A Small Town Perfect for the Next Hallmark Movie

When the first snowflake falls to the ground, I immediately want to grab my favorite blanket, fill a mug with a delicious hot beverage, and turn on a Hallmark movie. These movies typically have defining characteristics: they are uplifting, set in a quaint small town, have a focus on community and neighborhood events, and often include traditions of all sorts. Sometimes, I wish I could transport myself into a similar scene— I want to escape reality for a few days. Fortunately, here in Montana, there is a quaint mountain town where you’ll feel like you are in a Hallmark movie. In fact, I believe it should be the next Hallmark filming location. It is the charming small town of Red Lodge.

Red Lodge feels like a hidden gem. Located in southern Montana, just north of the Wyoming state line, and tucked up against the state’s highest mountain peaks, you will be impressed the minute you arrive. Immediately, you will notice the storybook setting, charm, and welcoming atmosphere as you walk along the town’s historic main street lined with locally-owned shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Pay attention to the town’s strong Wild West vibe that dates back to its early days—it’s just one of the characteristics that make this town stand out.

Red Lodge was first established in 1884, after gold was discovered nearby. In 1887, the first official coal mine opened, marking a significant period of growth. However, in the 1920s, coal began to decline, and the town shifted its focus from mining to ranching and outdoor recreation.

And outdoor activities continue to be a big draw to this community today. Due to its location next to the Beartooth Mountains, Red Lodge becomes quite popular in the summer months, offering incredible hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. However, winter is just as magical, particularly if you head to Red Lodge Mountain. Put on a pair of skis or a snowboard and hit the slopes. Here, the main lodge area sits at 7,433 feet above sea level, and Summit Grizzly Peak sits at more than 9,400 feet in elevation. Red Lodge Mountain has a 2,400-foot vertical drop, 70 runs, and options for beginners and experts alike.

If you are like me and prefer a slower pace and some quiet surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, put on your snowshoes or cross-country skis and explore one of the many nearby trails. The Willow Creek Trail is an excellent option that is approximately two miles long and takes you to the Red Lodge Mountain Ski Area. The Silver Run Trails and the Basin Creek Lakes Trail are also excellent places for a winter day outdoors.

You can also head into Yellowstone National Park for a day of natural wonders and wildlife viewing. However, if you do choose to visit this national park in the winter, be aware that most roads are closed and travel is limited to snowmobiles and snowcoaches. Although, if you don’t want to venture to this park during the snowy weather, you can still experience a small taste of this natural wonder with a visit to the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary. This unique destination is a place where you can observe many of the animals that call the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem home. Take a tour, schedule an animal encounter, and spend time learning more about the animals, what the sanctuary does, and how you can make a difference.

And just like every Hallmark movie seems to focus on a community event or festival, Red Lodge, Montana, hosts events all year long. However, the holidays are when our favorite festivals and activities take place. Events like the annual Christmas tree lighting celebration, the Festival of Trees, and the Christmas Stroll are all picture-perfect settings that would easily fit in a Hallmark film. The Christmas Stroll, in particular, is one of our favorites. For two nights in early December, you can walk the downtown shops until late at night, enjoy yummy holiday goodies, and even watch the Blade Parade. There are horse-drawn wagon rides, Christmas movies, a community lantern walk, entertainment, and visits from Santa himself.

Red Lodge is more than just a small town in Montana. It’s the ideal place for the next Hallmark film. It’s gorgeous, boasts a delightful downtown, has a rich history, is near all types of winter activities, and offers holiday events for the entire family. It’s everything a Hallmark film is and more.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.