When you hear the words ‘ski lodge,’ you are immediately swept away by images of freshly fallen snow, sparkling ski gear, snowboarding and ski lifts. 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’s on the ground may not be as 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, absolutely incredible moments may await you. Here are five things that will make your visit to the ski lodge after the ski season 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 it is in the mountains and as such the terrain is actually the birthplace of the hike. You’re also greeted by an environment that has cool, temperate weather, elevations that test your fitness, and you can finally eat trail mix on a trail where you’re using a lot of energy!

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

3. Fishing: It can 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 to 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 something completely different! Many ski lodges are located near ATV trails. What better way to go into the “out country” than by revving up your ATV 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 have an open mind, and you’ll be sure to find that a ski lodge can be much more than just skiing.