In this episode of Mountain Mule Media, Tim sits down with Kathryn Bartlett, General Manager, and Nicholas Bromond, Food and Beverage Director and Sommelier at the Gallatin River Lodge in Bozeman, Montana. Together, they share what makes this lodge a rare kind of Montana experience—one that blends refined dining, genuine warmth, and the natural rhythm of the Gallatin Valley.
Whether guests come for a stay, a meal, or a moment of quiet by the fire, Gallatin River Lodge offers a hospitality experience that’s personal, authentic, and distinctly Montana.
Listen to Episode 63
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Montana Hospitality, Refined
Just fifteen minutes from the Bozeman airport, Gallatin River Lodge sits on twenty scenic acres of pasture and cottonwoods. Once known primarily as a fly-fishing lodge, it has evolved into a full-scale hospitality destination—welcoming travelers, locals, and corporate groups alike.
Kathryn describes the lodge as “genuine Montana hospitality.” Guests are encouraged to slow down, breathe, and feel at home, whether they’re staying overnight, enjoying happy hour, or gathering for a company retreat.
The property features two lodge buildings, a fine dining restaurant, a casting pond, and sweeping views of the Bridgers. In winter, the grounds transform into a cross-country ski trail network, creating an approachable version of ski-in, ski-out luxury—Montana-style.
A Dining Experience Rooted in Connection
Nicholas leads the food and wine program with Chef Trey Mathis, crafting a menu that’s grounded, creative, and approachable. Drawing from Chef Trey’s Southern roots and French technique, the restaurant’s seasonal menus feature Montana-inspired dishes that balance comfort with precision.
“Hospitality is about warmth,” Nicholas explains. “From the moment you walk in, we want you to feel like you’ve been welcomed into someone’s home.”
The restaurant’s award-winning wine program follows what Nicholas calls “following the dirt”—sourcing wines and ingredients with respect for where they come from. Every dish and pairing tells a story, blending fine dining with the easy, unpretentious feel of the lodge.
Beyond the Table
The team has worked to make Gallatin River Lodge a destination for more than just lodging or dining. The property hosts corporate retreats, holiday parties, small weddings, and seasonal wine dinners.
Upcoming events include the Reserve Holiday Kickoff Wine Party in early December and a full lineup of curated wine dinners planned for 2026, featuring vineyards from California to France.
Guests this winter can also look forward to cross-country skiing, fireside après gatherings, and a new mirror-glass sauna and massage space, designed to elevate the experience for both travelers and locals.
Building a Team Around Care
Both Kathryn and Nicholas credit the lodge’s success to their team. Their approach to leadership is rooted in care—caring for guests and for the people working beside them.
Kathryn explains, “Caring for your guests is great, but if you’re not caring for the person next to you in the dish pit or the one cleaning rooms, it’s not authentic. It has to start with your team.”
Their shared vision has helped create a culture where staff feel valued and guests feel thought of—down to the smallest details.
A Lodge for Every Season
From weddings under summer skies to cross-country skiing through cottonwoods in winter, the Gallatin River Lodge offers something special year-round. Kathryn puts it best:
“Every season there’s a reason to come back.”
To learn more about Gallatin River Lodge, visit www.grlodge.com
To learn more about Mountain Mule Media and upcoming episodes, visit www.mountain-mule.com
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