Explore Montana: The Jack
SCHOOL IS OUT FOR THE SUMMER, AND we are ready for adventure. We’ll be featuring Our local tIps and guides to Some of the great activities and nearby adventures for kids and families.
I know what you’re thinking: why would you recommend a bar, of all places, for families to visit? First of all, this is Montana, so don’t be so pretentious. Second, this unique little dive is steeped in history and is probably the most family friendly saloon you will ever come across. Which is just the beginning of why we make the drive to The Jack Saloon a few times a year, with and without our kids.
The Jack has a special place in my heart. I grew up visiting it with my family, as my mom was a heli-logger who spent a fair amount of time there, in fact her name (along with her dog’s) were burned into the rafters and are still there to this day. Eventually I would meet my husband there, and two years later we would be married under the gazebo.
Originally known as The Lumberjack Saloon, the bar and restaurant were built by Don and Mary Ellen Babcock from 1972 to 1974. The building, made out of giant cedar logs stacked three high, is situated on 25 acres and includes cabin rentals, camping spots, and has beautifully maintained grounds with horseshoe pits, a fire ring, and even a site for a wedding ceremony.
During the day, The Jack is open to all ages and serves up burgers, sandwiches and their signature green bean fries on their social distanced patio. Located 16 miles up Highway 12, and down a dirt road, it is a perfect stop if you are headed home from Jerry Johnson or Lolo Hotsprings, and during the winter months you can warm up next to the wood fireplace after a day of cross country skiing or snowmobiling.
Current COVID hours for the grill is Sunday-Thursday 12-8PM and Friday & Saturday 12-9PM. The bar is open until 11pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Find out more about The Jack, cabin rentals, their menu at history at their website.
Getting there
From Missoula, head South on Highway 93 towards Lolo. Turn right onto Highway 12 W/ Lolo Creek Rd. After 16 miles you’ll turn right on Graves Creek Road. Total drive time from Missoula is about 30 minutes.
Find out more about The Jack, cabin rentals, their menu at history at their website.
