Private Event
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You are cordially invited to celebrate
A weekend under the Big Sky
September 23–27, 2026 · Greenough, MT
Giddy up!!
Event Details
Dates
Sept 23–27, 2026
Wednesday, September 23 through
Sunday, September 27.
Plan to arrive Wednesday afternoon.
Location
E Bar L Ranch
Greenough, MT 59823
On the Blackfoot River
Nearest airport: Missoula (MSO)
About the Venue
The E Bar L Ranch, near Greenough, Montana on the Blackfoot River, is one of the oldest family-owned and operated guest ranches in Montana. Summer 2025 was its 100th season.
Coddy first attended with his family 42 years ago, and since then, going there each summer has become a meaningful tradition for him and many of his friends.
All birthday events will take place on E/L property. We can't wait to celebrate with all of you!
"The E Bar L Ranch peddles in the state of mind that is Montana. Both guests and staff experience mountains, rivers, plains, abundant wildlife, self-reliance, resilience, wonder, and humility."
— Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame
Schedule
Know Before You Go
What to expect in late September
🎒 Packing List
The weather is only consistent in the fact that it changes constantly, and the change can be extreme within a week or even a day. The temperature can swing from cold in the morning to hot in the afternoon back to cold in the evening. The list below covers most essentials, but ultimately it's your call.
You will not need heels. Don't even think about bringing them.
There are two theme nights. Thursday night is our 90s party — dress in 90s attire or like you are IN your 90s. Or both. Saturday is the culminating event with live music — think "cowboy chic" (see the mood board under Attire for ideas). No need to bring a cowboy hat. We'd tell you what the surprise is, but then we'd have to kill you.
Attire
Think flannel, denim, boots, and outdoor layers. Come dressed to feel at home in the mountains — comfortable, warm, and ready to ride, hike, or fish.
We'll be on grass, gravel, and near the fire all weekend. Boots are ideal. Leave the stilettos at home — or at least bring a backup pair of shoes.
Montana evenings get cold. Bring a warm jacket — you'll be glad you did around 9 PM when the bonfire is going and the stars are out.
Thursday evening is a full 90s throwback. Break out the scrunchies, windbreakers, crop tops, bucket hats, and frosted tips. The more nostalgic, the better.
For the main birthday celebration with live music, dress it up ranch-style. Think boots, embroidered details, and your best western-glam look. See inspiration below!
Don't worry about bringing a cowboy hat — we would tell you the surprise but then we would have to kill you.
Saturday Night Inspiration
Travel Details
Share your travel plans so we can coordinate arrivals, arrange carpools if needed, and make sure no one is left stranded at the airport.
Click the button below to fill in your travel details. It only takes a minute and helps us make sure everything runs smoothly for everyone.
Submit My Travel Details →Food & Dining
We want everyone to eat well and feel taken care of. Let us know about any allergies, dietary needs, or food preferences so we can plan accordingly.
Click below to share your dietary needs. Takes less than a minute!
Submit Dietary Restrictions →Your To-Do List
Make sure you've completed everything below so we can make this weekend perfect for everyone.
Click a card to mark it as done
FAQ
-ish. The connection isn't very strong and it comes and goes. You'll probably be able to find WiFi somewhere on the ranch, but it's anyone's guess whether it's reliable enough for a Zoom call. Come prepared to unplug — honestly, that's part of the charm.
The closest airport is Missoula Montana Airport (MSO), about 45 minutes from the ranch. Bozeman (BZN) is another option if you find better flights — it's about 2.5 hours away.
Yes! Carrie and Coddy are covering lodging costs at the E Bar L Ranch for all guests. The accommodations are "rustic comfortable" — think cozy ranch-style rooms, not a luxury hotel. If that's not your style, the Paws Up resort is right next door and you're welcome to book there instead. All events will still take place on E/L property.
We love your kids! But, no.
Horseback riding is available but slots are limited! When you RSVP, please indicate whether you plan to ride so we can reserve your spot. Don't wait on this one — availability fills up fast.
The E Bar L Ranch sits on the Blackfoot River and is surrounded by Montana wilderness. Expect fly fishing, hiking, wildlife spotting, and plenty of campfire time. More details on the weekend's planned activities will be shared as we get closer.
Yes! Hairdryers are available at the ranch. One less thing to pack.
Reach out to Carrie directly — carriesouthworth@gmail.com or 323-251-4324. She's happy to answer anything. We can't wait to celebrate with all of you!