Because I Can In Montana

NOTE: My Photo ‘Shoot the Moon’ took first place in the 2011 Montana State Fair Photography Exhibition an the ‘Action’ Category. Take a look in the Gallery!
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This year, Spring in Great Falls, Montana started out at -4° and snowing.  For me, that meant it was time to be inside thinking about warm weather road trips.  I may have to wait for the flooding to end, as things warmed up rather quickly, but going down memory lane always gets me in travel mode.

During the summer of 2010, Bill and I took a fantastic road trip through parts of Southwestern Montana. We had reservations that evening for a night of comedy with “The Brewery Follies” playing inside Virginia City’s Gilbert Brewery. We headed South on Hwy. 287, with rolling plains to the East and the Tobacco Root Mountains to our West. The color splashes surrounding the entire drive were amazing!

Getting closer to our destination, we passed through the towns of Harrison and Norris (home of the unique “Norris Hot Springs”).  As evening drew closer we stopped in the town of Ennis, where we had reservations at the Fan Mountain Inn, only 14 miles shy of Virginia City. Rooms fill up quickly in this vacation hot spot, so reservations are recommended. The rooms at the Fan Mountain Inn are invitingly clean and comfortable. The owners and operators are very friendly and attentive. At the office, look for a welcoming tail wag from the loving family dog peeking over the half-door behind the counter. Some of these quaint towns offer rental cabins, motels and campgrounds. If you travel via RV, there are several choices including a KOA Campground in Alder, which is only 9 miles from Virginia City.

We arrived at the Gilbert Brewery early enough to watch as the staff opened the doors, worked the Will Call window, took tickets at the door, ushered guests to seats, took drink orders, and bar-tended.  Then, the lights flickered and we realized that “the staff” and the Brewery Follies actors were one and the same.  They shut the doors and the bar, removed their aprons and effortlessly went from serving us to entertaining us. The show was edgy, free from political correctness and hilarious! This is definitely a show for the adults, surprisingly void of a night of ‘F bombs’ and other cursing, yet full of naughtiness! Every seat lets you enjoy the show, but I warn you, sitting front row center may get you more attention that you planned for… you may become part of the show!

At intermission, the performers are once again the ‘Staff’ taking orders and serving up drinks. After the finale, the cast mingles with the guests, encouraging everyone to continue the fun at one or more of the local nightlife spots such as The Bale of Hay Saloon.

Entering Virginia City by day compared to night felt like we were in two different places. The nightlife was a very modern 21 and over crowd. Daylight created a time warp, and we found ourselves in a place where the 186o’s are alive and well. It is home to over 100 historic buildings, taking you back in time with their authentic furnishings and artifacts. Many have posted information and photos of their establishments dating back to when they were built, and what businesses have passed through them over time.  The stories are fascinating. If only those buildings could talk! Many of the town’s residents believe that they can. Many say that the living are not the only residents.  Outlaw Café and Antiques believes matter-of-factly that the playful spirit of a little girl resides there. Decide for your self by stopping by.  For more possible ghostly encounters Virginia City offers a guided Ghost Walk.

Like many families, we spent the day playing tourists, going through all of Virginia City’s shops. Cousin’s Candy Shop is a favorite by kids of all ages.  Baskets and jars of taffy’s, chocolate, licorices and hard candies surround you.  The shops centerpiece is the glassed-in section of hand-dipped chocolate candies and homemade fudge. They make a delicious honeycomb candy that is a favorite of mine.  It is a crunchy sweet honey flavored bar, thickly dipped in dark or milk chocolate.  Each chocolate covered crunchy bite dissolves in your mouth! For me it is Heavenly decadence.

There are a couple of places offering Old Time Photos.  We were drawn to Wallace Street Photographic Emporium, located at 208 Wallace Street, where we had a blast posing for pictures.

Another way for the family to jump back in time is to take a 25 minute ride on the Virginia City Overland Stagecoach, starting at the West end of Wallace Street, directly across from the Fairweather Inn.

Many of the employees throughout town set the mood by working in period costumes. If you want to purchase a piece from the past, Ranks Mercantile will have it. They carry a large variety of sizes in men’s, women’s and children’s old west frontier clothing and Victorian clothing and accessories.  On an earlier trip Bill purchased a chocolate brown Bowler hat there that went well with his brown duster. Per Wikipedia, it is a hard felt hat with a rounded crown originally created in 1849, for the British soldier and politician Edward Coke. Per me, it’s a sexy hat that makes me turn my head for a second look. It is such a classic look.

In Spring of 1863, Gold Fever broke out. This caused a need for trade and a desire for adventure. Virginia City is the only survivor of those main “Cities” created during the beginning of the 1863 Gold Rush in Montana.

Currently, Virginia City is the largest and first of three towns strung together along Alder Gulch, also called Alder Creek.  It is followed by Nevada City, and Alder.

During season, Nevada City becomes a restored outdoor museum.  It is complete with numerous refurbished buildings and allows you to get close and personal with trains at the Alder Gulch Short Line Railroad, and at the train museum. Behind the dusty antique glass windows of the museum, are several re-furbishing projects underway. The wood and iron works of the old trains are very intricate. The photo I took of Bill in his new bowler looks like he stepped back in time and is waiting to board.  The railroad wasn’t running while we were there, so that is something we have to look forward to on a future visit.

If you are looking for a fun-filled trip, the close communities of Virginia City, Nevada City, and Alder have something for everyone!  When you visit the fun places I’ve mentioned, make sure to tell them that Karen, from Because I Can In Montana, suggested the trip!

Here are links for some of the places we visited on our trip.

http://www.norrishotsprings.com/

http://fanmountaininn.com/

http://www.ranksmercantile.com/

http://aldergulch.com/

http://koa.com/campgrounds/alder/

http://www.cousinscandy.com/about-us.htm

http://www.breweryfollies.net/

Comments (1) Jul 28 2011

What:

Late Models, Street, Modified & Super

When:

Gates open at 6pm, races begin at 7pm

Where:

2801 Old Havre Hwy in Great Falls, Montana

Comments (0) Apr 23 2010

The Electric City Speedway opens this weekend, and runs through September 25th!  The excitement builds during each race making it fun for kids of all ages!  The races vary between Late Models,  Pure Stock, Street, Super, and Modified.  Special Event Races include the fast and popular Sprint Cars.

While enjoying the races you can visit the concession stands for some good snacks and ice cold pop and beer!  If you are taking younger fans, make sure to look for the kids club booth.  It has all sorts things for the kids from candy to toy cars, at reasonable prices so everyone’s happy!

Gates open at 6pm and the races begin at 7pm.  There are some special events that begin earlier.  Check the ELECTRIC CITY SPEEDWAY schedule for specifics.   Schedules are tentative, depending upon weather.

Adults $9 —Youth $6 — Kids 6 -12 $1 — Under 6 and over 70 ADMITTED FREE!

Gather up your family and friends and come on out to the races!  Electric City Speedway is located at 2801 Old Havre Hwy in  Great Falls, Montana. (406) 727-4884.

Comments (0) Apr 23 2010

A road trip is the best cure for cabin fever!  With Missoula, Montana  about 170 miles from Great Falls, it sounded like  a great destination.   We headed West on Hwy 200, looking for photo opportunities and things to  write about.  A few miles before we got to Lincoln Montana, we stopped to allow half a dozen Elk, including a nice buck, to cross in front of us.  Up for a little off road adventure, we put the Jeep in 4-wheel drive following them a bit longer.

Once we were back on Hwy 200, we glimpsed a sign that said something about Grizzly Encounter.  A little further up the Highway, we turned off to the left at the  Lincoln Ranger Station.  In 2007 a grizzly was hit by a pick up truck.  The huge 830 lb grizzly stood about 8′ tall, has been mounted and is on display there.  Unfortunately for us, the Ranger Station is closed on weekends.  I did place the camera up to the glass and take a couple shots of this enormous creature!  We plan on going there during the week for a more up close and personal learning experience at the Ranger Station.

The town of Lincoln is about the half-way mark between Great Falls and Missoula, making it a required stop to stretch and shop at the High Country Trading Post, part of Hi-Country Snack Foods, Inc.  The Hi Country Trading Post located across from the actual plant is, where you can taste a large variety of Jerky and Meat sticks to help decide which ones you can’t live without!  They also sell the creamiest fudge  in several delightful flavors, and gifts ranging from clothing to various items made in Montana.

Back on the road, beauty surrounded us.  Again, we were on the look out for more wildlife.  We saw several antelope and white tails, but none as close as our earlier encounter with the Elk.  Once we were in Missoula itself, we did a little shopping.  Our first stop was at Aspen Sound, located at 1300 W. Broadway.  They have a great selection of car stereos and an incredibly knowledgeable and friendly staff.  We left with an installed stereo and more $$ left over in our wallets than we expected.

We did a little shopping at the Southgate Mall and then deciding to venture on down the road to Hamilton and had dinner at a little Mexican spot called The Sundance Cafe, located at 900 U.S. Hwy 93.   It was a great place to have a nice relaxing dinner before heading back to Great Falls.

The drive home after dark was beautiful.  The star-filled sky encouraged us to pull over and take it all in a few times on the way home. Although I personally may never be completely cured of cabin fever, this road trip helped ease the pain!

Comments (0) Mar 30 2010

Winter burst into Great Falls, Montana in 2010 with frosty forecasts and temperatures below zero.  During these frozen periods of time, the pond at Gibson Park, normally full of ducks and geese, gets turned into an outdoor ice skating rink compliments of the City of Great Falls employees.  Using their own version of a Zamboni, they clear the snow off of the top smoothing the ice for skaters young and old.

Seeking warmth, the ducks and geese gather in the parking lots, which, although covered in snow, still emits more warmth than the frozen pond.  The play area, usually filled with the laughter of playful children, rests quietly in a blanket of snow.

For some picturesque views of the Missouri River, venture down Riverside Drive.  One of the favorite spots of the locals is Broadwater Bay Park, providing breathtaking views.  The frozen river is so peaceful and serene.

A drive through the snow-covered streets of Great Falls draws your attention to some of the distinctive architecture, such as Columbus Center, located on 2nd Avenue North between 16th Street North and 17 Street North.   There several monuments and statues throughout the city, each depicting a part of Great Falls history.  Also look for the many icicles ranging from small ones to enormous clusters throughout the city.

The Old Skyline, located at 2401 Old Airport Road,  offers the prettiest overhead view of the city.  Whether enjoying the view through their large wall of windows or braving the cold on the outside deck, you can witness beauty as far as the eye can see.

Another amazing place of interest are the falls of the Missouri in Great Falls.  It was these majestic falls belonging to the Missouri River that gave the city its name.  Resembling a cake that has been overloaded with frosting, the falls contain layer upon layer of frozen water.

Each season in Great Falls has something special to offer.  The weather changes so quickly that each hour of the day may provide a very different outdoor experience.  Whether you are a local resident or a guest, take a little time to enjoy these gifts of beauty for yourself.

Comments (1) Jan 26 2010

WHAT:  Farmer’s Market

WHERE: In the Civic Center Park in Downtown Great Falls

WHEN:

Saturdays 7:45AM – Noon

Wednesdays 4:30PM – 6:30PM

Comments (0) Aug 20 2009

“EAT AGAIN ‘TIL 10, EAT DIVINE ‘TIL 9″

The success of the Downtown Dog House inspired Dave Snuggs and business partner Joel Corda to open up the Uptown Dog House, located on the corner of 10th Ave South & 20th Street South, the former location of Big Mouth BBQ. The umbrella covered tables on the patio deck, provide a fun outdoor dining experience.

The menu is the same as the Downtown Dog House, with the exception of the Ice Cream, which is only available at the Downtown location.  The “Fly ‘n Hawaiian™” and the Dallas Dog are my two favorites!  The Uptown Dog House is set up for take-out.  You can order at (406) 454- BARK, give them your order and a description of your vehicle,  then park in one of the special-marked parking spaces while they bring your order out to you.

The Uptown Dog House is open 7 days a week.   Monday – Saturday 10AM – 10PM, and 11AM – 9PM on Sundays.  Their catch phrase is “EAT AGAIN ‘TIL 10, EAT DIVINE ‘TIL 9″.

Comments (2) Aug 06 2009

When Brandon Walker proposed to Ashley Johnson, he did so at Memorial Falls in Neihart, Montana.   She said “Yes”.   Congratulations to the happy couple!  The big day is set for January 23, 2010. They recently asked me to take their engagement photos, and wanted to return to Memorial Falls to do so.

Memorial Falls Trail is located just off Hwy 89 in Neihart, Montana. This easily accessible trail includes many picture perfect spots, including 2 scenic waterfalls. Being able to use the natural beauty there as a backdrop, made the afternoon a lot of fun. Now for the hard part… picking a favorite photo. Please go to the GALLERY and VOTE on your favorite photo.

Comments (1) Aug 05 2009

Opening weekend of the 78th Annual Montana State Fair got thundering applause from the Montana Skies!

CHECK OUT THE NEW FAIR PHOTOS IN THE GALLERY!

Fair opened up at 5PM, Friday, July 24, 2009 on a warm overcast evening.  Opening night for us included watching our 18 month old grandson visit the “Kiddie Rides” for the first time.  On the way to the South side of the Great Falls Expo Park Fairgrounds, along with numerous fun-seekers, we enjoyed seeing what the vendors had to offer.  Among them was a unique artist that captured the attention of quite a crowd as he amazed us with his speed and ability in creating such detailed artwork with spraypaint.  In addition to the Spraypaint Art there was a beautiful collection of handpainted scenery on silver spoons  done in Oil Paints. If I were asked what I found unique at the Fair this year, it would be these artists! **Visit the Gallery to see photos of Spray Paint Artist Enrique Morales and Oilpaint Artist Adriana Hernanzdez.

On the outskirts of the Kiddie Carniaval, was the Wiggle Wurm ride, which is part of The Mighty Thomas Carnival.  This is the 16th year in a row that The Mighty Thomas Carnival has been part of the Montana State Fair.  Art B. Thomas founded the Carnival in 1928, and it continues to be owned and operated by Thomas Family members.  This was Nate’s first Carnival ride.

Located on the south side of the Expo grounds, underneath many 75 year old plus Cottonwood trees is the KFBB Kiddie Carnival.  The Rio Grande Train was the next ride on Nates’s agenda.  Sitting right behind Nate was a cute little girl with blonde curls and big blue eyes riding with her mom.   Directly behind them was Alana, another adorable first-time passenger, happily riding with her daddy.  I took a photo before the train started.  Everyone was seated and wearing their seatbelts once the ride started.

As the sky darkened, we debated on what to take Nate on next.  His mom suggested the Fun Slide.  What a hit!  She held him and they slid down it together.  At the end he stood up laughing and clapping his hands looking back at the slide.  Then he grabbed his mom’s hand and started pulling her back towards the steps to do it again!  This was definetly his favorite ride!

Knowing the storm was brewing quickly, we suggested that his folks head for the Midway to ride the ‘Big Kid Rides’  while we go to the Petting Zoo and the various indoor Fair Exhibits with Nate.  While we were inside the Petting Zoo, the thunder roared and it started to rain.  As we walked past the tractor exhibit the rain increased. By the time we made it to the nearby Great Falls Model Railroad Club Exhibit, it was pouring!

The volumn of water dumping out of the sky was so intense that you couldn’t see out of the buildings windows.  The doorways were packed with people trying to get out of the rain combined with those watching it in amazement.  We love the Exibits, so for us it was the storm had perfect timing.  The rain didn’t let up, but we didn’t let that stop us from doing what we wanted. We absorbed each indoor exibit, only having to dart in and out of the downpour each in between each exhibit. Realizing that the storm had no desire to stop, we purchased a cowboy hat for Nate to keep the buckets of water out of his eyes. This made him happy, and he looked so cute in it!

Getting hungry, we took take advantage of the fact that there were no lines at the vendors, so we quickly skirted around the ever-increasing puddles and ordered a couple of Footlong Corndogs which we shared with Nate.   A group of friends  had found shelter under a big  tree nearby and invited us to join them.  We joyfully accepted!  Soggy corndogs wouldn’t have tasted very good.  The wonderful aroma of our corndogs, invited them to ask where we got them.  The vendor was only a short swim across Lake Puddle, so a couple of them headed straight there to get some for their group too.  You know it’s a good night when you’re making friends, in a storm, underneath a big tree while eatting Fair Food!

Everyone everwhere was soaked by the time the rain settled down.  A little breeze came up and things cooled off.  For that we were thankful.  That little breeze slowly took the dark skies away, and the Montana Sky was lit up with stars…and Carnival lights.  What a great night!  More photos available in the Gallery.

The Montana State Fair runs through August 2, 2009.  For more information visit www.montanastatefair.com/

Comments (1) Jul 28 2009

Simon Pure out of California was one of the groups at BLUEGRASS on the bay.

With the Missouri River running alongside, Oddfellows Park in Great Falls, Montana was the perfect spot for the 7th Annual BLUEGRASS on the bay.  About 800 people joined in on the fun.  Due to the 90° plus temperatures, early in the day people were gathered in every shady portion of the Park.  A few brave souls opted for the ‘sunburn section’ for a closer view of the stage.

After the official Welcome and Master of  Ceremonies speeches, local Great Falls group Ruf Cut Grass started things out, followed by the Great Falls Junior Fiddlers.  Out-of-state musicians included Prairie Flyer, from eastern Washington, Finders & Youngberg from Colorado, Spring Creek, also from Colorado,  and Simon Pure out of California.

The Russell Country Cloggers showed off their dance moves and their colorful costumes which encouraged some adorable little ones in the audience to dance and twirl merrily about.  For more photos visit my Gallery.

BLUEGRASS on the bay is an annual benefit for The History Museum in Great Falls, Montana.  The History Museum is a beautiful 3-story brick building, originally built in 1929 as the International Harvest building.  It now houses much more than tractors, including the Archival Research Center.

This years event was a day-long program from 11AM – 11PM, whereas in the past it has been a shorter Friday night program.  Being an all-day event on a Saturday opened up opportunities for entire families to attend.  Start preparing for next year by marking your calendars for Saturday, July 17, 2010 because this successful event is already scheduled at Oddfellows Park for next year!

In the meantime, visit The History Museum located at 422 2nd Street South in downtown Great Falls.

Open:  Tuesday – Friday 10AM – 5PM.

Admission:  $5 for Adults; $3 for Students; Children under 12 are FREE.

Membership:   $25 for Individual; $40 for Family; $75 Sustained; $125 Sponser; $250 Patron; $500 Factor; $1,000 Corporate.  First time members receive a $25 Gift Certificate to 3-D’s Restaurant upon joining.  For more information you can contact The History Museum at (406) 452-3462.

Comments (0) Jul 21 2009