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Welcome to The Ponderosa!

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Exterior
Living area
Living area
Living area
Room

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 7

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi
  • Outdoor Space

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed and 1 Twin Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Twin Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai

About this property

Welcome to The Ponderosa!

The Ponderosa (VRBO #3351557) is a property we bought a few years ago and renovated. It is on 9 private acres. And has a HUGE Ponderosa tree on the property. Which is Montana's state tree. It's a house in the treetops with beautiful views of all that Montana offers. Every amenity is here for your memorable stay, such as a large gas/charcoal grill, outdoor firepit, and a cozy deck to enjoy meals throughout your stay, We are only 3 miles outside of Columbia Falls and 5 miles from Whitefish. The back road between the two towns is where the house is situated, which makes this location very desirable. Meadow Lake golf course is a mile away. Which features a very popular golf course as well as a nice restaurant and bar that has a happy hour every day! There is also rodeos down the road every Thursday and occasional Saturday during the summer. And a nice walking trail down the road along the creek that takes 5 minutes or less to drive to you. Glacier Park is 25 mins away, Big Sky waterslides are 10 mins, and Whitefish Mountain Resort is also 20 minutes This property can sleep up to 6 guests comfortably. We do accept well-behaved pets (no more than 2 please) but ask that you keep them off our furniture. There is plenty of room for dog beds on the front porch or in the house. There is quite a bit of wildlife that roams through our property such as deer, fox, coyotes, and bear. Which they call this forest their home. We have lovely neighbors and want to keep it that way. The surrounding neighbors have children, horses, guinea hens, chickens, cats, and their own dogs. Which means your pet must be under control or leashed at all times. Now that the major rules are out of the way we hope this will be a good fit for you, your friends, & pets! I'm happy to answer any questions you may have we appreciate you considering to stay at The Ponderosa!!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pet friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor Space

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10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (161 reviews)
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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds
Remove leftover food and drinks and take out the trash
Turn off the lights, lock the doors, and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No vaping in the home.
Going 15 mph is a must on Balsam Lane.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property

About the neighborhood

Columbia Falls

Columbia Falls is home to this vacation home. Meadow Lake Golf Course and Glacier Lanes and Casino are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Whitefish Lake State Park and Les Mason State Park. Big Sky Waterpark and Whitefish Performing Arts Center are also worth visiting. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including golfing.
View more Vacation Homes in Columbia FallsOpens in a new window
Map
Columbia Falls, MT

What's nearby

  • Meadow Lake Golf Course - 4 min drive - 3.4 km
  • Glacier Lanes and Casino - 7 min drive - 6.5 km
  • Flathead River - 8 min drive - 6.8 km
  • Big Sky Waterpark - 9 min drive - 9.8 km
  • House of Mystery and Montana Vortex - 12 min drive - 14.5 km

Getting around

  • Whitefish Depot - 15 min drive
  • Glacier Park Intl. Airport (FCA) - 14 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Vaqueros - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Blue Moon Nite Club - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Welcome to The Ponderosa! pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at Welcome to The Ponderosa!?

As of Mar 15, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Welcome to The Ponderosa! on Jun 2, 2026 start from $316, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What time is check-in at Welcome to The Ponderosa!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Welcome to The Ponderosa!?

Check-out is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Welcome to The Ponderosa! located?

Situated in Columbia Falls, this vacation home is 2.3 mi (3.8 km) from Meadow Lake Golf Course and within 6 mi (10 km) of Glacier Lanes and Casino and Flathead River. Big Sky Waterpark and Hugh Rogers Wag Park are also within 6 mi (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 24 out of 24 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 24 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 24 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jean H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect place! Tucked away in woods, private, and so easy to get to grocery store/restaurants. Great location to GNP and Whitefish.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erin D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing Stay

This property was perfect for my husband me and our 2 20 year old sons. Great location to Glacier Park and very close to the airport. We had an amazing 3 nights here. Had everything you would need for a comfortable stay and beautifully secluded.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

David J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
House was perfect for our vacation. Great house, view and the woods. Plenty of deer and turkey in the backyard every morning. Loved our stay. Finished each night at the fire pit in the backyard.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erin M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Outdoor Getaway

This was the perfect place to crash after all our fun in the area for the weekend
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lara M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful place

We throughly enjoyed our stay at The Ponderosa. It was beautifula sn tranquil. Everything we needed was there and beds were great! Hope to get to stay again sometime.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dawn J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful! We had a few bears, turkeys and deer on the property that we could watch from the deck. Beautiful cabin with all you could ask for.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place near Glacier National Park

This place was perfect for us to stay for day trips in to glacier national park. It was around a 25-30 minute drive to get into the park.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kayti J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family trip

We had a great time, saw lots of deer on the property, which was a bonus for my kids. Comfortable beds, very clean. We will definitely rent again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Crystal S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

In love!

The space was amazing! Just enough space for my kids and I. Very peaceful property. I would definitely stay again
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Trevor W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic

Great little getaway in the mountains.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved every moment we spent in the cabin! We had everything we needed to cook and hang out playing games or enjoying the firepit! Perfectly located to enjoy Glacier, Flathead and Whitefish but tucked away on some land and in the woods so we could feel like we were ‘away from it all’. Even tho it was only a few minutes to town. Beds were comfy and everything was so clean! We would love to stay again! Thank you!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cami S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A perfect place for our family with older teens and young adults. It was clean and comfortable and SPACIOUS, which is so nice when you’ve spent all day in the car together. We didn’t use the grill or the fire pit, but if we had been around another day or two we would have. The location is secluded and quiet. Honestly one of the best VRBO experiences we’ve had. Crystal was fantastic at communicating. We really enjoyed it and will definitely stay here again if we come back to Glacier!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jessica E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!!!

Would definitely stay here again. Beautiful view from the deck/balcony, very clean, everything you could need. We even saw a bear while drinking coffee on the deck/balcony but felt 100 percent safe too. Loved it.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Country dreaming

Very nice property. Semi secluded. Excellent base for Glacier adventures. Host is outstanding with all communication. Check in was easiest ever.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelli R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Glacier

We had a great time staying at the Ponderosa. Lots of extras!! Thank you so much.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

kent h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

nice hideaway

We were an adult party of 5. The house was far enough away that we felt we could enjoy nature but close enough to Glacier that we could enter the park in a reasonable amount of time. The house has all we needed. The owner was great to respond when I had a question.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Janet R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Near West Glacier

Stayed here with family. There were 7 of us total. Sat out by the fire one night. House was clean. Owner stayed in touch and answered questions quick. Nice house for vacation or just to get away. We loved being in the woods.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rae F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Out in the Woods

The property was as stated. We enjoyed looking out at forest. We stayed when it was very hot outside but house stayed comfortable. We are bit older so our only comment would be that the stares to the unit at altitude were a little hard on us. Our stay was beautiful
Stayed 13 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vinodh R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A local gem in Columbia Falls!

We stayed at the property for a couple of nights during our trip to Glacier National Park. The photos just don't do justice to how good a property this is. The cabin is located in the woods, while being mins away from big grocery stores and restaurants. It was a mere 25 min drive to west Glacier. The cabin was spacious and so well appointed and maintained. The hosts haven't spare any expenses stocking up on quality things for the home. The beds were really comfortable and easily accommodated five of us. Crystal was a great host; easy to communicate with and really flexible. Would highly recommend this property to anyone looking for a nice place to stay close the park's entrance.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Vicki P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for us .

From airport at midnight, came by 24 hr grocery and to property with no problem. Secluded and beautiful views from upper deck with hummingbirds, grilling and family time. Granddaughter on her phone was able to get vehicle passes every day. Close to Glacier. The rooms upstairs were cooler and downstairs warmer which was perfect for our group. Owner easy to reach, communicate with and very helpful. One bathroom worked out mostly fine. Great time, clean and very comfortable. Thanks!
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nathan J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Whitefish Family Vacation

Loved the area where the house is, beautifully laid out inside, had everything you could need. Although it was too hot to enjoy a fire, there is a nice fire ring all set up with everything you would need, hopefully make it back sometime when it’s not so hot out. Only downside is we visited when it was a super hot week, definitely used the fans and the ac upstairs, the nights finally cooled down into the low 60’s late evening. House was perfectly located off the beaten path which made everything easily accessible. For the kids, it was amazing to see all of them with their phones down working on a puzzle together, that doesn’t normally happen. They also loved seeing the doe and fawn grazing through the property almost everyday. Great host, great house, great area, couldn’t ask for more!
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Curtis N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The listing accurately reflected the property. Pretty convenient location for accessing all local recreation. Lots of nice touches to make the property welcoming and hospitable. Kitchen was well equipped, bathroom was very clean. Host was very helpful throughout. Would definitely recommend staying here.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sarah C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Abilio M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

About the host

Hosted by Crystal Leever

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Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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