The Lodge at Sun Ranch, the newest U.S. eco-lodge, opened this weekend. Accommodating a mere 16 people at capacity, the luxury lodge is in the 26,000-acre Sun Ranch sustainable ranching operation in southwestern Montana.

The new lodge boasts 10,000 square feet of space and offers accommodation in six guest rooms and suites in the main building and two freestanding cabins, as well as expanded common areas including a larger kitchen, dining room and wine cellar.

The Lodge at Sun Ranch’s eco-friendly features include flow-restricted fixtures; reuse of “gray water” for plants; reclaimed and non-toxic materials for new construction; and high-efficiency appliances and utilities including Energy Star-rated fixtures.

The Lodge at Sun Ranch recycled all usable lumber from demolition (about 75 percent), donated bath fixtures to area families in need; re-milled flooring for custom trim and furniture; repurposed original patio stone for new landscaping; recycled copper from electrical and plumbing demolition; and performed on-site quarry for road and parking lot materials.

Guest amenities are also green and include recycled paper products, natural toiletries and fair trade cotton linens.

The new lodge will educate guests on ecotourism and eco-ranching through a guest orientation designed to encourage participation in basic conservation practices.

To help offset carbon emissions, The Lodge at Sun Ranch participates in the Trees for Travel program, which plants 10 trees in the Amazon per guest.

Lodge at Sun Ranch works is working with area organic farmers to fill the lodge pantry to offer a “sustainable Western bistro cuisine.” The dining room is open to guests seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and also is open to the public for lunch and dinner by reservation Thursday through Sunday.

For additional information, visit  the Lodge at Sun Ranch Web site or call 888-674-3030.