Are you an entrepreneur looking to break into Montana’s young cannabis industry? Are you an experienced grower ready to grow your weed your way? Are you a budtender or dispensary manager that knows you’re the reason for your current company’s sales success? Are you looking for a way into one of America’s fastest growing industries that doesn’t require millions of dollars? Knock. Knock. It’s me, opportunity.
The LLC includes two current and in-good-standing Montana cannabis licenses. The company is licensed to both cultivate and dispense cannabis.
The micro-tier cultivation license is approved for 250 square feet of canopy, so it won’t require a giant building to accommodate. It’s the perfect opportunity for an entrepreneur who believes in quality over quantity and doesn’t have, want, or need a huge space. The cultivation license can be tiered up annually during the state renewal, so it’s very capable of growing as necessary or desired as well. The sale also includes a medical dispensary license which will provide you with your own point of distribution for your product.
This opportunity is fully relocatable and offers great flexibility for the new business owner. Take it to your backyard. Take it to that small town your parents retired in. Take it to that meadow with the beautiful mountain view you never get sick of, or maybe on the shores of that lake you love. Take it anywhere you love (that’s zoned properly) in Big Sky Country!
Legalized for adult-use in 2022, over $300 million worth of cannabis was sold in Montana in year one, but Montana’s cannabis industry is just getting started. Current Montana Department of Revenue data shows the industry growing at a rate of 5% YOY. Due to the state’s moratorium on licenses, however, there will be no new licenses available in Montana until 2025 at the earliest. There’s still an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of the state’s industry though, and here it is!
Be your own boss in one of the fastest growing industries in the country. Grow some of the finest cannabis the world has ever seen or smoked. Make a living doing something you’re passionate about. Do it all while living in one of the most beautiful places in the world!
If your dream is to build a boutique business and craft cannabis brand with limited startup investment, this is it! Please call or text Myles @ 406-404-DUDE (3833) for more information.
*The sale does not include any real estate, inventory, grow equipment or active leases to transfer. A buyer will need to have a facility capable of meeting zoning restrictions and passing state inspection to house the licenses.
*Proof of funds and NDA required for all inquiries.
*Owner financing may be available with a large enough down payment.
A Comprehensive 710 Celebration Field Guide: 2023 Edition
Because your dude loves you and loves Montana’s cannabis industry, I’ve taken it upon myself to create this celebration field guide to provide as comprehensive of an aid as possible for ringing in 710 in Montana in 2023. I reached out via phone, email as well as social media to as many dispensaries around the state as possible to compile the information found in this guide.
This field guide has been compiled in the spirit of positivity, collaboration and community. The guide is from the perspective of a life-long, proud stoner and from the vantage point of someone who has witnessed first-hand the good that both medical and recreational cannabis can have on people’s lives. Both my wife and I have been medical card holders for several years, and cannabis has undoubtedly had a positive impact on our quality of life both together and as individuals.
In addition to medical uses, cannabis can also be a lot of fun when enjoyed properly and in good company. I’ve met a ton of lifelong friends in joint rotations. I hope that perhaps this Atlas can guide you to a similar destination. Cannabis has always had a remarkable way of bringing people together and making them happier. It’s in that spirit that I embarked on the creation of this guide.
Montana is fortunate to have developed a vibrant cannabis market in such a short amount of time. Medical cannabis became legal in Montana in 2004, which means Montanans have had some form of legal access to cannabis for just shy of two decades. Recreational cannabis began in 2022, and in the first year, Montana sold over $300 million worth of cannabis between the medical and adult-use programs. The industry also generated over $45 million in tax revenue for the state in year one. You can find an in depth look at Montana’s first year of adult-use cannabis sales here.
In addition to the tax revenue. There’s also an estimated 4,000 hardworking Montanans currently making their living in the cannabis industry. Keep this in mind the next time someone tries to hassle or belittle you about blazing up. Just tell them you’re supporting the local economy.
We’re just over halfway through the second year of adult-use sales, and Montana’s young cannabis industry seems healthy. Every month of 2023 thus far has exceeded the corresponding month for 2022. While the numbers don’t show a tremendous amount of growth, they do show growth of around 4.3%. If these numbers continue to hold, Montana’s 2023 sales numbers will likely end up somewhere in the neighborhood of $315 million vs 2022’s total of $303 million. Much of that will depend on the tourist season and by many metrics, tourism numbers are down this summer compared to the record-breaking numbers we saw during the pandemic.
Here’s some numbers on where we stand in 2023 vs 2022.
One interesting statistic that is spelled out in the data is a significantly different ratio of medical vs adult-use sales. In 2022, medical sales accounted for just over 30% while in 2023, medical accounts for around 21% of overall sales. It will be interesting over time to see if this trend continues. This disparity may also contribute to the overall sales growth as products are typically more expensive when purchased recreationally.
With the legislature’s recent extension of the moratorium on the issuance of new licenses, the market will look extremely similar until 2025. With no new licensees entering the market, existing licensees have the next two years to carve out market share and solidify their foothold. While it remains to be seen what will happen when the moratorium is set to expire, it’s anyone’s guess what may happen. Recent elections have skewed to the conservative side of the aisle, and I wouldn’t expect to see a rolling out of the red carpet for the industry should that trend continue.
While Montanans have voted on several occasions to support the cannabis industry, work still continues to throw roadblocks in the way of the industry. As recently as March, a repeal bill that would’ve dismantled the legal market made it all the way to the Senate floor. Fortunately, public commentary and support for the industry was able to see that bill fail, but these efforts to undermine the industry and the will of the people should be expected to continue.
Cannabis has always had its detractors and naysayers, and it’s doubtful that this will disappear anytime in the near future. It’s this existential threat to the industry that makes coming together as an industry a no-brainer at this juncture. In short, there is strength in numbers, and presenting a united front as an industry is in the best interest for all. Together we stand. Divided we fall.
As a student of history, I believe that there are few things more quintessentially Montanan than agriculture and pioneering. I can’t think of an industry other than ranching or farming that sits more exactly at those crossroads than the cannabis industry. Our young cannabis industry exemplifies so much of what the Montana spirit is in my opinion. Cannabis entrepreneurs persevere against the constant resistance by the government and naysayers to do what they do. They’re constantly carving a path into uncharted territory just by existing. It’s my pleasure to work with so many and support their efforts and their undeniable sense of passion and purpose.
There is no shortage of great dispensaries or cannabis in Big Sky Country, and it is with great pride and pleasure that this guide gets to showcase them and what they love to do. While I may certainly have a few favorite strains, products and shops of my own, that’s not what the Stoners’ Atlas is about. This is an unabridged, comprehensive and (most importantly) impartial manual for all of what Big High Country has to offer on 710. Special thanks to all of the shops who were gracious enough to take time to speak to me on the phone, send an email or reach out on social media to participate in this year’s guide.
Please enjoy the best 710 celebration guide I could muster this year. It is my sincere hope that this Stoners’ Atlas will serve you well. Thanks for participating in or using this guide and happy holidaze! As always, have fun and be safe when celebrating and thanks for supporting your local dispensaries. I’m sure they’d all love nothing more than to be part of your celebration.
Helpful Hints for Your 420 Celebration
For more experienced consumers, a decent amount of the information in this section may be redundant or old news. If you’re just looking to scope out the specials and events, feel free to scroll past this section to the “What’s the Deal?” and/or “Where’s the Party at?” sections below. For those who may be a little more green or new at shopping for cannabis in Montana, you may find some of the following information below valuable. Read it or don’t. It’s a free country, dude.
From my time serving as a budtender and dispensary manager, I always found Leafly, WikiLeaf, and All Bud to be great resources when researching and selecting cannabis products. Use these as references when making your selections or to learn more about cannabis in general. They provide a wealth of information on a variety of cannabis-related subjects that run the gambit from cannabis 101 to deep dives into emerging cannabis science. Boning up on individual terpenes and cannabinoids as well as their effects is always a great idea.
In reaching out to compile the information contained in this guide, I found weedmaps to be incredibly helpful. It’s a great resource for finding a lot of the same information contained in this guide in the way of dispensary websites and addresses. As a word of caution, I did find a small bit of sporadic information on weedmaps to be out of date when compiling this data, so I’d encourage you to verify all of the information contained there. However, the vast majority of the information found there can be deemed reliable.
Research has shown that CBD can help round out the edges of an intense cannabis-induced experience. It’s not a bad idea to keep some around. If you find yourself stuck to the ceiling, it may be just the help you need to find the floor again. CBD inventory may vary from dispensary to dispensary, but most will have at least some selection of CBD products. It’s never a bad thing to have on hand and also doesn’t count against your daily THC limit. I’d recommend looking primarily at products that are labeled “full-spectrum” to insure the products are of high quality.
When consuming cannabis always consider a designated driver, ride shares, or public transportation when and where available. Option’s like Missoula’s Mountain Line, Bozeman’s Streamline, and Billings MET Transit are all good options as well as others.
It should be noted that while recreational cannabis sales became legal on January 1st 2022, provisions in the bill allowed counties to opt in or out based on the wishes of local voters. As a result, not all counties in Montana allow recreational or “adult-use” sales. Refer to the map below for a county-by-county breakdown of where you can and can not purchase recreationally on 710. It also breaks down what kind of taxes you can expect to pay in each county. The current tax rate for recreational cannabis is 20% and 4% for medical. Individual counties and towns can also assess an additional tax of up to 3%.
*Courtesy of Montana Cannabis Control Division
There’s no shortage of rules and laws when it comes to cannabis in Montana. While many regular consumers are already up to speed, this section is a refresher for the old heads and a crash course for dispensary customers who are a bit green. This guide is for new and old stoners alike so please pardon me if some of this is old news to more seasoned stoners.
As far as laws you should know, these are our concerns, dude.
You must be 21 to purchase recreational cannabis legally in the state of Montana. Expect to have to show a valid form of identification at a dispensary.
The state of Montana restricts daily purchases to a limit of 1 oz of flower or the equivalent in THC mgs. While purchasing flower is very straightforward, it can become a bit confusing as edibles and concentrates become part of the equation. Fortunately POS systems tally it automatically.
All purchases at dispensaries are logged by a system called METRC that tracks all cannabis commerce. This is to prevent consumers from going over their allotted daily limit. The system tracks the data in real time and will be viewable by your budtender at any dispensary you shop at throughout the day. While I can understand the urge and desire to try to take advantage of as many deals as possible throughout the holiday, it’s very important to not try to game the system as it can result in a costly fine for your dispensary. Be cool and keep it to your 1 oz limit. Also it should be noted that many dispensaries are extending sales and discounts outside of just the holiday itself, so there’s plenty of opportunities to take advantage of deals on other days around the holiday as well. Your 1 oz limit resets the next day.
Childproof exit bags are required at Montana dispensaries. Trust me. Budtenders and dispensary owners don’t like it any more than you do. They didn’t make the rule, but it is their obligation to follow it. Don’t hassle them should they charge you for a bag. The best way to avoid this situation is to plan accordingly and put your exit bag(s) in the car the night before.
Kids aren’t allowed in dispensaries. There’s nothing wrong with being a parent and a stoner, but unfortunately Montana laws do not allow minors without valid medical cards and the supervision of a parent in dispensaries.
Don’t divert legally purchased cannabis to people who aren’t supposed to have it. Of all the arguments against legal cannabis, one of the most hotly-contested and oft-mentioned is the fear of cannabis ending up in the hands of children and minors. Don’t do it. It only adds fuel to the demonization of the industry by its naysayers and detractors.
Always enjoy cannabis responsibly. The entire industry stands to bear the brunt of the weight of poor decisions. Don’t get behind the wheel and remember that mixing cannabis with other substances can have unpredictable side effects. Have fun, but be safe.
This should go without being said, but 710 can be an extremely busy holiday for dispensaries. That being said, keep in mind that your budtenders and dispensary staff will be working very hard on the holiday. Do your best to be cool, patient, and don’t forget to tip your budtenders. They definitely appreciate it.
If you’re interested or would like to learn more about the cannabis program in Montana, I’ve always found the state’s website to be a great resource for staying up to speed on the constantly evolving laws and policies.
Please find below a list of all 710 discounts that I know of going on in 2023. Dispensaries are listed below in alphabetical order. Most have links directly to their website where you can find more information.
406 Essence: Billings. 25% off flower, 25% off pre-rolls, 50% off concentrates, 25% off edibles, & a fundraiser for Shauna Rudio’s house fire. IG: @406.essence
406 Farmacy: Whitefish. 50% off distillate cartridges, 50% off concentrates, 20% off for the first 100 medical patients, raffling off a $100 gift card, custom rolling tray, custom cartridge battery, and a 406 Farmacy re-stash jar. IG: @406farmacy
Euphoria Wellness: Bozeman, Butte, Hamilton & Missoula. $5 off eights (Soultonix strains only), $10 quarters (Soultonix strains only), $5 off Soultonix, pre-rolls, $5 off Soultonix badder and shatter, $10 off Soultonix live rosin, buy one get one half off 100 mg Soultonix brand gummies. Raffling off a Puffco at Jackrabbit Road location in Bozeman. Food truck. See events section for more details. IG: @euphoriawellnessmt
Great Northern Dispensary. Great Falls. 20% off flower, 20% off pre-rolls, 20% off concentrate, & 20% off edibles.
The Green Bee: Billings & Lakeside. 20% off flower and $25 select eighths, 10% off select pre-rolls, $20-25 grams of concentrate, 10% off select edibles, & glass raffles. @greenbeebillings
The Green Haus: Kalispell. 20% off concentrates, 30% off rosin, $80 half ounces & $150 ounces on select flower. IG: @thegreenhaus_406
Herbaceous: Big Sky, Bozeman, Butte. 20% off select concentrates & BOGO concentrates. IG: @herbaceousmt
Holistic Releaf By Design: Billings & Great Falls. $15 select eighths, $15 select grams of concentrate, $15 grams of kief, spend $50 get a gram of bubblehash for $5. BBQ Time with Chef Matt. Raffling off a 710 Labs Terp Cooler/ Dab Refrigerator. IG: @holisticreleafbydesign
Moncanna: Missoula. 10% off concentrates & BOGO 1/2 off house vape cartridges. IG: @Moncanna406
Montana Advanced Caregivers: Billings & Laurel. $7 grams, $20 eighths, $40 quarters, $120 ounces, $5 pre-rolls, 5 pre-rolls for $20, $5 off all concentrates, 10% off wana gummies and Sinful drinks & raffling off a High Five Duo. IG: @mac_montanaadvancedcaregivers
Montana Canna Co: Kalispell. 20% off select flower, $30 grams of shatter, $35 grams of sap and terp sugar, raffles. IG: @montana_canna_co
Montana Kush: Bozeman, Gallatin Gateway, Helena, & Missoula. 20% off concentrates, & 2 for $20 select crumble. IG: @montanakush
Natural Wellness: Belgrade, Bozeman, Butte, Helena & *Lewistown (medical only in Lewistown). 15% off storewide, $100-150 ounces of flower. IG: @naturalwellness
Serene Green Apothecary: *WHOLESALE ONLY* Dispensary owners and managers can inquire here. Find their products in stock at Mountain High in Bozeman and through their wholesale national distributor through Lazy Daze Cannabis. $7 Sour Tangie pre-rolls, 10% off concentrates, $7 lip glosses, 20% off salted caramels, free Pizza and live DJ (The Goods).
Think Higher: Bozeman & Four Corners. 40% off specialty pre-rolls, $35 one gram distillate cartridges, $10 trim run shatter, 40% off select sauces and applesauces, $35 select live rosin, 35% off live distillate cartridges, $5 off The Clear cartridges, $8 select crumble, 15% off select flower, & 10% off everything else. IG: @thinkhighermontana
Please find below a list of all 710 special events that I know of going on in 2023. As a dude who spent several years planning and executing large scale beer festivals, I can appreciate the time and effort that goes into putting together a great event. Go check these out. Be safe and have a blast! -Dude
Euphoria Wellness 710 Party: Join us for our 710 party on July 8th at Euphoria Bozeman! (2503 Jackrabbit Ln) 12pm-8pm🎉🌿 Get ready for a day filled with good vibes, great food, and even better company. Be one of the first 100 customers and snag a free meal voucher to the delicious Blue Taco Bus + a 1 Penny @drinksinful & @high_road_edibles 🔥 Sip on refreshing cocktails from the 406 Mobile Bar and discover awesome booth sponsors showcasing their brands all day long. Plus don’t miss out on epic 710 sales all day!
Holistic Releaf By Design 710 Party: Discounts, giveaways, raffles, photo booth, K&M Glass booth, BBQ Time with Chef Matt, and one lucky person will win a 710 Labs Terp Cooler/Dab Refrigerator! The party is going down at the Great Falls location.
Special thanks to all who participated and used the guide this year. It was a joy and pleasure to compile this list on behalf of Montana’s cannabis industry. This concludes The Dude’s Stoners’ Atlas 2023 710 Edition. Make sure to check back for next year’s 420 and 710 editions. Have a safe and happy holidaze!
If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a cannabis business or cannabis commercial real estate. Please consider the following resources:
The Joint Committee is a group of REALTORS and business brokers specializing in the cannabis industry
It’s been two weeks since the launch of the inaugural Stoners’ Atlas, and the time has given me a chance to reflect on the process, product and results. Below is a bit of a recap for the Atlas.
The Results:
The inaugural Atlas included specials from 38 different cannabis companies from around the state. Taking into account the fact that many participating companies have multiple locations, the Atlas included specials from right at 100 retail locations spread throughout 40 towns across Montana.
I consider all of these numbers successes and view them as the new benchmarks by which I will gauge subsequent editions. I didn’t set goals heading into this project, so I can’t honestly say that my goals were exceeded. I can, however, say definitively that it exceeded my expectations. If someone had told me a month ago when I decided to create the Stoners’ Atlas, these would’ve been the results, I would’ve been skeptical. That being said, I’m very proud of the first edition of the Atlas and look forward to the editions to come.
What I Learned:
Consumers were very excited to be able to find specials for multiple companies in the same place. I fielded many comments on various threads and places where the Atlas was posted. The overwhelming sentiment was one of gratitude and excitement. I think in the first edition, we were able to prove both proof-of-concept as well as proof-of-demand. Stoners want and deserve things like the Atlas, and the entire industry stands to benefit from coming together. The saying is that there is strength in numbers, and I think the warm reception of the Atlas is proof of that. Bringing cannabis companies together can benefit everyone.
The cannabis industry stands to benefit from cohesion. As a guy who spent nearly a decade in the craft beer world, I now see plainly that I took the organization of craft beer for granted. I can see now how much craft beer benefitted and continues to benefit from affiliations and trade organizations when raising awareness for industry events. Organizations like the Craft Beer Alliance, Craft Brewers Guild, as well as local beer organizations all play an integral role in helping to drive awareness to consumers in the world of beer. To put it shortly, I think something like the Atlas that brings the industry together in one place can be a great resource for both consumers and business owners in the long run.
In the name of honesty and transparency, the reception was not all warm. I expected and received criticism and complaints on the first edition. Before getting into details of complaints, I’d like to go on the record as saying that I 100% welcome all constructive criticism and I really appreciate the opportunity to improve the Atlas through your suggestions and recommendations. This is a project that I’m committed to making the best it can be, and in my experience, very few things ever improve without dialogue and being willing to acknowledge a project or product’s shortcomings. Please give me feedback. While I proudly serve as the creator and editor of the Atlas, I enjoy learning about how to improve and grow for the next edition.
Of the complaints voiced, many were outside of my control but fortunately can be easily resolved. They’re valid complaints and welcomed critiques. I am taking them under advisement and will work diligently to resolve the issues before the next edition. Thank you to those that have already commented and reached out.
I saw some complaints in regards to certain shops not being on this list. While I admittedly could’ve done more in the way of outreach, marketing and what-not, I did the best I could with this first edition. It’s a valid complaint to not see your favorite dispensary on the list. I did, however, get the word out the best I could through the channels available to me. I also should reiterate that this list was 100% free to be part of. All shops had to do was take 5-10 minutes to fill out a google form.
I also should say that I reached out to many more shops than ended up on the list. I put in phone calls, emails and DMs to companies all over the state. While disappointing to not have those businesses listed, I can completely understand this from a business owner’s standpoint. If some strange dude shows up in your inbox or calls your shop one day talking about a “Stoners’ Atlas,” I think you’re well within your right to be skeptical and not get back to me. It’s also fair to think that a small business owner has better things to do sometimes than to return a call or an email, so there are no hard feelings on my end for anyone who didn’t get back to me or reach out.
Ultimately, I’ll take the “L” on this problem and will spend the next year building my email list and network of shops. Any omission from the list was unintentional. The Stoners’ Atlas has never and will never be exclusionary. My goal is to have every cannabis company in Big Sky Country on the list that wants to be on it.
I hope that with the success of the first edition, next year will be a much easier conversation to have with potential participants and they’ll understand much better the intent and composition of the Atlas. I hope that this year’s non-participants were able to see the reach and level of excitement that surrounded the Atlas.
I do however, want to apologize to a few shops that got in touch with me that were upset about not being on the list once they saw it circulating. I tried my best to make it available to everyone and to raise awareness, but there were some business owners who I wasn’t able to put in the loop this year. I was also very clear on my posts of the deadline to submit. I intentionally set the deadline to leave me enough time to adequately and accurately organize the information before publication.
Upon discussion, I think that for next year’s edition I am going to eliminate the hard publication date and instead opt to make the list readily accessible earlier and to add specials as I receive them. The only conceivable problem with this issue is that many shops didn’t know their specials and celebration plans until very late. I had many conversations with dispensary managers and shop owners the week before the holiday that still didn’t have any concrete plans or specials to pass along. To have the Stoners’ Atlas meet its true potential would necessitate a bit more forethought on dispensaries’ part.
Another complaint I fielded was in regards to the clarity on deals. Some of these complaints were in regards to door-busters and early bird deals that had limits, while others were in regard to minimum purchase requirements to activate deals. To this end, I tried my best on my google form for participants to iterate the importance of clarity and specifics. I look at the creation of the Atlas from the perspective of the audience, and I think we all agree that we appreciated the companies that were highly specific on what was on sale and for how much. I will try my best for future iterations of the Atlas to tweak my form to collect information more effectively and to encourage participating shops to give as much information as possible.
In Conclusion:
In summary, the major problems with this first edition were missing shops and consumers’ desire for more details from participating dispensaries. I will spend the next year working to resolve these issues.
Thank you so much for your interest and/or participation in this year’s Atlas. I hope that you’ll continue to help it grow, evolve and improve moving forward.
As far as plans in the interim: I will be taking the time to create a permanent home for the Stoners’s Atlas on my website. The permanent Stoners’ Atlas will function as a dispensary directory that I hope will include every shop in the state as well as information like their daily/weekly specials. I also envision the permanent edition to serve as a guide to consumers both new and seasoned to help guide their cannabis experiences in Big Sky Country. I also foresee it playing an integral role as a resource for tourists and visitors who want to make cannabis part of their adventures and journeys in Montana. I just began work on a 710 field guide, so please keep an eye out. Expect improvements and a continuous evolution of the Stoners’ Atlas as well as an increase in the volume of information made available to the cannabis community.
This project was born from a genuine respect for cannabis, the cannabis industry and the cannabis community. The work of the Stoners’ Atlas is one I take seriously and as a passion project. The Atlas will always be free to both businesses and consumers alike. All I ask, is that if you’re ever thinking about buying or selling a cannabis business or real estate that you keep me and my team, The Joint Committee, in mind.
A Comprehensive 420 Celebration Field Guide: 2023 Edition
Because your dude loves you and loves Montana’s cannabis industry, I’ve taken it upon myself to create this celebration field guide to provide as comprehensive of an aid as possible for ringing in 420 in Montana in 2023. I reached out via phone, email as well as social media to as many dispensaries around the state as possible to compile the information found in this guide.
This field guide has been compiled in the spirit of positivity, collaboration and community. The guide is from the perspective of a life-long, proud stoner and from the vantage point of someone who has witnessed first-hand the good that both medical and recreational cannabis can have on people’s lives. Both my wife and I have been medical card holders for several years, and cannabis has undoubtedly had a positive impact on our quality of life both together and as individuals.
In addition to medical uses, cannabis can also be a lot of fun when enjoyed properly and in good company. I’ve met a ton of lifelong friends in joint rotations. I hope that perhaps this Atlas can guide you to a similar destination. Cannabis has always had a remarkable way of bringing people together and making them happier. It’s in that spirit that I embarked on the creation of this guide.
Montana is fortunate to have developed a vibrant cannabis market in such a short amount of time. Medical cannabis became legal in Montana in 2004, which means Montanans have had some form of legal access to cannabis for just shy of two decades. Recreational cannabis began in 2022, and in the first year, Montana sold over $300 million worth of cannabis between the medical and adult-use programs. The industry also generated over $45 million in tax revenue for the state in year one. You can find an in depth look at Montana’s first year of adult-use cannabis sales here.
In addition to the tax revenue. There’s also an estimated 4,000 hardworking Montanans currently making their living in the cannabis industry. Keep this in mind the next time someone tries to hassle or belittle you about blazing up. Just tell them you’re supporting the local economy.
As a student of history, I believe that there are few things more quintessentially Montanan than agriculture and pioneering. I can’t think of an industry other than ranching or farming that sits more exactly at those crossroads than the cannabis industry. Our young cannabis industry exemplifies so much of what the Montana spirit is in my opinion. Cannabis entrepreneurs persevere against the constant resistance by the government and naysayers to do what they do. They’re constantly carving a path into uncharted territory just by existing. It’s my pleasure to work with so many and support their efforts and their undeniable sense of passion and purpose.
There is no shortage of great dispensaries or cannabis in Big Sky Country, and it is with great pride and pleasure that this guide gets to showcase them and what they love to do. While I may certainly have a few favorite strains, products and shops of my own, that’s not what the Stoners’ Atlas is about. This is an unabridged, comprehensive and (most importantly) impartial manual for all of what Big High Country has to offer on 420. Special thanks to all of the shops who were gracious enough to take time to speak to me on the phone, send an email or reach out on social media to participate in this year’s guide.
Please enjoy the best 420 celebration guide I could muster this year. It is my sincere hope that this Stoners’ Atlas will serve you well. Thanks for participating in or using this guide and happy holidaze! As always, have fun and be safe when celebrating and thanks for supporting your local dispensaries. I’m sure they’d all love nothing more than to be part of your celebration.
Helpful Hints for Your 420 Celebration
For more experienced consumers, a decent amount of the information in this section may be redundant or old news. If you’re just looking to scope out the specials and events, feel free to scroll past this section to the “What’s the Deal?” and/or “Where’s the Party at?” sections below. For those who may be a little more green or new at shopping for cannabis in Montana, you may find some of the following information below valuable. Read it or don’t. It’s a free country, dude.
From my time serving as a budtender and dispensary manager, I always found Leafly, WikiLeaf, and All Bud to be great resources when researching and selecting cannabis products. Use these as references when making your selections or to learn more about cannabis in general. They provide a wealth of information on a variety of cannabis-related subjects that run the gambit from cannabis 101 to deep dives into emerging cannabis science. Boning up on individual terpenes and cannabinoids as well as their effects is always a great idea.
In reaching out to compile the information contained in this guide, I found weedmaps to be incredibly helpful. It’s a great resource for finding a lot of the same information contained in this guide in the way of dispensary websites and addresses. As a word of caution, I did find a small bit of sporadic information on weedmaps to be out of date when compiling this data, so I’d encourage you to verify all of the information contained there. However, the vast majority of the information found there can be deemed reliable.
Research has shown that CBD can help round out the edges of an intense cannabis-induced experience. It’s not a bad idea to keep some around. If you find yourself stuck to the ceiling, it may be just the help you need to find the floor again. CBD inventory may vary from dispensary to dispensary, but most will have at least some selection of CBD products. It’s never a bad thing to have on hand and also doesn’t count against your daily THC limit. I’d recommend looking primarily at products that are labeled “full-spectrum” to insure the products are of high quality.
When consuming cannabis always consider a designated driver, ride shares, or public transportation when and where available. Option’s like Missoula’s Mountain Line, Bozeman’s Streamline, and Billings MET Transit are all good options as well as others.
It should be noted that while recreational cannabis sales became legal on January 1st 2022, provisions in the bill allowed counties to opt in or out based on the wishes of local voters. As a result, not all counties in Montana allow recreational or “adult-use” sales. Refer to the map below for a county-by-county breakdown of where you can and can not purchase recreationally on 420. It also breaks down what kind of taxes you can expect to pay in each county. The current tax rate for recreational cannabis is 20% and 4% for medical. Individual counties and towns can also assess an additional tax of up to 3%.
There’s no shortage of rules and laws when it comes to cannabis in Montana. While many regular consumers are already up to speed, this section is a refresher for the old heads and a crash course for dispensary customers who are a bit green. This guide is for new and old stoners alike so please pardon me if some of this is old news to more seasoned stoners.
As far as laws you should know, these are our concerns, dude.
You must be 21 to purchase recreational cannabis legally in the state of Montana. Expect to have to show a valid form of identification at a dispensary.
The state of Montana restricts daily purchases to a limit of 1 oz of flower or the equivalent in THC mgs. While purchasing flower is very straightforward, it can become a bit confusing as edibles and concentrates become part of the equation. Fortunately POS systems tally it automatically.
All purchases at dispensaries are logged by a system called METRC that tracks all cannabis commerce. This is to prevent consumers from going over their allotted daily limit. The system tracks the data in real time and will be viewable by your budtender at any dispensary you shop at throughout the day. While I can understand the urge and desire to try to take advantage of as many deals as possible throughout the holiday, it’s very important to not try to game the system as it can result in a costly fine for your dispensary. Be cool and keep it to your 1 oz limit. Also it should be noted that many dispensaries are extending sales and discounts outside of just the holiday itself, so there’s plenty of opportunities to take advantage of deals on other days around the holiday as well. Your 1 oz limit resets the next day.
Childproof exit bags are required at Montana dispensaries. Trust me. Budtenders and dispensary owners don’t like it any more than you do. They didn’t make the rule, but it is their obligation to follow it. Don’t hassle them should they charge you for a bag. The best way to avoid this situation is to plan accordingly and put your exit bag(s) in the car the night before. Just think of it like hanging a stocking for stoner Santa. Before you go to bed on 420 Eve, put a bag in your car.
Kids aren’t allowed in dispensaries. There’s nothing wrong with being a parent and a stoner, but unfortunately Montana laws do not allow minors without valid medical cards and the supervision of a parent in dispensaries. Many parents are however in luck this year as the holiday falls on a Thursday. That means many kids will be at school, so it shouldn’t be an issue for anyone without particularly young children.
Don’t divert legally purchased cannabis to people who aren’t supposed to have it. Of all the arguments against legal cannabis, one of the most hotly-contested and oft-mentioned is the fear of cannabis ending up in the hands of children and minors. Don’t do it. It only adds fuel to the demonization of the industry by its naysayers and detractors.
Always enjoy cannabis responsibly. The entire industry stands to bear the brunt of the weight of poor decisions. Don’t get behind the wheel and remember that mixing cannabis with other substances can have unpredictable side effects. Have fun, but be safe.
This should go without being said, but 420 is an extremely busy holiday for dispensaries. It is typically by far the biggest day of the year for sales at a shop. That being said, keep in mind that your budtenders and dispensary staff will be working very hard on the holiday. Do your best to be cool, patient, and don’t forget to tip your budtenders. They definitely appreciate it.
If you’re interested or would like to learn more about the cannabis program in Montana, I’ve always found the state’s website to be a great resource for staying up to speed on the constantly evolving laws and policies.
Please find below a list of all 420 discounts that I know of going on in 2023. Dispensaries are listed below in alphabetical order. Most have links directly to their website where you can find more information.
312 Cannabis: Billings & Hardin. All flower and concentrates 25% off, $7 1g pre-rolls, $15 1g caviar pre-rolls, 40% off edibles, 50% off salves, raffling off 2 UHD flatscreen televisions.
406 Essence: Billings. (Medical Only) 30% off entire purchase. 50% off during Happy Hour (4-6 pm), & $4.20 per-rolls 4/16-23. IG: @406.essence
406 Farmacy: Whitefish. First 5 people through the door get an 1/8th for $1. 25% off storewide, 40% off during Happy Hour (4:20-5:20 pm), 25% off all 406 Farmacy gummies, first 10 people to enter after 11 am will receive a free food voucher to Montana Mountain Dawgs food truck. See event section for more information. IG: @406farmacy
Beartooth Medicinal: Red Lodge. 10% off concentrates, 10% off edibles, 15% off edibles, 25% off apparel, 30% off Para, 25% off accessories, raffling off three glass pieces, trivia for extra discounts, and unveiling new products. IG: @beartoothdispensary
Bloom: Ashland, Billings, Boulder, Bozeman (Four Corners), Butte, Columbia Falls, Columbus, Craig, Florence, Glendive, Hardin, Havre, Helena, Kalispell, Lewistown, Libby, Livingston, Lolo, Sidney, Townsend. 20% off storewide. IG: @therealbloommt
Call O Way Fingerprinting Services: Billings. If you are interested in obtaining a Montana Cannabis Industry worker badge, Call O Way is offering a 10% off discount for the fingerprinting services necessary to get your badge. Use promo code: “Getinky10”
Collective Elevation: Billings, Bozeman, Butte & Missoula. BOGO half off edibles, first 100 customers get a 25 cent joint, huge discounts on flower, Puffco and REI gift card raffle. IG: @collectiveelevation
Frosteez: Billings & Missoula. Free glass giveaway to every customer. Glass values range from $10 all the way up to $700! Food and daily discounts. IG: @frosteezcannabisco
Ganja Goddess: Bozeman, Butte, Helena, Livingston & Missoula. Parties at all stores. 25% off storewide.
The Green Haus: Kalispell. 30% off Green Haus products and merchandise. Raffles and other big discounts. Deals run from 4/20-4/23. IG: @thegreenhaus_406
Grizzly Pine: Bozeman & Whitefish. Loads of discounts and food truck. 1 cent pre-rolls with a receipt from any neighboring business. IG: @grizzlypinemt
Herbaceous: Big Sky, Bozeman, Butte. 4 grams of select flower strains for $20. 20% off storewide. IG: @herbaceousmt
Lone Peak Cannabis: Big Sky, Bozeman, Ennis & West Yellowstone. 20% off storewide. Double points for members for all of April. IG: @lonepeakcannabisco
Magic City Releaf: Billings, Culbertson, & Rockvale. Tax free. 50% off concentrates, $20 .5 gram cartridges, $30 1 gram cartridges, $40 2 gram cartridges, $5 joints. Each location will have one “golden joint” that is worth $250 in store credit and $250 in cash. At Billings and Culbertson locations, customers will receive a free taco from Gringo’s with a $35 purchase. At the Rockvale location, the first 70 customers will get a free sandwich from Montana Melt food truck. IG: @magiccityreleaf
Marimint: Billings, Butte & Great Falls. Buy 4 edibles, get 20% off. 20% off all flower and concentrates. 20% off merch. Spend more than $80, and get a spin on Mari’s wheel of prizes. Spend $100 and you’re automatically entered into a raffle to win one of four 420 20% off gift cards. IG: @marimintmontana
Moncanna: Missoula. 10% off edibles, buy one get one half off house-made baked goods and vape cartridges, 20% off house-made pre-rolls, house 1/8ths for $26 (tax included), house 1/4s for $50 (tax included), $160-200 select ounces (tax included), 10% off concentrates, raffles, pizza, drinks. IG: @Moncanna406
Mr. 420: Mr. 420 is an authority on cannabis-related travel and accomodations. As a holiday special, they’re offering companies and properties free listings.
Natural Wellness: Belgrade, Butte, Helena & *Lewistown (*medical only in Lewistown). $6 grams of select flower, $20 grams of select concentrates, buy 3 concentrates get a Seahorse e-dabber for 50% off. IG: @mtnaturalwellness
Pure Remedies: Belgrade. 20% off storewide. Raffle to win handmade glass pieces by artist, Unassimilated, as well as glass crutches by RipTip.
Purple Cow: Billings. 4 pre-rolls for $20. 4 grams of flower for $20. Free coffee and donuts 9-12. IG: @montanapurplecow
Sacred Sun Farms: Bozeman (Four Corners), Glendive, & Wolf Point. 42% off storewide (some exclusions apply), 20% off concentrates and cartridges (excludes solventless products), 10% off accessories, $4.20 1 gram Velvet Fire pre-rolls, free koozie with $100 purchase, free sticker with every purchase, new product releases & a food truck at the Four Corners location. IG: @sacredsunfarms2
Silverleaf: Bozeman, Butte, Great Falls, Helena, Missoula, St. Ignatius. Discounts and raffles. 15% off storewide and free entry into raffle with $50 purchase. (These specials are only confirmed at their St. Ignatius location.) @silverleaf_snyelmn
Think Higher: Bozeman & Four Corners. First 5 people at each location receive a shwag bag, $100 ounces *select strains, $15 eights, 40% off specialty pre-rolls, 40% off Think Distillate carts, Live Resin 25-35% off, Sinful and Bevvies 20% off, High Road edibles 20% off, 25% off shatter. IG: @thinkhighermontana
Please find below a list of all 420 special events that I know of going on in 2023. As a dude who spent several years planning and executing large scale beer festivals, I can appreciate the time and effort that goes into putting together a great event. Go check these out. Be safe and have a blast! -Dude
1st Annual High-Fi Soiree: The High-Fi Soiree is a ‘highly’ anticipated event in Montana, offering a unique experience that brings together the love of cannabis, music, and community. The featured acts are renowned for delivering electrifying performances, and will be doing so on a Hi-Fi PK Sound System with a state-of-the-art lighting system. Whether you’re a fan of cannabis or simply looking for a memorable night out, the High-Fi Soiree is the place to be. 9 pm, 225 Ryman St, Missoula.
191 Music Presents ORGŌNE: The California soul band takes the stage live at the Filling Station. Sounds like a great way to get funked up for the holiday. 9 pm, 2005 N Rouse Ave, Bozeman.
406 Farmacy 420 Party: Montana Mountain Dawgs Food truck, discounts and a tie-dye party. Ask them about their secret VIP event. 5895 Highway 93 South, Whitefish.
420 in the 406: Compete in stoner-centric games. 3-9 pm, 3781 S 56th St W, Billings
Big Mountain Botanicals 420 Party: Free food, live glass blowing, live ice sculpting, raffles, and specials. Columbia Falls and Whitefish.
Big Lebowski Showing @ Regal Gallatin Valley: Obviously I’m a bit partial to the film, and obviously you’re not a golfer. Routinely rated as one of the greatest stoner films of all time, this will be a great way to celebrate. 2825 W Main St, Bozeman
Half Baked Showing @ Art House Cinema: Go talk to Sampson! Half Baked is a certified stoner classic and a great way to ring in the holiday. 7 pm, 2810 1/2 2nd Ave N, Billings.
Fresh Bong Water Release Party @ Kettlehouse: Meet up at the Bonner tap room and enjoy beer flights paired with munchies, raffles, live music from the Markophones, food from the Weenie Wagon, and $3 drafts of Fresh Bong Water. 5-7:30 pm, 605 Coldsmoke Ave, Bonner.
Juniper Cannabis 420 Community Bike Ride: *POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER* Bozeman. The Juniper Cannabis Annual 4/20 Community Bike Ride returns for the second year! All bikes (& costumes) are welcome for this outdoor event. We’ll meet at Juniper Cannabis’ downtown location (120 North Grand Avenue) at 5:30 for a 6pm departure. We’ll cruise the roads & gravel trails around town for about an hour and half before ending the ride for a cheers at Shine Beer Sanctuary where you’ll find all your favorite Bozeman Brews. Come prepared with a backpack, layers and water for the ride, as we know Montana spring can be unpredictable. Come celebrate the 4/20 holiday with us on your favorite set of wheels! 5:30 pm, 120 N Grand Ave, Bozeman.
Mark Norman Live Standup Comedy @ The Elm: Few things pair with good weed like good laughs. Catch Mark Normand live at the Elm and enjoy some chuckles. There are two showtimes to catch the guy Jerry Seinfeld called “the best young up and coming comic.” 6 pm (Sold Out) & 10 pm (Sold Out), but tickets may still be available on the secondary market and night of at the box office. 506 N 7th Ave, Bozeman.
Missoula 420 Block Party: Presented By Montana State Hemp Fest: Arguably the biggest 420 event in the state and an annual tradition, the 420 Block Party will feature live music, vendors, food and everything you’d expect from a company that puts on Montana’s largest cannabis festival every summer. Caras Park, Missoula
Nappy Roots @ The Newberry: Thinking about missing this show? Awnaw, hell naw. Best known for their breakthrough album, Watermelon, Chicken & Gritz, this show is a great way to celebrate! 7:30 pm, 420 Central Ave, Great Falls
Reefer Madness Showing @ Art House Cinema: The classic propaganda film is a shining example of why cannabis has had such an uphill fight with older generations. It should now be viewed as much more of a comedy. It’s arguably the most famous piece of cannabis media of all-time. 9 pm, 2810 1/2 2nd Ave N, Billings.
We’d Montana’s 3rd Annual Fire Show & Sale: A celebration of the legalization of marijuana in Montana, 3rd Annual High Fire Show + Sale, We’d 15th Annual Customer Appreciation Day, fundraiser for the Last Prisoner Project. Live music! Good food! Lots of great deals and giveaways! 2502 Murphy Street, Suite B, Missoula.
Special thanks to all who participated and used the guide this year. It was a joy and pleasure to compile this list on behalf of Montana’s cannabis industry. This concludes The Dude’s Stoners’ Atlas 2023. Make sure to check back for next year’s edition. Have a safe and happy holidaze!
If you or someone you know is interested in buying or selling a cannabis business or cannabis commercial real estate. Please consider the following resources:
The Joint Committee is a group of REALTORS and business brokers specializing in the cannabis industry
I had an absolute blast this past Saturday when I attended my first Cowboy Action. For those that don’t know, Cowboy Action is an event that takes place monthly out at the gun range in Logan. One Saturday every month, gunslingers from around the area gather to take part in the fun.
Cowboy Action has many chapters and hosts events that take place around the state, country, and world. They’re put on by the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS).
SASS is a group dedicated to the preservation of the Old West and competitive shooting. The organization has been around in spirit since 1981 and was formally incorporated in 1987. Over the decades, it has grown to garner interest all over the world which is unsurprising due to the far reach of classic Western films. The events are a fever dream for anyone who grew up watching Cowboy flicks.
Too Late LeRoy and Maddog Myles
SASS has a few rules for participants. Here are some ground rules:
Participants must come in costume. Every participant has to wear a minimum of 5 pieces of traditional Cowboy attire. These pieces can be hats, bandanas, boots, pocket watches, etc…
Shooters can only shoot single-action weapons. These are weapons that would have been around in the days of the old west. Revolvers, shotguns, and repeating rifles are the weapons required. Calibers and gauges are not important so long as the weapons are all single-action. Every shooter has their own preferences for weaponry and loads.
Every shooter must have a unique alias and backstory/occupation. There is a registry of names on the website, and no two shooters can be the same. My buddy, Steve, shoots under the name “Too Late LeRoy” because he famously showed up too late to participate in his first event. I decided to dust off the nickname from my football playing days. I ended up shooting as Maddog Myles.
Every event consists of “stages.” Each stage has a different storyline as well as a different pattern of weaponry and targets that shooters must do accurately, quickly, and in the correct order. The storylines consisted of everything from a holdup on the trail, trying to stop a gang from stealing dynamite, defending the family homestead, etc.
Based on the storyline of the stage, there is a different phrase that a fighter has to say to signal to the judge that the fighter is ready. Phrases I got to utter included: “Not today,” “That’s far enough,” and “Not so fast!”
The scores are based on time and accuracy. For every missed shot, there is a 5-second penalty. Shooting targets out of sequence counts as a miss, so remembering what order to shoot the targets in is of great importance.
Gun safety is taken very seriously. Guns must remain unloaded until a participant is on the stage. The “170” rule is also strictly enforced which means all gun barrels must stay within a 170-degree spread and always pointed down range.
The event was a great time and the club members could not have been any more welcoming, patient, and helpful. I can’t wait to go back and will definitely remember earplugs next time.
Below, find a video of my first stage ever shooting Cowboy Action. I had never shot any of the weapons prior to the filming of this video. The footage was shot with my gopro. While it wasn’t the fastest stage of the day by a considerable margin, I only had one miss which surprised even me. Enjoy the video and drop by Cowboy Action some time for a fun afternoon of responsible gun usage. The people are great and love to share their passion for the Old West with new friends.
Special thanks to my local chapter of SASS for the help, lessons in responsible gun usage and for the warm welcome. You sure made this dude feel like part of the posse. Until next time…
Montana’s green rush is in full-swing as the state released data for the first 4 months of sales in the state. As of the end of April, Montana has seen just under $100 million in sales since recreational sales became legal on January 1st. You can see the data in black and white for yourself here.
Please find below some data points that I found interesting:
Total sales across the state through the end of April tallied $98,285,465.00
Medical sales accounted for $38,436,152 while recreational sales brought in $59,849,313. This amounts to around a 460/60 split of medical/recreational.
The industry has now generated $13,507,309 in tax revenue for the state.
The top counties for include: Yellowstone ($4.4 million), Gallatin ($3.6 million), Missoula ($3.5 million), Flathead ($2.7 million), Lewis & Clark ($1.9 million) and Silverbow ($1.3 million).
The $60 million in recreational sales far outpaces the state’s initial estimates of $130 million for 2022. Not factoring for an inevitable increase in sales velocity when tourists arrive, the state looks to be projecting closer to $240 million by year’s end with total sales including medical exceeding $300 million in year one.
Montana’s rabid appetite for cannabis is not unique. With well-established recreational markets in other states now seeing billions (with a “b”) in annual sales, the sky is the limit for Montana. This first tourist season could prove to be a great bellwether for the long-term potential of the industry in the Treasure State.
If you or anyone you know is interested in real estate for the cannabis industry, give your dude a text or call at 406-404-DUDE. I would love to help find the commercial site for your venture and help you build your dreams of being a cannabis entrepreneur. I’m a founding member of eXp Realty’s Joint Committee and weed be happy to help.
This tiny home comes with big possibilities, and it’s ready to go wherever your dreams take you. Bring your hitch and get the adventure rolling…to literally, anywhere your heart desires! The home was built and certified to RV Industry Association standards and is ready to go whenever you like!
Custom designed and built in 2021, the home measures 24 feet in length. The slant-lofted ceilings reach 10 feet tall at their highest point and make the space feel much larger than expected upon entry. The pine shiplap that adorns the walls creates a rustic feel that is only furthered by the butcher block countertops and live-edge shelves custom made by the woodworker owner.
There is luxury vinyl flooring throughout which was selected for its durability. It will hold up well to an outdoor, adventurous lifestyle and pets. With six total windows and three that measure 68” in height, you’ll have no problem taking in the views of your surroundings regardless of where your adventures take you. The natural light will also help save on utility costs during the day as well as provide plenty of ventilation when the weather is nice enough to open them. The high-efficiency Senville 12000 BTU mini-split AC/ heat pump unit is also more than ample to effectively and efficiently keep the space comfortable. The unit is graded for 450-750 square feet.
The main floor is maximized for efficiency via 24” deep cabinetry throughout the kitchen as well as storage beneath the stairs. Upstairs you’ll find a sleeping loft to recharge your batteries for your next epic adventure. The sleeping loft is large enough to fit a king-size bed and has long windows on either side so you can wake up to beautiful views no matter what side of the bed you wake upon. The upstairs also features separate storage space with a rod for hanging clothes.
Down below in the kitchen, you will find butcher block countertops, a refrigerator, an electric 2 burner stove, as well as an electric oven. All appliances are energy efficient to help minimize utility costs. The kitchen is also equipped with a microwave circuit. The celestial window above the sink is massive and floods the space with natural light that makes the brushed nickel fixtures of the sink shine. There is cabinetry and shelf space throughout.
Moving from the kitchen into the bathroom, you will be surprised to find a full-sized tub which is a bit of an anomaly for a tiny home as most models opt for showers. The tub is perfect for showering or soaking. The 19-gallon electric water heater is more than sufficient to keep hot water at the ready. In addition to the tub, the bathroom also features a sink with chrome fixtures which sits atop a 2-in-1 high-efficiency washer/ dryer unit for doing laundry. The bathroom also has a Nature’s Head® composting toilet which is ideal for an off-grid lifestyle should your journeys take you to more remote locations.
At the back of the home is a space that can be utilized as a second bedroom, an office, or an additional living space. The room features two massive windows and boasts as much natural light as any room in the home. Here you will also find access to the electrical panel/ breaker box. While the home currently requires a power source, it could easily be outfitted for solar for a true off-the-grid option should a buyer desire.
I can definitively say that I’ve had more beer in my lifetime than the average person. After spending nearly a decade in the beer industry hosting tastings and managing beer festivals for several summers, I know my way around a pint glass and a tap. That being said, while I still enjoy a great beer, somedays I’m apt to gravitate toward lighter options when I’m seeking refreshment.
Several years ago, the alcoholic beverage industry saw a major shift toward gluten-free options which eventually gave way to the current seltzer trend as a result. However, before every alcoholic beverage company began producing seltzers, the fermented beverage of choice for those of us looking to steer clear of the malt content in beers was cider. While focus has turned to seltzers over the last several years, I still love a great cider and Bozeman is home to a cidery that can lock horns and hold its ground with any producer of cider in the country in my opinion.
Lockhorn Cider is family-owned and grows their apples for their cider right here in the Gallatin Valley so it is truly a locally-owned and locally-produced product. The 3000 trees in the orchard run the gambit of apples and they grow nearly 30 varietals of the fruit which they incorporate into their diverse offerings. Bonedry is their flagship cider and for good reason. It’s incredible and as a result, is used as a base for blending many of their offshoots. For a true Montana treasure, you absolutely must do their Flathead Cherry cider when available. Coupling apples and cherries grown in Montana make it one of the more unique and truly Montanan products on the market today.
Keep an eye out for Lockhorn’s products in the wild
You can find their products in the wild at places like Town and Country or Town Pump, but you should go check out the taproom at 21 South Wallace St in Bozeman. It’s a cozy spot with tables big enough to accommodate larger parties but also has some nooks intimate enough for a casual date night. They also have an outdoor patio which is nice and shady on a hot day and on a cold night you can enjoy a hot cider while watching the logs crackle in their outdoor fireplace.
Be a deer, and check out Lockhorn Cider the next time you’re looking for a break from the hops and malt. You won’t be disappointed. You can find out more by visiting their website here.
If you like this kind of content, be sure to follow The Dude Abodes on facebook and instagram for more recommendations and local Montana business spotlights. As always, I encourage everyone to drink responsibly always and locally whenever possible. Cheers, dude!
Whether looking for a good steak or a great place to knock a few cold ones back with live tunes, Stacey’s in Gallatin Gateway should be on your radar. For starters, Stacey’s has the kind of character you can’t buy or fake. If the weathered floorboards could speak, they could tell of countless cowboy boots tapping along to the beat over the years and maybe even a few slow dances.
Stacey’s back bar predates most of the buildings in the area
The beautiful back bar is as pretty and distinguished as any I’ve found in the state. If looking for proof of how much history there is at Stacey’s, look no further than the chimney in their dining room. It feels somehow as if it could pre-date Montana itself. Their impressive collection of taxidermy and classic beer signage is also noteworthy. It all blends together to set the stage for a good time and an unmistakably authentic Montana experience.
Speaking of stages, the stage in the corner of their barroom also hosts awesome live music regularly. I’ve had the good fortune of seeing a few of my local favorites there including Chandler Huntley whose classic country voice seems to belong in the space as much as the many beer neons that adorn the walls of the barroom. It’s a great place to listen to music and you should check their upcoming schedule ASAP.
Chandler Huntley taking the bar to church
The food is great. Steaks are the star of the show for me, but the French Onion soup is one of my wife’s favorite dishes anywhere in the valley. The soup is the perfect way to shake off the snowflakes in winter and thaw out. They recently pulled my favorite sandwich (the club sandwich from the menu, but I can let bygones be bygones given the strength of the remaining menu.
The French Onion Soup warms the soulThe Prime Rib Sandwich at Stacey’s
The beer selection is to be elevated for a honky tonk and runs the gambit of domestic beers as well as an ever-rotating cast of local options. There is also a pool table onsite, so its a great place to shoot a game of 8-ball when the place isn’t packed for live music. Give Stacey’s a whirl. It’s a true Montana classic and a can’t miss.
Audrey’s Pizza Oven and Freefall Brewery opened in late summer of 2021 on 7th Avenue in Bozeman, and it feels like a throwback to a by-gone era of simpler times. Speaking of by-gone eras, it’s obvious that a lot of effort went into preserving the look and feel of the former occupant, Village Inn Pizza. Pizza, beer and cheap arcade games make this a great place to kill some time and an appetite as well as satiate your thirst with local beers.
Name a more iconic duo than pizza and beer. I’ll wait.
I was blown away to find out that most of the arcade games cost merely a quarter and instantly felt whisked away to the cheaper days of my youth. I mean, where else in this modern world can a quarter buy you anything in the way of entertainment value? The games and casual atmosphere make Audrey’s an ideal spot for a first-date for couples or a place to let the kids blow off some steam while you enjoy a pint or two.
Also as a heads up to the gluten-intolerant or the hop-weary, they keep a few seltzers rotating on draft as well.
It took me awhile to knock the rust off, but I eventually I got it rolling.
