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July 21, 2022November 1, 2024

How To Plan A Big Sky Vacation This Winter

It’s no secret that Big Sky, Montana is booming! Big Sky Resort unveiled Big Sky 2025, a 10-year plan to invest $150-million and transform the resort and town of Big Sky into one of the top luxury alpine destinations in the US – “from the moment you touch ground in Montana to the top of Lone Peak”.

As the final chapter of Big Sky 2025 unfolds, visitors to Big Sky Resort are welcomed with a world-class alpine experience, some of the most advanced chairlifts in the world, luxury on-mountain dining, and the soul and hospitality of a charming Montana mountain town community.

SKI Mag has named Big Sky Resort one of the “Best Ski Resorts in the West”. Big Sky boasts the perfect blend of epic skiing and snowboarding (the Biggest in America!), outdoor activities beyond the slopes, vibey restaurants and aprés ski, and close proximity to Yellowstone National Park for bucket-list winter tours and experiences.

1. PICK YOUR DATES

If you’re planning your trip around a ski vacation, Big Sky Resort opens on Thanksgiving and celebrates the last day of the ski season mid-April. Snowfall is unpredictable but with Big Sky’s snowmaking expansion efforts, you’re always guaranteed a snowy slope! Our guide to the Best Time to Ski in Big Sky will help you find the perfect conditions to suit your ski style.

If you’re visiting Big Sky to experience the outdoor activities beyond the slopes, Big Sky’s guided alpine activities and experiences and winter tours to Yellowstone operate from December to March.

2. ARRANGE YOUR TRAVELS

Whether you’re planning a family road trip or fly-drive vacation, it’s easy to get to Big Sky. Big Sky ranks as one of the most connected mountain destinations in the US with 40+ non-stop flights from over 30 destinations on the east and west coast. Reserve your car rental well in advance (demand is high!) or arrange ground transportation from Bozeman to Big Sky – and book a central Big Sky rental that doesn’t require a car.

Our guide to Getting To & Around Big Sky will give you all the information you need to plan your transportation to and around Big Sky.

3. PLAN YOUR BIG SKY TOURS & ACTIVITIES

The team at Big Sky Vacation Rentals are local and know the best places to stay and play in Big Sky! Download our Big Sky Vacation Guide for the most up to date local area resources and information, choose from our easy 3-Day and 5-Day winter itineraries, or customize your own Big Sky winter vacation bucket-list.

Big Sky Resort

With 5,850 acres of terrain over four mountains, seven snow parks with over 100 features, and the most technologically advanced lift network in North America, Big Sky Resort is unbeatable for skiing and snowboarding. The Big Sky ski school offers group and private lessons for all abilities, guided on-mountain experiences with a pro, and kids camps for little rippers as young as three.

When you’re not riding the slopes, there’s endless options for on-mountain dining and vibey slopeside aprés ski (with plenty family-friendly options too!). Save time and reserve lift tickets early, arrange gear rentals delivered for delivery (or ship your own gear), and find a luxury vacation rental near Big Sky Resort with Big Sky Vacation Rentals.

Off Slope Winter Activities

Whether you’re a non-skier or balancing your vacation time between the slopes and the wilderness of the Montana mountains, Big Sky has outdoor adventures for every type of traveler. Snowshoe the peaceful winter trails, fly fish for winter trout on the Gallatin River, snowmobile or dog-sled the canyons and mountain peaks, or plan a classic, western style sleigh ride dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch. Off slope winter activities abound for all ages and adventure levels in Big Sky.

Big Sky Town Center

Big Sky Town Center is the heart and soul of the Big Sky community. Situated near the Big Sky Nordic Center in Meadow Village, Town Center has the biggest selection of restaurants, breweries and festive aprés ski bars in Big Sky with daily happy hours, live music, and award-wining cuisine. For family fun (or a romantic swirl), the outdoor ice rink is open daily during the winter season.

Yellowstone National Park

A vacation to Big Sky is not complete without a winter tour of Yellowstone National Park. Located only 50 miles from the West Entrance to Yellowstone, Big Sky is the ideal base camp for winter exploration of America’s oldest and most visited national park. Whether you plan to sightsee from the comfort of a heated snowcoach or on a thrilling snowmobile tour of Yellowstone, visitors are spoilt for choice for winter tours of Yellowstone departing directly from Big Sky.

4. CHOOSE YOUR BIG SKY NEIGHBORHOOD

Now you have your bucket-list of Big Sky activities, it’s time to choose a neighborhood to match your needs. Stay walking distance to Big Sky Resort in Mountain Village, near Big Sky Town Center in Meadow Village or slopeside overlooking the Spanish Peaks in Moonlight Basin. View our Big Sky Neighborhood Guide to find the neighborhood that fits your needs the best.

5. BOOK YOUR STAY WITH BIG SKY VACATION RENTALS

Come play in Big Sky this winter – but don’t leave your trip planning to the last minute! From cozy Cowboy Heaven cabins for two to luxury ski in ski out mountain lodges with unparalleled platinum perks, Big Sky Vacation Rentals represent the top luxury properties in Big Sky and Moonlight Basin with exceptional guest services from a local team.

For a personal pick of the best ski rentals in Big Sky and to secure the Montana mountain home of your dreams, book your winter vacation with Big Sky Vacation Rentals. We live here, we play here, we know Big Sky!

November 15, 2021November 1, 2024

The Perfect 5-Day Big Sky Winter Itinerary

Big Sky Vacation Rentals offer a hand-picked selection of over 125 luxury vacation rentals in prime locations throughout Big Sky. We’ll find you the perfect home to suit your Big Sky vacation itinerary and assist with vacation planning to ensure your 5-day getaway to Big Sky is a special experience.

To help you plan your stay, our local team has put together the best of Big Sky from dining, après-ski to the best activities! Here are our suggestions for unique ways to experience the best of Big Sky in 5 days.

Day 1 – Stay Local in Big Sky

Slopeside Breakfast

Day 1 deserves a slope side breakfast at Big Sky Resort to get your bearings and switch slowly to mountain time. Vista Hall is Big Sky’s newly renovated food court with views of the ski runs, inviting fireplaces and a delicious European style café & bakery with fresh roasted coffee and breakfast pastries to start your day.

Ski Big Sky Resort

Big Sky Ski Resort boasts 5,850 acres of terrain with over 400 inches of the greatest snow on earth, groomed runs for every skiers and snowboarder in your group and extreme off-piste skiing for the adventurous. With 39 lifts and over 300 named runs ranging from wide-open groomers to challenging steeps, we suggest you plan your day on the slopes in advance!

Lunch

If the conditions are good and the adrenaline is rushing, make a quick pit stop at Yeti Dogs in Mountain Village for quick service and the best hot dogs in Big Sky or ski-in to warm up at The Exchange. The Vista Hall food-court has plenty of options for you to enjoy.

A Local Big Sky Dinner

Big Sky Town Center and Meadow Village have many enticing eateries ranging from wood-fired pizza at Ousel & Spur to traditional Asian and Thai cuisine at Blue Buddha or Thai Basil and elegant fine dining. Whether you’re visiting Big Sky with kids, friends or your beloved beau, you’ll find the perfect dining experience locally in Big Sky.

Late Night Drinks

Save space for dessert and after dinner drinks at The Waypoint, Big Sky’s best cocktail lounge. The Waypoint is Big Sky’s hottest new après ski spot with a selection of local beer and wine, over 50 hand-crafted cocktails, warm, spiked after dinner drinks, and a delicious dessert bar.

Day 2 – Big Sky Backcountry

Breakfast in Meadow Village

Start your day with a hearty and nourishing organic breakfast at Cowboy Coffee, a trendy eatery in Meadow Village. Cowboy Coffee offers a fun and flavorful farm-to-fork experience with all you need to fuel your day of adventures in Big Sky’s beautiful backcountry.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling in Big Sky is a must-do experience and is geared for the whole family. Play in the powder fields and open meadows of Gallatin Canyon on a Big Sky snowmobiling adventure with Canyon Adventures or take it full throttle and book a guided snowmobile tour of Yellowstone National Park surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, frozen waterfalls and winter wildlife.

Fireside Après Ski

Let the spirit of adventure continue at Block 3 in Big Sky’s Wilson Hotel. Lounge by the fire with an old-fashioned or sip spicy margaritas, share ski stores with friends round the outdoor firepit and warm up for a night of more Big Sky adventures at one of the best après ski spots in Big Sky.

Dinner in a Yurt

It’s not often you get to ride a snow cat to dinner, sled by torch light with the kids, sing along to acoustic tunes and enjoy a candlelit dinner in a secret Yurt on the slopes of Lone Peak! The Montana Dinner Yurt offers the most unique dining experience in the backcountry of Big Sky. Be sure to book ahead!

Day 3 – Unique Big Sky Experiences

Breakfast

You’ve only scraped the surface of Big Sky’s endless terrain so it’s time to get back on the slopes. Plan your ski day with breakfast at home or gather the crew and start your day slopeside with pancakes or a hearty omelet at the Carabiner Lounge in Mountain Village.

Ski Big Sky Resort

Sharpen your skills at Big Sky’s seven terrain parks or ride the Lone Peak Tram to discover the terrain at the summit of Lone Mountain. While the easiest run off Lone Peak is a steep black diamond, the journey is worth it for the 360-degree views of 3 states, 2 national parks and the spectacular peaks surrounding Big Sky Resort.

Slopeside Lunch

It’s time to take a break to refuel. Mountain Village has lots of ski-in eateries for a quick lunch break (dine in or to-go!) or make your way to the Madison Village Base Area on the Moonlight side of Big Sky for lunch on the slopes at Headwaters Grille.

Cross Country Skiing

Big Sky Brewery Experience

Quench your thirst with a cold craft brew at Beehive Basin Brewery, Big Sky’s newest brewery. Beehive Basin is a seven barrel microbrewery and taproom with a rotating selection of seasonal brews, Big Sky mountain views and a fun ski-town vibe.

Dinner on the Ranch

From a star studded dinner in a yurt to fine dining in a historic Montana ranch lodge! Lone Mountain Ranch offers an authentic Montana culinary experience at the authentic saloon bar and the intimate Horn & Cantle Restaurant. Savor the best of the west, paired with signature cocktails, local Montana beers and an impressive wine list.

Day 4 – Discover Yellowstone’s Natural Wonders

Sunrise Breakfast

With a full day of adventures ahead, it’s an early start! Pick up a quick coffee and breakfast pastry at Caliber Coffee Roasters or a grab-n-go breakfast on your way out of town at Café 191 in Big Sky Canyon Village.

Yellowstone Park Winter Tour

Yellowstone is a natural wonderland that is even more beautiful under a blanket of snow. Only a one-hour drive from Big Sky, Yellowstone is easily accessible and an experience not to be missed. You’re welcomed by vast snow-covered plateaus with free roaming elk, wolves and moose, frozen waterfalls, thermal pools, erupting geysers and spectacular natural wonders.

Take a self-guided tour or book a winter tour of Yellowstone from Big Sky. Yellowstone Guidelines offer snowshoe, cross-country ski and wildlife tours throughout the winter or book a guided Yellowstone tour from Big Sky Meadow Village with Yellowstone Scenic Tours.

Adventures for the Kids

Consider a dog sled adventure through beautiful Moonlight Basin or a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride and family-style dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch. Also try 320 Ranch Sleigh Rides for a unique and once-in-a-lifetime expereince!

Dinner on the Gallatin River

The Riverhouse is a Big Sky attraction and locals favorite! Located just outside of Big Sky (and conveniently on the way home from Yellowstone) on the banks of the Gallatin River, the Riverhouse serves up authentic Texas BBQ with a Montana twist. As they say, “it’s a smokin’ good time” at Riverhouse BBQ.

Day 5 – Create Lasting Big Sky Memories

Breakfast in Bed

You’re exhausted, we get it! There’s so much to do in Big Sky but today it’s breakfast in bed, a soothing hot tub and slow start at home. Big Sky Vacation Rentals kitchens are well-equipped (and pre-stocked if you choose) to whip up a home-cooked meal any time of the day! If you’ve got ski-in/ski-out access to Big Sky there’s no rush at all!

Breathe in the Crisp Mountain Air

It’s your final day in Big Sky so be sure to get outdoors and breathe in the crisp mountain air! This may mean heading back to your favorite ski runs or terrain park, fly-fishing on the Gallatin River, heading off the trails on a backcountry snowshoe hike or early après ski on a sunny outdoor patio. Savor the day and make lifelong memories in Big Sky.

Lunch at the Summit

Wherever you roam, we suggest reserving a table for lunch at Everett’s 8,800 for a Big Sky mountain-top dining experience at the summit of Andesite Mountain. This beautiful timber lodge boasts unbeatable Lone Peak views from the indoor dining area and outdoor deck with roaring fireplaces, exceptional alpine cuisine and an elevated dining experience.

Après Ski

Soak up the Big Sky après-ski scene with one last drink on the mountain. Grab a snack from the Vista Hall food court, enjoy a cocktail or cold brew and get a final picture perfect shot of Lone Peak at the Vista Bar in the Mountain Village Exchange.

Dinner on the Mountain

Enjoy cozy and casual fine dining at the Cabin Bar and Grill, overlooking the ski runs in the heart of Big Sky’s Mountain Village. Delectable Rocky Mountain cuisine, a full bar and extensive wine list, Big Sky views and take-out if you’d prefer to dine in the comfort of your luxury Big Sky vacation rental.

December 16, 2020November 1, 2024

Not Skiing? 8 Things To Do In Big Sky Off The Slopes

Big Sky is known for its world class skiing and snowboarding, with some of the best snow in the country. But what if you’re not here to ski but still want to enjoy the snow and have some winter fun?

Not to worry! The fun in Big Sky doesn’t start at the top of the mountain and end at the base area. Montana provides a variety of activities for all ages and there is always something new and somewhere new to explore. For guests who’ve never stepped foot on skis, family members who want additional options, or skiers and riders who just want to take a day to enjoy something new, Big Sky has something for everyone.

Here are some of our top choices for fun activities in Big Sky when you’re not hitting the slopes….

1. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to get outside and enjoy the beautiful views of Montana. If you get lucky, you might even see some wildlife! Big Sky is tucked in the middle of the Madison Range and with the Gallatin Range and Yellowstone National Park close by, the opportunities to explore are endless. Just grab you pair of snowshoes or rent one at Grizzly Outfitters and go explore the wintery scenery.

More Info Here

2. Cross Country Skiing

Explore the beautiful scenery on over 85 kilometers and 2,200 vertical feet of groomed cross country ski trails right out of Big Sky. Lone Mountain Ranch was voted #1 Nordic ski destination in North America in Cross Country Skier magazine and certified instructors available, they invite skiers of all abilities to venture out on the trails. If you are looking for a more backcountry feel, Big Sky has a large trail network that is suitable for cross country skiing as well, with rentals available through Grizzly Outfitters.

More Info Here

3. Snowmobiling

Conquer the snow in style! Take a snowmobile tour for a couple hours or a full day and enjoy slicing your way through the snowy mountains while taking in the beauty of Montana’s finest. With options around Big Sky and West Yellowstone, expert guides and top-notch equipment, snowmobile companies ensure a safe, enjoyable and memorable experience for you and your whole group.

More Info Here

4. Ice Skating

The free ice skating rink in the heart of the Big Sky Town Center is opening back up on December 1st for the winter, come enjoy an afternoon of the ice with your family and friends! Ice skate rentals are available at Grizzly Outfitters and East Slope Outdoors in Town Center.

More Info Here

5. Dog Sledding

Big Sky offers some of the best dog sledding in Montana! This is truly a unique way to experience the wintry beauty of Big Sky and learn more about the art of dog sledding. Sit back and get ready for an exhilarating adventure that the entire family will enjoy. If you would like to get more involved and learn to mush, Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures offers half day experiences where you get to drive your own sled and team of dogs.

More Info Here

6. Sleigh Rides

Offered from December to March, sleigh ride dinners at Lone Mountain Sports provides a relaxing and magical evening activity for the entire family. Guests load up in a sleigh and are taken on an enjoyable moonlight ride through the snowy landscape of Big Sky to the North Fork cabin for a family-style prime rib dinner, one of the most delicious meals you’ll ever have!

More Info Here

7. Sledding

Skiing and snowboarding aren’t the only ways to fly down the hillsides around Big Sky. Grab a sled at Grizzly Outfitters or Ace Hardware, and enjoy some fast runs down on sleds behind Town Center with the entire family!

8. Winter Tours in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone receives millions of visitors every year, but only a small percentage visit the park in the winter. Without the traffic and the crows, Yellowstone National Park is a magical winter wonderland. Yellowstone snow coach tours are available to several park destinations including Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. If you are lucky you might see a herd of bison, elk and even some wolves!

More Info Here

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