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Gray Wolf Peak Casino opens its doors

By Sam Sandoval

Gray Wolf Peak looms over its namesake. A grand opening will be in mid-May (Sam Sandoval photo)

EVARO — Nestled in the tree-lined corridor near Evaro, Gray Wolf Peak Casino opened its doors on March 5th to little fanfare. Renovation and reconstruction to the former Joe's Smoke Ring is still ongoing, but enough of the casino was finished to let gamblers get a taste of what's to come.

Out are the convenient store staples, coolers and deli displays; in are The Mountain Pine Grill, a small lounge and 68 gaming machines. Like it's sister casino in Polson, Gray Wolf Peak Casino is open 24/7.

The gas pumps have been open while remodeling is underway.

Gray Wolf Casino is described as a 'Phase 1' type deal, with it's current form being temporary. Currently, construction for an expansion will continue until Mid-may. The expansion will increase the number of machines to around 110 machines with live-poker hopefully in the mix. Once completed, Gray Wolf Casino will have a Grand Opening in May.

The Tribe hopes Gray Wolf Casino will eventually grow from its current state into a destination resort with an entertainment venue, 400 or more machines and a possible hotel.

Binky Bowman, manager of Gray Wolf Casino, said business has been steady. "This has given the employees a chance to get into the swing of things," she said. "It helps them work on their customer skills. We haven't been slammed (with customers) yet, but when we do, I think the employees will be ready." Gray Wolf Peak Casino is still taking applications.

The Tribe purchased Joe's Smoke Ring last year from the Clinkenbeards. Though Joe's Smoke Ring no longer exists, the Clinkenbeards will still sell 'reservation' fireworks during the July 4th holiday.

Additional information provided by Jami Hamel.