Nestled in the foothills of the Beartooth Mountains—around 60 miles from Billings, Red Lodge is a historic city filled with Old West charm. The town was originally established in 1884, and several years later it became a coal boomtown. However, by the 1920s, the arrival of strip mining in southeastern Montana and the Great Depression put an end to Red Lodge’s coal boom. And by the mid-1900s, tourism, outdoor recreation and ranching replaced the coal industry as the city’s main attractions. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the area, a self-guided walking tour can take you to through the city’s historic sites and neighborhoods—providing a glimpse into the area’s fascinating past.
Known as a “Gateway to Yellowstone National Park,” Red Lodge is around a two-hour drive from this famous park, and the city is also near several National Forests. For those who want to experience the great outdoors while vesting Red Lodge, the warm weather months are perfect for taking a drive along the Beartooth Highway to explore the trails of the Beartooth Mountain and Wilderness Area. In addition to hiking, the area offers opportunities for biking, horseback riding, fishing, golfing, whitewater rafting and other outdoor activities. And when the temperatures drop, Red Lodge Mountain gives skiers and snowboarders 1600 acres of skiable terrain for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Depending on when you visit, you may be in town for the annual Winter Carnival, which is a two day party with costumes, parades, live music and more!
As you prepare for your trip, be sure to book a room at one of the Choice Hotels in Red Lodge. Our hotels offer warm hospitality, friendly service and great value. Book your stay today!