Back Country Horsemen to host annual Poker Ride

PLAINS - The Wild Horse Plains chapter of the Back Country Horsemen of Montana will host the annual poker fun ride on Saturday, June 29. This will be the third year for this particular event.

The ride will be held at Jones Ranch, a local historic ranch and former movie location. The ride is suitable for families and has beautiful scenery.

Prizes for the general raffle include many horsey and other items. The grand prizes for the best poker hand include a bronze sculpture, custom wood stirrups, and Western jewelry. Registration will begin at 10:00 A.M., and the last riders will begin the ride at 11:30.

This ride is the main fundraiser for the local Back Country Horseman chapter. The local horse group includes members from all over the county.

The purpose of the Back Country Horsemen of Montana is to work with the Forest Service and other public agencies to keep trails open and usable by horsemen and hikers.

Every year, the Plains chapter clears local trails in the forest and helps to place signs at junctions. This year, the chapter has received a $45,000.00 grant to restore the historic Big Hole lookout. The lookout needs structural rebuilding before it can be opened to the public. This project is very large in scope, including major road renovation and helicopter use in moving logs for the reconstruction.

The Plains chapter helps in local youth educational programs, including the 6th grade campout and 4-H programs. Last summer, the club also assisted the local YCC workers on their trail maintenance project.

The Poker Ride location can be reached by following Upper Lynch Creek Road to a left turn at Blanchard’s Corner. From there, signs will show the way. Bring your horse and join the fun!