Could These be the Best Places for Quality Beef Jerky in Montana?

So the boss emailed last week to inform us that he was running late from a weekend of fun on Flathead Lake. His email was just to let us know that he was driving near Lakeside and was going to be in the office later. The only thought that popped into my mind while reading the email was "Hmmm. I wonder if he will stop in Rollins and pick up some jerky on his way?" M&S Meats in Rollins has some of the best jerky in the state.

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That made me think about all the other places a person could get some high-quality protein snacks in Montana. We live in cattle country, and beef jerky has always been a go-to snack for wary travelers since before Montana was born. So where are the best places to stop on a journey across the Treasure State?

1) RANCH HOUSE MEATS (BILLINGS)

Ranch Hosue Meats prides itself on serving Montana-raised beef. Their meat cuts are gorgeous. But, the stars of the show are their jerky and sausage. Try the Texas BBQ Jerky or the firey INFERNO Jerky

2) CHALET MARKET (BELGRADE)

Chalet Market has all the dried meat snacks you can dream of with jerky varieties varying from Elk to Bison to Beef. People travel from all over the world for Chalet Market meat snacks. DO NOT forget to try the summer sausage. AMAZING!

3) HI-COUNTRY (LINCOLN)

Montana's most notoriously tasty meat snacks come from Hi-Country. Available on just about any gas station or convenience store shelf in the state. I use Hi-Country's meat cure and seasonings every year at home when I make my own batches of wild game jerky and sausage.

No road trip though Lincoln, Montana would be complete without a stop at the Hi-Country HQ for some fresh-out-of-the-smoker jerky to fuel the remainder of your road trip.

4) M&S Meats (ROLLINS)

M&S Meats has been making quality meat snacks since the dawn of World War 2. In business since 1945, M&S Meats has made quite a reputation for jerky and sausage. Making it a must-stop for any hungry traveler visiting the Flathead Valley.

5) HAMILTON PACKING COMPANY (HAMILTON)

Hamilton Packing Co is a place where I will make a special trip just to look around. They always have great deals on quality cuts of meat. But, the fresh jerky is the REAL reason for the trip. Hamilton Packing Co. makes all their jerky in-house and offers 7 varieties. My favorites are the Honey Pepper and the HOT.

When it comes to snacks and tourist food, jerky has got to be one of Montana's best-sellers. Just biting off a piece of salty/dried meat makes you feel like a cowboy on the open range. Instantly transporting you to the old west.