| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 30, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | Red Lion Hotels CORP |
| Entity Address, State or Province | CO |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001052595 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 30, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | WA |
| Entity File Number | 001-13957 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 91-1032187 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1550 Market St. #425 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Denver |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 80202 |
| City Area Code | (509) |
| Local Phone Number | 459-6100 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | true |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock |
| Trading Symbol | RLH |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
