Mountain Soul Stew: Fueling the Montana Backcountry Experience
The first night out with our veterans in the Montana backcountry is always special. It’s a time to settle in, shake off the weight of the world, and embrace the raw beauty of the wilderness. And what better way to kick things off than with a hearty, whole-food meal that fuels both body and spirit? That’s where Mountains Soul Stew comes in.

This stew isn’t just a meal—it’s a tradition. We carry in pounds of fresh elk meat, earthy carrots, hearty potatoes, pungent onions, fragrant garlic, and nutrient-dense barley. Everything is diced up and simmered over an open fire in canteen cups, with the barley added late in the cook to maintain the perfect texture. The slow-cooked blend of wild protein and natural carbohydrates creates a rich, nourishing meal that keeps our crew fueled for the days ahead.

While the stew bubbles away, we prepare elk skewers as an appetizer—simple, primal, and packed with flavor. Cooking over the fire is a fundamental part of the experience, proving that whole-food recipes don’t have to be complicated, even in the backcountry. This is fuel with a purpose—designed to sustain, energize, and bring people together.

Elk meat itself is one of the purest proteins you can consume. It’s incredibly lean, meaning it has a high concentration of protein without excessive fat. Unlike grain-fed beef, wild elk roam free, feeding on a natural diet that results in clean, nutrient-dense meat free from additives and hormones. When you eat elk, you’re consuming pure Montana—untamed, wild, and strong, just like the veterans who trek these mountains with us.

The importance of whole food in the backcountry cannot be overstated. In an environment where every calorie counts, real food provides sustainable energy, better digestion, and improved endurance. Processed meals and quick fixes don’t hold up in the wild—what you put into your body directly impacts what you get out of it. That’s why we emphasize meals like Elk Soul Stew, proving that real, nutritious food can be simple, satisfying, and effective, even miles away from civilization.
Our first night tradition isn’t just about feeding the body—it’s about feeding the soul. Elk Soul Stew is a reminder that good food, good company, and the great outdoors are some of the best ingredients for a life well-lived. And in the Montana backcountry, that’s exactly what we’re here to embrace.
If you want to try your own Montana backcountry meal, you can make this recipe at home or... If you are a veteran, you can join us on a trip! 2025 trips are filling up fast!
MVP
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