Date Days in Montana's Yellowstone Country

We're big proponents of date night (or weekend!) Stepping out of the ordinary and reconnecting with loved ones around adventure, relaxation and some great food is one of our favorite things to do. You don’t need Valentine’s Day, or any other excuse, to get out and enjoy time with your loved one, and we’ve got some suggestions for three perfect date days!

 

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Alpine Vibe in Red Lodge

Skiers and snowboarders will love the alpine vibe in Red Lodge. The town is romantic in and of itself — a historic mining town that has yet to outgrow itself. You’ll find fresh coffee at Coffee Factory Roasters, cold beer at Red Lodge Ales and a wholesome breakfast at Café Regis.

If you’re new to skiing, the Learn 4 Life First Timers Program at Red Lodge Mountain is arguably the best value for a learn to ski program in the country. Stay at the newly remodeled Rock Creek Resort. Their ski and stay package includes 15% off your room, discounted lift tickets and a shuttle to the ski hill. They also have two saunas and a variety of lodging options.

Red Lodge offers several dining options, from casual fare to fine dining. We're partial to the One-Legged Magpie; their food is delicious, and their cocktails and zero-proof beverages are top-notch.

Winter Wonderland in West Yellowstone and Gallatin Canyon

Yellowstone National Park in the winter is breathtaking. The West Entrance is closest to the geysers, fumaroles and hot pots, including Old Faithful. Bison winter near the thermals to keep warm, and the snow-covered miles seem endless. You’ll need to book a guided snowmobile or snowcoach tour, which is a lovely way to see the Park up close. Guided wildlife-watching, photography, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips are also available, depending on your interests.

Grab an appetizer and a beverage at Bullwinkles or Wild West Pizzeria, then head back down Gallatin Canyon for the evening. There are two lodges open year-round, about a half hour’s drive from West Yellowstone, 320 Guest Ranch and Rainbow Ranch Lodge. Both are located on the Gallatin River in a picturesque setting. The 320 Ranch has a variety of cabins and sleigh rides pulled by draft horses. The Rainbow Ranch has standard rooms or cabins, plus fine dining and a killer outdoor hot tub.

For an extra special memory, book a dog sled tour with Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures on Taylor Fork Road, close to both ranches.

A Pampered Weekend in Paradise Valley

We’ll take an opportunity to spend time in Paradise Valley any day. The drive alone is jaw-dropping. Yellowstone Hot Springs, just outside of the North Entrance to Yellowstone, has a variety of pools, including a cold plunge and boasts gorgeous mountain views. A quick trip inside the Park to Mammoth Hot Springs is a lovely area to explore with elk generally roaming the lawns, and views of the travertine terraces from either the boardwalk or your car.

Lodging possibilities include hotels in nearby Gardiner, resort-style stays at Chico Hot Springs or Sage Lodge (both with on-site dining options), or make your way back to Livingston for a night at the historic Murray Hotel. Enjoy dinner at one of the many stellar restaurants in town and watch the event schedule on Explore Livingston for live theater, music and other entertainment. (Livingston is hoppin’!)

Try breakfast at Pinky’s Café, Faye’s Café, or Tru North Cafe, then stroll the streets for some fantastic shopping.