Experience Unforgettable Outdoor Activities in Montana

If you’re not a skier or on the off chance there is little snow, Red Lodge is still an amazing place to visit! Red Lodge’s unique Victorian charm and western vibe opens up a different kind of winter experience: quieter trails, dramatic frozen landscapes, cozy indoor spots, shopping treasures, and cold-weather adventures you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re visiting and wondering what to do during a low-snow winter, here’s how to make the most of it. Winter Hiking & Frozen Waterfall Hunting One of the best-kept secrets of winter in Red Lodge is hiking—especially when snow levels are low. Cold temperatures turn creeks and cascades into stunning frozen waterfalls, creating an otherworldly landscape you won’t see in summer. Popular winter hikes near town offer: Fewer crowds Clear trails when snowpack is light Incredible ice formations and wildlife sightings Traction cleats and layers are usually all you need, making this a perfect half-day adventure. Backcountry Skiing (At Higher Elevations) Even when town stays snow-light, higher elevations in the Beartooth Mountains often hold excellent conditions. Guided backcountry skiing allows you to access snow safely while learning about terrain, weather, and avalanche awareness. A local guide can take you where the snow is, not just where the roads go—making this one of the most reliable winter activities regardless of conditions. Ice Climbing with a Guide Cold temps + frozen waterfalls = prime ice climbing season. Red Lodge is known nationally for ice climbing, and guided trips make it accessible even if you’re new. You’ll learn: Basic ice climbing technique Rope systems and safety How to move confidently on frozen terrain It’s adventurous, empowering, and surprisingly beginner-friendly with the right guide. Ice Skating at Lion’s Park When temperatures stay cold, the outdoor rink at Lion’s Park becomes a community hub. It’s classic small-town winter fun—bring skates, bundle up, and enjoy an afternoon outside. Availability depends on weather, but when it’s open, it’s a favorite for families. Cozy Tastings & Local Flavor When outdoor adventures wrap up, Red Lodge’s tasting rooms shine. Wine tasting at Babcock & Miles offers a relaxed, intimate winter stop Beer tasting at Sam’s Tap Room brings local brews and a welcoming atmosphere Both are perfect for warming up and slowing down after a cold day outside. Wild Bill Lake: Fire, Ice & Cold Plunges Wild Bill Lake is a winter playground even without snow: Gather around the fire pit as the sun sets Try ice fishing when conditions allow Take a bold cold plunge for a true Montana experience It’s peaceful, beautiful, and unforgettable in winter. Culture, Art & Unexpected Finds Low-snow winters are ideal for exploring town: Visit the Red Lodge Museum for local history Stop by the Red Lodge Art Guild to see regional artists Check out the skate park on milder days—yes, even in winter You can also visit a nearby animal sanctuary, a great option for families and animal lovers year-round. Winter in Red Lodge, Reimagined A snowy winter is beautiful—but a low-snow winter in Red Lodge offers something different: flexibility, space, and variety. From frozen waterfalls and ice climbing to wine tastings and lakeside fires, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. Staying with AAA Red Lodge Rentals puts you close to it all—with room to warm up, relax, and make the most of every winter day, snow or not.