About Us

The Crown of the Continent Discovery Center is owned by Swan Mountain Outfitters. This family-run company was founded in 2004 by Pat Tabor and is now operated by his children and their spouses. From the original outfitter camp in the Swan Valley, SMO grew to include several locations offering a diverse range of activities. Their commitment to protect and enhance this area has been unwavering.

In 2011, SMO began to lease and utilize the corral space behind what was then the “Rawhide Trading Post”. Located less than 1.5 miles from the West entrance to Glacier National Park, this West Glacier Corral was a great addition to the horseback riding corrals that SMO was already operating inside The Park. In 2013, when the Rawhide Trading Post decided to sell, it was a natural step for SMO to purchase.

The addition of the former Trading Post offered a chance to connect with visitors in a special way. The Tabor/Lorona family worked with the National Geographic Society to incorporate new features into the property and renamed it the “Crown of the Continent Discovery Center”. In addition to activities, food/beverage, and retail, the Discovery Center features interactive displays and interpretative content. Kids and adults alike can get an educational experience and gain a deeper understanding of this precious area.

The Crown of the Continent Discovery Center is run by Pat’s daughter and son in law Aubrie and Erik Lorona. They named  Luke ‘n Duke’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor after their two young sons, who share a love of sweet treats!