A LOOK BACK DOWN THE TRAIL

It all began in 1966 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 at carefully selected Montana guest ranches. 

Through the Grizzly Rider Memorial Fund, the Tom Collins Memorial Scholarship Fund and numerous other endowments, the Grizzly Riders provide scholastic scholarships and financial assistance to University of Montana students, faculty and department in addition to worth while community programs.

Tom Collins, the founder and first Trail Boss of the Grizzly Riders International 

CHARITABLE GIFTING

Grizzly Riders International is a not for profit organization.

Donations to the Grizzly Rider Memorial Fund are tax exempt through Section 501(c) of the IRS codes.

Grizzly Riders Marilyn Peterson and Linda Knoblock serenade their fellow Riders with the "Grizzly Fight Song."

Warren Wilcox, Earl Morgenroth and Jim Johnston 

Grizzly Riders International

Board Members and Staff

President                       Charlie Oliver

Vice President                Doug Klein                      

Directors:                       Laura Brehm                           

                               Sheila Buchanan   

                               Oswald (Oz) Gutsche

                               Bill Johnston

                               James Johnston

                               Doug Klein

                               Bill Knick

                               Deborah Doyle McWhinney

                               Dan Neveau

                       Warren Wilcox  

Ex Officio Members:       Seth Bodnar, President                                                       The University of Montana 

Cindy Williams, President & CEO The University of Montana Foundation                    

Honory Presidents:        Roy Moline                       

                                       Dick Hayne

Trail Boss:                      Jim Royan

Board Attorney:             Duncan Scott

Bookkeeper:                   Dori Johnston