Wake up on Thursday found us in Spokane, WA. After some overnight research, we surmised that this would most likely be a driving day. Time to shorten the distance a bit more between us and the Midwest. Couple of thoughts though… we were in “big sky” country and really wanted to do something representative of the region. Also, we’re keeping our eyes peeled for walking/hiking opportunities (hopefully sans rattle snake 🐍). A solid walk, especially after so much driving time, refreshes the body and mind!
Honestly… the last couple of days have felt like we’re moving from movie set to set. Whether you’re Sleepless in Seattle or one of the old western “Dusters” from the 60’s, it’s a view finders dream. Our iPhones definitely haven’t done the scenery the justice deserved, but hopefully gives a glimpse into all this!
First stop of the day turned out to be Missoula, MT. I’m guessing that if you’ve seen any of my web/IG stuff, you’ve probably seen several series of photos each summer of grub taken from my Weber Smoker! We haven’t done much special in regard to food so far, and other than an odd eat out we’ve been summertime grazing (not a lot of hot meals) from the cooler / grocery store stops. Thought I’d jazz that up a bit 🤓!
So… in beautiful Missoula, MT, is The Notorious P.I.G. BBQ 😳. Described as “A fusion of the best flavors, rubs, and sauces, outside of your grandpappy’s secret family recipe“, how could we go wrong! We arrived early, and had the place and helpful young staff all to ourselves. They showed us the ropes and in no time we were served. And whoa, a meal and half (actually a couple of meals for us as most went into the larder for wraps). Yepper… legit ribs/burnt ends and super sides (baked beans & slaw). Gonna be out here… might as well do it up right 🤠! Fun stop for an hour or so in a pretty “bougie” hipster setting!
While continuing our “wander” about Montana Janie was researching online and reading out loud about a potential stop that looked interesting. At the same time I saw the sign for it on the highway. Calling that serendipity, we opted to stop at Grant-Kohrs-Ranch National Historic Site in Deer Lodge. We have always found that visits to National Parks/Sites are top-notch in both information and service. This site was an easy trip in from the highway and, nicely, absolutely free to explore!
You can find the back story on the website, but the short of it is NPS purchased, with original buildings and artifacts, a pioneer ranch setting that details several families and tells their story about what Montana ranch life would have been like in the 1860’s through to the early 1900’s. The structures and museum pieces were pristine, and we felt super lucky to be treated to three separate tours with “no one else”! Spoke with rangers of the blacksmith forge, homestead and chuck wagon areas of this living museum. A western “Sherbrooke Village” for us maybe! Even enjoyed some “cowboy coffee”! Great stop.
Talk about evening accommodations began shortly after leaving the NHS, and we identified Billings as a potential rest spot. However, after seeing pricing (almost double our regular cost) and revisiting our Friday travel day we opted to push on to North Dakota, switching the I-90 for the I-94. Once again, some simply magnificent vistas for the cruise through the remainder of MT and into ND. We’d be tired upon arrival, but in cracking distance of Minneapolis and a day in that city! Late arrival, but in good shape… Gitty-up!