Big Sky, Montana, is an all-seasons destination.
Here’s how to plan the ideal visit based on your travel interests.
But this place is much more than mere winter sport mecca.
Hiking, whitewater rafting, and fly fishing throughout the region is the stuff of legend.
And all of it is backdropped by some of the most stunning scenery in the Lower 48.
Yes, Big Sky is the ideal place to elevate your altitude without necessarily elevating your heart rate.
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Travel + Leisurereaders agree.
This year, Montage Big Sky was named afavorite resort in Montanain the 2024 World’s Best Awards.
The sprawling property, perched at the foothills of the Spanish Peaks, is particularly picturesque.
And yet its just the tip of the snowcapped crag when it comes to sumptuous stays around here.
Below, these experts share invaluable insights and helped us assemble the ultimate guide to Big Sky.
A wide range of awe-inspiring experiences await.
Chose your own adventure as you see seasonally fit.
Just make your journey starts here.
Each unit comes with a kitchen, a terrace, and access to a hot tub.
The fully furnished accommodations are positioned about an 18-minute drive from the base of the ski mountain.
This one will rest at the foot of an 8,100-acre wilderness and recreation area.
Theyre also suitable for mountain biking all from the center of town.
Eliza McClure, local and avid outdoor enthusiast, recommends the Ousel Falls Park Trail just south of town.
Small effort, but big reward.
Skiing
Big Sky Resort is the third-largest in North America by skiable acreage.
It includes 300 named runs across four connected mountains.
And its not just quantity but quality here: Winter sees more than 400 inches of snowfall.
In fact, you dont even need to wait for winter at all.
Fly Fishing
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Southwestern Montana is fly-fishing paradise.
you’ve got the option to secure his expertise over at Gallatin River Guides.
Big Sky Bar Crawl
Big Sky isnt exactly big on population.
The communitys official population stops short of3,000 residents.
But this is hardly some sleepy mountain town.
Local favorites includeTips Up,Beehive Basin Brewery, and Brothel Bikes.
The design here elegantly blends cowboy culture with Parisian flair.
It all exits an open kitchen into a sprawling dining room with Western-worn charm.
But not necessarily in that order.
check that you get the Sweaty Lefty, advises McClure.
Its a gut-busting hot dog smothered in zesty mayo, shredded cheddar, and bacon.
The Rocks
McClure is also fond of this locally owned restaurant-slash-liquor store.
Its a casual and fun barbecue restaurant and bar nestled right on the banks of the Gallatin River.
Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail with a view or savoring authentic Texas-style barbecue, the experience is unparalleled.
And don’t miss the $7 fried chicken, a crowd favorite in the perfect setting.
Skiers and snowboarders will find the finest powder between December and March.
Mountain bikers and hikers will appreciate the 75-degree sunny days that typify June through August.
As will music lovers, who can enjoy free family-friendly concerts held every Thursday night throughout the summer months.
But for Baker, the secret season is April.
And with so few people on the mountain, you really feel like you have it all to yourself.
The easiest way to get down to Big Sky upon landing is to rent a car.
Youll have to download an app to make use of the service.
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Courtesy of Lone Mountain Ranch
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Courtesy of Lone Mountain Ranch
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Courtesy of Lone Mountain Ranch
Courtesy of Riverhouse BBQ
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