RED LODGE — Red Lodge Mountain hosted an inaugural event on Friday to kick off its first summer season, allowing people to now enjoy the resort year-round.
The summer upgrades include an 18-hole disc golf course that winds down the mountain and new hiking and biking trails. The Bierstube restaurant at the base of the lift will also be open during the summer months.
“Visitors can come up here for a leisurely walk, play some disc golf, or simply ride the lift down to grab a meal and drink. It’s going to be a great time,” said Jeff Schmidt, Red Lodge Mountain’s general manager.
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The opening of the summer season was a long-awaited project and became possible after the completion of their latest lift, The Stache Express, last year.
“This lift, The Stache, can bring people down. If you prefer not to hike back, you can use the lift. Our other lifts don’t offer this. Additionally, this lift is equipped with engineered restraint bars required for summer operations by code,” Schmidt explained.
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The project is not yet complete as the resort continues to work on adding more trails and racks on the ski lift for bikes. Nonetheless, they aim for these new improvements to provide better access to the stunning surroundings.
“This expansion enhances our offerings. Winter typically lasts about five months, and we have this magnificent mountain to enjoy year-round. In the summer, there are plenty of ways to make the most of it, so it’s a natural progression,” Troy Hawks, the resort’s marketing and sales director, explained.
Red Lodge Mountain is a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a different side of Red Lodge than what many visitors are accustomed to seeing.
“It’s like a changing canvas out here. You begin the day with bright sunshine and then watch as the scenery transforms with every passing minute,” Hawks described.
Even though the sun didn’t stick around long on Friday, the fog didn’t deter guests from exploring the area.
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“We couldn’t wait to take the lift on the opening day,” shared Brandy Mettes, who came with her family.
“It was truly beautiful and amazing,” added her daughter, Teagan.
Denise Kinsfather, the resort’s ticket and product manager, is pleased that more people can now experience the mountain.
“We pride ourselves on being a welcoming mountain, and we’re excited to share this special place with everyone,” Kinsfather expressed.
The Stache Express will operate from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday through Sunday throughout the summer. Day passes are priced at $10, and a summer lift pass costs $70.
