Big Mountain, Big Eating

It’s always a wild ride at The Stube and Chuckwagon Grill at Big Mountain, Mont., whether you attempt to wrangle the ornery mechanical bull (which bucks with animal intensity until it inevitably throws you off), belly up to the bar for a pitcher of Moose Drool or simply mosey by to brag about your last run and carve your initials into one of the narrow wood tabletops. And it’s been that way for more than 40 years. Owners Rande and Lise Hall are around to ensure the status quo. If you’re lucky, Rande will demonstrate his riding skills and regale you with local lore. If you’re hungry, hot wings, “Back Deck” burgers and cowboy steaks, served on tin camp plates or iron skillets, fit the bill. Whatever you do, don’t miss the Rocky Mountain oysters (consider it payback to the buckin’ bull). They’re mighty tasty fried and dunked in Lise’s spicy sauce. And don’t even consider departing without a souvenir ring. Yee-haw!