

Our Mission
Grizzly Riders International works to foster and promote the development of the University of Montana by bringing together people with diverse national and international interests. We are united by our love of Montana’s natural environment, the fellowship nurtured in Montana’s outdoors and our support for the University of Montana.

OUR STORY
Nearly 60 years ago, a casual conversation led to “The Grizzly Ride” – an annual invitation-only gathering held in Montana. The original aim was to bring people together who may not have a connection to the state and its flagship University of Montana, with the idea being that through experiencing our great outdoors, riding a horse, fishing a stream or lake, building friendships around the campfire.
The heart of the Grizzly Ride is its members and invited guests
We gather each September at a semi-remote Western Montana guest ranch to enjoy riding, hiking, fly fishing, floating, skeet shooting, evening conversations… And, of course, good food and drink, the pleasure of evenings around the fire, and fellowship nurtured in Montana’s outdoors.
Grizzly Riders International is led by a Board of Directors that is responsible for the bylaws, planning, and direction of the organization.


A LOOK BACK DOWN THE TRAIL
It all began in 1965 when Tom Collins, the Director of University Public Relations met with renowned outfitter Smoke Elser to discuss ways to raise awareness of The University of Montana Foundation, which was in its infancy.

“Geeze,” Smoke said, “why don’t we take ‘em on a pack trip? See if we can’t talk to these guys without any interruptions for four or five days in a row.”
With Smoke’s assistance, Tom set out with 38 Riders and 105 head of stock into the Bob Marshall wilderness for a five-day camping trip. The trip proved to be both memorable and eventful when a lightning storm on the third day scattered the horses and mules across the mountains. Smoke’s crew found the last of the herd just in time to pack everyone out.
After many years of roughing it in tents and spike camps, the Riders moved the annual Grizzly Ride indoors to the comfort of guest ranch accommodations. The Riders and their guests continue to participate in the annual Ride which takes place the second weekend of September.