daniel, Denmark

Well Worth The Journey

“Mikel greeted me at the door like a long lost friend. This is a real home stay – comfortable and companionable. If you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet with distant views of the Big Horn Mountains, close up views of the horses and occasional wandering deer – this is probably for you. Its a lumpy old dirt track to get there (you need to be careful in a standard saloon car) but well worth the journey.”

– John, UK

FAntastic Host

“Expect a fantastic host, great views and a good nights sleep. We were surrounded by the grasslands of Wyoming with hourses, antelopes and prairie dogs. Our big decision that evening, after settling-in with some wine, was to facing the east, looking into a very dark thunder storm with a great light show or the west at the Big Horn mountains with the sun setting. Our host was up early and greeted us with fresh hot coffee and fascinating conversation. After a tip on a gorgeous side trip we were on our way. This is a great place to find Wyoming thats off the interstate, out of the cities and away from the crowds of the big parks. It will be a stop over in our next trip through.”

– Steve, US

High Vegan Expectations Surpassed

“The only regret you will have is not staying additional nights. Impeccable 5 star service, 5 star personal chef and host, and trust me, as a picky vegan my expectations are high. Mikel prepared enough steak for two for my husband. Sites facing panoramic view of Big Horn Mountains. Abundant wildlife. Star and Milky Way gazing unmatched in our travels. Mikel generously provided knowledgeable local history, travel tips, a tour of the ranch and maps. The only reason I am remotely looking forward to returning home is to use my hand picked sage brush in recipes including vegan soap. This is not a ‘stop over’ booking. It’s a destination. Easy access from interstate is a bonus. Thank you Mikel. We will be back.”

– Tere

Beautiful View, Easy Reach of Town

“Staying with Mikel was just about the best we’ve ever had. She made us feel more than welcome in her frank and outgoing way. She had more suggestions for hikes, scenic drives, places to visit, and places to eat than we could have used in a stay three times as long as our three days. Her place is very comfortable and well finished, with a beautiful view of the plains and the Big Horn Mountains, and within easy reach of Buffalo and Sheridan WY. We’ll definitely stay there next time we’re in the region.”

– Tom, US

Will Definitely Return

“Amazing stay here at SpiritRiders retreat in Wyoming. If you’re looking for accommodation different from the classic hotel or b&b I’d definitely recommend it. Silence, nature and many animals to socialize with (horses, dogs)! 🙂 Room was super cute and the bed is very comfortable!
The host, Mrs. Mikel, is really cool! She’s very friendly and helpful and the breakfast she prepares is really delicious with genuine products!! It is not a simple accommodation, but an experience of life.
She welcomes you to her home, puts you at ease and seems to be a longtime friend! I’ll definitely return to find her!!!”

– Ambru, Italy

Coffee ranks #1 and eggs are perfect

“Awesome experience.
You do not stay in a Lodge or in a B&B but at a real friend house. Dogs, horses and antelopes welcome you and Mikel share her place. You share your road trips and good addresses for a beer, a steak, a view and can have a conversation like you have with a long term friend.
Coffee ranks #1 and eggs are perfect”

– Yves, France

She Knows How to Deliver an Experience

“Mikel is an outstanding host! She knows when to chat and will let you be if that’s something you desire. She is a wealth of knowledge of the area and horses and all. Her place is a welcome getaway from the hustle and bustle and her and her animals will make your stay welcoming, peaceful, and restorative. As others posted, her steak dinner over the campfire is well worth it! Her food is amazing and she goes above and beyond to make sure you are taken care of from start to finish. She really knows how to deliver an experience and if that is what you or a group seek, then look no further and book her!”

– Karyn, US

Far From Everything, Yet Close At the Same time

“The quality of the welcome, the change of scenery, the proposal of a meal around a campfire with a delicious meal, the presence of horses and as a bonus the SILENCE, far from everything and at the same time very close to Buffalo with a beautiful saloon!
Thank you a thousand times to our host…”

– Nathalie, France

You Owe it to Yourself to Stay here

“I have traveled all over the country and have stayed in all sorts of accommodations. Hotels, motels, rental houses, just crashing with family; nothing compares to my stay with Mikel. She is a beautiful person who truly loves life and humanity. The surrounding area is stunning, and she can’t wait to share her staggering knowledge of it with you. There is simply no way to loose. This was my first time using airbnb, and now I can’t imagine traveling any other way. If you’re considering one of Mikel’s listings, don’t hesitate, just book it. Looking around at other options is a waste of time, you have already found the best.
She will greet you like family and do everything she can to make your stay perfect. Plus, she is super interesting, has lead an amazing life, and can tell stories that will humble even the most seasoned travelers. I had a great time, my family had a great time, my dog had a great time, and you will have a great time too. There are so few people like Mikel left in this world you owe it to yourself to spend some time with her. ”

– Nathalie, France

Ready for the Stay of a lifetime?

We're Ready to Welcome You!

Fill out the form below to request your reservation. We'll get back to you with a confirmation and booking information. We can't guarantee the dates you choose will be available, but will work with you to book something that works for you.

(307) 277-1235
409 Trabing Rd, Buffalo, WY 82834

Interested In Renting:

12 + 1 =

Experience the Adventure Firsthand...Follow Us

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This