I Spy Horses: Montana

During my adventures and travels I always take photos of the horse-related items I see along the way. Enjoy these photos of horse-related pieces spotted while traveling around Montana.

Montana, often referred to as “Big Sky Country,” is a state where the spirit of the American West still is very much alive and horses are at the heart of that identity. With its vast open landscapes, rugged mountain ranges, and sweeping plains, Montana is a natural haven for horse culture. From working ranches and rodeos to trail riding in national parks and backcountry areas, horses are deeply woven into daily life and recreation. The state is home to countless equestrian events, dude ranches, and a strong tradition of cowboy heritage, where horses remain vital partners in cattle work and western lifestyle. Here are some of the horse-related items I came across while visiting Montana.

All photos by Marcella Gruchalak

The more I look at these photos, the more I wish I had a few more days to explore and find more!

While in Montana, we stopped at the most impressive western liquor store I have ever witnessed. This single malt Irish Whiskey fully embraces the equine vibe.

If you’re a cowgirl, of course you have to find somewhere to get in the saddle while in Montana. We had the opportunity to ride horses on the border of Yellowstone National Park. This is a photo taken while on the trail!

Even the airport has horse-related displays.

Found these horseshoes while at the tattoo parlor. In Montana, horse-related items popped up everywhere we turned.

Some of the stores in town had some pretty neat horse-related items.

These two pictures were pieces I considered buying to hang, but my bag was pushing the weight limit to begin with.

I also loved this vintage looking pillow.

And this one. I mean, who doesn’t love anything with fringe?

It was neat to see this old piece of horse tack turned into a mirror.

We found a little history on the founder of Big Sky Resort in our lodge — here he is, pictured on horseback.

Another neat piece from the liquor store.

More liquors with equine-related graphics.

The liquor store had a few metal donkeys on display throughout the aisles.

Find the horses around you and go riding, Horse Nation!

Have you spied horses in your adventures and travels (specifically horses that aren’t, you know, in a barn or pasture)? If so, send your photo/s with a brief explanation to [email protected] with the subject line “I Spy Horses.” You might see your photo featured in a future edition of I Spy. Remember, you need to own the rights to all photos you send, otherwise we can’t share them.