With an average annual snow fall of over 400 inches, Big Sky is a snow-lover’s paradise and a world-class ski destination. While most visitors flock to Lone Mountain to glide down the perfect corduroy slopes, there are plenty of things to do in Big Sky that don’t require skis or snowboards.
From snowshoeing through glistening meadows to relaxing at world-class Spa Montage and dining at M by the Alinea Group (a highly coveted pop-up for the 2025-2026 winter season), this Non-Skiers Guide to Big Sky, Montana highlights the best activities for those looking for a different kind of thrill—No skis or snowboards required!
Hello! This site incorporates affiliate links to help me continue to produce free travel guides and content for you. I only recommend products I use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links and I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.
Hike to Ousel Falls
While I typically advise against hiking in the cold winter months, the short and heavily trafficked Ousel Falls Trail (1.5 miles round trip) leads to a beautiful waterfall. During the colder months, the falls transform into dramatic cascades of ice. The trailhead is located just outside of the Meadow Village. A great option for those looking to still get outside in the winter. Keep your eyes peeled for local moose that roam this area.
Enjoy the Views from Lone Peak’s Observation Deck—Kircliff
Set atop of Lone Peak at a staggering elevation of 11,166 ft sits a two-story glass observation deck—the Kircliff—with awe-inspiring panoramic views that stretch from Lone Mountain and beyond. Beginning in December 2025, visitors can reach the mountain’s peak with the need to ski. The journey to the top features sweeping mountain vistas give visitors a true appreciation for the scale and raw beauty of the mountain. Ride the new Explorer Gondola to the Lone Peak Tram to reach the Kircliff and take in views unlike any other.
Spa Day at Spa Montage or Solace Spa & Salon
Book a spa day for ultimate relaxation. The Montage Big Sky boasts a state-of-the-art spa covering over 11,000 square feet with long list of rejuvenating treatments. The best part? External guests can book treatments at the Spa Montage. Another option is Big Sky Resort’s Solace Spa & Salon, conveniently located in the in the Mountain Village at Huntley Lodge.
Après Ski
Après ski is goes beyond the slopes. It’s a state of being—and there’s no skiing required. It’s a celebration of leisure and adventure that can unfold in countless forms. A slow morning with a rich espresso and a favorite book; a smooth peppermint schnapps hot chocolate to warm you from the inside out; champagne shared amoung friends; or a perfectly chilled craft beer to top off the day. From The Landing at the new One&Only Moonlight Basin to the beloved Scissorbills Saloon, Big Sky is full of fantastic après ski spots. Make sure to read the curated list of the Best Après Ski in Big Sky, Montana.
Dine at M by The Alinea Group (December 2025 – March 2026)
World-class Chef Grant Achatz is bringing his culinary talents to Big Sky for the 2025-2026 winter season as part of The Alinea Group’s 20th Anniversary World Tour. The Alinea Group features a series of eateries, including the three-Michelin-starred Alinea. The restaurant, M by The Alinea Group, will reside in the Mountain Village for several months offering a tasting menu that fuses modernist and alpine cuisine. A must-do for all foodies visiting this winter. Make your reservations here.
Shop around Big Sky Town Center
While many stores cater to skiers and snowboarders, Big Sky Town Center has a variety of boutiques to shop. Montana Supply Co. blends mountain lifestyle offering comfortable apparel and locally inspired goods. As its name suggests, the Great Rocky Mountain Toy Company has a playful selection of toys to keep the younger ones entertained. Bluebird curates high-end men’s and women’s fashion. Art lovers should visit Courtney Collins Fine Art to view its contemporary and western fine art collection. And if you do need cold weather and mountain gear, Christy Sports is the place to go. While not in the Town Center, Jill Zeidler Ceramic Art Studio is a great stop to shop handmade ceramic souvenirs.
Dog Sledding
A thrilling and unique way to see the beautiful terrain. Glide through the winter wonderland behind a team of highly trained and spirited huskies. The top-rated Spirit of the North Dog Sledding is in Moonlight Basin. A great activity for all ages.
Explore the Mountain on Snowshoes
Prefer to explore the area through an activity that’s as easy as walking? Rent a pair of snowshoes and grab a map from Big Sky Resort, Moonlight Basin or Lone Mountain Ranch. Wander through the beauty that is Big Sky Country on your own or with guide.
Ice Skating
Go ice skating at the Marty Pavelich Ice Rink. The ice rink, complete with a warming hut, is in the Meadow Village’s Town Center and managed the Big Sky Community Organization. Skate rentals are available at nearby outdoor stores East Slope Outdoors. View the ice rink schedule for open skate times.
Sleigh Ride Dinner
For an evening of quintessential winter magic, book a snowy sleigh ride at Lone Mountain Ranch. The journey through the woods takes you to a candlelit log cabin for a cozy three-course dinner complete with cowboy singers and storytellers.
Spend an Evening in a Montana Dinner Yurt
A unique candlelit dining experience nestled in the woods. Travel via snowcat to a secret location on the mountain where you’ll find a yurt, campfire and torch-lit sledding run. Indulge in a filling meal while an acoustic guitar sets the mood in the background. After eating, spend the rest of the evening stargazing, sledding and relaxing by the fire.
Visit Yellowstone National Park
America’s oldest national park is set atop of a highly active volcano and just an hour’s drive from Big Sky. While the park’s roads are closed to automobiles during the winter months, you can enter the park through the West Yellowstone entrance in a heated snow coach or via a guided snow mobile tour. Either option is a great way to experience the unique thermal landscape that is Yellowstone. Upper Geyser Basin, home to Old Faithful, has the most geysers per square mile of anywhere in the world and a popular winter destination—and the heated visitor center next to Old Faithful is a welcome site. Don’t miss the park’s snowy winter wonderland.
SKI TRIP Packing Favorites
