Downing Mountain Backcountry Lodge - Hamilton

Downing Mountain Lodge awaits year round guests on private land at 5,550 feet elevation and borders National Forest lands leading to Downing Mountain due west of Hamilton Montana. The lodge is a forty-foot diameter log lodge built yurt style with beautiful views of the Bitterroot Valley to the east 2,000 feet below, and prime ski runs to the west. Sited at the bottom of the large open ski runs leading from Little Downing Mountain, 2500 feet above, it is the only lodge in the Bitterroot Range that serves opportunities for backcountry skiing in winter and private Forest Service access year round.



We are open year round for parties of up to fifteen overnight guests and 150 people for functions. With easy, private, road access, three private bedrooms and a large living room, central fireplace, two common bathrooms, outside Jacuzzi, sauna, and a fully equipped commercial kitchen with ovens, fridge, freezer, and eight burners and a griddle. The lodge makes an ideal base for backcountry skiing on Downing Mountain in the winter and to solitude seekers, fishermen, hikers, hunters, and as a retreat center the rest of the year. Non skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers are welcomed as well to relax, enjoy the hot tub, mountain air and views and go sledding.

The skiing/snowboarding on Downing Mountain is outstanding with an average snow pack depth in mid-winter at 7,500 feet of 2-3 meters (6-9 feet). Snow pack at the lodge is considerably less (around 1 meter) allowing good primary access throughout the winter season. With runs from 500-3,000 and steepness from 25-50 degrees it is bound to satisfy a wide range of skiers/boarders and abilities. The terrain is primarily suited for the strong intermediate to advanced skier. With aspects ranging from north through east to south there is an abundance of skiing opportunities on the mountain. Primarily open tree skiing there are some alpine bowls, cliffs, and tight chutes to ski as well. Unique with its private road access there is never competition from snowmobiles and day skiers.

A trip leader organizes a group up to 10 people. A two night minimum stay and eight guest minimum on weekends and holidays is requested. The rental rate Is $75 per person per night in winter and $290 per night during the summer for four guests. Please check website for full booking details. There is an additional 7% lodging tax in Montana. Hosts John Lehrman and Jen Callahan look forward to serving your backcountry desires!