Montana Race Tracks: Where to Bet on Horse Races in MT

In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the two active Montana racetracks that offer a combined total of eight race days. While the Montana racing industry is small, both on-track betting and simulcasting are completely legal here.

Most Popular Montana Race Tracks

Montana ExpoPark

Address: 400 3rd St NW, Great Falls, MT 59404
Phone: 406-727-1481

Montana ExpoPark, spread across a sprawling 100 acres, offers a unique Montana horse racing experience. You can partake in live racing or simulcast betting on thoroughbred, standardbred, and harness races. The variety of bets available – Win, Place, Show, Exacta, Trifecta, Superfecta, and Daily Double – means you can engage in the races however you choose.

The racing season peaks in July, featuring five full race days, including the popular MBHA State Championships. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The ExpoPark also hosts a variety of other events like Great Falls Dog Training, Women’s Expo, Circus on Ice, basketball tournaments, and a 9-day state fair.

Miles City Bucking Horse Sale

Address: 511 Pleasant St, Miles City, MT 59301
Phone: 406-951-1366

As one of the few remaining racing meets in the state, Miles City Bucking Horse Sale is steeped in heritage and showcases some of the finest athletic horses. Their racing season kicks off every May with Derby Days, coinciding with the Kentucky Derby.

Over three full days, you’ll witness live racing with pari mutuel betting. Popular races include the Quarter Horse Maiden, Thoroughbred Maiden, and Quarter Horse Derby. Don’t miss their special live racing event held on Mother’s Day each year.

List of All Montana Race Tracks

Check out the two active race tracks that Montana has to offer.

Simulcast Wagering in Montana

If you’re passionate about Montana horse racing, the handful of simulcast wagering locations are worth checking out. The state has a small but vibrant horse racing industry and simulcasting is completely legal. These facilities allow you to place bets on horse races taking place across the country, right from the comfort of Montana.

Popular Horse Races in Montana with Dates

From thrilling sprints to endurance tests, there’s a race for every type of horse racing fan. Each event offers something unique, so let’s take a look at the popular horse races in the state.

Types of Legal Horse Betting in Montana

In Montana, you have several legal options for horse betting, even though it’s not a major hub for horse racing. Pari mutuel wagering is a popular choice, where you can place bets like Win, Place, Show, Daily Double, Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta. These bets range from predicting the winner to guessing the top four finishers in exact order.

You’re not limited to betting on just one type of horse, as both thoroughbred and quarter horse races are available. Thoroughbred betting, quarter horse racing, and harness racing are all part of the mix, giving you a wide variety of races to choose from. Whether you’re betting on local races or participating in nationwide simulcasts, Montana offers plenty of opportunities for horse racing enthusiasts.

Other Types of Gambling in Montana

Explore the ins and outs of the Montana gambling laws and other forms of gambling in the state:

• Montana Online Casinos
• Montana Online Sportsbooks
• Montana Online Poker
• Montana No Deposit Bonuses
• Montana Casinos
• Montana Bingo
• Montana Sportsbooks

History of Montana Horse Racing

Horse racing has a rich history in Montana, where it was the only form of online betting until sports wagering was legalized in 2019. You can enjoy on-track betting at live Montana race tracks, simulcasting, and online betting.

Pari mutuel wagering on live horse races is regulated by the Montana Board of Horse Racing (MBHR) within the Montana Department of Commerce. The MBHR is responsible for approving and licensing locations in the state that offer off-track betting.

In 2007, legislators passed HB390, which allowed advance deposit wagering, telephone wagering, and internet wagering. However, it’s illegal for any company to accept wagers from Montana residents without an annual license from the MBHR. This makes Montana one of the few states to actively license online horse racing betting sites and advance deposit wagering apps.

The overturning of the PASPA: Sports Protection Act in 2018 had a significant impact on the Montana horse racing industry. With the repeal of PASPA, Montana was able to expand its gambling offerings, giving you more opportunities to engage in legal horse racing betting.

Montana Gambling FAQ

Is Montana horse racing legal?

Yes, horse racing is legal in Montana. You can enjoy on-track betting at Montana race tracks, simulcasting, and even online betting. In addition, online horse racing betting sites and advance deposit wagering apps are legal, provided they have an annual license from the Montana Board of Horse Racing.

Can I bet on horse races in other states?

Yes, you can bet on horse races in other states. Thanks to simulcasting, you can place bets on races happening elsewhere without having to be physically present at the track. Additionally, online betting platforms allow you to wager on horse races taking place across the country right from the comfort of your home. It’s important to check the laws in your specific location, as US gambling laws by state can vary.

What’s the largest of all Montana race tracks?

The largest horse racetrack in Montana is the Montana ExpoPark in Great Falls. This historic track has been hosting live horse racing events since the early 20th century. It’s a major hub for horse racing enthusiasts and features some of the most exciting races in the state.

Can I bet on horse races online in Montana?

Yes, you can bet on horse races online in Montana. However, it’s important to note that only pari mutuel betting is legal online. This means you’re betting against other gamblers rather than the house. Always make sure to practice responsible gambling and play within the laws and regulations of your location.

How can I bet on Montana horse racing events?

You have several options to bet on Montana horse racing events. One option is to physically go to the racetracks and place your bets there. Another option is to use Advance Deposit Wagering (ADW), which allows you to fund an account and place bets online. Lastly, telephone wagering is also available, where you can place bets over the phone.

What’s the minimum age to bet on horses in Montana?

In Montana, the minimum gambling age for betting on horse races is 18 years old. This applies to all forms of betting, whether it’s at the racetrack, through Advance Deposit Wagering, or over the telephone. Always remember to gamble responsibly.