When it comes to skiing, Big Sky, Montana, has made a name for itself, particularly in the past few years, as Big Sky Resort ramped up its operations to what is now the most technologically advanced lift system in North America.
In 2025, Big Sky completed a two-story, glass observation deck – called Kircliff – sitting on top of Lone Peak at 11,166 feet. The new Explorer Gondola transports visitors to the Lone Peak Tram, which rises above the cliffs of Lone Peak, offering onlookers a ride to the observation deck. From there, they can enjoy breathtaking views of two national parks and three states. It’s an incredible experience, and one that will continue during the summer months as well.
Over the past decade, Big Sky Resort has upgraded its lifts, replacing aging ones with larger, faster, and more comfortable models featuring heated seats and enclosed bubbles. On top of its 5,850 acres of terrain, the advanced lift system spreads skiers throughout the mountain, making lift lines quick and the elbow room vast.
Updated dining, plenty of apres’ ski options, and live entertainment make Big Sky Resort a dream for any age and ability.
Once you decide on your dates, be sure to purchase your Big Sky lift tickets in advance. Multiple-day passes offer the best daily rate, and booking early ensures the lowest guaranteed price.
We highly recommend staying in the Bozeman area for your trip to Big Sky for a few reasons:
It’s generally more affordable, with more lodging options than Big Sky
It has more dining, nightlife, and entertainment options for those who want to do more than ski on their vacation
It’s conveniently located between the Bozeman-Yellowstone International Airport and Big Sky, with a local bus that can take you directly to Big Sky for $5 one way
In the Bozeman area, Four Corners and Gallatin Gateway are the most convenient neighborhoods because they’re right next to the highway to Big Sky. The newly built Home2 Suites by Hilton in Four Corners offers complimentary hot breakfast, EV charging, and in-room kitchenettes. Gallatin River Lodge is a lovely option for those who want to immerse themselves in peaceful, rural surroundings. Or the Field and Stream Lodge is centrally located, with a fresh design, in-house dining, a gaming room, an indoor pool, and an outdoor hot tub and fire pits. It’s just down the road from the Elm, Bozeman’s premier live music venue, and a mile from Downtown Bozeman, which is known for the incredible food, shopping, and live entertainment.
Once you’ve settled into your hotel, you may want to visit one of the local sporting goods stores for any last-minute needs. Round House Sports Center offers top-notch gear, including rentals. Stio Mountain Studio has a storefront in downtown, and Play It Again Sports has a variety of new and used equipment.
This is also a great time to explore Bozeman. Museum of the Rockies and the American Computer and Robotics Museums are fascinating. If you’re a hockey fan, Gallatin Ice features the Montana State University hockey team, Bozeman Ice Dogs, and Bozeman Stingers, who play throughout the winter.
Bozeman boasts a plethora of breweries, distilleries, a cider house, and a meadery. For a casual and delicious dinner, stop by Mountains Walking Brewery — they have a fantastic selection of beer and seltzer, and great food including wood-fired pizza.
Skyline, a local bus service between Bozeman and Big Sky Resort, offers a relaxing ride to the hill so you don’t have to worry about driving through the icy canyon on your own. Buy a ticket for just $5.00 (cash only) one way, or purchase a transferable pass for your whole group. Once there, rides around Big Sky are free.
For those who can’t wait to hit the slopes, Big Sky Resort offers Early Access skiing on Ramcharger 8 an hour before the lifts officially start spinning.
There are two ways to get to the mountain: Mountain Village and Madison Village. Mountain Village is the main base, where most of the on-mountain dining, shopping and entertainment are. Madison Village is a bit farther up the road and is a quieter, more low-key experience. Regardless of where you begin, you’ll want to explore both sides of the mountain.
Big Sky offers Mountain Host Tours and Tips, a complimentary tour of the mountain from local volunteer skiers and riders. Tours are roughly 90 minutes, and give intermediate and advanced skiers and riders directions, information, and recommendations for getting around the resort. They meet twice a day just to the right of the Swift Current lift — look for the green coats!
Private lessons and tours are also available for those who would like a more personal experience.
On-mountain dining ranges from casual to upscale, and all of it is delicious. Everett’s 8800 sits at the top of Ramcharger 8, and is a lovely fine dining experience with elegant food and wine menus and views that can’t be beat. (It is popular, so reservations are required; however, the experience is open to anyone, whether you are skiing or not.)
After skiing, don’t miss Bozeman Hot Springs to soak those sore muscles! Located in Four Corners, there are twelve pools, both indoor and outdoor, with a range of temperatures including a cold plunge, plus steam and dry saunas. Watch the schedule for live music while you soak!
The Market near Ferguson Ave has plenty of dinner options, includingMerry Piglets Tex-Mex,Hachi Sushi Pub,Tanglewood American Bistro,Liberty Burger, andSidewinders American Grill!
By now, you’ve got a taste of the big mountain skiing at Big Sky Resort, and you’re likely ready to hit the slopes again!
For a grab-and-go breakfast, Aurore French Bakery, with locations in Four Corners and the Baxter Hotel in Bozeman, offers both savory and sweet options.
During your second day at Big Sky, you’ll want to explore your favorite areas in more depth. With 320 named runs, 40 chair lifts, and six terrain parks, it’s hard to hit them all — but don’t worry, the lifts move quickly and you can easily ski around the mountain in the course of a day.
Watch for live music at the Umbrella Bar, or enjoy an afternoon beverage on the patio of Headwaters Grill.
Once you’re back in the valley, treat yourself to an evening out on the town. The Jump in Gallatin Gateway has dining, live music, and weekly country dancing! Or, if you’re looking for a good, hearty, Montana-style dinner, The Mint in Belgrade, or Montana’s Rib and Chop House in Bozeman are both excellent local options.
If you’re looking for a little more nightlife, keep an eye on theElm’s schedule for live music options!
One of the lesser-known things about Bozeman is that breakfast and brunch are a big deal. The options are plenty, and the food doesn’t disappoint. Wrap up your adventure with a hearty meal at one of the many local restaurants — the Western Cafe, Main Street Overeasy, or The Farmer’s Daughters cafe are all great choices.
Afterward, explore the downtown shops for a piece to remind you of Montana. You’ll find clothing, art, and jewelry of all styles. You may even find yourself with a new cowboy hat or boots to take home!
Whether you’re visiting Bozeman in winter, spring, summer or fall, Visit Bozeman has you covered! Check out our complete guide and start planning your adventure today!
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