The Big Sky Horse Park, operated by the Missoula Horse Council, celebrated 30 years of service to Missoula and Montana horse community in 2014. From what was once a cow pasture and farm land, the Big Sky Horse Park has blossomed into an incredible addition to the Missoula County Parks and Trails Program. Originally conceived as an equestrian facility, the park is now enjoyed by the entire Wester
n Montana community. In 1982, the Missoula Horse Council was formed with two representatives from each of these organizations: Western Montana Quarter Horse Association, Backcountry Horsemen, Five Valley Appaloosa Club, Five Valley Pony Club, Missoula Dressage and Jump Club, Charles Russell Riders, Five Valley Arabian Club, Halter n Hackamore 4-H Club and the Montana Quarter Horse Association. In 1983, the Council leased 60 acres east and north of a 4-H Arena at the corner of North Ave. in the Target Range area of Missoula to be used as a horse park. In 1987, the Council received its 501(c)3 non-profit status. In 1997, the Council’s Articles of Incorporation are restated and filed with the State of Montana. Then the Missoula County Parks Department and the Missoula County Commissioners organized the Big Sky Stewardship Committee to oversee and manage the Big Sky Tower Street Complex. The Complex encompasses 160 acres and includes the Big Sky Horse Park, the Legion Ball Fields, the Little League Ball Fields, the Fast Pitch Ball Field and the Community Gardens. Formed and maintained by volunteer equine enthusiasts, the 90 acres of leased county land serves outdoors recreationalists of all interests. The Park boasts arenas for both Western and English riding disciplines, as well as a cross country jump course, two dressage arenas, a sand track, two barns with 50 horse stalls and 1.7 mile perimeter pedestrian trail. A non-profit, 501(c)3 organization, this Garden City treasure exists and continues to develop in scope because of hard-working volunteers and members. W, Tower St. and 37th St. The Big Sky Horse Park hosts a multitude of local and regional horse shows, events, and clinics each year, including the Flying Colors Mini Event, Color My Ride Obstacle Challenge, Omoksee and Open Buckle Show series as well as barrel races. Riders from numerous clubs and associations, from 4H and the USPC to Backcounrty Horsemen of Missoula, MHJA, Horsemasters and the NBHA of MT enjoy the Park as event participants and day, annual, or lifetime members. Missoula is lucky to have this very unique facility for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, whether riding a horse, walking a dog, jogging, or cycling.
