Since its inaugural season in 1973, Big Sky, Montana has been known for its challenging slopes and expansive wilderness. Today, Big Sky is evolving into more than just a ski destination. New luxury hotels have opened their doors; the town continues to expand; and the après ski scene is on the rise. Even non-skiers are finding plenty to love. On the mountain state-of-the-art upgrades are taking place—high-speed bubble lifts, a new gondola, and a modern tram are setting the resort a part from others.
While much of the information below is applicable to all seasons, this Big Sky Travel Guide focuses on a winter getaway. If you’re looking for summer-specific activities in Big Sky, check out the Big Sky Summer Guide. The warmer months are an equally great time to visit!
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Know Before You Go
- Best Time to Visit: Big Sky Resort’s winter season runs from the end of November to mid-April. While snowfall varies each year, generally the best snow conditions are mid-January into March. The busiest times on the mountain coincide with the holidays—Christmas & New Years and around President’s Day weekend in February.
- How to Get Around: Transportation to and around Bog Sky requires planning as taxis and Ubers are not readily available. Renting a car in Bozeman is the easiest option as it gets your to & from the airport as well as around Big Sky. The Skyline shuttle service also runs on demand routes around Big Sky and scheduled service to and from Bozeman. Private transportation can be arranged in advanced with several operators including A to Z Chauffers.
- Elevation of Big Sky: The Mountain Village (and the resort’s base camp) is at an elevation of 7,510 feet. Many of the ski-in-ski-out properties are around this elevation. The Meadow Village and Town Center sit at about 6,500 feet in elevation and the top of Lone Mountain reaches a staggering 11,166 feet.
- What to Pack: Warm layers along with a heavy winter coat are essential for visiting Big Sky in the winter. Average lows are around 6º F in the peak winter months (December – February) while average highs sit in the mid-upper 20s. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also essential in the high elevation for bluebird days.
How to Get to Big Sky Montana
Book a flight into Bozeman International Airport (BZN) and then drive an hour south to Big Sky. All major airlines fly into the cozy airport and more direct flights are offered during the winter season. Either rent a car or arrange private transportation for the journey from Bozeman to Big Sky.
Where to Stay in Big Sky
Big Sky is comprised of several areas. The Mountain Village is located at the base of Big Sky Resort—there are a couple hotels here and plenty of ski-in-ski-out rental properties. The Meadow Village is around the Big Sky Town Center—six miles down the mountain from the resort’s base. Most of the shops and restaurants are in the Town Center. Further up the mountain is Moonlight Basin. While Moonlight Basin’s ski area is open to all skiers and snowboarders, Moonlight Lodge is reserved for people staying at Moonlight’s vacation rentals.
Spanish Peaks and the Yellowstone Club are several private ski areas in the vicinity. Access to Spanish Peaks, including its clubhouse and golf course, is limited to members and their guests. The Yellowstone Club is a members-only luxury association that holds the title of the world’s only private, members-only ski and golf community. Both Spanish Peaks and the Yellowstone Club have skiable access to Big Sky Resort.
Rent a Mountain Home or CONDOS
Whether you’re spending the day on the mountain or cozy inside with a book in hand, it’s nice to have a spacious home base—especially if you’re staying with lots of family and friends. There are several organizations to book through for a variety of types of homes. For easy ski-in-ski-out access, look at renting a property either around the Mountain Village or Moonlight Basin.
Several of the communities bookable through Big Sky Resort, like Snowcrest, Beaverhead, Black Eagle and Big Horn, are slope-side and within walking distance to the Mountain Village. Rental accommodations through Moonlight comes with the ability to purchase access to the Moonlight Lodge with on-site dining and a bar. There are also plenty of properties on Airbnb nd Vrbo.
Montage Big Sky
For those seeking a secluded escape with five-star amenities, Montage Big Sky delivers. Stunning views of the dramatic Spanish Peak mountains are a staple throughout the property with accommodations here range from elegant guest rooms and suites to three- and four-bedroom residences. Highlights include a 11,000-square-foot spa, a heated outdoor pool, and delicious dining options—cocktails at Alpenglow are a must. The property is ski-in-ski-out just two short lifts away from Big Sky’s main base area.
One&Only Moonlight Basin
The newest luxury addition to Big Sky, One&Only Moonlight Basin blends contemporary design with the rugged beauty of Montana. The resorts offers an array of cabins, suites, and private homes. Featuring its own One&Only Gondola with direct access to the slopes and state-of-the-art architecture and spa with floor to ceiling windows. One&Only Moonlight Basin is a standout destination for guests seeking refined mountain luxury.
Summit Hotel at Big Sky
Located in the heart of the Mountain Village, the Summit Hotel puts guests at the base of the resort’s main lifts. The property offers hotel style rooms as well as multiple bedroom condos within the hotel. This ski-in-ski-out hotel also features several on-site restaurants—Peaks and Carabiner—as well as an outdoor pool, perfect for reviving your muscles after a day on the mountain.
Lone Mountain Ranch
A quintessential Montana guest ranch, Lone Mountain Ranch sits along the North Fork Gallatin River about 15 minutes from the base of the slopes. Stay in a charming private cabin and enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at Horn and Cantle. The property offers plenty of on-site activities like cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, and fly fishing for an authentic Montana stay.
Where to Eat and Drink in Big Sky
Whether you’re spending your days on the mountain or vibing with friends and family, it’s easy to build up an appetite. Restaurants are mostly found between the Mountain Village and Town Center with a few scattered along the river and even some on the slopes. For stocking up on groceries, Roxy’s and The Hungry Moose in Big Sky’s Town Center are the best places on the mountain. For a wider selection and bulk items, consider stopping at the Costco or a grocery store in Bozeman before making the drive.
Special for December 2025 – March 2026: M by The Alinea Group
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 two-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. Reservations required.
Coffee
For a delicious cup of coffee in a bright roomy space, stop in Cowboy Coffee Co. in Town Center. While you’re there, head next door to shop Montana Supply Company for local apparel and souvenirs. Also in the Town Center, Caliber Coffee Roasters is a local favorite. For coffee with a views, Vista Hall’s illy Cafe has stunning views of Lone Mountain along with plenty of comfortable seating to relax and soak it all in.
Lunch on the Mountain
Positioned at the top of Andesite Mountain and only accessible by chairlift, Everett’s 8800 serves alpine-inspired cuisine with tasteful wines, European beers, and cocktails. Plan on making reservations here in advance—non-skiers can access this spot with a scenic lift pass. At the resort’s main base area, Vista Dining Hall is not your average dining hall. With options like sushi and ramen bowls, a taqueria, deluxe grill, and stone fire pizza, this is not your average dining hall is a great ski-in-ski-out stop from morning to late afternoon. Plus it’s a great location for non-skiers to meet up with those spending the day on the slopes. Set below the Shedhorn lift, Shedhorn Grill is yurt-style eatery serving burgers, brats, and bison chili. A great mid-run stop.
Après SkI
There’s nothing like cruising down your last run of the day and gathering with friends for a rejuvenating après-ski. There are a variety of spots around the mountain for various après-ski vibes. For an energetic vibes complete with a regular DJ, head to the Mountain Village Plaza and grab drinks at the Umbrella Bar. For a more refined setting, sip cocktails and wine at the Alpenglow at Montage Big Sky or The Landing at One&Only Moonlight Basin. And for dive bar vibes complete with bar food and live music, Scissorbills Saloon in the Mountain Village is your spot. Check out the full roundup by reading the Best Après Ski in Big Sky, freshly updated for the 2025-2026 season.
Dinner
Known for their authentic BBQ, Gallatin Riverhouse is a local favorite. Come here for the laid-back vibes accompanied by live music and be prepared to leave with plenty of leftovers.
Everett’s 8800, the popular lunch spot on the top of Andesite Mountain, is also open for dinner—make reservations here in advance. Set in modern log cabin on Lone Mountain Ranch, Horn and Cantle serves farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Reservations recommended. The Waypoint is a cozy restaurant in the Town Center serving delicious food alongside cocktails, craft beers, and curated wines. The lively spot often features a variety of entertainment including live music, trivia, and movie screenings.
Best Winter Activities in Big Sky
While skiing and snowboarding are the main draws to Big Sky, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the mountain. From outdoor adventures to relaxing après ski activities, there’s something for everyone. For the complete list of experiences beyond skiing, check out the Non-Skiers Guide to Big Sky, MT.
Ski & Snowboard at Big Sky Resort
Big Sky Resort, a Boyne Resorts’ property, boasts an impressive 5800 skiable acres–the most in the United States and second in North America only to Whistler-Blackcomb. Two main base area lifts connect skiers to other parts of the mountain. Ramcharger 8 takes skiers up Andesite Mountain, while Swift Current and the new Explorer Gondola travel up Lone Mountain. With slopes for every level of skier and enough snow to make all your dreams come true, you’re bound to have the time of your life on the mountain. Rent equipment through Big Sky Sports Rentals.
Cross Country Ski
If you’re looking for a more leisurely form of skiing, cross country skiing might be for you. With over 85 kilometers of nationally ranked cross-country trails, Lone Mountain Ranch is the ultimate spot to glide across the pristine snow and appreciate Montana’s beautiful wilderness.
Hike to ousel Falls
WhileI 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.
Visit 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.
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.
Enjoy a Sleigh Ride
For a touch of winter magic, book a snowy sleigh ride at Lone Mountain Ranch. The journey through the snowy woods culminates at a candlelit log cabin for a cozy three-course dinner complete with cowboy singers and storytellers.
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.
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.
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