The Barnsion - Harlowton

The Barnsion setting is on a large central Montana ranch sitting between four mountain ranges. You have 360 degree views awaiting you with all the sights, sounds, and smells you would expect on any working cattle, sheep, grain, and haying ranch. It would not be uncommon for several hundred cattle or a couple thousand sheep to be trailed through the yard. The machinery and equipment scattered nearby are not props for a bed and breakfast, but the necessary tools and equipment needed to operate the main agriculture businesses on Miller Ranch. The sheep herder wagons, visible here, are still utilized occasionally for seasonal help during calving and lambing time and have been a part of the history of the ranch dating back to 1977 for this generation and a life time of the preceding generations.

The idea for the 'Barnsion' was birthed from a wish to build a horse barn within close proximity of our home and the need for a woodworking shop. It seemed very logical to combine the two ideas with a common roof and wall. Hosting visitors is a big part of our lives, so our dreaming took the approach to add on a room for guests. After planning these areas on the ground level, it seemed a waste to build this without utilizing the upper level possibilities. One idea led to another and we have the 'Barnsion'. The main beams for the construction of the ' Barnsion' were salvaged from a demolition site and the front porch logs were pieced together from the remains of 60-70 year old power poles taken down on the ranch. The entire building is heated from waste oil from our mechanical shop and collected from the surrounding area.

The name 'Barnsion' came from the nickname the locals called it during construction. It seemed a cross between a barn and a mansion. We are not aware of any other structure with this name or built like this building, therefore we have the one and only original 'Barnsion'

BARNSION ACCOMMODATIONS:

'Upper Room'

The Upper Room has a large, cozy, open living-dining area finished with wood prepared on the site or in the local area. Relax in western decor in front of the fireplace and enjoy a view of the ranch and all the mountain ranges. The rustic pine cabinets are furnished with everything you will need to prepare and enjoy your favorite meals. Have a cup of fresh ground coffee roasted for us locally at Snowy Mountain Coffee.

The 'Upper Room' has three uniquely designed bedrooms, which have either king-sized pillow top beds or super twin single beds, providing versatility for couples, singles and children. One bathroom features unique western decor with full bath and shower. The Upper Room has full laundry facilities and outdoor decks in the front and back to provide spectacular views, fresh air and relaxation.

Up the handmade fir stairway you'll enjoy a view of the mountains while relaxing in the jetted tub in the Southwestern decorated suite.

Another unique and special room with comfortable recliners overlooks the kitchen, fireplace, and living area and gives a panoramic view of the Crazy Mountains while you use the internet, play a game, or enjoy your favorite book.

Additional sleeping accommodations in the 'Upper Room' include a hide-a-bed in the living room and a twin bed tucked away above the stairs. With 3 twin air beds, the 'Upper Room' will accommodate up to twelve adults. For younger children we have a Pak N Play and a child play area available.

'The Shed'

The 'Shed', located on the main floor of the building, is another western themed suite. The Shed has a full kitchen, a California King pillow top bed, a full bath and a log loft with two full beds, which can accommodate up to 6 more guests. 'The Shed' can be rented in conjunction with The Upper Room to accommodate up to 18 guests. This is listed under a separate VRBO listing. The VRBO listing # is 577278

Under certain conditions we may also consider opening up a private area in our home nearby with two more bedrooms and a private bathroom, a walk in shower and jetted tub. If you have a large group, this could provide accommodations for up to 4 more adults, with a queen bed, king bed, and baby crib. This can be utilized with either the Upper Room or the Shed.

With all these rooms we have beds for up to 22 adults at the location.

Outdoor Kitchen, Fireplace, Gazebo, Archway, and Patio

Summer shade, an outdoor sink, sandstone rock countertops, barbecues and grills, archways, deck tables and chairs, evening romantic lighting, a crackling fire and the smell of food make this place a one of a kind piece of art with a function.

This space may be available for our guests with advance permission. Many nights we would be glad to share this with you or allow the use of this space by yourselves.

This has been a favorite place for private parties and small weddings. Occasionally you might hear music coming from here as the sun sets and the cool evening breeze makes the fire needed. The sunsets from here in the summer months are breathtaking looking up at the Crazy Mountains and the Musselshell River Valley. It really doesn't get much better than this.

Stable

On the south side of The Barnsion is a tack room, fresh year around water, a round corral, and a beautiful fir barn with stalls filled with fresh shavings from the wood shop next door.

These spaces may be available for guests enjoyment, with special permission. Ask us about bringing your horse and taking trail rides around the ranch without having the restraints of staying on a specific trail and explore the natural beauty and fresh air.

Around the Ranch:

Every season brings a time for new experiences around the ranch. Calving, lambing, irrigating, haying, harvesting, weaning time and shipping to market are normal activities here. Although it would be difficult to guarantee, there is always something happening on Miller Ranch that you may want to experience.

Fishing, Hunting, Bird watching, Photography:

Whitetail deer are normally seen on the ranch and there may be the seasonal chatter of nesting Sandhill Cranes or the clear distinct song of the Western Meadowlark. The American Fork Creek runs through the ranch and the Musselshell River is nearby. They have smart Brown Trout and, with the proper licenses, may be available for your enjoyment. The Musselshell Valley and the local mountain ranges are known to have many whitetail deer, antelope, mule deer, game birds, bear, lion, and elk. If you like to use a gun, bow, or hunt with a camera, it can probably be done from here. Public hunting may be open nearby on the Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks' block management parcels or 30 minutes away in one of the mountain ranges.

Bicycles and ATV's:

Bicycles are always welcome and ATV's are welcome with some reservations. There are times when we cannot have an ATV moving through the livestock or riding on the hay ground. I am sure we can find a suitable place for you to enjoy here on the ranch. Many experienced riders may want to enjoy the open trails in the United States Forest Service only about 30 minutes away.

Hiking and Walking:

Take a walk to the creek and enjoy yourself without having the restrictions of a designated trail. Enjoy the sunrise with a hike in the fresh Montana air. Because it may change daily, please ask us where it would be safe to explore.

Horses and the Stable:

Ask us about bringing your horse and taking trail rides around the ranch without having the restraints of staying on a specific trail and explore the natural beauty and fresh air.

Rest, Relaxation, Restoration:

Friends staying at the 'Barnsion' have told us the best part of this experience was the peaceful atmosphere, enjoying the beautiful views, and the rest, relaxation and restoration from the pressures of life.

There is a saying in Montana, 'If you don't like the weather right now, just hang on it will change soon!' We have seen 90 degree temperature swings in two days due the Chinook winds that blow through our area. The weather in Central Montana can change quickly.

It is always pleasant inside these accommodations with air conditioning for the hot months and a cozy fire in the stove for the cooler months. You may be looking for a place to write, read, study, play games, quilt, or get away from a crazy fast paced life. Every group or family will have specific goals and ideals. We will try to do our best to accommodate all your desires.

Endless Possibilities:

Because our location is nearly the geographic center of Montana, our guests will be within a days drive from any site Montana. Yellowstone Park is a day trip from here. Within two hours drive from here you can enjoy just about any cultural or recreational activity the state has to offer. Whether skiing at Bridger Bowl or Showdown, snowmobiling, rafting, fishing, hunting, or site seeing, the list could go on endlessly.



Several major airports are within two hours, making it easy to fly in and drive here without major traffic.