There is a reason Big Sky locals say "Come for the winter, stay for the summer". Not many places top Big Sky's skiing in the winter but Big Sky in the summer is just as amazing! With a wide array of summer activities and dining options that include outdoor decks with views of the surrounding mountain ranges, there is no better place to be for a summer mountain getaway!
This guide will help you decide when to visit Big Sky in the summer.
June is truly the start of Big Sky's summer season and an amazing month to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. The days grow longer while the snow starts to melt which turns the hillsides green and the wildlife is out in abundance. With most of Big Sky Resort's activities open in late May and June, you can enjoy your time on the mountain hiking or biking, or take a day to golf Big Sky Resort's award winning golf course. It is also a great time to visit Yellowstone National Park and explore its spectacular geysers as you will miss the summer rush of visitors and get to watch the wildlife during calving season, from Grizzlies, to Bison and Elk.
Big Sky truly comes alive in July as the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is packed with weekly music, farmers markets, festivities and events like the PBR (Professional Bull Riding). From hiking to waterfalls, to summiting the surrounding mountain peaks, or biking on town trails and rafting and fishing the world-renowned Gallatin River, the opportunities to adventure are endless when it comes to exploring the great outdoors of Big Sky! The warmer nights are also perfect for star gazing around a fire while reminiscing about your day with family and friends.
The beautiful summer weather continues into August in Big Sky but with less crowds towards the end of the month as kids return to school. Visit our weekly farmers markets and listen to live music in the mountains as there is no better time to explore Big Sky's great outdoors. If you are looking for an outdoor adventure, enjoy whitewater rafting, horseback riding, ATVing, hiking, biking, SUPing or Big Sky Resort's activities at the Mountain Base. For a more relaxing stay, enjoy a day at the Spa, take a sight seeing tram to the top of Lone Peak or wander through town to visit our local shops and restaurants.
The summer in Big Sky winds down in September. The crowds are thinning out, the temperatures start to get cooler, and you might be lucky to experience the rare first snowfall in Big Sky in late September. As the colors change, the wildlife becomes abundant before hibernation later in the fall. Big Sky Resort stays open until the end of the month, so make sure you take a scenic lift ride up to the top of Lone Peak or enjoy a guided hiking tour on the mountain. Get out into the canyon to fish the world-renowned Gallatin or Madison rivers with a fly fishing guide, as the fishing is phenomenal in September. This is also a great time to head to Yellowstone National Park, as you will miss the busy summer months and can enjoy the park without the crowds.
The perfect place to relax after an adventure