The Montana Restaurant That’s One Of The Most Unique In America

Those who have traveled through Montana know it has a few one-of-a-kind places to enjoy a meal, like the Sip 'n Dip, for example. We've got everything from 50s style diners to fine dining establishments, most of which serve outstanding food. But you're highly unlikely to find a place like the Bear Creek Saloon and Steakhouse anywhere else in the country.

Bearcreek is an unincorporated town in Carbon County, located in between Red Lodge and Belfry.

The Bear Creek Saloon is easy to find - it's at 14 Main Street.

Your dining experience starts like so many others in Montana do: With a steak dinner.

You'll find other entrees on the menu, like chicken sandwiches and a shrimp salad. But this place is definitely known for their charbroiled steaks.

After dinner, everyone gathers out back to watch the pig races.

Some restaurants have piano players or live bands for their evening entertainment, this saloon has pig races. And they're a blast.

The pigs have names like Makin' Bacon, Knuckles and Nota Hot Dog.

You can't make this stuff up.

Customers are encouraged to bet on the pigs... but don't worry, it's for a good cause.

The pig racing is a fundraiser, with half the proceeds going toward scholarships for Carbon County high school students.

Since 1982, the Bear Creek Saloon & Steakhouse has been owned by Bobby Pits and Lynn DeArmond.

They did have a few legal issues in the beginning (the state of Montana wasn't too keen on the idea of pig races) but they won their court battles and have been running their business ever since. The pigs here are provided by a local 4H club, and they're treated very well.

The Bear Creek Saloon & Steakhouse is open all year, but you'll have to visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day to see the pig races.

The races are held Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7:00 PM. There are 12 nightly races on a 15 minute schedule.

If you've never been to the The Bear Creek Saloon, make this the year you check it out. And while you're at it, enjoy one of these other unique Montana dining experiences.