Three weeks from now (September 15–19th), I’ll be back at Nine Quarter Circle Ranch for our final Dare to Detour retreat at this special place. We’ve been detouring here since 2017, and it has shaped me, our community, and countless women who came as they were and left a little braver. Here are the ten things I love most about the ranch…

1. The road to arrival
I love meeting you at the Bozeman airport, piling into our passenger vans, and taking the scenic one-hour drive through wide-open country. We always stop at Murdoch’s (a.k.a. Harrods of the Rocky Mountain West) so everyone can snag proper cowgirl boots and a hat. It’s the best icebreaker: laughter, new names, and the first glimmers of sisterhood.

2. The horses
(And the way they teach us.) Nine Quarter Circle’s horses are bred, born, raised, and trained right on the ranch, and you feel that care in every step. With wranglers guiding us and rides tailored for all levels, you don’t need any riding experience, just a willing heart. These horses hold space for courage, presence, and trust.

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness
Riding into the Lee Metcalf Wilderness is like stepping into a living postcard. Big Sky isn’t just a nickname; it’s a feeling—a spaciousness that helps you breathe deeper and listen more closely to your own story. This is some of the most spectacular country in the Lower 48, and we get to experience it from the saddle.

4. Mornings that ground and fuel us
We start with movement and rituals to set intention, followed by a hearty ranch breakfast that would make any grandmother proud. That rhythm of body, spirit, nourishment creates a foundation for the day’s adventures.

5. Getting a creative spark
Each afternoon, we gather for workshops focused on my ongoing theme: Our Stories Matter. Facilitated by other local women who inspire me, these sessions are invitations to honor your past, celebrate your present, and imagine your future. You’ll leave with practices you can carry into everyday life.

6. Play as medicine
Last year, the Ranch Olympics were a highlight. Pure, giggly joy. We had a few graceful tumbles in the three-legged race and more belly laughs than I can count. That playful energy perfectly complements the inner work; it reminds us that resilience can be fun.

7. Evenings that restore
There’s minimal tech at the ranch, and the stillness is real. Everyone sleeps deeply out here. It’s something about the quiet, the fresh air, and the way the day uses you up in the best way.

8. Great food — and “Ranch Margaritas”
The ranch kitchen turns out delicious, satisfying meals, and they’ve consistently met our group’s dietary needs without a hitch. Sitting down to eat together is one of my favorite parts of conversation. And the Ranch Margaritas at Happy Hour? I’ll just say… IYKYK.

9. Saying yes to learning new skills
From line dancing to cold plunging in the river to trying your hand at fly fishing, I’ve said yes to so many new experiences that remind us how capable and alive we are.

10. The people
The Kelsey family has stewarded this working horse ranch for over 75 year, and is now under third-generation management. Their pride and hospitality are woven into every detail. Add the wranglers, the Dare Crew, and the women who show up ready to be real, and you have a community that feels like home. This place has held so many of our Detours since 2017. Ending our chapter here feels both tender and right.