Preserving a treasure of the American West

Shell Valley is a tiny hamlet nestled in the foothills of the spectacular Bighorn Mountains in picturesque Shell Wyoming, population 50.  Here, nature remains unspoiled and the traditions of the Old West continue uninterrupted.  Tradition, honor and the cowboy code are fundamental to the foundation of life here in the West. Now this legacy that has lived on at the Flitner Ranch for five generations can become part of your familys history, thanks to the Hideout Private Residence Club.

This unique business model combines several of the best features of Private Residence communities and destination clubs.  But what you may ask are these elusive definitions?  Simply put, a Private Residence Club membership is a form of fractional ownership, the fastest growing segment in real estate and frequently described as luxury home ownership without the hassles.  A destination club in contrast, is a membership to a collection of resort destinations that provide the owner with luxury accommodations at each destination.  The Hideout Private Residence Club is a non equity membership offering an experiential adventure through the use of our 300,000 acre working cattle and upscale guest ranch.  The Hideout features luxurious accommodations, unparalleled recreation, a preservation trust and a conservation platform. 

As fourth generation ranchers, the Flitner family is passionate that the magnificence of The Shell Valley remains intact forever.  After watching other areas of the West fall victim to indiscriminate commercial development, David and Paula Flitner have made a commitment to preserve The Shell Valley as a living treasure of the American West and are actively seeking 88 members who want to share in this vision.  

The Hideout Private Residence club is offering by invitation only, a total of 88 memberships to be shared among 11 luxury homes offering dramatic views of the Bighorn Mountains and Shell Valley.  Legacy Members receive a total of 5 weeks year round use and additional use according to availability.  Membership features include concierge services, use of recreation & dining amenities from the Hideout Guest Ranch, Snowshoe Lodge and the Upper Hideout, personal chefs, all of the benefits and none of the hassles of second home ownership at a fraction of the cost.  Members pay a one-time, 100% refundable membership deposit to join the Hideout and annual fees of $8000. 

The Hideout is a place to share with our children and our childrenÂs children.  A place they will come to know as their own private sanctuary.  A chance to be land stewards so that future generations may marvel at the same spectacular, unspoiled landscapes.  Our members embrace this valley as their own national park – as a treasure that, if protected, can herald its history and heritage through the test of time.

For more information, please call Valerie Darlington at 307-765-9458, 800-354-8637, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or write to us at PO Box 206, Shell WY 82441.