The Top 10 Best Things to Do and Experience Near Red Lodge Montana
Looking for something new and wild to experience? Well, Red Lodge might just be one of the best-kept secrets in Montana and the best destination for your next vacation.
Tucked along the Beartooth Highway, this little mountain town goes big when it comes to scenery, adventure, and small-town charm. So, if you are on the hunt for fun, rugged outdoor action, popular art galleries, or the very best of tasty local eats, then this area is just the place you're looking for.
And boy, do we’ve got you covered when it comes to finding the best things to do and experience in and around Red Lodge Montana! Just take a look at the following go-to guide to the top Red Lodge attractions and the best activities near here:
1. Explore the Beartooth Highway
Considered one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., the Beartooth Highway starts just outside Red Lodge and winds its way through alpine plateaus, past turquoise lakes, and up to an elevation of nearly 11,000 feet. Along your route, you'll spot mountain goats, take in sweeping views, and find plenty of places to pull over for photos or short hikes.
Just note that this road does close during the peak winter months when snow and ice make the drive too hazardous.
2. Hit the Slopes at Red Lodge Mountain
This location will appeal to outdoor sports enthusiasts. Red Lodge Mountain is the town’s primary ski resort, known for its laid-back vibe and lack of crowds. With over 1,600 acres of terrain and 70 runs, every type of ski and snowboard-lover, of every level, will find fun here. Beginners will love cruising down Miami Beach while experts can find more exciting challenges on steeper routes like Widow Maker.
The post-run, lodge hang-out scene likewise offers just the right type of lounging experience with its trays stacked with hot cocoa, mountain views, and a welcoming crowd.
3. Wander Downtown Red Lodge
Downtown Red Lodge is compact but packed with personality. You'll find Main Street lined with historic buildings that play home to a nice mix of art galleries, boutiques, gear shops, and local eateries. Pop into the Carbon County Arts Guild to check out regional artists, or browse the handmade goods at the Montana Candy Emporium.
It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with activities like window shopping, sipping coffee, and simply relaxing amidst the friendly mountain-town energy.
4. Visit the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary
Just minutes from downtown, the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique chance to see native Montana wildlife up close. This nonprofit sanctuary cares for animals that can’t fully be released back into the wild because of disabilities or simply not having been born in the wild and thus aren't able to be reintegrated for their own safety.
The animals that call the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary home include black bears, bison, mountain lions, and foxes. Visitors are sure to find their time here educational and interesting. The sanctuary also features nature trails and informative signage that helps visitors understand the importance of conservation in the region.
5. Hike to Glacier Lake
This 4.6-mile out-and-back trek takes hikers through pine forests and along rocky ridgelines to a serene alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. It's quite beautiful and a must-do for hiking enthusiasts. Naturally, a hike this high in the mountains is going to get even the most ardent of hikers' heartbeat up, so be sure you're equipped for the high mountain trek before setting out.
We also recommend packing plenty of water to stay hydrated, and maybe some tasty congratulatory snacks to enjoy when you make it to the top.
6. Take a Scenic Float on the Stillwater River
If high peaks aren't your fancy, maybe consider something at a lower elevation. Something like a float trip down the Stillwater River? Outfitters at Stillwater River offer expert guided experiences for anyone looking for a more informed water tour.
Or you can rent a tube or kayak and take a self-guided trip down Stillwater River and enjoy the views of Absaroka Mountains at your own pace. Whichever way you choose, this is certainly a relaxing way to spend a sunny afternoon during the warmer seasons.
7. Grab a Bite at Prerogative Kitchen
Red Lodge has many dining spots, but Prerogative Kitchen definitely stands out from a lot of the crowd thanks to the chefs here boasting an innovative and always-changing menu. You'll find this restaurant right on Main Street, where it serves up a nice mix of dishes like elk sliders and Thai curry.
Different, yes, but what all the items on the menu share is a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. Overall, we rate this restaurant as the perfect balance of casual and creative. Go here after a long day of adventuring and don't forget to ask for dessert!
8. Saddle Up for a Trail Ride
Want to explore Red Lodge the old-fashioned way? The Wild, Wild West way? Do just that by heading to a local ranch and saddling up for a horseback trail ride through meadows, hills, and forested trails.
Several outfitters in the area offer guided rides that range from an hour to a full day. It’s an authentic, slow-paced way to experience the landscape and gain a little insight into Montana’s cowboy culture. Some even offer sunset rides, which are just as magical as they sound.
9. Soak in the Natural Beauty at Wild Bill Lake
Wild Bill Lake is located just a few miles out of town and is maybe one of the best spots to have a picnic and relax in the natural beauty of the area. You'll find this pretty little park within the greater Custer Gallatin National Forest.
There's a short, accessible trail that loops around the lake that is perfect for a relaxing walk. In summer, this lake is at its busiest due to its high popularity for fishing and paddleboarding.
10. Attend the Red Lodge Rodeo
If your visit falls around the Fourth of July, don’t miss the Home of Champions Rodeo. This is an annual Red Lodge tradition that brings all the grit and glory of Western rodeo to town. Events include barrel racing, bull riding, steer wrestling, and more.
It’s one of the most exciting Red Lodge attractions of the year, drawing crowds from all over Montana and beyond.
Your Red Lodge Getaway Starts Here
From epic drives and mountaintop adventures to cozy cafes and cultural gems, there’s no shortage of incredible Red Lodge things to do. Whether you’re planning a ski weekend, a summer hiking trip, or a relaxing retreat, you’ll quickly see why this area is one of the top Red Lodge attractions and among the best activities in Montana.
To make the most of your stay, check out our partners, AAA Red Lodge Rentals. We are proud to be partnered with your trusted experts on where to stay, what to do, and how to experience the real heart of the mountains.
