MY REVIEW OF THE ELK HORN LODGE; Cooke city MT

If you're planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park's northeast entrance, then a stay in Cooke City, Montana, is something you will really enjoy. Right in the heart of this mountain town, you'll find the Elk Horn Lodge, a warm and welcoming haven balancing rustic charm with modern comfort. Having recently stayed at the Elk Horn Lodge, I can confidently say it's an excellent choice for adventurers and nature lovers alike. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind after a day of exploring, feeling the mountain air invigorate your senses. Amanda found this place while researching places to stay on our route and I’m glad she did! It was perfect for our needs.

Room Details & Prices

The Elk Horn Lodge offers a variety of rooms and cozy cabins, catering to different needs and group sizes (note: rooms and cabins are non-smoking, non-vaping, and absolutely no pets allowed, so plan accordingly!). Each unit boasts essential amenities designed for a comfortable stay:

• Free WiFi: Essential for sharing those epic wildlife photos or planning your next day's adventure.

• Direct TV with 55-inch Flat Screen TV: Perfect for unwinding with a movie after a long day.

• Hairdryer & Alarm Clock: Small touches that make a big difference.

• Tables and Chairs: Convenient for eating in or planning your route.

• Mini Kitchen: Our room had a small cook top in a tiny kitchen area to prepare basic meals.

While exact prices can fluctuate with seasons and demand, we found that the rates are $230-$260/night. Cooke City is a popular destination, especially during peak seasons (summer and winter for snowmobiling), so expect prices to be on the higher end, and book well in advance!

We were in Elk Horn Lodge Cabin #2.

Elk Horn Lodge Highlights:

• Cleanliness: We were pleased with how clean the room and area was.

• Friendly & Helpful Staff/Owners: The front desk staff was very welcoming and accommodating. They often provided excellent local recommendations and helped us with some printing needs we had for our itinerary.

• Prime Location: You're right on Main Street, making it walkable to many of Cooke City's attractions and just minutes from the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. This was invaluable to us!

• Cozy, Rustic Charm: The lodge embraces the mountain aesthetic, providing an inviting atmosphere.

• Comfortable Beds: A good night's sleep is super important to me and the beds here were super comfortable!

Cooke City, Montana: A Gem at Yellowstone's Doorstep

Cooke City itself is a small, rugged, and incredibly charming mountain town sitting at an elevation of over 7,600 feet, just 4 miles east of Yellowstone National Park's northeast entrance. It's truly a gateway to adventure, especially known for its proximity to the iconic Beartooth Highway (often called "America's Most Scenic Drive") and the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley within Yellowstone.

Unfortunately, we only had a few hours in the city so we didn’t get an opportunity to explore the town. We arrived late in the day on Sunday , it was raining, and most everything closed around 8:00 PM. We did walk up to the Yellowstone Trading Post in the rain and found a few souvenirs before heading back to the cabin for the night. The next morning we were up at 4:30 AM packing and getting ready to hit Yellowstone for our first day in the park!

Below, I detailed some popular spots you may want to consider if you have more time in the area.

Elk Horn Lodge in Cooke City, MT, is a rustic, cozy retreat in the Beartooth Mountains. Featuring charming log cabin style, spacious rooms, and stunning mountain views, it offers easy access to Yellowstone and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

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Best Places to Eat in Cooke City:

Despite its small size, Cooke City boasts some surprisingly good eateries that cater to hungry adventurers:

• Miner's Saloon & Sammie's Cafe: This is a local favorite, offering a relaxed bar and grill atmosphere. They're known for their hand-tossed pizzas (try the "Redneck" or "Tree Hugger"!), buffalo burgers, and a good selection of local microbrews. It's a great spot to mingle with locals and hear tales of the mountains.

• Beartooth Cafe: A solid choice for American comfort food. They serve up hearty breakfasts, burgers, sandwiches, and daily specials. Reviewers often praise their buffalo burger and friendly service. Open primarily in the summer.

• Bearclaw Bakery and Coffee: Great for breakfast or a quick pick-me-up. They offer delicious pastries (Hummingbird muffins are a highlight!), breakfast burritos, and excellent coffee. Perfect fuel before a day of exploring.

• MontAsia: An intriguing spot offering a blend of Asian and American cuisine. It's a small walk-up place with outdoor seating, known for creative burgers and Asian dishes, often with vegetarian and vegan options. A unique culinary find in a remote town.

• Pilot's Perk: Another great coffee shop for your morning brew and light bites like Italian sandwiches and breakfast sandwiches.

Things to See and Do in Cooke City (and Nearby):

Cooke City is a year-round destination, offering diverse activities depending on the season:

• Yellowstone National Park (Northeast Entrance): This is the main draw! Just a few miles west, you'll enter the park and quickly reach the famous Lamar Valley, often referred to as "America's Serengeti" due to its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities (bison, elk, wolves, bears, and more).

• Beartooth Highway (US-212): This National Scenic Byway is a breathtaking drive that connects Cooke City to Red Lodge, Montana. Open typically from late May/early June through mid-October, it features dramatic switchbacks, alpine lakes, and panoramic views of the Beartooth Mountains. Don't miss the many pullouts for photos!

• Cooke City Montana Museum: Learn about the fascinating history of this frontier mining town. It's a small but informative museum that sheds light on the challenges and triumphs of early settlers.

• Hiking & Backpacking: The surrounding Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness offers trails for all skill levels, from short walks to waterfalls (like Silver Falls or Woody Creek Falls) to challenging multi-day treks.

• Fishing: The rivers and lakes in the area are renowned for their trout fishing.

• Snowmobiling (Winter): Cooke City transforms into a snowmobiling mecca in winter. Miles of groomed trails and vast backcountry terrain draw enthusiasts from around the globe.

• Skiing & Snowshoeing: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular on various trails, including the Barronette Trail and Republic Creek Trail. Backcountry skiing opportunities are abundant for experienced individuals.

• Wildlife Watching: Beyond Lamar Valley, you can often spot wildlife right around Cooke City, especially elk and deer.

In conclusion, the Elk Horn Lodge provides a clean, comfortable, and perfectly located base for your adventures in and around Cooke City. Coupled with the town's genuine mountain charm, good food, and unparalleled access to the wild wonders of Yellowstone and the Beartooths, it makes for an unforgettable Montana experience.