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THE BARKERS AND THE JJJ

The Ranch was homesteaded in 1921 as a land grant. Cattle and hay were raised on the ranch until the late 1930’s. But because of the pristine location, closeness to the Bob Marshall Wilderness, and abundance of wildlife, outfitting for hunting of elk, deer and bear began. The name of the JJJ Ranch came from a cattle brand, and you’ll see our horses with JJJ on their left hip.

Max and Ann Barker’s love affair with Montana began in 1958 while on vacation from their Iowa farm. Eighteen years later, Max & Ann along with a 12 year old Ernie, purchased the ranch, renaming it the JJJ Wilderness Ranch. Although they had grown up with livestock and were experienced horsemen, the challenges of turning a run-down hunting lodge into a dude ranch seemed immense. After several years, many hilarious stories, and lots of hard work, the “Triple J” now hosts friends from all over the world.

Ernie Barker earned a degree in Animal Science from Montana State University in Bozeman where he met Kim, a registered nurse from a longtime Montana farm and ranch family. Daughters Kelsey and Hayley are actively involved in the ranch and hope to carry on the tradition of Montana hospitality. Ernie is a licensed outfitter (License # 3165) with the Montana Board of Outfitters and a permittee on the Lewis and Clark and Flathead National Forest. We're passionate about this area and our industry and are very involved in our local community.

OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU

Our family is committed to providing you with a top-notch and unforgettable vacation. We have a true respect and love for the land and have been sharing a love for horses and a passion for the outdoors with people for over 30 years. The value of this kind of vacation is clear: a wholesome environment, exciting outdoor activities and shared memories are some of the reasons why so many of our guests return over and over to repeat the experience.

YOU’LL LOVE OUR FRIENDLY, PROFESSIONAL STAFF

 

One of the reasons the Triple J Ranch is such a special place for our guests are the young adults who dedicate themselves to helping us provide a  quality vacation. We hand pick talented, capable employees who enthusiastically provide impeccable service for each and every guest. Their genuine warmth and friendliness is evident in all facets of the ranch, from the corral to the kitchen to the children's program. Every week our guests compliment the energy and hard work of each staff member. We promote a team effort and that will be evident in all we do.

 

 MEET OUR EQUINE FRIENDS

At the Triple J Ranch you'll find a fine herd of Quarter horses from young colts we are training to a few hay burners who are old friends that we have retired after many years of faithful service. They each have unique talents and personalities that we have learned from working with them over the years. Many have been born, raised and trained on the ranch. We also use mules for packing – gotta love those big ears! We raise and care for our horses the same way most people raise and care for their children.

MEMBERSHIPS

The Dude Rancher’s Association The Montana Dude Rancher’s Association, Professional Wilderness Outfitter’s Association, Montana Outfitter and Guide’s Association, America Outdoors, Augusta Area Chamber of Commerce