Chasing Antlers and Memories: A Father-Son Journey on Montana’s Black Ranch

In the shadow of Montana’s Gallatin Range, where the ridges catch the last blush of sunset and elk roam wild and free, one family carved out a story they’ll never forget. For Dale Keller and his nine-year-old son, Cedar, a shed hunting trip through LandTrust turned into a journey of legacy, grit, and joy—exactly the kind of tale we love sharing in our Sportsman Series.

A Dream Three Decades in the Making

When Dale planned his trip to Bozeman, elk antlers weren’t the only thing on his mind—he was also in search of a reliable vehicle. But for someone who has dreamed of finding a moose shed for 30 years, passing up the early elk shed season was unthinkable. With his son’s eager voice in the back seat and a prayer for good luck, Dale took a chance. He opened his phone and turned to LandTrust.

Among the listings, one stood out: Black Ranch, just outside Bozeman. Owned by Bayard Black, a longtime LandTrust partner, the listing promised access to elk country just minutes from town. But with a tight budget, Dale didn’t know if it would work out. Still, he sent a message. What followed wasn’t just a booking—it was the beginning of a connection that would set the stage for something unforgettable.

A Landowner’s Welcome

Bayard didn’t just reply—he went above and beyond. Willing to negotiate a price and even offering to place a shed out for Cedar if the hunt came up dry, Bayard’s kindness left a mark. “He was the most down-to-earth guy,” Dale said. “We worked out a deal, and I couldn't believe his place was just 30 minutes from where I was staying.”

The next morning, they set out. Boots on feet, high hopes in hand, and a sprawling Montana landscape before them.

Lessons on the Mountain

As the duo climbed higher into the snow-packed hills, the adventure took shape. Hours passed with no sheds in sight, and Cedar’s enthusiasm began to wane. But Dale, part dad and part coach, gave the classic speech: “You’re stronger than you think.” And Cedar answered the call. They pushed on through knee-deep snow—waist-deep for a nine-year-old—until finally, Cedar spotted his very first elk shed.

He cried tears of joy. Dale watched, overwhelmed with pride. “It was just a little raghorn,” Dale said, “but it made his life.”

But the story didn’t stop there.

A Surprise Gift from the Mountain

As they continued toward Cedar’s find, Dale let his son lead. Cedar chose a downhill route through less snowy terrain—something Dale’s experience told him to avoid. But this time, he listened.

Within ten yards of their detour, Dale’s 30-year dream came true. Lying in the snow was not one, but two matching moose paddles. Side by side. Untouched.

“I sounded like a little high school girl,” Dale laughed, recalling the video he took in the moment. “I was freaking out.”

More Than Just Antlers

These weren't just trophies. They were testaments. To persistence. To fatherhood. To the moments that make outdoor adventure more than just sport.

And for Bayard, the landowner, knowing he played a part meant something too. Dale had brought homemade goodies as a thank-you—and Bayard? He plowed through them. “That made my day,” Dale smiled. “I take pride in that stuff.”

Why It Matters

For Dale, Black Ranch offered more than a hunt—it offered a lesson in trust, connection, and kindness. “I tried the old way,” he said of knocking on doors in other parts of Montana. “Two days. Not one yes. But LandTrust? It opened the door.”

With a warm sendoff, Dale wrapped up his podcast appearance with a shoutout to Flathead Lake Charters, where he guides fishing trips. “You’re not gonna regret it,” he promised.

Just like that day in Bozeman, we believe him.

Explore the Land

Want to walk the same trails Dale and Cedar did? Book your own Black Ranch adventure and create your own five-star story.

Are you a landowner interested in creating experiences like this? Get started here or reach out directly—our team is here to help.

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