Your Red Lodge Basecamp Guide: Trails, Eats, and Year-Round Mountain Town Adventures (Part 1 of 2)
**TLDR:** Red Lodge offers year-round mountain town activities including summer hiking trails like Silver Run and Basin Lakes, scenic drives on the Beartooth Highway, and winter skiing at Red Lodge Mountain. This guide covers family-friendly attractions, golf, Nordic skiing, dining options, and where to stay including The Yodeler. Essential seasonal information and cultural events like the July 1-4 Home of Champions Rodeo help you plan visits any time of year.
Let's get something straight: Red Lodge isn't a gateway town you pass through on your way to somewhere more interesting. It's not a pit stop. It's not the place you grudgingly book a room because Yellowstone lodging sold out nine months ago.
Red Lodge is the destination. Yellowstone just happens to be in the neighborhood.
We're talking about a genuine mountain town at 5,500 feet with the Beartooth Highway literally starting at the edge of downtown, the million acre Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness in your backyard, trails ranging from family strolls to lung-burners, a legitimate ski mountain in winter, and a main street that actually functions year-round instead of shuttering when tourists leave.
Sure, you can day-trip to Yellowstone from here (and you should: we'll cover that in Part 2). But if you spend your entire Red Lodge visit just using it as a Yellowstone staging area, you're missing most of the point.
This is Part 1 of our complete Red Lodge and Yellowstone guide. We're covering everything that makes Red Lodge worth your time: summer trails and scenic drives, winter skiing and Nordic options, year-round culture and dining, and where to actually stay when you're here.
Part 2 will tackle Yellowstone day trips from Red Lodge, including the Beartooth Highway approach, Lamar Valley wildlife viewing, and how to plan realistic day trips in both summer and winter.
But first, let's talk about why Red Lodge deserves more than one night between your arrival and your Yellowstone alarm clock.
How Do I Get to Red Lodge Montana?
Red Lodge sits approximately 61 miles southwest of Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) via Montana Highway 212, a drive of roughly 1 hour 15-20 minutes. This makes Red Lodge highly accessible for fly-in visitors while maintaining genuine mountain town character without resort-village crowds.
What Is Red Lodge Known For?
Red Lodge serves as the northern gateway to the Beartooth Highway (often called "the most beautiful drive in America"), offers access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, hosts Red Lodge Mountain ski resort, and maintains authentic Western culture including the July 1-4 Home of Champions Rodeo. The town operates year-round with distinct summer and winter seasons.
Summer and Shoulder Season in Red Lodge (Late May Through Mid-October)
The Beartooth Window
Here's the seasonal reality that shapes everything: the Beartooth Highway typically opens on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend and closes in mid-October, weather permitting. This creates a roughly five-month summer season when Red Lodge transforms into hiking, driving, and high-alpine adventure central.
Once that pass closes, the town shifts to winter mode. Both seasons are excellent. They're just completely different experiences.
What Are the Best Scenic Drives Near Red Lodge?
The Beartooth Highway offers multiple options from short samplers to full-day adventures. Rock Creek Vista Point (19 miles from town, 1-2 hours with stops) provides wheelchair-accessible overlooks and interpretive panels. The full "Highway to the Sky" experience reaches Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet with alpine lakes, tundra, and dramatic switchbacks. Plan half-day minimum for the complete drive.
Scenic Drives: From Quick Hits to All-Day Epics
Rock Creek Vista Point: The Appetizer
Distance: approximately 19 miles one way from downtown Red Lodge
Time: 1-2 hours with stops
Who it's for: Everyone, including wheelchair users
This is your introduction to what the Beartooth delivers. The Vista Point features a wheelchair-friendly paved walkway to massive canyon overlooks, interpretive panels explaining the road's 1930s construction, and restrooms (always appreciated before climbing to altitude).
It's also a perfect option when weather up high looks questionable. You get spectacular scenery, the famous Rock Creek canyon views, and you're back in town for lunch.
Beartooth Highway "Highway to the Sky" Sampler
Distance: Variable, half-day ideal
Season: Late May through mid-October (weather dependent)
What you'll see: Alpine lakes, tundra plateaus, 10,947-foot pass, switchbacks that make your passengers nervous
The full Beartooth experience climbs from Red Lodge through alpine terrain that feels more like Alaska than Montana. Lakes everywhere. Rock gardens. Tundra. The kind of scenery that makes you stop every few miles just to process what you're seeing.
Critical Weather Reality: Even in July and August, afternoon storms can roll in fast. Carry layers, water, and sun protection. Weather at 11,000 feet doesn't care about your summer vacation plans.
What Are the Best Hikes Near Red Lodge Montana?
Top hikes near Red Lodge include Silver Run National Recreation Trail (2.4-5.1 mile loops, easy-moderate), Lake Fork Trail (flexible distance up to 9.5 miles one-way, scenic creek and waterfalls), Basin Lakes Trail (4 miles one-way, 2,000+ feet gain to alpine lakes), and Glacier Lake (2.2 miles one-way but steep and strenuous). Trailheads sit 10-16 miles from town off US-212 and West Fork Road.
Day Hikes: From Family Strolls to Leg-Burners
Silver Run National Recreation Trail (Easy to Moderate)
Trail #102
Distance: 2.4 to 5.1 miles total depending on loop choice
Time: 1 to 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Why hike it: Forest and creekside scenery, family-friendly, bike-friendly in summer
Silver Run offers a network of loops so you can customize distance based on energy, time, and who's hiking. The shorter loops work great for families with kids or anyone wanting exercise without committing to an epic. Longer loops provide more sustained hiking for fitness-focused folks.
Access is west of Red Lodge off West Fork Road. The trail system also serves as groomed cross-country skiing in winter (separate access and fees).
Lake Fork Trail (Easy to Moderate, Strenuous if Pushing High)
Trail #2
Distance: Flexible turnaround, up to 9.5 miles one-way to Sundance Pass
Time: 2-6+ hours depending on goals
Difficulty: Easy to moderate for meadows and lower portions; strenuous if continuing to high alpine
Lake Fork is the "choose your own adventure" trail. Walk an hour along the creek and turn around for an easy family outing. Push deeper for waterfalls and meadows. Keep going for alpine lakes (Broadwater, September Morn) and serious elevation gain.
The creek-side walking is gorgeous from the start, making this trail rewarding even for short visits. Trailhead sits off US-212 with signage and vault toilet.
Basin Lakes Trail (Moderate to Strenuous)
Trail #61
Distance: approximately 4 miles one-way to Upper Basin Lake
Elevation Gain: 2,000+ feet
Time: 3-5 hours round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous due to sustained climbing
Basin Lakes rewards your effort with legitimate alpine scenery. Basin Creek Falls appears at about 0.5 miles. Lower Basin Lake sits around 2.5 miles. Upper Basin Lake views come after you've earned them with consistent climbing.
This isn't a casual stroll. Bring water, snacks, layers, and the understanding that you'll be breathing hard. The payoff is worth it.
Important Access Note: West Fork Road typically closes December 2 through April 14, affecting Basin Lakes and other West Fork trailhead access. Plan summer visits.
Glacier Lake (Strenuous)
Trail #3
Distance: approximately 2.2 miles one-way
Elevation Gain: approximately 1,700 feet
Summit Area: Over 10,000 feet
Time: 3-4 hours round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous (short distance but steep and high altitude)
Don't let the short mileage fool you. Glacier Lake is a workout. The trail climbs steeply to high elevation where your lungs will remind you that altitude is real and unforgiving.
The turquoise alpine lake at the end justifies the suffering. Just know what you're getting into.
Fishing Note: The lake straddles the Montana-Wyoming border. Make sure you have the correct fishing license for wherever you're casting.
What Family-Friendly Activities Are in Red Lodge?
The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary in Red Lodge houses non-releasable native species including bears, raptors, foxes, and wolves. Open approximately 10 AM to 4 PM (often closed Tuesdays), with typical admission around $12 adults, $9 seniors/military, $6 children 4-12, free under 4. Plan 1.5-2 hours on site. Tours and animal encounters available for additional fees.
Kid-Friendly Red Lodge: When Little Legs Need a Break
Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary
Let's be honest: not every family vacation day can involve six-mile hikes and altitude headaches. Sometimes you need an activity where kids stay engaged, parents get educational value, and nobody has to carry anyone back to the car.
The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary delivers exactly that. This facility rescues and houses native Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem species that can't survive in the wild due to injury, habituation, or other factors. Bears, mountain lions, raptors, foxes, wolves: all visible from safe viewing areas with interpretive information.
Practical Details:
Hours: Approximately 10 AM to 4 PM, often closed Tuesdays (verify current schedule)
Admission: Adults approximately $12, Seniors/Military approximately $9, Children 4-12 approximately $6, under 4 free
Time needed: 1.5 to 2 hours
Special offerings: Tours and animal encounters available (extra fee)
This works as a morning activity before afternoon hiking, or as the main event on a rest day when everyone needs lower intensity.
Montana Candy Emporium
Old-time candy shop with the kind of selection that makes kids' eyes widen and parents remember their own childhoods. Open daily (closed Christmas Day).
Strategic deployment: post-hike reward, rainy afternoon distraction, or bribery when you need cooperation for one more scenic overlook.
Can You Golf in Red Lodge Montana?
Yes. Red Lodge Mountain Golf Course offers public 18-hole golf with typical 2025 adult fees around $75 for 18 holes with cart (twilight, junior, and season pass rates vary). Online tee time booking recommended. The course provides laid-back summer recreation with mountain views for golfers wanting a break from hiking.
What Is Red Lodge Like in Winter?
Red Lodge transforms into a legitimate ski town from late November through March with Red Lodge Mountain alpine resort, Red Lodge Nordic Center (15 km groomed cross-country trails), snowshoeing options, and winter events like the Monster Dog Pull in March. The Beartooth Highway closes for winter, shifting town focus to snow sports and winter culture.
Winter in Red Lodge: A Completely Different Town
Red Lodge Mountain (Alpine Skiing)
Season: Typically late November through March (weather dependent)
Access: Ski Run Road from town
Ticket Strategy: Buy online in advance for better pricing; walk-up can be limited and expensive on peak days
Red Lodge Mountain operates as a legitimate ski area with varied terrain, multiple chairlifts, and terrain parks. It's not Vail. It's not trying to be. It's a mountain where families can afford season passes and locals actually ski instead of just working in the industry.
Check daily snow reports and operations before driving up. Mountain weather changes fast, and conditions vary significantly throughout the season.
Winter Driving Reality: Carry chains or have proper traction. Mountain roads in winter demand respect and preparation.
Red Lodge Nordic Center (Cross-Country Skiing)
Location: approximately 2 miles west of town
Terrain: approximately 15 km groomed for classic and skate skiing
Day Pass: approximately $10 (kids 12 and under free)
Facilities: Warming hut, restroom
The Nordic Center provides well-maintained groomed trails for cross-country enthusiasts without the expense or crowds of downhill skiing. Classic and skate skiing options accommodate different skill levels and preferences.
The center also allows snowshoe day passes. If you're snowshoeing, avoid walking on set ski tracks: use designated snowshoe lanes or ungroomed areas. Skiers will appreciate your etiquette.
Monster Dog Pull (March Tradition)
Venue: Red Lodge Ales / Sam's Tap Room
Vibe: Family-friendly, festive, uniquely Montana
This March event brings the community together for exactly what it sounds like: dogs pulling things. It's weird, it's fun, and it's the kind of local tradition that reminds you this is a real town, not a manufactured resort village.
Dates vary annually. Check local event calendars if your visit coincides with March.
What Events Happen in Red Lodge?
The Home of Champions Rodeo runs annually July 1-4 with three days of noon parades and evening rodeo events. General admission typically around $20 with reserved seating available. This is Red Lodge's biggest event, filling lodging months in advance. The Carbon County Historical Society & Museum downtown offers year-round exhibits on local mining, rodeo, and regional history.
Red Lodge Culture and Year-Round Events
Home of Champions Rodeo & Parades (July 1-4)
This is the event that defines Red Lodge's summer. Three days of noon parades. Evening rodeo action. The town packed with visitors, locals, and the kind of Western celebration that feels authentic because it is.
Planning Reality: Lodging sells out months in advance for rodeo weekend. If you're planning a July 1-4 visit, book as early as possible. If you're trying to avoid crowds, skip this week entirely.
General admission tickets typically run around $20 with reserved seating available for those wanting guaranteed spots.
Carbon County Historical Society & Museum
Location: Downtown historic Labor Temple building
Focus: Local coal mining history, rodeo heritage, regional stories
Admission: approximately $5
Why visit: Understanding Red Lodge's evolution from mining town to recreation destination adds depth to your visit
The museum operates year-round with seasonal hour variations. It's a worthy stop on weather-challenged days or when you want context for the town you're exploring.
Where Should I Eat in Red Lodge Montana?
Red Lodge dining highlights include Sam's Tap Room & Kitchen at Red Lodge Ales (brewery taproom with full kitchen, family-friendly), Babcock & Miles (specialty market with wine, cheese, and picnic provisions), Black Canyon Bistro (refined-casual seasonal menus for celebratory dinners), and Montana Candy Emporium (old-time sweets). Most establishments operate with seasonal hour variations.
Where to Eat and Drink in Red Lodge
Sam's Tap Room & Kitchen (Red Lodge Ales)
Type: Brewery taproom with full kitchen
Typical Hours: Beer approximately 11 AM to 9 PM; kitchen to approximately 8:30 PM (seasonal variations)
Vibe: Patio in summer, hearth in winter, family-friendly year-round
This is your go-to for post-hike beer and burgers, casual dinners, and that comfortable Montana brewery atmosphere where nobody cares if you're wearing hiking boots with dirt on them.
The patio shines in summer. The fireplace anchors winter. The beer is brewed on-site. Simple, effective, and exactly what you want after a day on the trails or the pass.
Babcock & Miles
Type: Specialty market, wine and cheese shop, picnic provisions
Use Case: Trail lunches, après-hike charcuterie boards, curated wine selection
If you're planning picnics at alpine lakes or want to elevate your campsite dinner, Babcock & Miles provides the goods. Quality cheese, cured meats, wine selection beyond what you'd expect in a town this size, and knowledgeable staff who can help you build the perfect trail lunch or celebration spread.
Black Canyon Bistro
Type: Refined-casual dinner, seasonal menus
Use Case: Date night, celebratory dinner, when you want something beyond burgers and beer
After several days of trail food and casual dining, sometimes you want an actual meal in an actual restaurant with actual ambiance. Black Canyon Bistro fills that niche without excessive pretension or resort-town pricing.
Montana Candy Emporium
Type: Old-time candy and sweets
Hours: Open daily except Christmas
Use Case: Kid treats, nostalgic adult snacking, sugar-fueled hiking energy
Because sometimes the best part of a mountain vacation is eating candy you haven't seen since childhood while sitting on a bench watching people walk by.
Where Should I Stay in Red Lodge?
The Yodeler: Your Red Lodge Basecamp
Of course The Yodeler would love to have you, and we're genuinely a great place to stay. Look, there are other options in town (we'll mention camping below because some people are into that), but if you're looking for a comfy, recently renovated place with historical charm and Bavarian flavor right in the heart of Red Lodge, we're your spot.
We offer that classic motor lodge vibe with modern updates, easy access to downtown dining and shops, and the kind of parking situation that makes sense when you're loading and unloading hiking gear, coolers, and all the stuff that comes with a mountain vacation. You can walk to breakfast, stroll to the candy shop, and be on the Beartooth Highway or at a trailhead in minutes.
We get it: after a day climbing to 11,000 feet or hiking Basin Lakes, you want a comfortable bed, a hot shower, and a place that doesn't feel like a generic chain hotel. That's us.
For the Camping Enthusiasts
If sleeping in a tent is your thing (no judgment, some people are wired that way), several USFS campgrounds sit along Rock Creek corridor about 12 miles south of town:
Parkside, Greenough Lake, and Limber Pine offer reservable sites with vault toilets near trailheads and the base of the Beartooth switchbacks
Palisades (near the ski area) provides free primitive camping, first-come basis
All open seasonally based on snowpack. Verify status before planning tent-based adventures.
Various other lodging options exist around Red Lodge if you're committed to shopping around, but we'd obviously love to host you at The Yodeler where the rooms are comfortable, the vibe is welcoming, and you're positioned perfectly for everything Red Lodge offers.
What's Coming in Part 2?
We've covered Red Lodge itself: the trails, drives, dining, winter activities, and year-round culture that make this town worth your time beyond just sleeping between Yellowstone days.
But let's be honest: Yellowstone is probably part of why you're here. And accessing America's first national park from Red Lodge via the Beartooth Highway is genuinely one of the best ways to experience both.
Part 2 tackles everything Yellowstone from Red Lodge: the Beartooth Highway approach (including what to expect and how to plan), Lamar Valley wildlife viewing strategies, realistic summer and winter day-trip itineraries, and practical logistics like entrance fees, fuel stops, and road status checks.
Because the best Yellowstone trips start from the right basecamp. And Red Lodge happens to be exactly that.
Planning your Red Lodge and Yellowstone adventure? The Yodeler puts you in the center of Red Lodge with easy access to trails, the Beartooth Highway, and everything that makes this mountain town special. Book your room and start building your itinerary.