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Pig racing makes Montana bar a unique Yellowstone attraction

Tourism slowed to a trickle in many small towns around Yellowstone after a series of spectacular fires in 1988 burned across nearly one third of the park. So, with a local population of only 83 people in Bearcreek, Mont., bar and restaurant owner Bob "Pits" DeArmond knew he had to do something to attract attention, and visitors. So got into pig racing. "We just figured pig races might be the thing," said DeArmond, owner of the Bear Creek Saloon and Steakhouse, home of Bear Creek Downs. A natural-born promoter, DeArmond has tried a number of attractions and events around his place in addition to pig racing, including a sagebrush golf tournament, a velcro wall and iguana races. Continue Reading →

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Montana bar stakes claim as Yellowstone attraction where pigs fly

Pigs race at Bear Creek Downs, a seasonal swine derby near Red Lodge, Mont. (Montana Office of Tourism - click to enlarge)

Tourism slowed to a trickle in many small towns around Yellowstone after a series of spectacular fires in 1988 burned across nearly one third of the park. So, with a local population of only 83 people in Bearcreek, Mont., bar and restaurant owner Bob "Pits" DeArmond knew he had to do something to attract attention, and visitors. So he called in the pigs. "We just figured pig races might be the thing," said DeArmond, owner of the Bear Creek Saloon and Steakhouse, home of Bear Creek Downs. Continue Reading →

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Yellowstone and Montana gateway towns plan variety of Earth Day events

The Roosevelt Arch greets visitors at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park. (Flickr photo by Pete Zarria - click to enlarge)

Just as visitors have their first chance today to venture into the interior of Yellowstone National Park by auto this year, the Montana towns of West Yellowstone and Gardiner are planning a series of Earth Day events for the weekend. Starting at 8 a.m. today, autos may drive from Yellowstone's north and west entrances to Old Faithful, Canyon, and Norris. Entry into Yellowstone is free starting Saturday and continuing through April 29 as part of National Park Week. Entrance to all national parks in the country is free during the week. Continue Reading →

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