Page 107 - Flathead Living Fall 2014

At the top of the hill west of KAlispell, where the
urban valley starts to climb into the soaring heights of the rocky Mountains, sits the hilltop hitching post, a community main- stay in the wilds of Marion. like a good cocktail, it blends a mixture of contrasts – the friendly atmosphere of a family diner, the rugged personality of an old West saloon and the vibrant spirit of a communal gathering place. one day it’s hosting a wedding; the next day a memorial service. Family reunions are frequent and often unplanned. it’s the central source of neigh- borhood news, and at one time was the only source of gasoline in a 15-mile radius.
“it’s just kind of the community center,” says Jane Dutcher, owner of the bar and restaurant off u.s. highway 2.
“We’re all like family,” adds shauna stickney, Dutcher’s daughter and general manager of the popular establishment. “i was thinking of that yesterday. i hadn’t seen Buck for a few days, and our bartender who’s been here for over 20 years called to see where he’s at and if he was doing all right. our customers are like our family. We all keep an eye on everybody.”
Arizona’s Desert Playground,
Your Home Away from Home
Cindy Allen
Realtor, RSPS, GRI, SFR (928) 208-2303 [email protected] www.cindy-allen.com
Escape to Lake Havasu
The Hilltop Hitching Post – formerly the Marion Grille – is seen on U.S. Highway 2.
FALL 2014 | FLATHEAD LIVING 105