Find a Rustic and Refined Montana Stay in Big Sky

During the winter Big Sky, Montana, home of the third largest ski resort in the United States, is bustling with snow sports enthusiasts. But after the powder melts the town still has a lot to offer. We’ve picked out must-see outdoor spots, the best ways to explore the area, trendy spots to fill up on delicious food, and comfy places to stay for the whole family. Plus, it’s only an hour drive to Yellowstone.

The Best Hikes and Bike Rides in Big Sky

Hike to Ousel Falls in Big Sky, Montana (Photo courtesy Visit Big Sky)

Big Sky is an epicenter for hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, fly fishing and horseback riding. For something easy, check out the 1.6-mile Ousel Falls Trail, which is relatively flat and dog and kid friendly. It ends at the base of a lush, 100-foot waterfall. Birders can keep themselves busy by looking for the American Dipper. This is a popular trail, so if you get to the trailhead and it’s full, head somewhere else. If you need a backup plan two good options are Uplands Trail or Hummocks Trail. Uplands Trail is a moderately difficult, 2-mile climb that rewards you with an incredible view of the Big Sky area and the exposed Huckleberry Ridge Tuff, rocky evidence of a Yellowstone caldera eruption that took place 2.1 million years ago. If you want to make your hike a little harder you can also tack on the Hummocks Trail, which leaves from the same trailhead as the Uplands Trail and offers 3 miles of amazing views. The trailhead for both adventures is less than a mile from Big Sky’s town center, but don’t let the proximity mislead you, bear and moose sightings are common on these trails so be bear aware.

Big Sky is a mountain biker’s paradise (Photo courtesy Visit Big Sky)

If mountain biking is more your speed, look no further. Big Sky Resort becomes a mecca for riders as soon as the snow melts in the spring. You can rent bikes and take them on the chairlift up the mountain for a day filled with downhill fun. The resort offers a wide range of trails, from first-timer friendly flows to expert tech rides.

Take a scenic lift ride to see Big Sky’s majestic peaks (Photo courtesy Visit Big Sky)

Looking for the views without putting in so much work? Big Sky Resort also offers scenic lift rides, making it possible for people of all abilities to enjoy the scenery. However you end up enjoying the outdoors around Big Sky, make sure you recreate responsibly. VisitBigSky.com has lots of information about fire safety, bear and wildlife safety, being prepared and Leave No Trace. These tips and tricks can help you protect the beautiful area around Big Sky so generations to come can continue enjoying it.

Explore Big Sky on a thrilling rafting adventure with Montana Whitewater (Photo courtesy Visit Big Sky)

If self-guided adventures intimidate you there are plenty of guided opportunities that the whole family can enjoy. Canyon Adventures offers a variety of activities including horseback riding, four-wheeling and, in the winter, snowmobiling. Their horseback riding trips are particularly popular and you can pick from one to three-hour adventures through the foothills of Custer Gallatin National Forest. Montana Whitewater is your go-to choice for enjoying the Gallatin River. Whether you’re looking for a scenic float or something more challenging, this company will make river rafting fun for the whole family, ages 6 and up. And you can finish your day with an exhilarating ride on their zip line.

The Best Restaurants in Town Center

Choose from plenty of mouthwatering restaurants in Downtown Big Sky (Photo courtesy Visit Big Sky)

Big Sky’s Town Center has a plethora of restaurants and shops to enjoy. Blindside Burger has a mouthwatering smash burger and old fashioned shakes. For a more upscale experience visit Block 3, the town’s premier steakhouse. On top of having Wagyu beef, they offer a variety of local game like elk, bison and venison. For a truly unique Montana experience, visit Montana Dinner Yurt, offered through Montana Backcountry Adventures. Your evening starts when a large, open air army truck transports you into the wilderness to a secluded yurt where you enjoy an exquisite three-course meal. End the night at Big Sky Scoops with a creamy, sweet bowl of ice cream.

While you’re in Town Center grab a souvenir at the recently expanded JP Woolies with gifts, books, toys and jewelry. Or visit Big Sky Artist Collective to celebrate local artists and support their efforts to build an artists community. And if you forgot to pack something for your outdoor adventures make sure to stop by Gallatin Alpine Sports, fully stocked with all the gear you need to explore the surrounding areas, as well as kayak, bike, canoe, ski and snowboard rentals.

The Best Stays in Big Sky

Book a secluded cabin at Lone Mountain Ranch (Photo courtesy Visit Big Sky)

From hotels to guest ranches to vacation rentals, Big Sky has options. Stay at The Wilson and live like a local, just steps away from shops, restaurants, and bars. Then relax at the end of the day in their heated pool and hot tub while enjoying incredible views of Lone Mountain. Or book rooms at Rainbow Ranch Lodge, a stunning spot that combines world class resort services with the rustic beauty of Montana.

Guest ranches are perfect for the whole family, offering comfort and fun during your stay (Photo courtesy Visit Big Sky)

If you’re traveling with your family consider staying at a guest ranch for the full Old West experience. 320 Guest Ranch, Elkhorn Ranch, Lone Mountain Ranch and more all offer guests a taste of an authentic western lifestyle and a chance to learn about local heritage and traditions.

Getting to Big Sky, Montana and Beyond

Fly into Bozeman, Montana for easy traveling (Photo courtesy Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport)

Fly into Bozeman, Montana and then drive an hour to Big Sky. Staying in Big Sky puts you closer to fishing, hiking, biking, skiing and adventuring. It also puts you closer to Yellowstone National Park, which is only an hour drive from town, making it the perfect basecamp for adventuring. When you stay in Big Sky you get to spend less time in the car and more time doing the things you came to Montana to do.

Plan Your Visit

For More Information:
Visit Big Sky Montana
88 Ousel Falls Road Unit B1 Big Sky, MT 59716
(406) 995-3000
visitbigsky.com

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