The Story of The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch
Origins
The Hideout was established in 1995 by Paula and David, who named the property after the historic Trapper Creek Guest Ranch that operated on the same land from 1899 to 1932. That early ranch hosted notable figures including Owen Wister, Theodore Roosevelt and Ernest Hemingway.
New Ownership: Marijn & Peter De Cabooter
Peter and his wife Marijn took operational control of The Hideout in 2006 and later purchased the property in 2017. Peter transitioned from an international corporate career in Brussels, Belgium to relocate with Marijn and their twin boys Edward and Victor to Shell, Wyoming — a move driven by a passion for horses, nature and authentic Western living.
Philosophy & Culture
Under Marijn and Peter’s ownership, The Hideout has developed a strong emphasis on natural horsemanship, trail riding, stockmanship and authentic guest experiences. Long-term core staff who live year-round in Shell form what Peter calls “the foundation of an exceptional guest experience.”
Shell, Wyoming
Shell is a small community (population 83) in the Big Horn Basin at 4,200 feet elevation. The Hideout operates under Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management permits, spanning the Big Horn National Forest and Cloud Peak Wilderness — giving guests access to some of the most stunning and diverse riding terrain in the American West.