Breweries off the Beaten Path

Red Lodge Ales, Red Lodge, Montana Red Lodge Ales, Photo by Jonathan Finch


There's nothing more refreshing than a craft beer after a long hike or a day on the slopes. And fortunately, Montana's craft beer scene is exploding into even our smallest towns. Across the region, craft brewers produce a fascinating array of styles and flavors, many of whom have turned their love of home brewing into a business. Not only will you enjoy the beer, but you'll also find the local taprooms to be quite welcoming and jovial. Belly up and enjoy some Montana hospitality.

 

Big Timber


Crazy Peaks Brewing


In the heart of downtown Big Timber, Crazy Peaks makes, in their words, "great beer to be enjoyed with friends in nature." Their cozy taproom also has outdoor seating and lawn games in the warm season months. If you're visiting in the spring, take advantage of the rush of Natural Bridge Falls in the nearby Boulder River valley.

 

Columbus


Palladium Draughthaus


The newest brewery in Montana's Yellowstone Country, this family-owned brewery and taproom turned a father and son's love of beer into a hometown business reality. Located off 1-90 in downtown Columbus, it's a hop, skip, and jump to the Yellowstone and Stillwater Rivers, along with great hiking, scenic drives, mountain biking, and ATV riding.

 

Belgrade


Madison River Brewing Company


One of the first breweries in the area, Madison River Brewing has a loyal following, and it's no wonder; they have consistently brewed great beer for nearly twenty years. The taproom is unassuming, full of friends community events, and just down the road from the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport.

 

Bar 3 Brewing


A sister company to Bar 3 B-B-Q and located adjacent to the restaurant in their new location at 119 E Main Street in Belgrade, you'll love enjoying a big juicy plate of BBQ followed by a cold, refreshing brew. (Pro Tip: make sure to catch the chili cheese grits!)

 

Beehive Basin Brewery, Big Sky Beehive Basin Brewery, Photo by Kaden Harrison

Big Sky


Beehive Basin Brewery


This brewery can rotate its selections frequently using a seven-barrel system specially created by Portland Kettle Works. After a day downhill or Nordic skiing, enjoy the mountain view or watch the action through the brewery viewing window. You'll also find their beer on tap throughout restaurants in Big Sky.

 

Four Corners


Bunkhouse Brewery 


Four Corners, a central location for adventuring in any direction, has become a hub for specialty foods, and now, Bunkhouse Brewery has opened a second location. You'll love not only the beer but also the camaraderie they've created in each place. The "OG" located next to the MSU campus is intimate with a lovely courtyard. The new taproom is airy and spacious, with an expansive mezzanine that can be rented for private events!

 

Livingston


Katabatic Brewing


Downtown Livingston is brimming with great food, drinks, and breweries, and Katabatic is one of them. A cozy taproom in the heart of Park Street, it's the perfect spot to take a break from shopping or relax after recreating with one of their fine brews. There is nothing fancy here; it's just great beer made by "hardworking beer lovers with high standards."

 

Neptune’s Brewery, Livingston Neptune’s Brewery, Photo by Reid Ramsay

Neptune's Brewery


Another Livingston favorite, Neptune's, brings a fun, sea-themed vibe to the Montana mountains. The taproom is lively, with made-on-site beers readily flowing. Their large courtyard is the place to be when the sun's out!

 

Three Forks


Bridger Brewing


The well-loved Bridger Brewing recently opened a second location in Three Forks. Not only do they carry over their fine beers, but the food menu also features thin-cut, street-style meats from local ranchers and butchers, made into some incredible pub food. Summers bring an outdoor concert series on their event lawn with striking views of the Bridger Mountain Range.

 

Red Lodge


Red Lodge Ales


Another of YC's first breweries, Red Lodge Ales, brews terrific beer, and now, with their sister establishment, Last Chance Cider Mill, hard cider as well! Sam's Tap Room, adjacent to the brewery, serves beer and cider, hearty food, and has an outdoor event venue hosting celebrations such as Oktoberfest!