Big Sky, Montana is home to the best skiing in America, with around 15,000 people visiting each year during peak season. Whether you’re a valued guest returning for an annual ski trip or Big Sky is your bucket list ski destination and you’re coming to see what all the fuss is about, you’re sure to experience some amazing changes happening in this mountain town. Every season in Big Sky gets bigger and better than ever– with plans for Big Sky 2025, new ski lifts, Big Sky’s BASE, new businesses, and more!
Big Sky 2025
As the Big Sky 2025 vision unfolds, each ski season at Montana’s Big Sky Resort comes with new and improved changes. The 2021-2022 season opened with the brand new state-of-the-art Swift Current 6 – this heated chairlift is now the fastest six-person chairlift in North America.
In addition, Big Sky Resort has now installed new and advanced snowmaking equipment at the top of the Explorer Lift, including two of the seven terrain parks, Swifty Park and The Cache.
Throughout 2022, Big Sky Resort completed enhancements to Mountain Village, elevating the après by adding the new Umbrella Bar, new music, and activation experiences.
Big Sky BASE
Big Sky’s Community and Reacreation Center, also known as “BASE,” is now open! This organization is a nonprofit dedicated to facilitating year-round recreational programs, outdoor spaces, and community partnerships that serve all of Big Sky — enhancing access and quality of life for everyone that lives, works, and plays here.
Big Adventure Safe Environment activities include a climbing and bouldering wall, full gymnasium, workout facility, fitness and wellness programs, meeting and classroom spaces, child play area, an open gathering space, and more.
Chef Emily Hahn is offering private chef services, curated boutique events, cooking class soiree’s, provisioning, personal shopping for clients, and meal preparations.
A brand new dining option at Big Sky Resort, with all-new cuisine options from breakfast to après with expansive indoor and outdoor seating.
Top Destination for Cross Country Skiing
Big Sky, MT is home to Lone Mountain Ranch, voted the #1 Nordic Ski Resort in North America by Cross Country Skier magazine. With around 53 miles of groomed trails and a trail system of 2,200 vertical feet, there is terrain to cover for all abilities and all skill levels. Lone Mountain Ranch has Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) certified instructors to teach all levels, guide tours through the slopes, and provide gear rentals.
Stay with Big Sky Vacation Rentals
Pack your bags and get ready to explore all things new in Big Sky! When you’re done for the day, come home to one of our 125+ luxury vacation rentals where you can sit back, relax, and plan your next adventure.
The most wonderful time of the year is right around the corner and there’s no better place to celebrate a magical holiday season and a cozy white Christmas than Montana’s Big Sky Country! Nestled high in the Madison Mountains between Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park, the small mountain town of Big Sky turns on all the charm in the holiday season with world-class skiing and snowboarding, bucket-list alpine activities off-the-slopes, and the magic of vibey après ski and beloved small-town holiday traditions.
The chances are you can tick off every item on your alpine bucket list in Big Sky, Montana! Best known for the “Biggest Skiing in America”, Big Sky is a winter wonderland with alpine activities for every age and adventure level both on and off the slopes – and endless ways to celebrate the holiday season.
ALPINE ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES
Fill your holidays with once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll never forget in beautiful Big Sky, MT. When you’re not exploring the biggest skiing in America at Big Sky Resort, you’ll find a plethora of unique adventures to add to your holiday itinerary, many unique to Montana’s beautiful Big Sky Country.
Nordic Skiing at Big Sky Resort & Lone Mountain Ranch
Whether you’re seeking intimate aprés ski drinks and dinner for romance, a social soiree for the whole family, or a night of live music, DJs, and dancing, Big Sky delivers! Big Sky boasts everything from mountain lodges and slopeside ski bars to breweries, whiskey bars, and local breweries in Big Sky Town Center with live music and festivities for the whole family during the holiday season.
Monday to Friday: Live Music at Montana Jack in the Exchange at Big Sky Resort – 4 PM to 6 PM
Monday & Wednesday: Live Music in Vista Hall in the Exchange – 4 PM to 6 PM
Monday, Wednesday & Friday: Movie Night in the Huntley Lodge Amphitheater – 7 PM
Tuesday & Sunday: Live Music in the Carabiner Lounge at the Summit Hotel – 4 PM to 6 PM
Tuesday & Friday: Kids Crafts in the Huntley Lodge – 4 PM to 6 PM
Wednesday & Saturday: Avalanche Dog Meet & Greet at the Huntley Mountain Side Patio – 4:30 PM
Thursday & Friday: Live DJs at Westward Social in the Exchange – 4 PM to 6 PM
Thursday & Sunday: S’mores in Mountain Village Plaza – 4 PM to 6 PM
The Annual Big Sky Christmas Stroll is a long-standing Big Sky tradition and one of the most popular events of the holiday season. The festivities kick off on Friday evening in Meadow Village Center with Santa and carolers, luminary winter trails for fat biking and cross-country skiing, and family sleigh rides through the meadows.
The traditional Christmas Stroll moves to Big Sky Town Center on Saturday with holiday sales for Christmas shopping, the annual tree lighting ceremony, live music, ice skating, delicious festive foods, and an abundance of joy and good cheer! The Big Sky Christmas Stroll also marks the official start of the ski season, the aprés ski vibe around town is awesome!
At 7 PM make your way to historic Huntley Lodge in the heart of for family photos and Christmas stories with Santa Claus. Gather around the stunning stone fireplace in the cozy Sunken Lobby as Santa shares the enchanting holiday classic “T’was the Night Before Christmas”. The Huntley Lodge restaurants and bars are open for dinner and aprés ski so make a night of it! Reservations are essential.
After photos and stories with Santa, hundreds gather around the base of the Ramcharger 8 and Swift Current lifts in Mountain Village for the Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade on Andesite Mountain. The mountain is illuminated with torch-bearing skiers snaking down the slopes, with a special appearance by Santa and his elves, and fantastic fireworks to end the show. The Ski Torchlight Parade is a rich Big Sky tradition and a delight for all ages – a must-do Christmas event in Big Sky!
Waking up to a snowy White Christmas is simply magical! Whether you choose to indulge in festive family feasts curled up around the fire in your vacation home (check out these amazing Big Sky kitchens), hire a private chef for a catered holiday party, or gather the family together in one of Big Sky’s best restaurants – the options for a memorable Christmas dinner are endless in Big Sky, MT.
Start your New Year’s Eve celebrations with lively slopeside aprés ski at The Exchange in Mountain Village before the New Year’s events begin at Big Sky Resort. The Huntley Lodge hosts a fabulous family-friendly New Year’s Eve buffet in the Huntley Dining Room from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM followed by live music, festivities, and fireworks in Big Sky Resort’s Mountain Village at 9 PM. New Year’s Eve party goers can ring in 2023 with Tsunami Funk bringing the house down at Montana Jack in The Exchange.
Celebrate the Holiday Season with Big Sky Vacation Rentals
Take the hassle out of the holidays and make memories this holiday season with Big Sky Vacation Rentals! With BSVR you’ll find your dream Montana home for the holidays together with exceptional guest services ranging from airport transportation and ski shipping services to grocery delivery and private chefs!
Browse our Big Sky vacation rentals to book online or give our team a call today at (888) 915-2878 to help you plan your holidays in Big Sky, MT. We live here, We Play here, We know Big Sky!
You’ve picked the best destination in the west, Big Sky Montana! Now it’s time to find a vacation home in a neighborhood to suit your vacation style, size and budget. Big Sky is experiencing massive growth with new developments, communities, and vacation rental options being added to the map regularly. One of the most common questions the Big Sky Vacation Rentals team is asked “Where should I stay in Big Sky?”
When deciding where to stay in Big Sky consider a few things – desired proximity to the slopes and resort areas, nearby shopping and restaurants, and the level of seclusion you’re seeking for your vacation. Getting around Big Sky is easy. In season, the free Skyline shuttle bus operates between all Big Sky neighborhoods or choose to stay slopeside at the base of Big Sky Resort and vacation without a car.
The Big Sky community can be broken down into three distinct neighborhoods: Meadow Village, Big Sky Mountain Village, and Moonlight Basin. Big Sky Vacation Rentals feature a selection of 120+ mountain cabins, ski chalets, luxury suites, and custom Big Sky homes with options in every Big Sky neighborhood.
Our vacation rentals can accommodate anywhere from 2 to 28 guests with neighboring properties for large group gatherings or a first-class family reunion in Big Sky! You’ll love the gourmet kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, private hot tubs and fire pits with mountain views, games rooms, and luxury amenities that make BSVR stand out from the rest. Find a neighborhood to suit your style and spend your vacation in luxury with Big Sky Vacation Rentals!
Meadow Village is the first Big Sky neighborhood you reach after exiting US Highway 191 from the Gallatin Canyon. Situated a scenic 7-mile drive (or free shuttle ride) from Mountain Village and Big Sky Resort, and walking distance to Big Sky Town Center, Meadow Village is centrally located to experience both sides of Big Sky – the resort vibe and local community!
Big Sky Town Center has rapidly evolved into Big Sky’s downtown area and is the heartbeat of the local community. The Meadow Village and Big Sky Town Center neighborhood is home to a movie theater, outdoor ice rink, and the biggest concentration of restaurants, cafés, aprés bars, and stores in Big Sky. It’s also the main hub for Big Sky’s most notable local events including the Annual Big Sky Winter Fest.
Big Sky Meadow Village rentals do not have ski-in/ski-out access but you’re only a short drive or shuttle ride to free skier parking at Big Sky Resort. If cross-country skiing is on your Big Sky itinerary, the Big Sky Nordic Center is minutes away and connects to a network of trail systems at Lone Mountain Ranch. Our luxury Spanish Peaks Club condos are minutes from the trails … or seek seclusion in a custom mountain lodge in the meadows. Browse our selection of luxury Big Sky Meadow Village vacation rentals.
If proximity to Big Sky Resort amenities and ski lifts is your first priority, book your stay in Big Sky Mountain Village. The Mountain Village neighborhood sits at an elevation of 7,500 feet at the base of Big Sky’s iconic Lone Peak with majestic mountain views, a vibrant alpine atmosphere, and direct access to everything.
There’s no need for a rental car in Mountain Village! The Big Sky Resort base area is within walking distance with lively après bars, sunny outdoor patios, restaurants, shopping and quick, easy access to 5,850 acres of skiable terrain and endless alpine experiences at Big Sky Resort. With regular service throughout the ski season, the free Skyline Bus Shuttle makes it easy to explore beyond the resort area.
Mountain Village is home to a wide variety of luxury Big Sky vacation rentals with some of the best ski-in ski-out access to Big Sky Resort. Popular ski-in/ski-out neighborhoods in Big Sky Mountain Village include Homestead Chalets, Black Eagle Lodges, Beaverhead Condos, Powder Ridge Cabins, and luxury custom homes on the slopes of Big Sky Resort. Browse our selection of luxury Big Sky Mountain Village vacation rentals.
Encompassing 8,000 acres on the north side of Lone Mountain, Moonlight Basin is a luxury ski-in/ski-out neighborhood and a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This unique Big Sky neighborhood offers the epitome of Montana mountain living with serene surroundings, stunning views of the Spanish Peaks, bountiful wildlife, and luxury slopeside rentals set away from the hustle and bustle of Town Center and Big Sky Resort.
Our luxury vacation rentals in Moonlight Basin have exceptional ski-in/ski-out access to both the Mountain Village and Madison base areas of Big Sky Resort and guests have an option to purchase exclusive membership to Moonlight Lodge with tavern dining, a fitness center, a family lounge, and outdoor pool and hot tub open year-round.
Moonlight Basin is a short drive from Big Sky Town Center and Moonlight Basin with Skyline shuttle stops making it easy to shop, dine, and socialize and return home to quiet seclusion! From classic Cowboy Heaven and Ulerys Lake cabins to magnificent Moonlight Mountain custom homes and lodges, there’s a retreat for every traveler in Big Sky Moonlight Basin. Browse our selection of luxury Big Sky Moonlight Basin vacation rentals.
Many of our vacation rentals are in newer Big Sky neighborhoods and developments and cell phone reception can be spotty driving in the mountains. When driving to Big Sky, please use GPS with care and preferably download directions prior to your travels to avoid ending up in the wrong location! When you stay with BSVR we’re by your side throughout the vacation planning process and our team will send you exact driving directions to your vacation home prior to your arrival to get you there safely.
Explore the best Big Sky has to offer, find the ultimate Big Sky vacation rental, and don’t miss a thing when you download our Big Sky Vacation Guide – all the Big Sky resources you need in one place!
Gathering family members together from near and far is no easy feat and there’s relatives of all ages, abilities and energy levels to consider. A successful family reunion begins with finding a destination that appeals to the oldest family member as much as the little ones and Big Sky has it all!
Big Sky, MT is a family reunion destination that will make every individual in your family happy! Our charming mountain town offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventures, unique year-round experiences, and quality downtime to reconnect with family in the mountains of Montana. Whether you’re seeking an action packed family reunion itinerary or hours of storytelling, s’mores around the campfire, and fun family gatherings at home, you’ll find it all in Big Sky, MT.
Outdoor Activities for Every Generation
Big Sky is an idyllic four season destination, so the next step is to choose your season! Spring has sprung, and it’s a spectacular time of year to visit Big Sky. The snow is melting, the blue-ribbon waters are flowing, the trails are opening up and it’s an exceptional time of year to view Big Sky’s wildlife “springing” to life.
As summer in Big Sky approaches, the wildflowers start to bloom, the mountains come alive, and visitors have an endless option of outdoor activities to choose from – something for the tweens, parents and grandparents. Spend your days golfing, boating on the lake, fishing or rafting the famous Gallatin River, biking, hiking or horseback riding the trails, strolling the farmers markets, and reconnecting with family at one of Big Sky’s awesome summer events! Our Big Sky summer vacation itinerary is a great start for inspiration!
Fall in Big Sky is the perfect season for cooler temperatures and amazing leaf peeping adventures, and for families that love snow sports and activities, winter in Big Sky is a must! Planning a winter family reunion may require a little extra effort to make sure everyone is catered for, but there’s unique winter activities in Big Sky that will leave every family member smiling!
Big Sky Resort boasts the biggest skiing in America with terrain for every ability, easy snowshoe hikes, and miles of scenic Nordic ski trails. You can tick big alpine bucket-list items off in Big Sky with opportunities for sleigh rides, dogsledding, and winter tours of Yellowstone National Park. Here’s our Big Sky winter itinerary to get your started!
No matter what season you visit Big Sky, you’ll find family-friendly eateries and unique dining experiences! The summer months bring sunny skies and live music to the outdoor patios – if you’re visiting in winter, it’s more bucket-list experiences with kid-friendly après ski, sleigh ride dinners, snowcat rides to a candlelit adventure in a secret backcountry yurt, or authentic Texas BBQ with a Montana twist on the Gallatin River.
Getting to Big Sky, MT
Perhaps the hardest part in picking a family reunion vacation destination is finding somewhere that’s easy to get to – for everyone! Big Sky is the most connected mountain destination in the US with over 40 non-stop flights from over 30 destinations landing at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport daily, including all major west and east coast cities. Pick up a car rental and take a scenic drive on Highway 191 up the Gallatin River Canyon or arrange convenient airport transportation to Big Sky.
Once in Big Sky, the Skyline Bus runs 7 days a week with free transportation and stops throughout Big Sky. You can also book your stay in a Big Sky family reunion vacation rental that is within walking distance to all that Big Sky has to offer.
Easy Vacation Planning with Big Sky Vacation Rentals
Big Sky Vacation Rentals have all the lodging options for the ultimate family reunion in Big Sky, MT. Stay together under one roof in a majestic mountain lodge, as neighbors in a modern mountain condo complex, or side by side in cozy mountain cabins on the slopes of Big Sky, MT.
Our portfolio of luxury Big Sky rentals includes modern open layouts and roaring fireplaces for gatherings, trivia nights and talent shows, gourmet kitchens for easy catering, theater rooms for old family movies, game rooms for the whole crew, kid-inspired bunk rooms, Peloton bikes, and platinum property comforts for a hassle-free family reunion.
Big Sky, MT is tucked midway down the Gallatin River Canyon, halfway between historic Bozeman and the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Traveling to Big Sky on Highway 191 (“The Scenic Yellowstone Corridor”), you wind your way along the raging Gallatin River, surrounded by dramatic Rocky Mountain landscapes, miles of secluded wilderness, free roaming bears, moose and bighorn (often on the road), and the grandeur of Montana’s big skies.
But, where did it all begin, who forged these original trails through the mountains, and what led to the success of Big Sky Resort, a world-class ski destination that gets bigger and better each year? Big Sky’s journey dates back thousands of years to Native American hunter-gathers, notorious mountain men, gold miners, homesteaders, and humble beginnings as a purpose built ski town inspired by the dream of one man.
Native American Hunter-Gatherers
The Gallatin Canyon was first explored by Native American hunter-gathers that regularly trekked along the Gallatin Crest. The tribes set up camp on the banks of the Gallatin River, foraging for plant food and hunting for deer, elk and bison that frequented the lush high alpine meadows. While the Gallatin Valley was never claimed by any specific Native American tribes, archaeological studies show many tribes passed through the Big Sky region including Blackfeet, Nez Perce, Crow, Flathead, Sioux, and Shoshone Indian tribes.
Lewis & Clark
In 1804, explorers Captain Meriweather Lewis & Lieutenant William Clark set out to discover new land acquired in the Louisiana Purchase, a voyage that covered more than 8,000 miles and four time zones. Lewis & Clark reached the three forks of the Missouri River in Montana in July 1805, naming the three tributaries – the Gallatin River after Secretary of Treasury Albert Gallatin, the Madison River, in honor of Secretary of State James Madison, and the Jefferson River after President Thomas Jefferson.
The Fur Trade & Gold Rush
Following in the footsteps of Lewis & Clark, next came the European fur-trappers, mountain men, and gold prospectors searching for wealth in the 1862 Montana Gold Rush. Fur trading prospered until 1840, but the trappers and colorful mountain men were only passing through and did not settle in the Gallatin Valley. The gold prospectors did not find their riches in the Gallatin Valley and moved west to Virginia City and Bannack, the site of Montana’s first major gold discovery.
The First Homesteaders
With the expansion of the Northern Pacific Railroad into Bozeman in 1883, rough logging roads were cut through the canyon to transport pine trees to build the railroad. This created a trail for ranchers to drive herds of sheep, cattle and horses over the pass into the Gallatin Canyon. With the 1862 Homestead Act in place, ranchers began staking out their 160 acre homesteads in the meadows along the banks of the Gallatin River, building cabins, and settling in the Gallatin Canyon.
One of these ranchers was Augustus Franklin Crail, the first homesteader in Big Sky. In December 1901, Crail purchased a 160-acre homestead with a small cabin (only $1 per acre), which over the years expanded to a 960-acre working ranch. Today, the ranch land is home to the Big Sky Golf Course, and the beautifully preserved historic Crail Ranch buildings are a local treasure, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grounds are open for walking tours and visitors can take a guided or self-guided tour of the homestead museum with original artifacts, photographs and furniture from the Crail family.
Yellowstone Brings Tourism to Gallatin Valley
Tourism in the Gallatin Valley began as early as the late 1800s. Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872 and local ranchers saw an opportunity, encouraging visitors to Yellowstone to extend their vacation and stay on an authentic Montana dude ranch! Only $12 to stay a week + $6 for a horse.
In 1898, Pete Karst homesteaded just north of Big Sky, setting up Karst Camp, an inn for visitors to Yellowstone with home brewed liquor sneakily served during the prohibition. The historic remains of Karst Camp still stand today with a few original buildings and a short hiking trail leading to an old asbestos mine.
In 1915, Big Sky’s Lone Mountain Ranch was homesteaded as a working cattle and horse ranch and sold twelve years later as a dude ranch for vacationers. Today, visitors to Big Sky can experience a taste of the old wild west with unique experiences at Lone Mountain Ranch, including dog-sledding, Nordic skiing, old-western sleigh ride dinners in the winter, and horseback rides, fly-fishing, hiking, and biking in the summer months.
Montana Skiing Arrives at Big Sky Resort
Chet Huntley, newscaster of NBC’s nightly “Huntley-Brinkley Report”, had a dream to return to his Montana roots, develop a small mountain ski village and golf course, and promote the tourism industry in Montana. At this time, only a handful or ranchers had permanently settled along the West Fork of the Gallatin River.
In 1970, Chet Huntley retired from NBC, purchased Crail Ranch and began to fulfill his dream of building a ski resort in the Rocky Mountains. The historic Crail Ranch buildings were used to house the workers building the resort, the ranch land was transformed to the classic links-style Big Sky Golf Course by Arnold Palmer, and the original Huntley Lodge was built at the base of Big Sky’s iconic Lone Peak. Stop by Chet’s Bar at the Huntley Lodge for a toast when you’re in town!
In September 1973, Ski Magazine made a grand announcement “Montana skiing has arrived!” and in December, Big Sky Resort opened for its first winter ski season with four ski lifts. Sadly, Chet Huntley died of lung cancer shortly after on March 20, 1974, just three days before the grand opening of Big Sky Resort. Here’s a blast from the past – the first promotional video for Big Sky Resort.
Boyne Resorts Acquires Big Sky Resort
In 1976, Everett Kircher, honored as one of the “Top 100 Most Influential Skiers of All Time”, purchased Big Sky Resort expanding Boyne Resorts portfolio of premier mountain and golf resorts. There was a gravel road from Highway 191 to the resort base and one flight to Bozeman, from Billings!
Led by Everett Kircher, Boyne Resorts invented the Boyne Snowmaker and pioneered the design of snow grooming equipment, a technology still used today. In 1981, Boyne Resort’s state of the art snowmaking system was installed at Big Sky Resort guaranteeing good snow conditions all season long. The installation of the Challenger lift in 1988 opened up access to some of the most epic expert terrain in the US, putting Big Sky Resort on the radar of every die hard skier and snowboarder.
In 1995, the construction of the Lone Peak Tram took Big Sky Resort expert skiing to higher altitudes, 11,166 feet at the summit of Lone Peak. The tram increased the vertical drop at Big Sky Resort to 4,350 feet, one of the biggest vertical drops in North America. Dropping into the Big Couloir, a 1,400 ft chute with a 50-degree slope straight from the summit, became a big bucket-list experience for expert rippers and shredders.
Moonlight Basin Ski Resort
In December 2003, Moonlight Basin Ski Resort opened on the northern face of Lone Mountain with 1,900 acres of terrain ranging from gentle cruisers to steep chutes. The development struggled and in 2013, Big Sky Resort acquired Moonlight Basin becoming the “Biggest Skiing in America” with over 5,850 acres of diverse terrain, epic ski runs for all abilities, and uncrowded slopes.
Big Sky 2025 – A Vision for the Future of Big Sky Resorts
In 2016, Big Sky Resort unveiled Big Sky 2025: A Vision for the Future of Big Sky Resorts.
“Big Sky 2025 is an ambitious 10-year vision transforming the Big Sky experiencefrom the moment you touch ground in Montana to the top of Lone Peak.”
To date, completed projects include the installation of the brand-new Challenger 3 chairlift, Powder Seeker 6 (the first state-of-the-art Big Sky Blue Bubble with heated seats), Ramcharger 8 (the first 8-seat chairlift in North America), Swift Current high-speed quad, and new magic carpets in the learning areas (including a Big Sky Blue Bubble magic carpet dome). In 2021, Big Sky Resort completed snowmaking expansion and extensive renovations to the Summit Hotel and Huntley Lodge. Future Big Sky 2025 projects include enhancements to Big Sky Mountain Village, the replacement of the Lone Peak Tram, a new tram terminal with a glass viewing platform at the summit of Lone Peak, a two-stage gondola, and unique on-mountain dining experiences.
As Big Sky Resort continues to add amenities to enhance the overall experience, Big Sky Vacation Rentals are continually increasing our portfolio of hand-picked vacation homes to enhance your stay. Spend your vacation in Meadow Village, the original Crail ranch and homestead, slopeside in Big Sky’s Mountain Village, or in the seclusion of the Spanish Peaks in Moonlight Basin.
Big Sky Vacation Rentals have been welcoming guests to Big Sky for 15 years. We represent the top 125 luxury vacation rentals in Big Sky with exclusive platinum perks, high-end vacation amenities, and exceptional guest services from our local team. We look forward to welcoming you to Big Sky!
The Big Sky Artists Collective is a community of visual artists located in Big Sky and was created out of the group of artists that participated in the First Annual Big Sky Open Studio Tour in December of 2019. That initial event motivated the artists to work as a group to promote local artists.
The mission of the Big Sky Artists Collective is to support, inspire and promote local artists in the community by building a community of artists who live and/or work in the Big Sky, MT area.
Their vision is that by working together with the Arts Council and the Chamber of Commerce of Big Sky, along with local businesses they can build a more vibrant visual arts community that celebrates local artists, and provides art and educational resources for both the residents and visitors of Big Sky.
Maria S Westlandis inspired by her love and affinity for the countryside and she creates her artwork using oil on canvas or board to share the beauty of creation, the blessings and intensity of the life she experiences in nature.
Maggie Shane is an artist and life-long creative soul. Painting has become her passion, a place to reflect, relax and release the inner artist. She utilizes a water-based medium on canvas and paper to produce representational landscapes and florals.
Heather Rapp is a local Big Sky artist who paints abstract landscapes and wildlife. Her style is attributed to the roughness of a palette knife, the use of a spray bottle in dripping & layering vibrant saturated colors, and mixed media & mark making.
Jake Mosher is a full-time nature photographer living in Bozeman, MT. His work has appeared across the globe and he believes that in nature nothing is ordinary. “The world,” he says, “particularly off the beaten path, is still a wonderful thing to see.”
Annie McCoy is a home-grown Appalachian mountain girl who relishes her time in the wild. She considers herself a traditional plain air artist but not an alla prima painter. She prefers to return day after day to the same location, sometimes taking weeks to complete a painting.
Michelle Kristula-Green creates contemporary mosaics that capture the beauty, austerity and ruggedness of the natural world, using hand cut stone, flint, marble and Italian smalti. Many of her pieces focus on the Yellowstone ecosystem and the wildlife within it.
Kim Eggemeyer paints to capture the play of light and shadow, the reaction of color against color, the beauty of form, and to simplify nature’s complexities. Recording her emotional response to fleeting moments can be elusive, but is an endless source of inspiration and pleasure.
Paul Brourman toggles between his studios in both Evanston, IL and Big Sky, Montana. He draws immense joy pursuing storytelling through the medium of oils in settings such as these. His subjects include portraiture, landscapes, western narratives and abstract works.
Patty Bauchman moved to Big Sky to be surrounded by amazing wildlife and natural beauty. Her main goal with wildlife photography is to observe and catch animal behavior without her presence affecting their actions and to capture a moment that tells a story.
Paul Barmore was fortunate to be mentored by a successful Montana bronze-casting artist as a young welder, which helped solidify his ambition of combining art and welding. From fly-fishing the Gallatin river as a child, to exploring new mountaintops as an adult, he creates art with nature and Montana-inspired themes that any outdoor enthusiast will relate to.
Carol Barmore has been a Montana artist for 32 years. Her love of the outdoors and animals is translated onto the canvas. Carol’s sensitivity to color relationships and love of impressionism has given her paintings a unique style.
Georgia Baker enjoys being outdoors, plein aire painting which creates in her a state of awe. Habitat loss can be devastating for species that are already endangered, but it is a serious threat for countless others as well. She hopes that her work inspires others to help preserve and restore our wild spaces for future generations.
Big Sky offers so much beauty in the natural landscape of the mountains and rivers, all of which is captured by local artists and what better way to see it than to start planning your magical mountain getaway with Big Sky Vacation Rentals. Immerse yourself in the majestic wonders of our Montana mountain town and find inspiration all around you.
March 1st marked the 150th anniversary of Yellowstone National Park, America’s first National Park and one of the top visited parks in the country!
Yellowstone National Park spans over 2 million acres and is home to historic & cultural sites, over 1,100 miles of trails with boardwalks, hidden waterfalls and unique scenery, an abundance of free-roaming wildlife, and over 10,000 hydrothermal sites.
More than half the geothermal features in the world are found in Yellowstone – world-famous geysers, mud pots, natural hot springs, steaming fumaroles, and stunning travertine terraces – and one of the world’s largest volcanos, the Yellowstone Supervolcano lies beneath the surface of Yellowstone fueling many of the hydrothermal features and natural wonders throughout the park.
The History of Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Parks boasts not only natural beauty and iconic landmarks, but a deep history dating back thousands of years. On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act into law, preserving over 2 million acres of wilderness and building a foundation to protect and preserve our natural and cultural treasures for the future.
The human history of the Yellowstone region is also well preserved with historical records documenting thousands of Native American tribes in the area as far back as 11,000 years. Today, the National Park Service recognizes 27 tribes with ties to the Yellowstone Region, and there are now over 63 US National Parks preserving more than 80 million acres of US history.
Top Attractions to Visit at Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park had its busiest year on record in 2021, with a record-breaking 4.9 million visitors to the park – over 1 million visitors entering Yellowstone in July alone!
If you’re looking to escape the crowds, the spring season in Yellowstone offers visitors a unique experience. Wildlife abounds as Yellowstone’s residents emerge from hibernation, tiny offspring stumble through the alpine meadows and grass prairies, waterfalls and rivers flow at their finest with spring melt and there’s a breath of new life at every scenic turn. This is all before you’ve even spotted a hydrothermal feature or famous Yellowstone attraction!
Big Sky is only a 1-hour scenic drive to the West Entrance of Yellowstone and a guided Yellowstone tour is by far the best way to experience Yellowstone’s top attractions and learn the history of the area. If you’re planning a self-guided tour of Yellowstone, here are the top attractions to add to your day trip itinerary as not all Yellowstone attractions are open in early spring.
LOWER LOOP
Firehole River Swimming Area, Fountain Paint Pots – Lower Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Spring – Midway Geyser Basin, Old Faithful & Old Faithful Inn – Upper Geyser Basin, Artists Paint Pots – Norris Geyser Basin, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley for wildlife viewing, Yellowstone Lake & Lake Hotel.
UPPER LOOP
The Upper Loop covers the northern section of the park. Upper Loop attractions include the fumaroles at Roaring Mountain, Mammoth Hot Springs travertine terraces, spectacular wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley, and Yellowstone’s 20-mile long Grand Canyon.
WILDLIFE VIEWING
Yellowstone is home to the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states, with 67 species of mammals including black bears & big grizzlies – wolves, lynx & coyotes – mule deer & white tail deer – moose, elk, pronghorn antelope & the biggest population of bison on US public land. Yellowstone is the only known destination in the US where bison have lived continuously since prehistoric times and is well-known for its bison jams! Keep your distance, males can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and can run at up to 35mph!
Whether you’re seeking a luxury Yellowstone experience with a private tour guide, hiking adventures in the wilderness, a bucket-list wildlife safari of Yellowstone, or a comfortable coach tour for your whole group – you’ll find the ultimate tour of Yellowstone National Park departing right here in Big Sky!
National Parks Free Entrance Days 2022
All National Parks that charge entrance offer FREE admission on select dates throughout the year. The summer opening date for the West Entrance to Yellowstone is April 15th, 2022, and April 16th marks the first day of the presidentially proclaimed National Park Week!
If spring is too soon, you can enjoy the park later in the year as admission to Yellowstone is also free on August 4th (Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act), September 24th (National Public Lands Day), and later in the fall season on November 11th, 2022 (Veterans Day).
Big Sky – Your Basecamp to Yellowstone National Park
Big Sky is an idyllic base camp for all your Yellowstone National Park adventures! Our selection of luxury condos, cabins & homes range from cozy hot tub retreats for just the two of you, to modern mountain lodges with platinum perks and luxury amenities for the whole crew.
Big Sky Resort is one of the “Top-Ranked Ski Resorts in the West” and boasts the “Biggest Skiing in America” with 5,850 acres of terrain for all abilities, 7 terrain parks and some of the best views in the Montana mountains dominated by Big Sky’s iconic Lone Peak.
Our charming mountain town is family-friendly and a prime alpine destination for energetic outdoor adventures or a secluded getaway in a winter wonderland with roaring fires, hot tub soaks, panoramic mountain vistas, spiked winter cocktails, and rejuvenating downtime from the hustle and bustle of daily living.
The best time to ski Big Sky is in February and March! These are the snowiest months in Big Sky with a deep base depth and an average of 4-5 snow days a week! Big Sky Resort is the main attraction with fresh powder stashes for skiing and snowboarding, uncrowded lift lines, heated lifts to keep you happy and warm, and winter activities for the whole family. But the fun doesn’t end on the slopes, there’s so much more to Big Sky than meets the eye.
Getting to Big Sky is easy with regular flights into Bozeman Airport (only 40 minutes away) and airport shuttles and transportation direct to Big Sky. The Skyline Bus runs seven days a week during the winter season, making it easy to get around town once you’re here with several local tour companies available for bucket-list winter adventures in nearby Yellowstone National Park.
Winter season is booking up fast, so start planning your Big Sky winter getaway today with Big Sky Vacation Rentals. Our collection of premier Big Sky chalets and homes are located in the best neighborhoods in Big Sky with ski-in/ski-out vacation rentals to suit every size and style, and exceptional guest services for a last minute winter getaway in Big Sky, MT!
Platinum Collection Ski-in/Ski-out to Big Sky Resort 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, Sleeps 8 Guests
Ulerys Lake Cabins are beautiful ski-in/ski-out lakeside mountain retreats secluded in the pines of Moonlight Basin, with prime access to the slopes of Big Sky Resort. These contemporary ski cabins boast modern chic decor, private hot tubs under the stars, and unlimited views of Lone Peak. Lake Cabin 13 boasts platinum perks, or for a large group getaway to Big Sky book all three cabins and stay close to the slopes, winter activities, and each other.
Ski-in/Ski-out to Big Sky Resort 5 Bedroom, 5.5 Bathroom, Sleeps 12 Guests
This sophisticated and luxurious Big Sky ski home is situated in Moonlight Basin with ski and snowboard access to the slopes from home, beautifully appointed elegant interiors, and luxury outdoor living areas with a private hot tub, stone fireplace, BBQ grill and fireside outdoor seating on an expansive undercover patio. The perfect combination of luxury and location for a Big Sky winter getaway.
Ski-in/Ski-out to Big Sky Resort 3 Bedroom, 4.5 Bathroom, Sleeps 10 Guests
This secluded Big Sky ski chalet sits on an elevated end lot in Moonlight Mountain, steps from the ski slopes and a short drive to Mountain Village and endless Big Sky winter activities. Bull Dogger features modern mountain designer interiors, a luxurious hot tub under the stars, and panoramic Big Sky views from its elevated perch.
Platinum Collection Ski-in/Ski-out to Big Sky Resort 4 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, Sleeps 11 Guests
Powder Ridge cabin rentals provide guests with the best ski access in Big Sky! This Powder Ridge log cabin offers a secluded retreat steps from the White Otter ski access and less than a mile from Big Sky Mountain Village. Featuring elegant décor, high-end amenities, a secluded hot tub, and platinum perks, 13 Oglala will please even the most distinguished visitors to Big Sky.
Platinum Collection Ski-in/Ski-out to Big Sky Resort 6 Bedroom, 5 Bathroom, Sleeps 16 Guests
Homestead ski chalets are situated in Big Sky’s newest neighborhood at the base of Lone Mountain, adjacent to the skier bridge and close to Big Sky Mountain Village. This modern mountain home was decorated by one of Big Sky’s top designers and features contemporary mountain décor, luxury amenities and comforts, a private hot tub with views, and ample space to accommodate large groups comfortably.
If staying on the ski slopes is not an important factor when planning your Big Sky vacation, look no further than Sleeping Bear Lodge, a quintessential mountain cabin near Lone Mountain Ranch and an idyllic base to explore the wilderness around Big Sky. This spacious, custom Big Sky rental offers a secluded setting, all the comforts of home (and more!) and a private hot tub, only a short driving distance to Big Sky Mountain Village and the winter activities at Big Sky Resort.
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.
JULY
Average High/Low in °F: 78/40
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.
AUGUST
Average High/Low in °F: 77/39
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.
SEPTEMBER
Average High/Low in °F: 68/32
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
After a full day of exploring you can retreat to your luxurious, comfortable vacation home for an evening to remember. We proudly boast one of Big Sky’s largest selections of vacation rentals, so you’re bound to find one that perfectly suits your group’s size, style, and budget. Luxuries include private hot tubs, lavish outdoor patios and the best mountain views in Big Sky. Please give us a call today at +1-888-915-2787 or email us at info@bookbigsky.com to inquire, or simply browse through our available properties below.
If Big Sky’s last summer season is any indication of things to come, it’s time to start making your summer plans to visit our charming mountain town! Big Sky comes alive in the summer months with farmer’s markets, outdoor patios for dining, festive summer events, loads of activities for the kids and free family-friendly live music concerts in Big Sky Town Center.
All this fun, yet so easy to find a secluded spot to social distance. Surrounded by miles of pristine Montana wilderness, cascading waterfalls and alpine lakes for a cool dip, blue-ribbon rivers for rafting and fishing, and panoramic vistas of the Madison Mountains and Big Sky’s iconic Lone Peak, Big Sky is the ultimate playground for lovers of the great outdoors.
Our selection of luxury Big Sky vacation rentals range from cozy cabins with big views to chic modern mountain homes in Big Sky’s three main neighborhoods, Meadow Village near Big Sky Town Center, Mountain Village near the Big Sky Resort base area and Moonlight Basin perched on the slopes of Lone Peak. Here’s the top tips from our Big Sky team on how to spend 3 days in Big Sky.
DAY 1: A SCENIC HIKE AND BIG SKY SUNSETS
Breakfast
One of the top reasons our guests choose a vacation home over a hotel is the bonus of a fully-equipped kitchen to prepare your favorites in the comfort of home. We can even arrange to pre-stock your fridge and pantry so there’s no need to rush out for shopping or breakfast and you can start your first day in Big Sky slowly. After all, you are now on vacation!
Hike Around Big Sky
Switch to vacation time on a scenic Big Sky hike. Book a guided family hike to explore the trails at Big Sky Resort, discover the local trails near Big Sky or hike the trails from home if you’re staying slopeside. The Ousel Falls Trail(1.6-mile) is a top family hike near Big Sky or, for a more invigorating hike, the Beehive Basin Trail (7.1-mile) near Mountain Village boasts some of the most breathtaking views in Big Sky as you make your way through summer wildflowers to a glistening alpine lake overlooking Lone Peak.
A Mediterranean Inspired Lunch
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Olive B’s, a bistro-style eatery tucked in a corner of Meadow Village with cozy indoor booths, a scenic outdoor patio and tranquil views of Lone Peak across the Big Sky Golf Course. Olive B’s is also a great place for a lazy Sunday brunch in Big Sky.
Shopping & Sightseeing
Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with our charming mountain town. Big Sky Town Center is a great place to shop for mountain apparel, unique Big Sky souvenirs to take home and homemade goods or fresh produce from the weekly Big Sky Farmers Market in Fire Pit Park.
Dinner
Stroll from Town Center to to Beehive Brewery for the best craft beer in Big Sky before dinner. Reserve a table at Michelangelo’sfor award-winning Italian, or if you are looking for great Asian-inspired food, try out the fresh sushi at the Blue Buddha or drunken noodles at Lotus Pad.
DAY 2: EXPLORE WEST YELLOWSTONE
An Early Start
There’s no time for breakfast in bed today, it’s an early start! Grab a breakfast and coffee on-the-go at Caliber Coffee Roasters in Mountain Village or at Café 191 as you turn onto Highway 191 to Yellowstone.
Day Trip to West Yellowstone
The west entrance of Yellowstone National Park is only 60 miles from Big Sky on a scenic drive along the Gallatin River. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife on the way down as your drive takes you through a corner of the Yellowstone National Park that is home of several wolves. If you caught a flight into Big Sky and don’t have a rental car, there are several options for a guided experience of Yellowstone.
Dinner on the Gallatin River
Stop at Riverhouse BBQ on the way back to Big Sky (45 minutes from West Yellowstone). Riverhouse BBQ is a top attraction with visitors to Big Sky, and a locals favorite! After a long day in the park, you’ll be happy to find a space on the incredible patio overlooking the Gallatin River, enjoy free live music and tuck into world-class BBQ.
DAY 3: BIG SKY ADVENTURES
Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast in bed or a hearty, organic breakfast with fresh, farm-to-table flavors at the Acre Kitchen in Big Sky Town Center.
Escape to Nature
There are endless ways to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Big Sky and today’s the day to pack a picnic and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Book a fly fishing tour with a local guide on our world renowned blue-ribbon rivers, tee off on an award-winning golf course, horseback ride through the wilderness or whitewater raft the Gallatin River.
Lunch
Enjoy a lunch at Copper in Town Center on the way back up the mountain. With an outdoor south-facing patio, a firepit and delicious food, you will be able to refuel in style for the rest of the day!
Big Sky Resort Adventures
Big Sky Resort has fun summer activities for an afternoon of adventures for the whole family with ziplining, disc golf, archery course, outdoor escape room and scenic chairlift rides to miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. The Lone Peak Expedition to Montana’s highest scenic overlook is one of Big Sky’s top attractions but be sure to book in advance.
Dinner on a Ranch
End your 3 day getaway to Big Sky with a quintessential Montana culinary experience at Lone Mountain Ranch, a historic guest ranch just a short drive or bus ride from Big Sky. Sip on summer cocktails in the Saloon Bar, indulge in an evening of fine dining at the Horn & Cantle or surprise the kids with a horse-drawn wagon ride and authentic family-style cowboy dinner.
