Since the resort’s inaugural season in 1973, Big Sky, Montana has been all about the skiing. Surrounded by vast wilderness, the draw to Lone Mountain was not cocktail bars or Michelin starred restaurants, but the expansive mountain terrain woven with slopes demanding enough to test even the world’s best skiers. And while Big Sky is still all about the skiing, the mountain is changing and the secret is out.
Big Sky Resort is now more than just a ski destination. Exciting changes are everywhere you look, on and off the slopes. The town continues to expand and the après ski scene is on the rise. Upgrades include state-of-the-art lifts with heated seats and bubbles, luxury lodging, and modern dining options. Having grown up skiing Lone Mountain, Big Sky holds a special place in my heart and I’m excited to watch the mountain continue to grow.
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!
This Big Sky Travel Guide covers the following topics. Click each link to jump to the corresponding section.
Big Sky Overview
Big Sky Country
The small Montana village is quaint, but the surrounding territory is anything but. Big Sky lies within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, 22 million acres of nearly undisturbed land. The area is teeming with wildlife including bears, wolves, and moose. Yellowstone National Park, set over one of the world’s largest active volcanoes and featuring rumbling geysers and blistering hot springs, is just an hour to the south. The Gallatin River cuts through the canyon below Big Sky and offers world-class fishing. Big Sky Resort itself is home to the most skiable acres in the country. While Big Sky might not have the glitz and glamour of Aspen and Vail, the sheer wilderness will leave anyone star-struck.
Big Sky is also home to the private ski areas, Spanish Peaks and the Yellowstone Club. 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 direct skiable access to Big Sky Resort.
Mountain Village, the Meadow, and Moonlight Basin
Big Sky comprises two areas, the Mountain Village and the Meadow Village. The Mountain Village sits at the base area of Big Sky Resort while the Meadow Village is six miles down the mountain from the ski resort’s base. Moonlight Basin is a private community several miles up the mountain from the Mountain Village. While Moonlight Basin was previously a separate ski resort, it merged with Big Sky Resort in 2013 and now its slopes are easily access from Big Sky Resort. However, the Moonlight Lodge is reserved for people staying at Moonlight’s vacation rentals. Understanding the differences between each area will help when making lodging accommodations.
How to Get to Big Sky Montana
Book a flight into Bozeman International Airport (BZN) and you’re just an hour’s drive from Big Sky. All major airlines fly into the cozy airport. More direct flights are offered during the winter season. After landing at one of the airport’s handful of gates, you’ll be greeted by a giant bronze grizzly bear in baggage claim. Hop in a rental car and make your way along the Gallatin River to the snowy paradise of Big Sky.
Where to Stay in Big Sky
While there are only a handful of hotels in Big Sky, they are a wonderful mix of historic and state-of-the-art properties. Another excellent option for lodging in Big Sky is the conveniently located rental properties, ranging from slope side condos to elaborate mountain mansions. If your focus is skiing at Big Sky Resort, opt for a ski-in-ski-out condo or hotel on the slopes. If you’re looking for a luxury stay with an après ski scene, consider the newly opened Montage Big Sky.
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.
- Big Sky Resort – From cabins to condos to private homes, you can book a wide variety of lodging through Big Sky Resort. Several of the communities bookable through Big Sky Resort, like Snowcrest, Beaverhead, Black Eagle and Big Horn, are not only slope side but also within walking distance to the Mountain Village.
- Moonlight Basin – Book a luxury vacation rental through the private community of Moonlight Basin, situated several miles from the Mountain Village. Rental accommodations here comes with the ability to purchase access to the Moonlight Lodge with on-site dining and a bar. Much of the accommodation within Moonlight is ski-in-ski-out, but in order to get to the Mountain Village plan on riding a lift up the mountain and then skiing over to base area.
Summit Hotel at Big Sky
The Summit Hotel at Big Sky is located in the Mountain Village center at the base of the 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 restaurants (Peaks and Carabiner) and an indoor/outdoor pool—the perfect spot to revive your muscles after a day of hard skiing.
Huntley Lodge
A namesake of the resort’s founder, Huntley Lodge was the first structure built at Big Sky Resort in 1973. Located at the resort’s base, the rustic hotel features an outdoor pool, warming fireplace, and Chet’s Bar & Grill, where you’ll often find live music.
Lone Mountain Ranch
Lone Mountain Ranch is a classic Montana guest ranch along the North Fork Gallatin River about 15 minutes from the base of the slopes. Stay in a private cabin, enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at Horn and Cantle, and experience activities like cross-country skiing, horse-back riding, and fly fishing. A great option if downhill skiing isn’t your thing.
Montage Big Sky
The newly opened Montage Big Sky first welcomed guests in December 2021. Stunning views of the dramatic Spanish Peak mountains are a staple throughout the property. Accommodations here range from guest rooms and suites to three- and four-bedroom residences. Top-class amenities include a 10,000-square-foot spa, private golf course, and upscale locally-sourced dining—cocktails at Alpenglow are a must. The luxurious property is ski-in-ski-out (two lift rides away from Big Sky base area). The Montage Big Sky is the ideal stay for those looking for a secluded getaway with all the amenities of a five-star resort.
Where to Eat and Drink in Big Sky
Whether you’re spending your days tearing up the mountain or vibing with friends, it’s easy to build up an appetite in Montana’s wilderness. Restaurants are mostly found between the Mountain Village and Meadow with a few scattered along the river and even some on the slopes. The list of eateries below includes everything from local hangouts to fine dining experiences with plenty of ski-in-ski-out options. If you’re interested in the après ski scene, make sure to read the Best Après Ski in Big Sky, Montana.
PSA: There are only a handful of grocery stores in Big Sky, so if you are traveling in a big group, I recommend hitting up the Bozeman Costco prior to driving up the mountain. Otherwise, plan on getting groceries at Roxy’s or The Hungry Moose—both in the Meadow.
Gallatin Riverhouse Grill (lunch; dinner)
The local hangout along the Gallatin River is known for their authentic Texas BBQ Montana-style—a specialty of the establishment’s owners. Come here for the laid-back vibes accompanied by live music and be prepared to leave with plenty of leftovers.
Everett’s 8800 (lunch; dinner)
Positioned at the top of Andesite Mountain and only accessible by chairlift, the restaurant offers alpine-inspired cuisine paired with tasteful wines, European beers, and cocktails. Ride the heated chairlift Ramcharger 8 to enjoy lunch or dinner alongside incredible views of Lone Peak (Don’t worry, you can ride the chairlift back down). Plan on making lunch and dinner reservations in advance.
The Cabin Bar & Grill (lunch; dinner)
Another dining option right off the slopes, The Cabin Bar & Grill uses regional ingredients to create delicious and familiar cuisine. Plus, their special warm drink menu includes every kind of spiked hot chocolate you can imagine. Come for a casual slope-side lunch or a more refined dinner.
Vista Dining Hall (coffee; lunch; dinner)
With options like sushi and ramen bowls, a taqueria, deluxe grill, and stone fire pizza, this is not your average dining hall. You’ll also find a hybrid bar-café where they serve local beer on tap alongside delicious hot cocoa—all accompanied by incredible views of Lone Peak via huge windows and an outdoor seating space with heaters. Vista Dining Hall is located in the Mountain Village, making it great ski-in-ski-out stop.
Scissorbills Saloon (lunch; dinner)
A local favorite with regular live music, the appropriately grungy saloon is full of character. Here you’ll find all your favorite bar foods with a variety of local beers, a full bar, and plenty of spiked hot drinks. Located in the Mountain Village, Scissorbills is located slope-side making it easy to ski-in-ski-out to warm up with a drink and food.
Ousel & Spur Pizza Co. (dinner)
While Ousel & Spur also serves traditional Italian dishes, the restaurant is known for their specialty gourmet pizzas. Located in the Meadow, the family establishment is open for dinner seven days a week and even has a kid’s menu. For the adults, the restaurant offers a selection of Italian wines, cocktails, and a variety of beers.
Horn and Cantle (breakfast; lunch; dinner)
Situated in a modern log cabin on Lone Mountain Ranch, Horn and Cantle serves farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on local ingredients for breakfast, lunch, and upscale dinners. Step up your dining game at Horn and Cantle by opting for their Sleigh Ride Dinner and arrive to the restaurant in a horse-drawn sleigh. Reservations recommended.
Montana Dinner Yurt (dinner)
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 dinner, spend the rest of the evening stargazing, sledding and relaxing by the fire.
Things to Do in Big Sky
Skiing and snowboarding may be the most popular choice of sport on Lone Peak, but there are plenty of other activities to occupy your time on the mountain. To view the complete list of alternatives to skiing/snowboarding, read the Non-Skiers Guide to Big Sky, MT.
Ski & Snowboard Lone Peak
Big Sky Resort, a Boyne Resort’ 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 lift travels 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.
Après Ski
Après ski is a mindset—no skiing required. 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 Vista Bar and Carabiner Lounge, Big Sky is full of fantastic après ski spots. Make sure to read Big Sky’s Best Après Ski Spots.
Hike to Ousel Falls
While I typically advise against hiking in the cold winter months, this short and heavily trafficked 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. A great option for adventurous individuals.
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.
Fly Fishing
Montana is home to world-class fly fishing and the fish don’t disappear during the winter. Hire a guide, layer up and venture down to the Gallatin River to unplug and enjoy nature!
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!
