Experience comfort at Downing Mountain Lodge and Guides in Hamilton, MT. Free Wi-Fi, parking, and top-rated nearby attractions like Blodgett Canyon await.
Visitors appreciate the remote location ideal for skiing and family gatherings, alongside spacious, comfortable accommodations with a unique, rustic character. Practical notes on linens and cleaning help prepare for the experience.
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Rooms, shared spaces, dining and exterior — grouped so you can skim quickly.
Downing Mountain Lodge and Guides is a rustic lodge located at 1017 Grubstake Rd, Hamilton, MT, offering a unique retreat experience in a scenic mountain setting. The property combines the qualities of a lodge, hostel, inn, and retreat center, and averages an excellent 4.9-star rating from its 23 guests. It is particularly favored by visitors interested in sightseeing, outdoor recreation, and exploring the nearby natural and cultural attractions.
The lodge provides essential amenities including free Wi-Fi and parking, while lacking on-site restaurant, fitness center, or pool facilities. Guests should note the check-in and check-out times are 15:00 and 11:00 respectively. Some reviewers highlight the spacious and comfortable interiors with features like a large fireplace, kitchen, sauna, and hot tub that contribute to its welcoming atmosphere, though the rustic style means some aspects—such as linens and cleaning—may feel dated or require extra preparation by guests.
Its location caters well to backcountry enthusiasts, with ski access directly from the lodge and varied terrain suitable for families and skiers of all skill levels. Visitors also appreciate the stunning views of Hamilton and the surrounding area from both the lodge deck and skiing routes. Nearby points of interest include Blodgett Canyon, Daly Mansion, and the Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society, all accessible within a short drive, as well as the Missoula Montana Airport, approximately an hour and a half away by car.
This property suits guests looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway with outdoor activities nearby, especially those who value a rustic, off-the-beaten-path environment over urban conveniences. It is well-suited for groups and families seeking a unique mountain experience, as reflected in guest reviews that praise the friendliness of the management and the supportive atmosphere despite the lodge’s rustic charm.
The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.
Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.
The lodge location is amazing! Ski directly from the lodge, only an hour from the airport in Missoula. The view of Hamilton and the surrounding area is incredible, both from the lodge deck and as you ski from the ridge. We had fresh tracks every day, enjoyed the sauna, the hot tub, the kitchen and the spectacular fireplace. I highly recommend Downing Mountain Lodge for your next backcountry adventure!
We visited Downing Mountain Lodge in mid January 2019. The lodge was perfect for a large group and family ski trip. Mellow approach made it easy for the pack of 8-yr-olds in our group to ski in. Despite the mild winter, we found good skiing above the lodge with plenty of low angle glades for the kids. The Lodge itself was well appointed and comfortable. We’ll be back!
The Downing Mountain Lodge is such a unique, beautiful place. I couldn’t give it anything but five stars. However, with that said, it is rustic. The linens and pillows could use some updating, and you’ll need to bring your own towels. Plus, renters don’t always follow the cleaning checklist. The floor had definitely not been vacuumed by the previous renters as it was supposed to be. With that said, we loved this place. It’s quirky, peaceful, lost in time, and spacious. Additionally, the views are astounding. We’ll be visiting again.
We stayed at Downing Mountain Lodge in January of 2020. Our group included four kids under the age of 4. The Lodge was perfect. Spacious and inviting with all the amenities. The views are spectacular. John was very helpful with information on road conditions and the best zones to ski given the sketchy snowpack at the time. The skiing was fantastic. There is lots of terrain for every type of skier and condition (even the kids!). We had such a great time, we immediately booked for 2021.
We very much enjoyed our family gathering at Downing Mountain Lodge. The lodge is uniquely rustic, while providing all necessary conveniences and amenities. Views are spectacular. The location feels remote, but provides good access to local attractions. Owner/manager very friendly and helpful. It was a great experience.
My husband and I had our wedding here and we absolutely loved it. It is such a special and unique place with spectacular views and so much history to take in. It was the first wedding venue we visited, and we knew instantly that it was for us. The drive is so worth it, as there is nothing quite like it in Montana! Thank you John and Valli!
The lodge is awesome. Very unique, somewhat rustic, and exactly what my family and a few friends needed for a summer getaway. The views are amazing. The kids loved using the triple sink and playing foosball. The adults loved sitting on the deck and enjoying the views. There are plenty of nearby things to explore for the young and old alike. Thanks for a wonderful stay!
This is an amazing place to stay in a beautiful corner of the world! The lodge has a huge fireplace and an incredible kitchen, the skiing offers something for everyone, and the hot tub and sauna are waiting for you at the end. You could easily take novices right out the back door, and experts with snow safety skills won't have enough time to get it all. The owner John couldn't be a nicer guy, and his place will leave you wanting more!
Based on sightseeing, recreation, and getting around
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