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Written by: Bea Pablo, Staff Writer
There are a few places in the world where luxury and wilderness meet so effortlessly. Big Sky, Montana is one of them. With its sweeping mountain landscapes, pristine rivers, and year-round adventure, this destination offers the perfect balance of rugged Montana beauty and refined resort living. Whether you arrive in search of winter powder, summer sunshine, or the crisp colors of fall, Big Sky Resort invites you to experience the best of the American West in every season.
Why Big Sky Resort Is a Must-Visit Destination
Big Sky Resort sits in the heart of southwestern Montana, framed by Yellowstone National Park on one side and the rugged Spanish Peaks on the other. With 5,850 acres of skiable terrain and more than 300 named trails, it ranks among the largest ski resorts in North America. From the summit of Lone Peak, which rises to 11,166 feet, skiers and riders can descend over 4,300 vertical feet to the base area at 7,500 feet. Consistent snowfall averaging around 265 inches each winter, combined with extensive snowmaking keeps conditions reliable all season long.
Families and groups of all skill levels are well taken care of here. Big Sky offers beginner zones with modern lift access, tubing lanes, and progressive learning areas like the Explorer section and the new mid-station center perfect for kids and first-timers. More adventurous guests can explore five terrain parks with more than 80 features, from rails to jumps, designed to suit every level of freestyle rider. The resort’s mix of gondolas, high-speed chairs, and surface lifts means smooth access across its vast landscape. With the Ikon Pass, you will have seamless access to all of this terrain, plus priority entry to Big Sky’s extensive lift network, including gondolas, high-speed chairs, and surface lifts, so you can spend less time waiting and more time enjoying Montana’s legendary slopes.
For those chasing Big Sky’s signature thrill, don’t miss the 6-mile Liberty Bowl run or the ride up the state-of-the-art Lone Peak Tram. From the summit, sweeping views stretch across the Madison Range and into Yellowstone, a true bucket-list moment for mountain enthusiasts.
But Big Sky isn’t just a winter paradise, it is a four-season mountain playground. In the summer, the same peaks transform into trails for hiking and mountain biking, rivers for fly fishing and rafting, and wide-open spaces for horseback riding and golf. Fall brings golden aspen leaves, crisp mountain air, and fewer crowds, while spring offers a quieter escape perfect for spa days and scenic exploration. No matter the season, Big Sky combines modern resort comforts with Montana’s wild, unspoiled beauty, creating an experience that is both world-class and authentically rugged.
How to Get to Big Sky
Big Sky is just an hour south of Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), with direct flights from more than 20 U.S. cities. The scenic drive along Highway 191 through Gallatin Canyon sets the tone for your mountain getaway, with towering pines, rivers, and wildlife along the way.
Private shuttles or car rentals are available, though the free Skyline Bus makes getting around the area easy. Having a car adds freedom to explore Yellowstone National Park, just an hour from Big Sky. For planning, download the Big Sky App for trail maps, real-time lift updates, and weather reports.
Welcome to Your Luxury Mountain Home in Big Sky, Montana
We are proud to introduce our newest Equity Residences villa in Big Sky, Montana, part of the Equity Platinum Fund 2 portfolio. This four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom alpine retreat sits in the heart of Big Sky Resort’s Mountain Village with ski-in/ski-out access via the Poma lift.
The three-level home features hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, and a dramatic stone fireplace on the main floor, alongside a chef’s kitchen and a spacious master suite. Upstairs, two guest bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a lofted office provide room for family or friends. The lower level bunkroom with en suite bath is perfect for kids or larger groups.
With 3,033 square feet of beautifully finished living space, thoughtful details like vaulted ceilings, walk-in closets, and wood-burning fireplaces, outdoor hot tub, plus unbeatable slopeside access, this home is more than a mountain lodge, it is a Montana escape designed for every season. You can view the residence here.
What to do in Big Sky
At Big Sky, adventure does not end when you step off the slopes, it simply takes a new form. From cultural events that bring the community together to outdoor activities that showcase the beauty of Montana’s mountains, there is always something to experience year-round.
Skiing in Big Sky, Montana
Kirckiff
For the first time, anyone, whether on skis or simply on foot can stand at the summit of Lone Peak and step inside Kircliff, a breathtaking two-story glass observation deck perched at 11,166 feet. Extending out over ancient terrain, Kircliff offers a panoramic sweep of the Greater Yellowstone region, where endless mountain ranges stretch toward the horizon. It’s more than a viewpoint, it is a moment of awe and stillness that redefines what it means to experience Montana’s high country.
Summer in Big Sky
The Big Sky Resort Golf Course, an Arnold Palmer–designed course, just 15 minutes away for world-class mountain golf, sits at 6,500 feet with views of Lone Peak and the Gallatin River. Open mid-May through September, it offers 9- and 18-hole rounds, a practice range, and seasonal memberships.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore hiking, mountain biking, ziplining, horseback riding, kayaking at Lake Levinsky for other summer recreation, fly fishing, disc golf, and archery. Events like Dirt Days Downhill Race Series, The Big Sky Biggie, and The Rut bring athletes and festive energy to the mountains. Yellowstone National Park is a convenient day trip for summer exploration. You can explore the full range of summer adventures here.
Winter in Big Sky
Winter in Big Sky is legendary. Ski or snowboard world-class terrain, ride the Lone Peak Tram, or stroll through the Enchanted Forest. Cross-country skiing and Guided Snowshoe Tours offer quieter experiences, while Sno-Go biking and dog sledding provide unique ways to explore the snow. Yellowstone’s winter wonderland is also accessible for day trips. You can explore the full range of winter activities here.
After a day of adventure, Solace Spa & Recovery Lounge offers a sanctuary to restore body and mind. Guests can enjoy soothing massages, rejuvenating facials, and customized body treatments designed to ease tired muscles after skiing, snowshoeing, or riding the snowmobile. The spa also features Therabody recovery equipment, allowing athletes and guests to recover and refresh. With tranquil treatment rooms and cozy relaxation areas, Solace Spa provides a serene escape for unwinding and preparing for another day in Big Sky’s winter wonderland.
Walking through the Enchanted Forest in Big Sky on a winter night
We highly recommend going to Lone Mountain Ranch for a Sleigh Ride Dinner. Ride through the snowy forest in a sleigh pulled by a team of beautiful horses who call the ranch home year-around. Get transported back in time for a dinner full of community chatter and the most delicious food cooked on a stove that is over 100 years old. This is a must-do experience when visiting Big Sky!
Where to Eat in Big Sky Resort
After a day in the mountains, Big Sky makes sure the dining is just as memorable as the scenery. The resort has an impressive mix of restaurants, ranging from fine dining on the slopes to lively après-ski lounges and casual spots perfect for families. Here are some of the standout places to enjoy during your stay at Big Sky Resort:
Cafés and Quick Bites
Start your mornings with something simple yet satisfying. Mocha in the Huntley is a convenient stop for Starbucks coffee, freshly baked pastries, and grab-and-go snacks that get you out the door quickly. For those who prefer a more artisanal cup, Treeline Coffee Roasters brings small-batch, locally roasted coffee from nearby Bozeman right to the heart of Mountain Village, a perfect place to linger over a cappuccino before the day’s adventures. If you’re traveling with family or a group, Vista Hall is a favorite choice. This modern food hall serves up seven different cuisines, making it easy for everyone to find something they will love.
Casual Dining and Après
Bunker Deck & Grill is a favorite for relaxed, al fresco dining with views of the golf course and Lone Peak, serving everything from breakfast to dinner on one of the best decks in town. Carabiner Lounge offers a more lively atmosphere, where live music, craft cocktails, and a globally inspired menu make it a natural gathering spot. Families often gravitate toward Chet’s Bar & Grill, where hearty Montana classics are paired with local beers in a rustic tavern-style setting that feels both cozy and authentic.
If you are looking for a touch of European flair, the Umbrella Bar delivers with its glass-enclosed design and 360-degree mountain views. It is the perfect place for après drinks. Westward Social adds a more modern twist to the dining scene, with elevated comfort food, creative shareable plates, and craft cocktails served in a vibrant indoor-outdoor setting that overlooks Mountain Village.
Signature Dinner Experiences
Everett’s 8800 takes you high above the resort, literally. After riding the heated-seat Ramcharger 8 lift, you’ll arrive at 8,800 feet to enjoy alpine-inspired cuisine and an award-winning wine list, paired with sweeping views across the mountains. For those seeking a more adventurous evening, the Montana Dinner Yurt is an experience like no other. A snowcat carries you into the forest, where a cozy yurt awaits with live music, sledding for the kids, and a hearty three-course dinner.
Plan Your Big Sky Getaway
With the addition of our newest Equity Residences home in Big Sky, Montana, you now have access to one of the most iconic mountain destinations in North America. This luxury retreat places you at the heart of year-round adventure, world-class skiing in the winter, championship golf and outdoor exploration in the summer, and Yellowstone National Park just a short drive away.
There’s never been a better moment to experience Big Sky. Reach out to us at info@equityresidences.com.
