Big Sky is the perfect destination for a 48-hour getaway. From some of the best skiing in North America to delicious dining and exciting entertainment, there’s no shortage of fun to be packed in to a weekend. View our tips below for how to best maximize your winter weekend in Big Sky.
Getting to Big Sky
Big Sky has a perception as being remote and largely undiscovered. While both of those things are true, it must also be noted that getting to Big Sky is really quite easy. The Bozeman International Airport is just over and hour drive from Big Sky and services many daily flights from all across the country. You can easily fly into Bozeman from major hubs like Dallas/Ft. Worth, Chicago, New York and recently added: Long Beach, Ca. Rent a car to catch a ride South to Big Sky via a winding two-lane road through Gallatin Canyon. An hour later and you’ll be welcomed to Big Sky by the impressive sight of Lone Peak on the Horizon.
Where to Stay
Big Sky offers a great variety of lodging options. The two choices you’ll want to make are: 1. Staying on the mountain vs. in the meadow and 2. Rent a home or condo via a short term vacation rental site vs. staying in a hotel. With any option you really can’t go wrong. If you’re planning to spend the majority of your time skiing at Big Sky Resort, we recommend you stay on the mountain. If you’re more interested in dining, events and cross country skiing we recommend staying in the meadow village area near Town Center.
Friday
Check into you accommodations, rent your necessary ski or snowboard gear from any number of local outfitters and eat a good dinner in Town Center. Drink lots of water! You need to get acclimated to the 7,200-foot elevation to be ready to hit the slopes in the morning.
Saturday
9 a.m. – noon Strap on your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes at Big Sky Resort, featuring the biggest skiing in the Rockies, on one of the most stunning peak profiles outside of the European alps. The resort is partnered with both the Ikon and Mountain Collective pass programs; otherwise purchase your day lift ticket in advance online for the best pricing. Kick off your morning with a ride up the Ramcharger 8, Big Sky Resort’s newest 8-seater lift.
Noon – 12:30 p.m. Grab lunch in the mountain village plaza to get re-fueled. Don’t take too long, there’s still a lot of terrain to cover out there—4,800 acres and more than 245 trails to be exact.
12:30 – 4 p.m. Time to get back out on the mountain! No trip to Big Sky Resort is complete without a trip up the tram to the top of Lone Peak. Take the Swift Current lift to the Powder Seeker bowl chair. Get in line and head up the tram for unbelievable views and amazing skiing on the way down. The tram is open to all guests for scenic rides, so take a ride to the top and back down if you prefer not to ski down.
Saturday Evening
4 – 5:30 p.m. Time to unwind from a long day on the hill with an après ski drink. Scissorbills Saloon and Montana Jacks are local favorites conveniently located slopeside.
7 – 8:30 p.m. Head into Big Sky Town Center in the Meadow village area for a well earned dinner. Try Lotus Pad, Choppers or Alberto’s for a variety of tasty options sure to please your whole group.
9:30 p.m. Call it a night or get in on the somewhat-limited Big Sky nightlife. A quick stroll around Town Center and you’ll find a few cocktail bars, wine bars and pubs.
Sunday
8 – 9 a.m. Start your day off with a delicious breakfast at the Blue Moon Bakery. This little establishment cranks out delicious and affordable bagel sandwiches and fresh-baked cinnamon rolls, along with coffee and lattes. Get fueled up and head back out for another day of adventures.
9 a.m. – noon While Big Sky’s reputation was built on downhill skiing, it’s also a top Nordic ski destination thanks to the 85 kilometers of groomed trails at Lone Mountain Ranch. You can get a full-day trail pass and rental equipment for only $40. Go on your own or schedule a two hour group lesson. Keep your eyes peeled for moose as you cruise through open pastures and wooded forests.
Noon – 1 p.m. For lunch you don’t have far to go, which is good because you’re probably ready to take a load off. Enjoy a delicious meal at Horn & Cantle saloon at Lone Mountain Ranch. Pony up to the bar or settle into a high top by the windows. Everything about the décor and setting is Montana.
1 – 4 p.m. Spend the afternoon relaxing and wandering around Big Sky Town Center. Here you’ll find many local stores to get geared up Montana style, or just grab a few souvenirs to take home. If you decide you need a little more excitement, check out the free ice skating rink in the heart of Town Center.
Sunday Evening
4:30 – 6 p.m. It’s Aprés time again, this time head to Beehive Basin Brewery in Big Sky town center. Cozy up to the bar and choose from the constantly rotating fresh-brewed beers on tap.
7 p.m. – closing The Gallatin Riverhouse Grill, located on the banks of the Gallatin River along highway 191 just south of Big Sky, is where the locals and tourists, river guides and construction workers, snowmobilers and skiers all go. Head out to the dance floor after you chow down on delicious BBQ and enjoy tasty cocktails from the full bar.
Your weekend in Big Sky has been a success! You’ve had a chance to experience the local flavor and get in some great activities. It’s time to start planning your trip back for the summer where you’ll find a fresh variety of totally new and exciting activities to indulge in.