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 dog sledding through glistening meadows to snowmobiling in Yellowstone National Park, 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!
To learn more about Big Sky, read the Ultimate Big Sky, Montana Travel Guide.
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. In the winter, the falls transform into dramatic cascades of ice. The trailhead is located just outside of the Meadow Village. A great option for adventurous individuals.
Enjoy a Spa Day
Book a relaxing spa day to massage away your stress. Big Sky Resort’s Solace Spa & Salon is located in the Huntley Lodge and specializes in body treatments, facials, and salon services. The Montage Big Sky Resort boasts a state-of-the-art spa. Covering over 11,000 square feet, Spa Montage features a serene indoor pool, plunge pools, steam rooms, and a long list of rejuvenating treatments.
Après Ski
Après ski is a mindset—no skiing required. This mindset can be evoked at any time of day and take any form. Close your eyes and imagine… A late morning coffee and an excellent book; peppermint schnapps hot chocolate by a raging fire; champagne with your girlfriends; a cold beer in a hot tub. You get my point. From Beehive Basin Brewery to Scissorbills Saloon, Big Sky is full of fantastic après ski spots. Make sure to read my list of the Best Après Ski in Big Sky, Montana.
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. Starting points for the area’s two tour operators are just outside of the Mountain Village in Moonlight Basin and on the edge of Yellowstone National Park. A great activity for all ages!
Snowshoe
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.
Dine at Everett’s 8800
Who says chairlifts are only for skiers? Make a reservation for lunch or dinner at Everett’s 8800 and ride Ramcharger 8, a heated bubble chairlift, to the top of Andesite Mountain for a delicious meal with views of Lone Peak before riding the chairlift back down. Enjoy alpine-inspired cuisine with an impressive list of wine, beer and cocktails, alongside incredible views of Lone Peak. Reservations are recommended.
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.
Sleigh Ride
If you’re looking for a little more horsepower, opt for a snowy sleigh ride! Lone Mountain Ranch offers a sleigh ride dinner—guests are escorted by sleigh ride to a cabin for a lantern-lit, family-style diner. Afternoon rides with hot chocolate and cookies are also available at Lone Mountain Ranch. Another local sleigh ride operator is 320 Ranch. Located along Gallatin River, the homestead dates back to 1898 and offers appetizer sleigh rides as well as private booking options.
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 majority of the 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. Plus the heated visitor center next to Old Faithful is a welcome site. Other popular thermal features in the basin are Grand Geyser, Castle Geyser, Riverside Geyser and Morning Glory Pool. Don’t miss the park’s snowy winter wonderland!
Sledding
In a land of steep snow-covered slopes, the conditions are ideal for sledding. Designated sledding hills can be found outside of the Meadow Village’s Town Center and in Moonlight Basin. Most rental houses and condominiums have sleds in the garage, and, if not, you can purchase them at a local store.
Zipline
See Lone Peak’s base area by air with one of Big Sky Resort’s top-rated zipline tours. The Nature Zip—great for families—consists of four ziplines reaching heights of 50 feet and lengths just shy of 500 feet. The Adventure Zipline is designed for speed and adrenaline. Start by taking a chairlift partially up the mountain. Fly down to base area on four ziplines stretching up to 1500 feet long and 150 feet high.
Fly Fishing
Montana is home to world-class fly fishing. Hire a guide, layer up and venture down to the Gallatin River to unplug and enjoy nature.
Ice Skating
Go ice skating at the Big Sky Ice Rink and support a local non-profit corporation in the process! The ice rink, complete with a warming hut, is located in the Meadow Village’s Town Center and managed by non-profit corporation Big Sky Skating and Hockey Association. Skate rentals are available at nearby outdoor stores East Slope Outdoors and Grizzly Outfitters. Seasonal open skates are offered daily.
Soak in a Steamy Outdoor Pool or Hot Tub
If you’re staying in the Summit Hotel, Huntley Lodge, Moonlight Basin, or the Montage Resort you’re blessed with wonderful heated outdoor pools. Soak in the hot steamy water while watching skiers and snowboarders glide down the mountain. If you’re staying in a rental house or condominium, many of them have hot tubs to relax in!
Local Shops at Big Sky Town Center
While the majority of stores in the area cater to skiers and snowboarders, Big Sky has a variety of boutique stores to peruse. Here are several located in the Town Center: Local art galleries include Gallatin River Gallery, home to solo and group theme exhibitions inspired by nature, and Creighton Block Gallery, which displays Traditional and Contemporary Western Art. Ari O Jewelry features handcrafted jewelry. Relic showcases one-of-a-kind apparel, accessories, and gifts. Sky Boutique sources high end women’s clothing. Lastly, Horse of a Different Colors sells unique gifts, home décor, artwork, and jewelry all in the spirit of the Rockies.
