Big Sky Resort: Montana's Majestic Mountain Playground
Big Sky Resort in Montana: Skiing, hiking, and outdoor fun amid the stunning Rocky Mountains. Perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Big Sky Resort, nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its expansive ski terrains, it boasts over 5,800 acres of skiable area, making it one of the largest ski resorts in the United States. Whether you're an expert skier or a beginner, Big Sky offers diverse slopes that cater to all skill levels. The scenic Lone Peak, standing tall at 11,166 feet, provides breathtaking panoramic views and a thrilling experience for advanced skiers. But Big Sky isn't just a winter wonderland. In the summer, the resort transforms into an adventure hub with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. The surrounding Gallatin National Forest offers countless trails and wildlife watching opportunities. The resort also features a world-class golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, providing a serene backdrop for a relaxing round of golf. Big Sky's charming village area is filled with restaurants, shops, and spas, ensuring that visitors have plenty of options for dining and relaxation. From cozy lodges to luxurious hotels, the accommodation options are varied, catering to different preferences and budgets. With its stunning natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities, Big Sky Resort is a perfect destination for those looking to escape into the mountains and experience the best of Montana.
Local tips in Big Sky Resort
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) for fewer crowds and beautiful scenery.
- Book ski rentals and lift tickets in advance to save time and avoid long lines.
- Take a scenic lift ride to the top of Lone Peak for breathtaking views, even if you're not skiing.
- Explore the nearby Yellowstone National Park, just an hour's drive from the resort.
- Dress in layers as the weather can change rapidly in the mountains.
Big Sky Resort: Montana's Majestic Mountain Playground
Big Sky Resort, nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Known for its expansive ski terrains, it boasts over 5,800 acres of skiable area, making it one of the largest ski resorts in the United States. Whether you're an expert skier or a beginner, Big Sky offers diverse slopes that cater to all skill levels. The scenic Lone Peak, standing tall at 11,166 feet, provides breathtaking panoramic views and a thrilling experience for advanced skiers. But Big Sky isn't just a winter wonderland. In the summer, the resort transforms into an adventure hub with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. The surrounding Gallatin National Forest offers countless trails and wildlife watching opportunities. The resort also features a world-class golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, providing a serene backdrop for a relaxing round of golf. Big Sky's charming village area is filled with restaurants, shops, and spas, ensuring that visitors have plenty of options for dining and relaxation. From cozy lodges to luxurious hotels, the accommodation options are varied, catering to different preferences and budgets. With its stunning natural beauty and plethora of outdoor activities, Big Sky Resort is a perfect destination for those looking to escape into the mountains and experience the best of Montana.
When is the best time to go to Big Sky Resort?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Montage Big Sky
Experience the unparalleled luxury and breathtaking beauty of Montage Big Sky, your ultimate mountain retreat in Montana.
Big Sky Resort Zipline Tours
Discover the thrill of soaring through stunning landscapes at Big Sky Resort Zipline Tours, where adventure meets breathtaking natural beauty in Montana.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yellowstone Club
Discover the pinnacle of luxury and adventure at Yellowstone Club, a premier ski resort in Big Sky, Montana, offering world-class amenities year-round.
Spirit of the North Sled Dog
Discover the exhilarating adventure of dog sledding at Spirit of the North in Big Sky, Montana, a must-visit for every winter enthusiast.
Madison Base | Big Sky Resort
Experience the thrill of skiing and the beauty of nature at Madison Base, the premier destination in Big Sky Resort, Montana.
The Montana Dinner Yurt
Experience the charm of The Montana Dinner Yurt, where gourmet American cuisine meets the breathtaking beauty of Big Sky, Montana.
Basecamp
Discover the thrill of adventure at Basecamp in Big Sky, Montana, your ultimate outdoor activity organizer for unforgettable experiences year-round.
Essential places to dine
Horn and Cantle
Discover exquisite American cuisine at Horn and Cantle in Big Sky—where fine dining meets family-friendly warmth amidst stunning mountain views.
Everett's 8800
Discover mountain dining at its finest at Everett's 8800 in Big Sky - where exquisite American cuisine meets breathtaking alpine views.
The Cabin Bar & Grill
Experience authentic American cuisine in the heart of Big Sky at The Cabin Bar & Grill, where mountain views meet delicious flavors.
The Montana Dinner Yurt
Discover exceptional American cuisine in a cozy yurt setting amidst stunning Rocky Mountain scenery at The Montana Dinner Yurt.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hungry Moose Market and Deli on the Mountain
Discover the flavors of Big Sky at Hungry Moose Market and Deli—your go-to grocery and deli for local delights and gourmet treats.
Big Sky Sports
Discover the best outdoor clothing and gear at Big Sky Sports, your premier shopping destination in the stunning Big Sky Resort area.
The Trove West
Discover unique gifts, children's books, and local crafts at The Trove West in Big Sky, Montana - a must-visit for memorable souvenirs.
J P Woolies
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at J P Woolies, your perfect stop in Big Sky, Montana for memorable souvenirs and friendly service.
Steamboat Dry Goods
Discover unique clothing, gifts, and footwear at Steamboat Dry Goods in Big Sky, Montana - a must-visit for every traveler.
Belle Cose | Big Sky
Discover Belle Cose in Big Sky – a stylish boutique for women's clothing, home goods, and unique jewelry reflecting Montana's charm.
Big Sky Resort Store
Explore the Big Sky Resort Store for unique gifts and stylish clothing that embody the spirit of the Montana outdoors.
Lone Peak Logo
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Lone Peak Logo Gift Shop in Big Sky, Montana—your perfect stop for memorable keepsakes.
Life is Good
Explore Life is Good in Big Sky, Montana, where adventure meets style in a premier clothing store for outdoor enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Big Sky Resort
Discover unparalleled adventure at Big Sky Resort, Montana's premier destination for skiing, hiking, and year-round outdoor activities.
Buck's T-4 Restaurant
Savor the flavors of Big Sky at Buck's T-4 Restaurant, where local ingredients meet mountain charm in a delightful dining experience.
Horn and Cantle
Discover the exquisite flavors of American cuisine at Horn and Cantle in Big Sky, Montana, a fine dining experience perfect for families and food lovers.
Everett's 8800
Experience the pinnacle of American dining at Everett's 8800, where mountain views meet culinary excellence in Big Sky, Montana.
Montana Jack
Montana Jack: A lively sports bar and American restaurant in Big Sky, perfect for dining and socializing amidst stunning Montana landscapes.
Scissorbills Saloon
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Big Sky at Scissorbills Saloon, where live music and delicious food come together in a rustic atmosphere.
Olive B's Big Sky Bistro
Discover the enchanting flavors of Montana at Olive B's Big Sky Bistro, where rustic charm meets gourmet cuisine in a stunning mountain setting.
Tips Up Big Sky
Experience the heart of Big Sky at Tips Up Big Sky, where delicious grilled specialties meet a vibrant atmosphere in Montana's stunning outdoors.
The Cabin Bar & Grill
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and a cozy bar atmosphere at The Cabin Bar & Grill in Big Sky, Montana.
By Word of Mouth/bywom bistro
Experience the fusion of American and Asian flavors at By Word of Mouth, a charming bistro in Big Sky, Montana, perfect for food lovers and wine enthusiasts.
The Rocks Tasting Room and Liquor Store
Experience the essence of Montana's culinary scene at The Rocks Tasting Room and Liquor Store in Big Sky, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Chet's Bar & Grill
Experience the best of Big Sky dining at Chet's Bar & Grill, where delicious food and a lively atmosphere come together in a mountain paradise.
Broken Spoke Bar & Casino
Discover the lively Broken Spoke Bar & Casino, where great drinks, friendly vibes, and exciting gaming merge in the heart of Big Sky, Montana.
Westward Social
Experience the enticing flavors of Big Sky at Westward Social, where every dish tells a story of Montana's culinary heritage.
Carabiner
Experience the warmth and charm of Carabiner at Big Sky Resort, a perfect spot for relaxation after your mountain adventures.
Local Phrases about Big Sky Resort
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- HelloHowdy
[h-ow-d-ee] - GoodbyeSee ya
[s-ee y-ah] - YesYup
[y-uh-p] - NoNah
[n-ah] - Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
[pl-ee-z/n-ow w-ur-ee-z] - Thank youThanks a lot
[th-anks uh l-ot] - Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
[p-ah-rd-uh-n m-ee/m-ahy b-ad] - How are you?Howdy partner?
[h-ow-d-ee p-ah-rt-n-er?] - Fine. And you?Doing good. You?
[d-oo-ng g-oo-d. y-oo?] - Do you speak English?You speak English?
[y-oo sp-ee-k ih-ng-g-l-ih-sh?] - I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
[ah-ee-n't g-eh-t-ih-n ih-t]
- HelloHowdy
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to check out the grub, please
[ah-ee-d l-ike t-oo ch-eh-k aw-t th-uh gr-uh-b, pl-ee-z] - I don't eat meatI don't eat critters
[ah-ee d-ow-nt ee-t kr-ih-t-er-s] - Cheers!Bottoms up!
[b-ah-t-uh-ms ah-p] - I would like to pay, pleaseI'm ready to settle up, please
[ah-ee w-oo-d l-ike t-oo p-ay, pl-ee-z]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to check out the grub, please
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- Help!SOS!
[eh-s-oh-eh-s] - Go away!Scram!
[sk-r-ah-m] - Call the Police!Get the sheriff!
[g-eh-t th-uh sh-ehr-ih-f] - Call a doctor!Summon the doc!
[s-ah-m-uh-n th-uh d-ah-k] - I'm lostI'm turned around
[ah-ee-m t-er-n-d ah-r-ow-nd] - I'm illI'm under the weather
[ah-ee-m ah-nd-er th-uh w-eh-dh-er]
- Help!SOS!
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- I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll take...
[ah-ee-d l-ike t-oo b-ah-y...] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[j-uh-s-t b-r-ow-z-ih-ng] - How much is it?What's the damage?
[w-ah-t-s th-uh d-am-ah-j] - That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
[th-ah-t-s ah b-ih-t st-ee-p] - Can you lower the price?Can you cut me a deal?
[k-ah-n y-oo k-uh-t m-ee ah d-ee-l?]
- I'd like to buy...I reckon I'll take...
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- What time is it?What's the hour?
[w-ah-t-s th-uh aw-er] - It's one o'clockIt's on the dot
[ih-t-s aw-n th-uh d-ah-t] - Half past (10)Ten thirty
[t-eh-n th-er-t-ee] - MorningMornin'
[m-aw-r-n-ih-n] - AfternoonAfternoon
[ae-f-t-er-n-uw-n] - EveningEvenin'
[iy-v-n-ih-n] - YesterdayYest'day
[y-eh-s-t-d-ey] - TodayToday
[t-uh-d-ey] - TomorrowTomorrer
[t-ah-m-aw-r-er] - 1One
[w-ah-n] - 2Two
[t-oo] - 3Three
[th-r-iy] - 4Four
[f-oh-r] - 5Five
[f-ay-v] - 6Six
[s-ih-k-s] - 7Seven
[s-eh-v-eh-n] - 8Eight
[ey-t] - 9Nine
[n-ay-n] - 10Ten
[t-eh-n]
- What time is it?What's the hour?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's the... at?
[w-ehr-s th-uh... at?] - What's the address?What's the place?
[w-ah-t-s th-uh pl-ey-s?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point me out?
[k-ah-n y-oo p-oy-nt m-ee aw-t?] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next ride?
[w-eh-n-s th-uh n-eh-k-s-t r-ay-d?] - A ticket (to ....)A pass (towards ...)
[ey p-ah-s (t-ow-er-d-z ...)]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the... at?
History of Big Sky Resort
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Big Sky Resort was founded by Chet Huntley, a renowned television news anchor, in 1973. Huntley envisioned a premier ski destination in the heart of Montana, nestled in the Rocky Mountains. The resort opened its doors on December 15, 1973, quickly gaining popularity among ski enthusiasts for its expansive terrain and breathtaking scenery.
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In its early years, Big Sky Resort focused on developing its infrastructure and expanding its skiable terrain. The resort initially opened with just a handful of lifts, but by the late 1970s, it had already begun to add more lifts and trails. The Lone Peak Tram, which takes skiers to the summit of Lone Mountain at 11,166 feet, was completed in 1995, significantly enhancing the resort's appeal.
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In 2013, Big Sky Resort merged with the neighboring Moonlight Basin resort, creating one of the largest ski resorts in the United States. This merger expanded the skiable terrain to over 5,800 acres, offering a diverse range of trails and experiences for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
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While Big Sky Resort is primarily known for its winter sports, it has also developed a reputation for summer activities. In the 1990s, the resort began to offer mountain biking, hiking, zip-lining, and other outdoor activities, transforming it into a year-round destination. The Big Sky Golf Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, opened in 1974, further diversifying the resort's offerings.
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Big Sky Resort has played a significant role in the growth and development of the local community. The resort has been a major driver of economic growth in the area, attracting visitors from around the world and supporting local businesses. The annual Big Sky PBR (Professional Bull Riders) event, which started in 2011, has become a major cultural event, drawing large crowds and showcasing the area's western heritage.
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Big Sky Resort has made significant efforts to promote environmental sustainability and stewardship. The resort has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, including energy-efficient snowmaking systems and waste reduction programs. In recent years, Big Sky has also partnered with local organizations to preserve the natural beauty and ecological health of the surrounding area.
Big Sky Resort Essentials
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Big Sky Resort is located in southwestern Montana, approximately 50 miles southwest of Bozeman. The nearest airport is Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service directly to the resort. The drive takes about an hour and a half via US-191 S. Alternatively, there are private and shared shuttle services available that can be pre-booked.
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Once at Big Sky Resort, the most convenient way to get around is by car. The resort offers ample parking, and there are several car rental agencies in Bozeman. During the winter season, a free shuttle service operates within the resort and to nearby areas, making it easy to get to the slopes and other attractions. For those staying at the resort, many amenities and activities are within walking distance.
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The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Most establishments at Big Sky Resort accept credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. ATMs are available within the resort for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and tips.
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Big Sky Resort is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as securing your valuables and being aware of your surroundings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is advisable to avoid isolated areas at night.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The resort has a medical clinic that can handle minor injuries and illnesses. For more severe medical issues, the nearest hospital is Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital, located about 50 miles away in Bozeman. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers, as weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Always wear appropriate footwear for hiking or skiing. Religion: There are no specific religious customs to be aware of, but always respect local traditions and practices. Public Transport: Do use the free shuttle service provided by the resort. Don't rely solely on public transport for getting to remote areas. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' A firm handshake is also appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Montana cuisine, including bison and trout. Don't forget to stay hydrated, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.
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To experience Big Sky Resort like a local, visit the Lone Peak Brewery for a taste of local craft beer. Attend one of the farmer's markets in summer to enjoy fresh produce and local crafts. For a unique experience, take a guided snowshoe tour or a horseback ride through the stunning Montana wilderness. Don't miss the chance to visit Yellowstone National Park, just an hour's drive away, for an unforgettable natural adventure.
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