When you hear the words ‘ski lodge’, you are immediately swept away by images of freshly fallen snow, shiny ski gear, snowboarding and chairlifts. Well, while all those images are great, what happens during the late spring and summer months? After all, the amount of snow that falls will be drastically less, and what is on the ground may not be the most conducive to traditional “slope” activities.

The important thing is not to get discouraged. Traveling to a ski lodge during off-peak hours doesn’t mean you’re out of luck in terms of fun. In fact, you may be in for some absolutely incredible moments. Here are five things that will make your post-ski season ski lodge visit a blast:

1. Hiking – This is an unknown activity that is often touted as a “must do” in almost any setting. Keep in mind though that you are in the mountains and as such the terrain is actually the birthplace of the hike. You’re also greeted by an environment that has a cool, temperate climate, elevations that test your fitness, and finally you can eat trail mix on a trail you’re using a lot of energy on!

2. Camp: Ski lodges are lucky to be in and around national forests. Not only are you greeted by pristine and untouched nature, but you also have the chance to really enjoy nature. Take advantage of taking a walk along a river bank or simply look up at the sky and see all the stars that you don’t have living in the big city.

3. Fishing: It may be a hard sell to call fishing a “cool” activity, but the fact is that fishermen and nature lovers are part of the original “mountain people” in this country, so In some respects, by casting a line into a mountain stream, you are connecting with a long line of pioneers. Also, being able to fish is as relaxed as possible. The key is to remember that fishing is the fun part, and you always have the catch to look forward to, too.

4. Horseback Riding – Fortunately, many ski lodges and surrounding towns offer horseback riding for visitors as a way to explore. Horseback riding is akin to connecting with a traditional way of life, and it’s also a great way for someone to appreciate the amazing animal we call a horse.

5. Off-Road Adventure: Now for something completely different! Many ski lodges are located near off-road vehicle trails. What better way to go to the “back country” than by revving your ATV’s engine and letting nature know you’re there to explore. Many hostels can point you in the right direction for ATV rental companies so you don’t have to provide your own vehicle.

Be adventurous and open-minded, and you’ll be sure to find that a ski lodge can be about so much more than just skiing.