Overview

There are few better, more healthy, or otherwise fulfilling ways to explore and to enjoy the outdoor Winter wonderland of Red Lodge, Montana, than on cross country skis.

Where to go Cross Country Skiing

Red Lodge Nordic Center
Red Lodge Nordic Center, tucked at the Beartooth Mountain base, only three miles from Red Lodge, features 15 kilometers of groomed trails through open meadows and rolling loops through Aspens.

RLNC is perfect for families wanting to enjoy a picturesque day skiing or snowshoeing during hours of operation, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm from about November 30 to March 30. RLNC also offers activities for non-skiing kids, maps, a snack bar, and cross country skiing lessons on site.

RLNC trails are groomed weekly; Four trail kilometers are rated easy, seven are difficult, and four are very difficult. Take a look at the Grooming Report.

To get to RLNC, follow Highway 78 to the one-mile marker, turn left heading west, toward the Fox and Smith Roads intersection, turn Right at the RLNC sign, park about ½ mile later, and sign in/pay at the kiosk.

Other Great Cross Country Skiing Trails in Red Lodge:

• Lake Fork, with two loops of 3 and 7 kilometers each
• Silver Run,S with three loops of 4 (easy), 7 (moderate), and 11 (advanced) kilometers each
• Parkside, with 5 and 9 kilometer loops
• Lake Fork, with both 3 and 7 kilometer loops
• Palisades Trail, with a 2-mile loop through Willow Creek Valley
• West Fork Road, with 8 easy, frequently groomed miles ending at a seasonal barricade (approximately December 1 to April 15) at Timbercrest Girl Scout Camp.

Rentals and Fees

Equipment and clothing-wise, you can rent or buy everything you need for your cross country skiing adventure in Red Lodge at any of the great businesses listed here, or at the Red Lodge Nordic Center
.
RLNC Admission:

• $5 Daily for Adults and Teens
• Kids (12 and younger) are FREE
• Seniors (65 and older) are FREE
• Season Passes: $50 for single pass, $90 for a family pass

Hire a Guide

While cross country is a sport that requires only requires minimal equipment and basic coordination, it’s a great idea to hire an experienced guide listed here who knows the areal, as well as to consider starting with a lesson if you are new to cross country skiing.