Quick Facts
- Population: 2,399
- County: Carbon
- Founded: 1884
- Elevation: 5,571 ft
- Known For: Gateway to Beartooth Highway, world-class skiing, historic downtown
- Nearby Landmarks: Beartooth Mountains, Yellowstone National Park, Custer Gallatin National Forest
- Fun Fact: The Beartooth Highway, which begins in Red Lodge, was called "the most beautiful drive in America" by CBS correspondent Charles Kuralt.
Notable People & Pop Culture
- Bill Linderman – Legendary rodeo champion known as "King of the Cowboys" who called Red Lodge home and helped establish the town's rodeo heritage.
- Gary Ferguson – Acclaimed nature writer and conservationist whose works have been inspired by the wilderness surrounding Red Lodge.
- "The Horse Whisperer" – Parts of this 1998 Robert Redford film were shot in the stunning landscapes surrounding Red Lodge, showcasing the area's natural beauty.
Top Things to Do in Red Lodge
- ✧ Drive the Beartooth Highway – Experience America's most scenic alpine highway with breathtaking vistas, switchbacks, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- ✧ Red Lodge Mountain – Enjoy uncrowded slopes and 70+ runs of pristine powder at this beloved ski resort that offers terrain for all skill levels.
- ✧ Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary – Get up close with native Montana wildlife including bears, wolves, and birds of prey in a rehabilitation setting.
- ✧ Historic Downtown – Wander through the charming main street lined with historic buildings, local shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants.
- ✧ Rock Creek Falls Trail – Hike this scenic 2.5-mile roundtrip trail to a beautiful waterfall in the Custer Gallatin National Forest.
- ✧ Red Lodge Ales Brewing Company – Sample craft beers at Montana's first microbrewery, known for its quality ales and lagers.
- ✧ Beartooth Rally – Experience one of the country's premier motorcycle rallies held annually in mid-July, drawing riders from across the nation.
Local Industry & Economy
Red Lodge's economy has transformed dramatically over its history, evolving from coal mining to a diverse blend of tourism, retail, and services. Today, the town thrives primarily on tourism, with seasonal influxes of visitors drawn to outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the year. The historic downtown features locally-owned businesses, boutique shops, and a growing farm-to-table culinary scene that celebrates Montana's agricultural bounty. While tourism dominates, Red Lodge maintains a balanced economy with healthcare, education, and small-scale manufacturing contributing to its economic stability. Recent infrastructure improvements, including a $2.9 million grant for roadway and stormwater enhancements, demonstrate ongoing investment in sustainable economic growth that preserves the town's authentic character while supporting business development.
History & Heritage
Long before European settlers arrived, the valley where Red Lodge now stands was Crow country, serving as hunting grounds and a place of significance for the indigenous people. The town's official establishment came in 1884 when a post office opened, but Red Lodge's transformative moment arrived in 1889 when the Northern Pacific Railroad extended a branch line to the area, triggering a coal mining boom. The Rocky Fork Coal Company commenced operations, attracting immigrants from across Europe and creating a culturally diverse community. These varied influences remain visible in the town's architecture and traditions today.
When coal mining declined in the mid-20th century, Red Lodge reinvented itself, turning to tourism and outdoor recreation. The construction of the Beartooth Highway in the 1930s connected the town to Yellowstone National Park, establishing Red Lodge as a gateway community. Today, the town proudly preserves its multicultural mining heritage while embracing its identity as an outdoor recreation hub. The downtown district, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, stands as a testament to Red Lodge's resilience and ability to honor its past while looking toward the future.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Hiking and mountain biking in the Beartooth Mountains, fly fishing on Rock Creek, whitewater rafting, horseback riding with local outfitters, and golfing at Red Lodge Mountain Golf Course.
- Fall/Winter: World-class skiing and snowboarding at Red Lodge Mountain, cross-country skiing on 15km of groomed Nordic trails, snowmobiling on hundreds of miles of trails, and snowshoeing through pristine winter landscapes.
- Annual Events:
- Home of Champions Rodeo (July 2-4)
- Beartooth Rally (mid-July)
- Red Lodge Festival of Nations (August)
- Winter Carnival (March)
- National Ski-Joring Finals (March)
- Red Lodge Summer Fest concert series (July-September)
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
Red Lodge is easily accessible via Highway 212, approximately 60 miles southwest of Billings, Montana. From Billings Logan International Airport, it's a scenic one-hour drive through rolling Montana countryside. The town serves as the northern gateway to the spectacular Beartooth Highway (US 212), a 68-mile National Scenic Byway that climbs to nearly 11,000 feet before descending to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Nearby destinations include the charming western town of Cody, Wyoming (62 miles south), the historic mining town of Cooke City (62 miles southwest via the Beartooth Highway), and Billings, Montana's largest city. For those planning a regional tour, Red Lodge makes an ideal base camp for exploring both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Where to Stay in Red Lodge
Red Lodge offers accommodations to suit every preference, from historic luxury to rustic mountain retreats. The crown jewel is The Pollard Hotel, a beautifully restored 1893 landmark in the heart of downtown that once hosted Buffalo Bill Cody and Calamity Jane. For a more intimate experience, numerous bed and breakfasts occupy lovingly preserved historic homes throughout town. The Alpine Lodge and Beartooth Hideaway Inn & Cabins provide comfortable, family-friendly options with easy access to outdoor activities. Budget-conscious travelers can choose from several well-maintained motels, including the Quality Inn and Lupine Inn. For those seeking more space or privacy, vacation rentals and cabins are abundant, ranging from cozy in-town cottages to secluded mountain retreats with spectacular views. During peak summer and winter seasons, advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during major events like the Home of Champions Rodeo and holiday weekends.