FAQs

 

The following questions we have received in the past. If you don’t see an answer to your question, feel free to call the number at the bottom of the page.

  • Q: Can I participate in the horse drive and help herd the horses?

    A: Due to the length of the horse drive and for safety reasons, only experienced Hell's A- Roarin' Ranch employees and family members can herd the horses as they are familiar with the area's terrain and the horses.

  • Q: Can I bring my own horse and participate in the horse drive?

    A: For safety reasons, only Hell's A-Roarin' Ranch horses are allowed.

  • Q: Can I rent lodging at Hell's A-Roarin' Ranch?

    A: All ranch lodging is already booked. For a listing of many other lodging or camping options in the area, please visit the Gardiner Chamber of Commerce website at http://www.visitgardinermt.com/

  • Q: Should I purchase tickets to the evening BBQ and dance in advance?

    A: We will not be selling advanced tickets this year. They will be available at the gate when you arrive and no one will be turned away.

  • Q: Will this event still take place if the weather is bad such as rain?

    A: Yes it will. The horses still need to be herded up the mountain and weather can actually make the event, and photos, more spectacular. The BBQ and dance will be held under the 60'x100' tent. Be sure to bring warm clothes, including a jacket, as the evenings can be cool.

  • Q: Are the horses wild?

    A: No, these are ranch horses owned by Hell's A-Roarin' Outfitters. Most are pastured in eastern Montana for the winter. Each Memorial Day weekend, they are brought back to Gardiner and then herded up the mountain. They are used for trail rides, backcountry camping, and hunting trips until late-fall.

  • Q: How many years has the horse drive taken place?

    A: Warren and Sue Johnson, along with their family, have been herding their horses from Gardiner to their ranch since 1982. In 2014, they grew the drive into a local fundraiser and full-blown celebration of the Old West!

  • Q: What is the elevation at the ranch?

    A: Hell's A-Roarin' Ranch is located high above the towns of Gardiner and Jardine at an elevation of 7,200 feet.

  • Q: Can I bring my dog to the evening celebration?

    A: While we are all dog-lovers, we ask that you do not bring your dog to the ranch. Between all the ranch dogs, and other animals, we've learned it's best for you to leave your dogs at home for the safety of all the animals.

  • Q: How close can I get to the horses during the drive?

    A: To make this an enjoyable and safe event for everyone, including the horses, we ask that you keep a safe distance so that the horses have room to move and don't feel crowded. If your camera has a zoom option, you will be able to take great photos. You can take closer photos at the rodeo grounds or the ranch.

  • Q: Can I bring my own alcohol to the evening BBQ and dance?

    A: This event is a fundraiser and beverage sales are part of that. Therefore, no outside drinks are allowed. Please help us keep this a positive and enjoyable event by abiding by this rule.

  • Q: Do you have a Facebook page?

    A: Yes we do. It's a great way to follow the event and get updates. Be sure to check the page after the event as well as we'll have lots of fun photos to share!

    https://www.facebook.com/hellsaroarinhorsedrive/

The Absaroka Lodge and Big Rock Hotel in Gardiner are offering a 15% discount for horse drive attendees. Be sure to mention Hell's A-Roarin when making your reservation.