Rock Creek Resort, a cherished 40-acre property nestled along a quarter-mile stretch of Rock Creek near historic Red Lodge, reopened following an extensive renovation. The reimagined resort, managed by Columbia Hospitality, has been thoughtfully designed to serve the modern traveler while honoring its storied past. Located within the Custer Gallatin National Forest and offering direct access to hiking, mountain biking, fishing and horseback riding, the resort sits just off the scenic, seasonal Beartooth Highway and serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park’s northeast entrance. With an unmatched location, one-of-a-kind offerings and a rich legacy of welcoming guests for over 50 years, Rock Creek Resort now features upgraded design elements, expanded amenities, refreshed dining experiences and versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces that accommodate up to 350 guests.
“We knew from the moment we walked on the land that this was a special place. We feel a responsibility both to honor Rock Creek Resort’s history and prepare it for the next 50 years of service by adding modern amenities and thoughtful touches throughout the property,” said David Krug, General Partner at Rock Creek Resort and President of Krug Development. “We intend to continue to develop it with the hope that Rock Creek Resort becomes a new destination for Montana travelers.”
The development team is led by David Krug, Simona Krug, and Dan Cauley. Simona oversaw the design team and directed interior design efforts. This marks the Krugs’ third hotel project, following The Guesthouse Hotel in Chicago, Illinois and Colton House Hotel in Austin, Texas.
Rock Creek Resort offers 78 rooms and suites – including creekside accommodations and Sheika’s Cabin, which features a clawfoot tub, fireplace and private deck – making the resort well-suited for solo travelers, families and larger groups.
Guests will find themselves surrounded by both comfort and connection, thanks to an array of thoughtfully designed communal spaces that bring people together and celebrate the natural beauty of Red Lodge. Property amenities include a heated indoor pool, multiple saunas, a fishing pond and easy access to a variety of hiking trails. On-site activities include axe throwing, fly fishing lessons, casino gaming and Pepi’s Workshop, a space for hands-on crafts that encourage guests to connect with nature and each other.
The resort’s updated dining offerings include Wild Rose, the main lodge eatery serving hearty breakfasts and satisfying lunches designed to fuel a day of adventure. By evening, Wild Rose transitions into a cozy lobby bar, offering a welcoming atmosphere to relax and reconnect over craft cocktails, regional beers, wines and light bites.
Old Piney Dell, a longtime local favorite overlooking the creek, has been reimagined with a refined menu that blends regional classics with modern techniques in a rustic, fireside setting. As one of Montana’s original supper clubs, its warm hospitality and hearty cuisine lets it remain a place to come together and savor the moment.
Rock Creek Resort also features a range of indoor and outdoor event spaces designed to accommodate gatherings of various sizes, from small meetings to larger celebrations. With expansive gathering areas set against the dramatic backdrop of Rock Creek and the Beartooth Mountains, it stands as the only venue of its kind outside of Billings offering flexible venues suitable for board meetings, reunions and weddings.
A short drive from the quaint main street of Red Lodge, the resort also serves as a gateway to the scenic Beartooth Highway. Perfectly positioned for adventure, guests can head to the close by Elk River Outfitters for horseback rides or hike through Yellowstone National Park to take in the wildlife, waterfalls and forests.
“Rock Creek Resort has always held a special place in the heart of Red Lodge, and we feel incredibly honored to carry forward its legacy,” shared General Manager Troy Douthit. “The original owners, Pepi and Sheika, poured so much care and passion into making this a beloved destination, and our goal is to preserve that spirit. We’re not just reopening a resort—we’re continuing a story that means so much to this community.”
