In Hamilton .At this Hamilton chalet, you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Bitterroot Valley and 6 miles (10 km) of Denton Park. Bitterroot River and Bitterroot Health - Daly Hospital are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Blodgett Creek Trailhead - 19 min drive - 6.2 miles
Sawtooth Trailhead - 21 min drive - 7.9 miles
Stock Farm Club - 28 min drive - 12.0 miles
Getting around
Missoula Intl. Airport (MSO) - 88 min drive
Restaurants
McDonald's - 13 min drive
Florence Coffee Co. - 13 min drive
Bitter Root Brewing - 12 min drive
Town Pump - 14 min drive
Higherground Brewing Company - 13 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Downing Mountain Lodge
Located 2,000' above the Bitterroot Valley, the Downing Mountain Lodge is a log chalet built in the round on a single level. With one hundred mile views and end of the road privacy, the rustic lodge built in the 1970's hosts all types of recreationists, solitude seekers, and nature lovers all year round. Located in a remote mountainous setting, the lodge is for hearty folk looking for a beautiful, adventurous, and rustic base camp including a hot tub and sauna. The Downing Mountain Lodge is a 2,500 square foot, log yurt built into the Bitterroot Mountains 7 road miles west of the town of Hamilton, Montana. With total privacy, the forested mountainside, hiking, wildflowers, huckleberry picking, backcountry skiing, amazing views, and comfortable amenities, the Downing Mountain Lodge is a one of a kind, unique mountainside retreat for all your adventure, events, and relaxation needs. With an outside barbecue deck overlooking the valley, the front lawn featuring a hot tub, a wood fired sauna in the stone hut outside the backdoor, a great room centered by a massive stone fireplace, dining tables and room for up to fifty guests for your catered event, and a foosball table, guitar and piano, bring the whole party and the dog! Located only twenty minutes from Hamilton, with complete privacy, and three miles from the nearest neighbor, you will feel relaxed and above it all during your visit. The lodge is open year round for guests with winter time backcountry skiing the main activity and summertime fishing, hiking, gatherings, and relaxing. With a mandatory drive on a three mile, dirt, forested mountain road, at times graced by carpets of wildflowers or punctuated by deer, elk, fox, grouse, moose, black bears, bobcats, and coyotes and wolves and mountain lions, the Lodge is NOT for everyone. For those seeking solitude with their group, an expansive retreat, and comfortably rustic amenities, you will love the lodge. The lodge is primarily heated by burning wood and guests will have the opportunity to split their own firewood and start and maintain the fires in the woodstove and fireplace. A well stocked utilitarian commercial kitchen is not boutique, communal bathrooms with two toilets and one inside shower, and an outside hot tub and sauna round out the lodge's amenities and welcome you to an authentic Montana nature retreat where you will be able to live again close to Earth and with your loved ones. The entire lodge and 100 acre property with thousands of Forest Service mountainside acres of forest, wildlife, wildflowers in May and June and huckleberries in July and August is available exclusively to our guests. Backcountry powder skiing from December through March and spring corn skiing in April and May. Accessible via a dirt, switchbacking, mountain road, the roadway has a couple of gates along its 3 mile approach and the lodge is locked with a combination lock. Guests are able to call on me for help with lodge facilities, recreation ideas, dining options, and guide services for backcountry skiing, fishing, horse riding, river trips, sailing trips, mountain biking, rock climbing and hiking. We are three miles beyond the last home on Grubstake Road, 7 miles by road from downtown Hamilton. The neighborhood includes grouse, deer, elk, bear, moose, wildflowers, huckleberries, hiking trails, a forest of green trees, two spring creeks, a burnt forest, and wind and sunshine. As a remote wilderness lodge, guests will want their own car to access the lodge and surrounding areas. The access driveway is dirt, 3 miles long, and in fairly good condition. https://youtu.be/vs7GCXQq6ek
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Thin carpet in public areas
Tile flooring in public areas
Upper floors accessible by stairs only
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Change of bedsheets (on request)
Change of towels on request
Location highlights
In a rural location
Things to do
Foosball table
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
General
Bed sheets changed on request
Eco-friendly cleaning products used
Local artist showcase
Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
Recycling
Towels (changed on request)
Unit size: 2,200 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
Pets are welcome
Service animals are exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events are allowed on site
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. Parties and events are allowed on site. This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit in each accommodation.
Property is also known as
Bitterroot Mountain Chalet
Downing Mountain Lodge Chalet
382021
Downing Mountain Lodge Hamilton
Downing Mountain Lodge Chalet Hamilton
Frequently asked questions
How close is Downing Mountain Lodge to the airport?
This chalet is 56 mi (88-min drive) away from the Missoula Intl. Airport (MSO) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.
Does Downing Mountain Lodge have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at this chalet.
How close is Downing Mountain Lodge to the beach?
This chalet is 17.5 mi (33-min drive) from Como Swimming Beach.
Does Downing Mountain Lodge offer free breakfast?
This chalet does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at Downing Mountain Lodge?
No, there is no casino at this chalet, but Silver Coin Casino (11-min drive) and Shiny Buckles Casino (11-min drive) are nearby.
What time is check-in at Downing Mountain Lodge?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
Is there free parking at Downing Mountain Lodge?
Free parking is not available at this chalet.
Does Downing Mountain Lodge have a pool?
This chalet does not have a pool.
Does Downing Mountain Lodge have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this chalet.
How close is Downing Mountain Lodge to downtown Hamilton?
This chalet is 3.5 mi away from Hamilton.
Downing Mountain Lodge Reviews
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 34 out of 40 reviews
10 - Excellent
34
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 40 reviews
8 - Good
3
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 40 reviews
6 - Okay
3
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 40 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
7.2/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Richard W., ALEXANDRIA
Oct 15, 2021
Great stay at the top of Montanta
Really loved the stay on Downing Mountain. The yurt has great gathering areas both in the large 'great room' or the huge deck, both of which provide excellent view of Hamilton and the valley below. It is a great launch point to enjoy hiking (either straight up the mountain or other trail heads nearby), fishing or just relaxing on the river.
Richard W.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2021
10/10 Excellent
Kara T., Stevensville, MT
Jul 28, 2021
Fireworks view
For the 2nd summer, we had a great time at the Lodge. We added a few people since our stay last year, and our family group loved the character/ambiance and views at DML. Of course we hope to return again!
Kara T.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Ben M.
Jul 22, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Fly fishing trip
Loved the location and the house. My only request because we were there when it was really hot is to get a window or wall A/C put in. The temps were really hot when we were at the property. Towels were hard and scratchy so they could maybe just upgrade to new towels. Overall I would highly recommend and loved the property. Would be interested to stay in the winter as I think it would be epic for backcountry skiing!
Ben M.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Tony K., Wayzata, Minnesota USA
Jul 20, 2021
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing property that is very unique. Not the Rotz but has a better view and much more authentic!
Downing Mountain lodge is truly a special property with a history, view, access and a setting that is in a class of its own.
Feel like you’re in a James Bond film at night looking down on the lights of the valley through the large panoramic windows of the 16 sided log structure.
Cooking is a breeze with the commercial stove and griddle. Pancakes, potatoes and bacon all going at once!
As said it is not the Ritz. The lodge isn’t new, it gets used by enthusiasts who use it hard, and requires a little more effort than staying at a corporate chain hotel. However, it is authentic and a place we’ll remember. I would gladly return.
Tony K.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
10/10 Excellent
Erik S.
Sep 26, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Great get away and perfect Covid remote work place. Loved the view and everything about it!
From the view to chopping firewood for the fireplace, playing family music with the instruments and cooking in a restaurant kitchen, it was a great experience we will always remember fondly.
Erik S.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2020
10/10 Excellent
Stephen B.
Sep 21, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome!
Really cool place in a great location.
Stephen B.
10/10 Excellent
Kara T., Stevensville, MT
Sep 5, 2020
Ultimate Socially Distant Vacation
Amazing sunrise views, and even better stargazing from the hot tub. Plenty of space to stretch out for our group and grandma even got her own bedroom. Each of us had adventures we loved - hiking to the top of the mountain, yoga on the deck, taking a sauna and an outdoor shower, cooking a gourmet meal for our group to enjoy in the dining room! It is a bit rustic as others have said but it’s a special place and we’re planning our next trip around a stay at the Downing Mountain Lodge.
Kara T.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020
10/10 Excellent
Scott M.
Jun 22, 2020
Spectacular view
Lodge on the hill’s views are amazing. Lodge itself is funky and fun remnant of the 70’s. Much bigger than the pictures. Perfect place to chill out as we weathered a number of storms while hanging out by the giant fireplace. Owner is responsive and immediately sent help when storm blew a tree over the access road. Plan on an extra 15-20 minutes to get anywhere else. Ex-restaurant kitchen is very “ex” and could use a good fixing up or at least a commercial quality cleaning.
Scott M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2020
10/10 Excellent
Audrey S., Spokane, wa
Jan 2, 2020
Liked: Cleanliness
Montana Gem
We loved this place! This was our first VRBO booking and it did not disappoint! The property was comfortably rustic as we expected. The owner communicated with us well. We loved spending our family Christmas there! We enjoyed time in the sauna and hot tub. We got some sledding done. We had everything we needed in the kitchen and slept comfortably in the rooms. We would surely recommend it to others!
Audrey S.
8/10 Good
Krissy P.
Jul 18, 2019
Montana
Place is really rustic and unique. Kids weren’t on their phones and had a blast. It could use some updating but the views FANTASTIC!
Krissy P.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
6/10 Okay
Kimm I.
Jun 26, 2019
Girls Trip 2019
A group of friends and I rented this lodge for a 3 day stay. Overall it was a good experience, but it is definitely a bit dated and much more rustic than advertised. One of the hot tubs was out of order, and we experienced a few malfunctions in the kitchen area. Be prepared to chop and haul wood for your heat. However, the setting & view from the lodge is spectacular!!! It is remote but quite beautiful. Fortunately, our group was comfortable with the rustic feel. We had a group of 9 and had plenty of room/space. I believe the place is in need of a few repairs, but as I previously mentioned....our overall experience was good.
Kimm I.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019
10/10 Excellent
Lindsey B., Montana
Dec 14, 2018
Secluded, amazing views.
My husband and I live in the Bitterroot Valley and hike around a lot but have never seen the views quite like this. Truly beautiful and will definitely be coming back. The lodge is so inviting, and we enjoyed nights out in the hot tub. Such a nice getaway yet close to home. Thank you, Johnny!
Lindsey B.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018
10/10 Excellent
Frankie P., Federal Way
Sep 6, 2018
Beyond awesome!!
This place is the best! If you want a kick ass view up in the mountains away form eveone this is the place !!! I love the history in this place the fact it’s on the side of a mountain,your surrounded by wildlife and nature it the best!!! This place is great for huge groups! The kitchen is such an amazing addition to the trip make it wonderful knowing you can cook for everyone and not be cramped!!
John was a great host I stayed in close contact with him and he was extremely helpful. We left a little early on our last day since we had a 11 hr drive back but next time I’m out there I’ll make timeto stop by and shake Johns hand!
I know I’ll be back for sure totally love this place !!!
Frankie P.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2018
8/10 Good
William H.
Jun 29, 2018
The unique location is what makes this place so special.
At roughly 5,500 feet, the views are spectacular. It is a relaxing and larger group friendly location. The layout is utilitarian and not luxury minded. It is approximately 25 minutes from the lodge to the main highway in Hamilton. Forgetting something at the market is not conveniently remedied. Once you are there you will not want to leave, primarily because it feels so nice to be there. You are looking down mostly at the airplanes and eagles. Great kitchen facilities, but a single shower means an organized group effort. Never ran out of hot water. There is a lot of cellular phone tower equipment mounted to the lodge and in a tower behind it. While this did not impact our stay it might bother some who are more sensitive to the aesthetics of it. The lodge is a great value and this might be possible because of the offset in costs due to the equipment leases. Wildlife is everywhere with chipmunks and rabbits joining the evening cocktails on the porch. The pictures I took from the deck are some of the most beautiful I have ever taken. Very unique spot.
William H.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2018
10/10 Excellent
Michelle C.
Sep 11, 2017
Loved it
Incredible setting in the mountains, quiet and remote. The interior is comfortable and spacious. Thanks for loaning it to us.
Michelle C.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2017
8/10 Good
Jerome T.
Aug 22, 2017
Great place to stay and an adventure to boot.
Loved Downing Mountain Lodge. The place is big an roomy, with great views in every direction. The kitchen was once a restaurant, so lots of great cooking appliances to create your favorite feast. Travel up to the lodge is the adventure with gravel switch back roads that are well worth the trip. If you want to get away from it all and yet be close to town, this is your place.
Jerome T.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2017
10/10 Excellent
Sherri D.
Jun 1, 2017
Awesome getaway!
We had a fantastic time at this beautiful lodge away from it all. John was a great host, too. Hot tub, sauna, gorgeous views... couldn't have been better. Thanks for the most relaxing vacation ever!!