Approximately 1.7 million
vehicles drive up the Gallatin
Canyon each summer, and
according to Dave O’Connor,
Owner of Bucks T-4, “Most
of these vehicles pass through
Big Sky, oblivious to the fact
that there is a service-rich and
vibrant community here.”
Together with 21 other businesses
on Highway 121, O’Connor has created a new organization, Discover
Gallatin Canyon. Similar to a chamber of commerce, the involved
businesses are dedicated to sharing information about the Big Sky community
and encouraging guests and locals who “visit canyon businesses for
gas, hardware or lunch to proceed up the Spur Road for other recreational
and economic activities.” O’Connor said.
To kick off the summer, the group will hold its first annual Summer
Solstice Poker Run on June 21 at 4 p.m. Participants will start at the 320
Ranch, where they will buy a punch card for $5 and be given their first
playing card. They will proceed up the canyon, stopping at each business
along the way to get another playing card. Restaurants will be offering
tasty bites and beer samples from Montana breweries. Designated drivers
will enjoy complimentary tastes and non-alcoholic beverages. Each business
will be offering giveaways, raffles and other incentives.
Participants will meet at The Corral at 8 p.m. to assemble their best fivecard
hand. The top three hands will split the pot. Participants must start at
the 320 Ranch, but can then pick up cards in any order.
