Every month brings something new and exciting in Big Sky, Montana! But you must be thinking, what is there to do while I’m there on vacation?
To help you plan your stay, our local team has put together the best of Big Sky from dining, properties to stay in, to the best events & activities! Here are our suggestions for unique ways to experience the best of Big Sky in May 2025.
BIG SKY MONTHLY VACATION GUIDE
EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
1. Fly Fishing – Fly fishing in springtime can be a great way to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors as the snow begins to melt. The fish are biting big time this time of year, so grab your gear and head out before the crowds do!
2. Wildlife Viewing – Spring is the best season to view wildlife in Big Sky, MT. Baby animals start appearing all over the area, including grizzly and black bear cubs, bison calves, and elk calves. Try visiting Yellowstone National Park for some of the best sightings.
3. Natural Hot Springs – There are dozens of natural hot springs in Montana, and springtime is the ideal time to seek them out. These therapeutic and healing natural hot springs are a relaxing way to enjoy Big Sky Country. Try the Norris Hot Springs or Chico Hot Springs!
DINING GUIDE
1. Michaelangelo’s Ristorante – Situated in Big Sky Meadow Village, Michaelangelo’s Ristorante is an authentic Italian restaurant inspired by award-winning Chef Michael’s culinary training in the Piedmont region of Italy.
2. Montana Dinner Yurt – A unique dining experience with a delicious three-course meal all surrounded by spectacular vistas. Ask our vacation planners for more details as spots book up fast! Plus, they are running off-season special discount rates!
3. Riverhouse BBQ – Situated on the mighty Gallatin River with views of the Spanish Peaks, Riverhouse BBQ features a casual family-friendly vibe, and bucket-list BBQ prepared in the authentic Texas Hill Country style.
FEAtured Properties
1. MVC Cardinal Sanctuary – This pet-friendly cozy cabin is the ideal home base in Big Sky for groups seeking comfort, convenience, and ample space for your four-legged friend! Plus, enjoy the scenic walking path that leads directly out the front yard.
2. Powder Ridge Cabin Moose Ridge 5 – This perfectly placed cabin is the ultimate spot to unwind and enjoy the sounds of the nearby creek and ample opportunities for wildlife watching.
3. Powder Ridge Cabin Rosebud 24 – Pristine forest and mountain views make this luxurious Powder Ridge log cabin the ultimate backdrop when enjoying all the amenities in this home including a private hot tub!
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.
Book direct for the best Big Sky prices or call our vacation experts at (888) 915-2787 to start planning your vacation under Montana’s Big Sky.
Planning a mountain getaway to Big Sky with the kiddos? Big Sky Montana ticks all the boxes for a family vacation – kid-friendly ski slopes (kids 6 and under ski for a discounted rate!), year-round resort activities worthy of a slot on your itinerary, local restaurants and nightlife with a focus on family, and scenery that makes you switch off, slow down, spontaneously explore nature, and de-stress!
As a parent, perhaps vacations are no longer defined by carefree skiing and aprés, summer hikes, spa days, and wine tastings – but it’s your vacation too! Traveling with kids can be exciting and rewarding, but it can also be stressful and challenging – you need to be prepared for everything …. including time-out from the treasured tots and teens!
Big Sky offers excellent local babysitting and childcare options as well as everything you need in baby gear equipment rentals to make your stay comfortable, convenient, and carefree. Our list of suggested and reputable family resources in Big Sky offers the solutions and peace of mind needed when traveling with infants, toddlers, or teens.
BIG SKY CHILDCARE & BABYSITTING OPTIONS
Finding the right childcare for your kids is daunting, especially in an unknown destination. With our local childcare and babysitting options in Big Sky, you can relax knowing your kids are in safe hands and having fun! The bigger kids may even beg you to take another date night! This valuable local service allows you to create your own hours, plan a night out on the town, book a spa day or round of alpine golf, and have the peace of mind of knowing your kids are safe with one-on-one childcare in the comfort of your Big Sky vacation home.
For structured winter child care while you shred the slopes, soak in a spa, or take a long lazy lunch and afternoon nap with your loved one – look no further than Lone Peak Playhouse, Big Sky Resort’s full-service daycare program for ages 6 months to 8 years.
Lone Peak Playhouse has two convenient childcare centers at the base areas of Big Sky’s Mountain Village and Madison Base area offering morning, afternoon, or full-day childcare daily through the winter season. They’ll even coordinate with Mountain Sports School to get the kids off to a ski or snowboard lesson! Lone Peak Playhouse provides a safe and fun environment with social interaction, indoor and outdoor playtime, arts and crafts, dining areas, and nap rooms for infants and toddlers.
Big Sky Sitters is a local Big Sky company with a portfolio of personally interviewed, screened, reference-checked, and experienced CPR-certified sitters for your kids and pets! Whether you’re looking for a daytime or nighttime on-call sitter to care for your kids in your vacation rental (infant and toddler specialists are available), need a tag-along nanny for your adventures, or are looking for an on-site babysitter to lend a hand at a wedding or family reunion event, their childcare and babysitting services offer full peace of mind for your Big Sky family vacation. Make a reservation online and experience a personalized service matching you to the perfect sitter for your kids.
In their own words “finding childcare can be like feeding a finicky toddler”, but not with 406 Nannies in Big Sky, MT. Four O Six Nannies have perfected the process of childcare and offer everything from one-time sitters and in-home nannies for your length of stay to hands-on childcare for events and pet-sitting. All childcare providers have extensive experience and are pre-qualified, fully screened and vetted, and ready to engage with your children while you enjoy your well-deserved share of vacation downtime.
BABY GEAR & EQUIPMENT RENTALS IN BIG SKY
No matter how old the kids are, packing for a family vacation is always a challenge! There’s almost always a long packing list for an infant, toys for toddlers, personal gadgets for the older kids (unless you’ve instilled the art of sharing), gear to get around, and bags of basic essentials that traveling with kids requires. Challenging? Yes, but not when you vacation in Big Sky, MT.
Lighten your load with Big Sky Baby Gear! Big Sky Baby Gear is owned and operated by Kami Hussey, a busy local Big Sky mom with a passion for travel. Simply place your order online, and for a small (and justifiable) delivery fee, your safe and sanitized baby gear will be delivered directly to your Big Sky vacation home prior to arrival. Rentals include baby bathtubs, booster seats, high chairs, potty seats, infant swings, pack n’ plays, full-size cribs, toy bins for all ages, relaxation sound spas, and video baby monitors. For adventures in Big Sky’s vast outdoor playground, you can rent single and double strollers or child carriers to head out on a hike.
Based in Bozeman Montana, Big Boys Toys offer a large inventory of baby and children’s rental gear along with toys for the big boys too. Big boys have a choice of ATVs (side-by-side options for the kids), motorized and non-motorized boats, jet skis, snowmobiles, SUPs, and trailers to haul it all! For convenient travel with kids, they offer a wide selection of gear including baby bouncers, booster seats, infant and toddler car seats, full and compact cribs, portable pack ‘n plays, and strollers and backpacks to hit the Big Sky trails.
If you prefer to bring your own baby gear to Big Sky, we’ve got you covered too. Big Sky Vacation Rentals partners with Ship Ski Shipping Services, a fast and easy door-to-door service for extra baggage, sports equipment (skis, snowboards, or summer golf equipment), and all your baby and toddler gear! Once your Big Sky vacation rental is reserved, simply follow the instructions and set up your order through our Ship Skis online portal to enjoy stress-free travels for your family vacation in Big Sky, MT.
Stay with Big Sky Vacation Rentals
Trade your hotel room kitchenette and mini bar fridge for all the comforts of home when you spend your family vacation in a private Big Sky vacation rental. Our selection of 125+ Big Sky condos, cabins, mountain lodges, and luxury Platinum Collection of properties are designed with family in mind and provide a true home away from home for your vacation.
Whether you choose to stay in the heart of Big Sky Resort or Town Center within walking distance to restaurants, activities, and events or prefer the seclusion of serene forests on the upper slopes of Moonlight Basin with trails to adventure from home – your Big Sky family vacation begins here!
The beauty of Big Sky, Montana – it’s the perfect place for a family friendly vacation! In our collection of 120+ Big Sky vacation rental homes and cabins, you’ll find everything from mountain modern for a luxury stay in Big Sky to quintessential mountain cabins with easy access to the trails, perfect to town the kiddos!
Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonderland filled with breathtaking landscapes, wild creatures, and endless possibilities for exploration. But before you embark on your journey, did you know that this incredible park is not just any ordinary destination?
From geysers that shoot boiling water sky-high and natural hot springs that shimmer in vibrant hues, to roaming herds of bison and grizzlies that lurk in the dense forests, Yellowstone National Park is a unique destination where the unexpected awaits at every turn. Join us as we uncover some of the most exciting and lesser-known facts about this wonderful and wild U.S. National Park and share 15 reasons to add Yellowstone National Park to your summer bucket list!
#1 The World’s Original National Park
Established on March 1, 1872, when President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act into law, Yellowstone National Park is the first national park in the world and a true American treasure. There are more than 1,850 known archaeological sites and National Register of Historic Places sites within the park with evidence of the rich history of both the landscapes and the various ethnic groups and tribes that inhabited the Yellowstone region.
#2 IT’S One of the Most Visited Parks in the US
Yellowstone National Park reached its visitation peak in 2021 with a record-breaking 4.86 million visitors, making it one of the most visited parks in the US. Yellowstone’s visitor numbers swell substantially in the peak season (June, July, and August), but each season brings its own set of spectacular sights and scenery if you want to avoid the crowds!
#3 Yellowstone is a Supervolcano Site
One of the world’s largest active volcanoes lies beneath Yellowstone National Park. The Yellowstone supervolcano had three cataclysmic eruptions – approximately 2.1 million, 1.3 million, and 630,000 years ago. These super-eruptions created the park’s Island Park Caldera, Henry’s Ford Caldera, and Yellowstone Caldera, the largest of the three calderas measuring a massive 30 by 45 miles.
#4 Yellowstone still shudders!
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most seismically active areas in the US with between 700 and 3,000 earthquakes each year. These earthquakes naturally maintain the hydrothermal activity of Yellowstone’s geysers and hot springs and are closely monitored by the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory, located within the park. No worries though, the Yellowstone shudders are so small, you don’t feel them!
#5 Geysers Galore
With more than 500 geysers spread over several geyser basins, Yellowstone National Park boasts the largest concentration of geysers in the world. Situated near the West Entrance, the legendary Old Faithful in Upper Geyser Basin is the most famous of Yellowstone geysers, erupting fairly predictably every 91 minutes on average (17 times a day!) and reaching heights of up to 185 feet. However, Old Faithful is not the tallest geyser in Yellowstone!
#6 The World’s Tallest Geyser
The Steamboat Geyser in nearby Norris Geyser Basin is the world’s tallest active geyser with major eruptions shooting water as hot as 160oF up to 300 feet in the air. Unlike Old Faithful, Steamboat Geyser’s eruptions are completely unpredictable but, if you’re in the right place at the right time, they are simply spectacular and can last anywhere from 3 to 40 minutes.
#7 Natural Hot Springs for Soaking
Aside from glorious geysers galore, Yellowstone National Park preserves more than 10,000 hydrothermal features ranging from natural hot springs and mud pots to fumaroles and stunning travertine terraces. This is half of the world’s hydrothermal features! These features are formed by the heat and pressure of the volcanic activity beneath the surface with highly acidic water that can reach temperatures as high as 400oF! Soaking in Yellowstone’s hot springs is prohibited with the exception of two designated swimming areas, Firehole Canyon and Boiling River.
#8 200+ Majestic Waterfalls
Yellowstone’s majestic water features also include an estimated 290 waterfalls, of which only 45 are named. Many of Yellowstone’s iconic waterfalls are best accessed from the West Entrance – some visible from roadside viewpoints, boardwalks, and easy viewing platforms, others lie off the beaten path and require a little extra effort on the trails. Our favorite waterfalls include Firehole Falls, Fairy Falls, Mystic Falls, Kepler Cascades, Gibbon Falls, and the breathtaking Upper and Lower Yellowstone River Falls in the iconic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
#9 See American Bison in the Wild
Yellowstone is the only place in the US where bison have lived continuously since prehistoric times and is today home to the largest bison herd in the world on public land. An estimated 5,450 bison roam freely in the valleys and high plateaus of Yellowstone with northern herds found in the Lamar Valley and central herds in the Hayden Valley.
President Barack Obama designated the American Bison the first national mammal of the United States in 2016, recognizing the historical, cultural, and economic importance of the bison. They are the largest land mammal in North America (up to 2,000 pounds!) but don’t be fooled and keep your distance! They can run up to 35 miles per hour, jump fences, love to swim, and cause regular “Bison Jams” in Yellowstone!
#10 Watch Free-Roaming Wildlife
Aside from American Bison, Yellowstone National Park has the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48, with 67 unique species of mammals. The mammals found in Yellowstone include black bears, coyotes, gray wolves, mountain lions, moose, elk, and smaller mammals ranging from beavers and bobcats to river otters and mountain goats. Yellowstone is also home to two threatened species, a growing population of grizzly bears and the elusive Canada lynx. In addition, wildlife enthusiasts have 285 bird species, 16 fish species, 5 amphibian species, and 134 species of butterflies to track! Check out our Guide to Wildlife Viewing in Yellowstone!
#11 Yellowstone has its own Grand Canyon
The 692-mile Yellowstone River is the longest undammed river in the US, beginning on the slopes of Yount Peak in the Absaroka Range of Wyoming, flowing north through the park, joining the Missouri River in North Dakota, and finally emptying into the Gulf of Mexico. The mighty Yellowstone River has slowly carved a breathtaking canyon stretching 20 miles through the eastern side of the park- the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Follow the North and South Rim drives and trails to absorb the beauty with two cascading waterfalls within the first mile – the breathtaking Upper and Lower Yellowstone River Falls.
#12 Four Seasons of Splendor
Each season in Yellowstone National Park brings its own set of spectacular sights, scenery, and natural splendor. Summer is the most popular time for exploration in Yellowstone, the spring season brings blooms of over 1,200 species of wildflowers along with the arrival of spring wildlife babies, fall fabulously covers the landscapes with an autumn glow, and winter is cold but wonderful! The West Entrance is open to over-snow vehicles with one-of-a-kind winter Yellowstone tours available – by snow coach, snowmobile, or even winter snowshoes!
#13 Five Park Entrances for Easy Exploration
Yellowstone is located primarily in the northwest corner of Wyoming, extending into Montana and Idaho, and is larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined. The park encompasses 2,221,766 acres (that’s 3,472 square miles!) with five park entrances, eight main visitor centers, 466 miles of roads, 92 trailheads, and 1,000+ miles of trails for hiking and biking. A little Yellowstone pre-trip planning goes a long way!
#14 Big Sky is the BEST base camp for Yellowstone National Park!
Situated only an hour north of the West Entrance to Yellowstone, the resort town of Big Sky Montana is the best base camp to explore Yellowstone National Park in any season. Take a scenic drive for a self-guided day trip or choose from a wide variety of professionally guided tours of Yellowstone Park departing from Big Sky year-round. Book your stay with BSVR. From cozy cowboy cabins to our collection of plush platinum Big Sky properties, Big Sky Vacation Rentals represents 125+ of the best vacation rentals near Yellowstone National Park! Find the perfect place to stay, download our Big Sky Vacation Guide app for planning at your fingertips, or give our local team a call at (888) 915-2787. The best experience of Yellowstone National Park is only a click or call away!
#15 You can visit Yellowstone National Park for FREE
There are several options for paying the entrance fee for Yellowstone National Park, and you can even visit for FREE! America the Beautiful, the National Parks and Federal Lands Pass gives you the biggest bang for your buck with access to more than 2,000 recreation areas in the US, or Yellowstone National Park passes may be purchased at all entrances or online at Recreation.gov.
The beauty of Big Sky, Montana – you’re surrounded by wilderness and don’t need to find a trailhead to hit the trails! In our collection of 120+ Big Sky vacation rental homes and cabins, you’ll find everything from mountain modern for a luxury stay in Big Sky to quintessential mountain cabins with easy access to the trails, or even the best Big Sky hiking trails on your doorstep!
Nestled in the Madison Range of SW Montana, Big Sky is a destination surrounded by towering mountain peaks, evergreen forests, world-class rivers, and untouched beauty at every turn! It’s a destination that appeals to those in pursuit of outdoor recreation, families seeking old-fashioned fun without the distractions of modern day living, and travelers looking to escape off the grid in nature!
In Big Sky, it’s not surprising to see herds of elk or moose roaming through town, local bighorn sheep causing traffic chaos on the streets, or bears sharing the trails. We’re surrounded by national forests and vast expanses of wilderness that offer countless outdoor adventures, but also require sustainable conservation and preservation.
The Big Sky Community Organization (BSCO) are committed to ensuring our community remains a special place to live, work, vacation, and play! They manage 95 acres of community parkland in the heart of Big Sky with scenic open spaces, playgrounds, sports facilities, river access, and 23 miles of beautifully maintained trails for hiking, biking, horseriding, snowshoeing, or backcountry skiing.
Located in Big Sky Meadow Village, the Big Sky Community Park is where locals and visitors come together to picnic, play, and explore some of the best local trails in Big Sky. Head out hiking and biking on Little Willow Way and Black Diamond Trail, or take a serene stroll on the Crail Ranch Trail to discover the history of Big Sky’s original settlers at the Crail Ranch Homestead & Museum.
When you’re not adventuring on the trails, Big Sky Community Park has it all! Park amenities include picnic pavilions, a kids’ playground, sports fields, basketball and volleyball courts, tennis and pickleball courts, a pump track, climbing boulders, fishing access to the Gallatin River, and the free 18-hole Bighorn Ridge Disc Golf course. For traditional golf, the Arnold Palmer designed Big Sky Resort Golf Course is right next door!
Situated just south of Big Sky Community Park near the intersection of Lone Mountain Trail and Little Coyote Road, lies Kircher Discovery Park. Designed by the local Kircher family, ski legends in the Big Sky Community, Kircher Park is a quiet and scenic spot to spend time in nature, picnic, play, and fish!
The short 0.6 mile out and back Kircher Trail leads to a beautiful, wooded area with picnic tables and onto a 500 square foot tree fort – a perfect playground for the kids! Designed to look like a ship, the multi-level fort features decks, a spider swing, a giant spider net, slides, and a climbing wall! Bring your rods along for the adventure! Kircher Park offers prime fishing access to several fishing spots on the South Fork of the West Fork of the Gallatin River.
Formerly known as Town Center Park, Len Hill Park features 3.3 acres of open space in the heart of Big Sky Town Center. The park was recently renamed as a tribute to Leonard Hill, a producer, writer, and local resident with a passion for the preservation of Big Sky.
During the summer months, hundreds of locals and visitors gather for picnics in the park, community yoga, and the weekly Music in the Mountains on Center Stage, under Big Sky’s star-studded skies. The winter months brings family and friends to swirl and twirl on the outdoor Len Hill Ice Rink and the BASE Community Center is open year-round with 10 Punch Passes for drop-in days during your stay in Big Sky.
Located in: Big Sky Town Center Address: 33 Lone Peak Drive, Big Sky, MT 59716
Fire Pit Park lies at the heart of Big Sky Town Center and is the location of the Big Sky Summers Farmers Market every Wednesday evening from June through September. Fire Pit Park is also the perfect “pit-stop” to rest your feet while shopping at Big Sky Town Center, picnic on take-out from a local restaurant, or gather around the firepits with friends. Be sure to take a selfie with Waldazo, the iconic bison sculpture that calls Fire Pit Park home.
Whether you’re visiting Big Sky in winter, spring, summer, or fall … a trip to Ousel Falls Park is a must-do! The park is situated on the South Fork of the West Fork of the Gallatin River with the iconic Ousel Falls Trail leading to picnic areas, scenic overlooks, fishing access on the world-class Gallatin River, and a stunning waterfall.
Plan a summer picnic and easy stroll for the whole family, epic leaf-peeping adventures in fall, or strap on your snowshoes for a beginner level snowshoe hike to a frozen waterfall! The Ousel Falls Trail connects to the First and Sedona Yellow Mule Trails into the wilderness of the Custer Gallatin National Forest.
U.S. Forest Service trail #40 Address: Beehive Basin Rd Big Sky, MT 5973
Nestled in a towering glacial cirque beneath the Spanish Peaks, Beehive Basin is breathtakingly beautiful and a haven for outdoor recreation! RT & Ralph’s Beehive Preserve protects the wetlands, forests, and meadows in the high alpine terrain of Beehive Basin and is the launching point for one of the world’s greatest hikes, the Beehive Basin Trail!
Beehive Basin is a Big Sky bucket list essential! From June through August, nearly 300 species of colorful wildflowers along the 6-mile round-trip trail and, as the snow falls, avid powder hounds pave the way for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing. The Lower Beehive Basin Trail is perfect for families, or keep going the full three miles for the reward of an alpine lake at the end of the trail.
Whatever brings you to Big Sky, you’ll find a place to call home with Big Sky Vacation Rentals. Stay slopeside in Big Sky Resort Mountain Village, within walking distance to Big Sky Town Center and Big Sky Community Park in Meadow Village, or perched high on the slopes of Moonlight Mountain surrounded by untouched wilderness and stunning Spanish Peaks views.
Why rent from us? We represent 125+ of the best vacation properties in Big Sky including a luxury Platinum Collection for even the most distinguished guests, our entire team are locals of Big Sky, and creating dream vacations and lasting memories for our guests is what we do best!
Browse our collection online for the best Big Sky prices, download our Big Sky Vacation Guide to plan your trip, or call our team at (888) 915-2787 for personalized vacation planning.
Who doesn’t love a day spent in the Great Outdoors? Tucked away in the expansive Madison Range sits the charming mountain town of Big Sky. This little slice of mountain paradise is surrounded by miles upon miles of untouched wilderness home to some of the most epic four-season hiking trails in all of Montana.
Montana is truly wild and the beauty of the mountain trails in Big Sky Country can be enjoyed year-round. Some locals say the best hiking only starts at the first snowfall! Whether you’re planning an easy nature stroll with the kids, a challenging summit climb to the peak of Lone Mountain, a winter snowshoe hike through Big Sky’s scenic snowy landscapes, or trails right from home – you’ll find it in Big Sky, MT.
Ousel Falls
Trailhead: Ousel Falls Road, Big Sky Hiking & Snowshoeing Easy: 1.6-mile Out & Back Elevation Gain: 242 ft
The Ousel Falls trail is a must-do hike during your stay in Big Sky. Centrally located near Big Sky Town Center, the 1.6-mile dog-friendly trail to Ousel Falls offers big rewards with little effort and is an easy and exciting hike for the kids.
The forested trail crosses a ravine and follows the scenic Gallatin River to a 100-foot waterfall plunging into a natural swimming hole. This Big Sky hike is beautiful in every season abounding in wildlife, fall foliage, and the breathtaking beauty of a frozen waterfall in winter.
Uplands & Hummocks
Trailhead: Aspen Leaf Drive, Big Sky Hiking & Snowshoeing Moderate: 2.2-mile or 3-mile Loop Trail Elevation Gain: 460 ft
The trailhead to the Uplands & Hummocks Big Sky community trails is located less than a mile from Big Sky Town Center, making this a great dog-friendly and close-to-town hike in Big Sky! Both trails are intermediate with forest canopies and aspen groves for shade, meadows of wildflowers in spring, regular wildlife sightings of moose, elk, and bears, and birds-eye views of Big Sky! These are popular trails for mountain bikers and horseback riders so be prepared to share the trails.
Beehive Basin
Trailhead: Beehive Basin Road, Big Sky Hiking & Snowshoeing Moderate: 7.1-mile Out & Back Elevation Gain: 1,650 ft
The Beehive Basin Trail near Big Sky Mountain Village is ranked one of the “Best Hikes in the World” and is a must for every vacation itinerary in Big Sky – it’s a long hike but you can turn around at any time! The well-groomed trail winds along a creek to a stunning amphitheater-like alpine cirque with a small but spectacular glacial lake. Beehive Basin is a top spot for trout fishing, wildflower and wildlife watching, vibrant fall foliage, and challenging snowshoe hikes through a winter wonderland
Summit Climb to the Top of Lone Peak
Trailhead: Big Sky Resort Strenuous: 7-mile Elevation Gain: 3,677 ft
Now for Big Sky’s bucket-list hike – the summit climb to the iconic peak of Lone Mountain at a literally breathtaking elevation of 11,166 feet above sea level! Begin your Lone Peak summit hike on the mellow trails at the base of Big Sky Mountain Village, or from the top of the Swift Current chairlift for a shorter hike.
From the base of the Bone Crusher ski run, it’s a steep 1.4-mile, 2,015-foot elevation climb to the summit of Lone Peak with panoramic views all the way to the Grand Tetons in Wyoming on a clear day! Solid hiking boots and ski poles are essential.
The Lava Lake (Cascade Creek) trailhead is situated a short drive north of Big Sky on Scenic Hwy 191, and well worth the adventure. The wooded trail follows Cascade Creek with a slow and steady climb and a couple of steep switchbacks to an awe-inspiring alpine lake framed by the Lee Metcalf Wilderness mountain peaks. The trail is relatively easy however there are lots of rocky sections so good grip shoes and walking poles are highly recommended.
You can walk the lake’s entire shoreline, fly fish for rainbow trout, take cooling summer dips, or continue on for a strenuous climb to the summit of Table Mountain in the Spanish Peaks. This dog-friendly Big Sky trail is popular for hiking, horseback riding, and winter snowshoeing.
Guided Hikes in Big Sky Country
Guided hikes in Big Sky, Montana offer a unique and rewarding experience, providing insight into the diverse flora and fauna of the unique Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the natural beauty of the wilderness surrounding Big Sky. Led by knowledgeable and experienced local naturalist guides, your hiking experience is tailored to match your interests and skill level and is a great way to safely and confidently explore Big Sky, and beyond!
Big Sky Resort: Big Sky Resort offers private 1-hour and 2-hour guided summer hikes with a naturalist for groups of up to 8 on the lift-served hiking trails at Big Sky Resort. Big Sky Resort’s guided hikes are customized for your ability and fitness level making it a great option for a family hike on the ski slopes. In the winter months, Big Sky Resort offers guided snowshoe tours through Moose Tracks Gully near the base area of Mountain Village.
Lone Mountain Ranch: Lone Mountain Ranch is a top destination for year-round outdoor activities in Big Sky. From May to October, you can venture through the National Forest wilderness with a naturalist and, as the snow falls, there are 30km of snowshoe trails to explore, self-guided or with a Lone Mountain Ranch guide.
Yellowstone National Park: Big Sky is a basecamp for year-round adventures in Yellowstone National Park. Whether you’re visiting in the summer season, wildlife watching in spring, chasing fall foliage or experiencing the beauty of a Yellowstone winter, you’ll find tailored tours of Yellowstone National Park from Big Sky in all four seasons.
Hike from Home with Big Sky Vacation Rentals
The beauty of Big Sky, Montana – you’re surrounded by wilderness and don’t need to find a trailhead to hit the trails! In our collection of 120+ Big Sky vacation rental homes and cabins, you’ll find everything from mountain modern for a luxury stay in Big Sky to quintessential mountain cabins with easy access to the trails, or even the best Big Sky hiking trails on your doorstep!
Are you ready to plan the ultimate summer vacation in the mountains? The charming resort town of Big Sky, Montana is the perfect location for your next group getaway, family retreat, or romantic trip for two!
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Big Sky is a stunning alpine destination with endless opportunities for outdoor adventures in nature, relaxation, rejuvenation, and unmatched summer fun! There is something for everyone at any age in Big Sky, MT. Alpine adventures in the great outdoors, summer resort activities – combined with a diverse selection of sunny patios, bars, and nightlife, and small-town festivals under the stars, have made Big Sky a premier destination for adventure seekers. Here are the top 10 reasons to pack your bags and head to Big Sky this summer.
1. EXPERIENCE ThE Small-Town Charm
There is something undeniably charming about small mountain towns in the summer. Big Sky Montana is a thriving mountain resort community with an abundance of small-town charm, friendly locals who are happy to chat and share their stories, and a welcome change of pace from the hustle and bustle of city life. The small-town charm of Big Sky, Montana is a big part of its appeal.
2. Reconnect with Nature
Whether your idea of reconnecting with nature is climbing to the summit of Lone Peak, hiking, biking, or horse riding the backcountry trails, paddling Lake Levinsky or a remote alpine lake, or basking in natural hot springs – it’s easy to reconnect with nature in Big Sky, MT. The mild summer weather is perfect for adventuring in nature – fresh cool mornings, warm afternoons, and crisp evenings with secluded wide-open spaces to stargaze the majestic Montana skies.
3. Unique Alpine Experiences
There’s more to Big Sky Resort than the “Biggest Skiing in America”. Summertime at Big Sky Resort is a blast! Enjoy a scenic chairlift ride to miles of lift-served trails for mountain biking, hiking, or guided tours, ride the Ramcharger 8 to the archery course, play a round of alpine disc golf, or zipline down Big Sky’s ski slopes on the Nature or Adventure Zipline Tour.
Back at the Big Sky Mountain Village base area, you’ll find shopping, restaurants, and endless fun for the whole family at Adventure Mountain with a climbing wall, bungee trampoline, giant swing, marble run, gemstone mining, and mini-golf.
4. Award-Winning Golf
Surrounded by stunning landscapes and snow-clad peaks, the award-winning Arnold Palmer-designed golf course at Big Sky Resort is a top attraction in the summer. Located in Big Sky Meadow Village, this classic 18-hole links-style course sits at an elevation of 6,500 feet and stretches out to 6,806 yards at a par 72. Players are presented with impressive alpine scenery, a challenging design suited for all skill levels, and a well-maintained course worth the tee time!
For the ultimate summer golf getaway to Big Sky, browse our collection of Meadow Village vacation homes or book your stay in our 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom Spanish Peaks Club condos backing onto the Big Sky Golf Course, with luxury community amenities included in your stay.
5. Check Out Filming Locations from “A River Runs Through It“
The classic movie “A River Runs Through It” filmed many of their fly-fishing scenes on the mighty Gallatin River that flows through the heart of Big Sky. The drive from Bozeman to Big Sky along US-191 follows the Gallatin River with pull-outs to soak up the scenery, world-class trout fishing, riverside trails abounding in wildlife, and whitewater rafting trips with Class I rapids for first-timers and gnarly Class IV+ rapids for thrill seekers. Download our Big Sky Vacation Guide App to find the best guided fly-fishing packages, whitewater rafting tours, and riverside hiking trails to personally experience the unsurpassed beauty of “A River Runs Through It” during your summer vacation in Big Sky, MT.
6. Summer Festivals & Events
There’s always something fun happening in the summertime, with a long lineup of festive events that only add to the small-town charm of Big Sky. Pick up local produce and one-of-a-kind crafts and souvenirs at the weekly Big Sky Farmers market, dance under the stars at Music in the Mountains, or unleash your inner cowboy at a classic western rodeo or PBR bull-riding event.
From Center Stage in Big Sky Town Center to the summer slopes of Big Sky Resort, the summer festivals and events in Big Sky are filled with small-town community spirit and are truly epic!
7. Bluebird Patio Dining
Summer is the season to enjoy the best aprés ski outdoor patios in Big Sky, many offering live music during peak season and gorgeous views of the Montana mountain peaks. End a round of golf at the Bunker Deck & Grill overlooking Big Sky Meadows, dine on the slopeside decks at Big Sky Resort, or take a stroll around Big Sky Town Center with a great selection of bars, tasting rooms, breweries, and restaurants with bustling outdoor patios packed with locals and summer tourists.
Alternatively, you can take advantage of our local grocery delivery or private catering and personal chef services and experience the finest patio dining with Lone Peak views from the comfort of your home-away-from-home in Big Sky, MT.
8. Yellowstone National Park
Big Sky is only a short drive through the scenic Gallatin Canyon to Yellowstone National Park – perfect for a day trip to explore the natural wonders of America’s oldest national park. Summer in Yellowstone is busy! Staying in Big Sky offers the opportunity to experience the splendor of Yellowstone in summer, and return to a quintessential Montana cabin in the mountains, without the crowds!
Big Sky’s proximity to the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park makes it a perfect basecamp for guided tours or family day trips to Yellowstone in summer.
9. Getting to Big Sky is Easy!
Getting to Big Sky is Easy! Big Sky is an easy drive to destination with non-stop flights from over 30 destinations on the east and west coast, making it one of the most connected mountain resort destinations in America. Car rentals and convenient transportation services are readily available with door-to-door service to your Big Sky vacation rental.
The Skyline Bus offers a free shuttle service through the summer season with stops in all of Big Sky’s neighborhoods and on-call taxis are available to get around Big Sky. Local Tip! If you’re driving to Big Sky, please download directions to your vacation rental in advance – cell service driving through the mountains can be spotty!
10. Big Sky Vacation Rentals
Big Sky Vacation Rentals have a summer home-away-from-home for every group size and summer style. Stay in the heart of Big Sky Resort Mountain Village with resort amenities and summer activities on your doorstep, on the lush greens of the golf course, within walking distance to the summer fun at Big Sky Town Center, or surrounded by forests and wildlife on the slopes of Moonlight Basin.
Our collection of custom Big Sky homes and cabins are equipped with your summer vacation in mind! Gorgeous gourmet kitchens and patios for alfresco dining, outdoor firepits and hot tubs for crisp summer nights, luxury vacation amenities to enhance your stay, and stunning views of the Big Sky landscapes. Book direct online or call our team at (888) 915-2787 – we’d be happy to match you with the perfect home for your summer vacation in Big Sky, MT.
Whether you’re shredding the slopes of the best and biggest skiing in America or exploring our world-famous wildflower trails on foot, bike, or horseback – you’re sure to work up an appetite adventuring in Big Sky’s breathtaking and impressive terrain.
Between Big Sky Resort’s Mountain Village, Meadow Village, and the ever-evolving Town Center, Big Sky boasts an impressive list of restaurants to choose from ranging from pizza places for the kids to fine dining with mountain views and unique Montana adventure dining that will transform your Big Sky vacation.
Open Daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Lone Mountain Ranch Rd, Big Sky Phone: (406) 995-2782
Established in 1915, Lone Mountain Ranch offers an authentic Montana dining experience in a cozy log cabin setting oozing with rustic charm. Unwind with a cowboy cocktail and live music at happy hour in the Saloon bar followed by casual fine dining on classic Western fare with an indulgent twist at Horn & Cantle, then delicious desserts around a glowing campfire. Expect a fine farm-to-table feast with menu items like elk chops, bison short ribs, and fresh local trout paired with an extensive drinks menu and warm welcoming service. Lone Mountain Ranch also offers Big Sky’s signature sleigh ride dinner, an unbeatable Montana dining experience for a winter stay.
Open Wednesday to Sunday for Dinner Big Sky Meadow Village Phone: (406) 995-7373
Situated in Big Sky Meadow Village, Michaelangelo’s Ristorante is an authentic Italian restaurant inspired by award-winning Chef Michael’s culinary training in the Piedmont region of Italy. Chef Michael, a semifinalist in the 2023 James Beard Restaurant & Chef Awards, serves up extraordinary Italian cuisine in a refined and romantic setting for casual fine dining in Big Sky. The diverse menu includes traditional antipasti and small plates, artisan pastas and risottos, meats and fish, and classic Italian desserts and digestifs. The beverage menu is seemingly endless with local and Italian wines, domestic and imported beer, specialty cocktails, and a cellar selection of exclusive Italian and New World wines. Reservations are essential.
Open Monday to Friday for Lunch & Dinner Big Sky Meadow Village Phone: (406) 995-3355
Located across from the Big Sky Golf Course, Olive B’s is another must-do restaurant in Big Sky Meadow Village. Olive B’s is a small-town continental bistro locally owned by Chef Ian Troxler, a prior long-time chef at Lone Mountain Ranch. Sip on specialty cocktails while savoring fresh seafood, Rocky Mountain Elk, Northern Plains bison, and delicious desserts with a side of Montana-made ice cream. The ambiance is easy-going, the service comes with a local smile, and in the summer season, there’s patio dining with a Big Sky view!
Open Tuesday to Saturday for Dinner Big Sky Town Center Phone: (406) 993-2583
For the best sushi in Big Sky, head to Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge in Big Sky Town Center. Blue Buddha is fun and funky with a fantastic menu of traditional Japanese cuisine with a contemporary spin and drinks with a twist! The menu features everything from traditional sushi and specialty rolls to tasty appetizers and entrees with a Japanese spin on classic Montana dishes (like Bison marinated in a Japanese Katsu sauce!). For happy hour, after-dinner drinks and dancing, and a unique experience in the art of Japanese mixology, Blue Buddha’s cocktail lounge, The Drunken Monk, is open nightly next door. Blue Buddha also offers traditional Omakase private dinners and chef services for a Japanese dining experience in your Big Sky vacation rental.
Open Daily: Lunch & Dinner Located on the 3rd floor of the Arrowhead Mall, in Mountain Village Phone: (406) 995-4244
Indulge in casual fine dining. Local ingredients and a fabulous specialty drink menu make The Cabin Bar & Grill a favorite for both tourists and locals alike! Their culinary team takes pride in blending contemporary and classic techniques with local and regional ingredients for a unique flair in “Rocky Mountain Cuisine!” They enjoy bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm to their extensive menu, while maintaining the tradition of excellent food and fine dining that have made Curly’s restaurants a “must” to diners for years. There is something for everyone on their delectable menu including hand cut steaks, wild game, fresh seafood and nightly specials.
Open Daily from 5 PM Big Sky Town Center Phone: (406) 995-7175
Ousel & Spur Pizza Company in Big Sky Town Center dishes up more than your average pizza! The menu at Ousel & Spur features a wide selection of creative small plates and salads, wood-fired pizzas with hand-tossed crusts, authentic Italian pasta, house-made desserts, and a bambino menu for the little ones. Pair it with a cold brew or iced cocktail and sunset views on the outdoor patio or a Hot Russian or mulled cider after a day on the slopes of Big Sky Resort. Ousel & Spur sources all ingredients from local farms and ranches with gluten-free and vegetarian options on all dishes, and a side of Montana flair and hospitality.
Open Daily for Lunch & Wednesday to Saturday for Dinner Big Sky Resort On-Mountain Dining Phone: (406) 995-8800
Named by Architectural Digest as the most beautifully designed bar in Montana and ranked in the top 10 restaurants for scenic views, Everett’s 8800 is Big Sky Resort’s signature on-mountain dining experience. Situated at 8,800 feet atop Andesite Mountain, this casual yet elegant bistro serves up local Montana fare paired with an impressive wine list and breathtaking views of Big Sky’s iconic Lone Peak. Getting there adds to the experience – a ride in the heated Ramcharger 8 blue bubble chairlift, or a hike on Big Sky Resort’s summer trails. Reservations are essential for dinner at Everett’s 8800.
Open during Big Sky Resort Ski Season Big Sky Resort On-Mountain Dining Phone: (406) 995-3880
Let’s set the tone for Big Sky’s most incredible dinner experience – a snowcat ride up Lone Peak to an intimate backcountry yurt, stargazing and socializing with friends, torchlit sledding with the kids, cowboys songs and storytelling, and delicious dining all surrounded by snowcapped peaks. This is the Montana Dinner Yurt experience! In this spectacular setting, you’ll overindulge in a three-course meal of baked French Onion Soup and warm bread, tender filet mignon and veggies served family-style, and a finale of warm Toblerone chocolate fondue. Vegetarian, fish options, and a kids menu are available on prior request, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, coffee, tea, and soda is served, or you can BYO wine or beer.
Local’s Tip: This sleigh ride dinner already booked for your dates? The 320 Ranch has a fun sleigh ride adventure to try, too!
Offering something for everyone, from traditional Mexican cuisine, a kid’s menu, and a full bar, Alberto’s is a tasty option when dining in Big Sky, Montana.
Local’s Tip: Order the Guacamole En Molcajete, House Margarita, and the Taco Plate! You will not be disappointed.
Open Daily from 3 PM to 9 PM 45130 Gallatin Rd, Big Sky Phone: (406) 995-7427
Cruise a few miles south through the scenic Gallatin Canyon towards Yellowstone National Park and you’ll reach Riverhouse BBQ, known for the best barbeque under the Big Sky. Situated on the banks of the mighty Gallatin River, the setting is sublime with views of the Spanish Peaks from the dining area and deck complemented by year-round live music, a casual family-friendly vibe, and bucket-list BBQ prepared in the authentic Texas Hill Country style. It’s always a smokin’ good time at Riverhouse BBQ in Big Sky.
Monday – Friday 10AM to 7PM Saturday – 10AM to 6PM Sunday – 10:30AM to 5:30PM 1567 Lone Mountain Trail Big Sky, MT 59716 Phone: (406) 223-6421
Offering a wide array of fresh food – including their famous super burrito, Colorado burrito, Mexican enchiladas, 6 taco plate, shrimp quesadilla, chicken salad, sopitos, and tortas. They use the freshest ingredients in preparing their food to provide the best quality and taste.
Local’s Tip: Order ahead to have your food ready for pick up!
Is Big Sky Montana on your travel destination bucket list? Big Sky Montana is ranked one of the “World’s Greatest Places” and is a destination worthy of every travel bucket list. Nestled in Montana’s Rocky Mountains between Bozeman and the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky blends the charm of a small mountain town and rugged untamed wilderness with world-class ski resort activities, unique culinary experiences, warm hospitality, and big-time bucket-list adventures unique to Montana’s Big Sky Country.
Winter, Spring, Summer & Fall – Big Sky Montana has it all and Big Sky Vacation Rentals have a dreamy vacation home that’ll have you counting the sleeps to your next bucket-list adventure in Big Sky, MT!
Big Sky Resort boasts the “Biggest Skiing in America”, an excellent network of Nordic trails, and some of the top bucket-list ski runs in the US! Whether you’re looking for a fun first time on the ski slopes or dreaming of dropping into Big Sky’s iconic Big Couloir, skiing and snowboarding at Big Sky Resort is world-class.
2. Snowmobile through the Gallatin National Forest
Big Sky is surrounded by breathtaking backcountry terrain with 100+ miles of snowmobiling trails waiting to be explored. Snowmobile rentals are readily available locally or venture into the vast Montana wilderness on a private snowmobile tour with a local guide to navigate the canyons, peaks, and gorgeous Gallatin National Forest.
3. Mush Your Own Dog Sled Team
You don’t need to travel to Alaska to mush your own dog sled team! You can do it right here in Big Sky! Local companies, Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures and Spirit of the North, offer unique dog sledding and mushing adventures in Big Sky’s Moonlight Basin, led by teams of spirited Alaskan Huskies, the stars of the show! Another bucket-list adventure in Big Sky.
4. Ice Skating in Big Sky Town Center
Find family fun under the stars on the ice rink at Big Sky Town Center. The Big Sky Ice Rink is open daily with free skate sessions during the day and by night under the star-studded skies of Big Sky Country. What a way to end a winter’s day playing in Big Sky. Skate rentals are available atChristy Sports and East Slope Anglers in Big Sky Town Center. Summertime check out Wildlands Festival!
5. Big Sky Skijoring
February brings one of the fastest-growing winter sports to town, Big Sky Skijoring! Skijoring is a combination of horseriding and ski jumping with a rider and skier competing for speed on a snow-covered course. Big Sky Skijoring attracts 4,000+ visitors to Big Sky for a weekend of old-fashioned, western-style, winter fun!
The spring snowmelt brings some of the best whitewater rafting in Montana to the wild and scenic Gallatin River. From scenic family float trips on the upper Gallatin to wild whitewater rafting trips in the lower Gallatin River Canyon, there’s a whitewater rafting experience in Big Sky for every age and adventure level. Check out Montana Whitewater for more info!
7. Wildlife Watching
As the snow melts and the days grow longer, the Montana mountains come alive with the sights and sounds of nature springing to life. Elk and moose graze in the Big Sky meadows, bighorn sheep trail the rocky ridges, and bears emerge from their dens with newborn cubs. Come spring season, wildlife watching is on everyone’s Big Sky bucket list!
8. Chase Waterfalls & Wildflowers
Wildlife, waterfalls, and wildflowers are top attractions during the spring season in Big Sky, MT. Waterfall and wildflower adventures include following the Gallatin River from Big Sky to the pools and cascading waterfall at Big Sky’s Ousel Falls and venturing through a dazzling display of wildflowers in Beehive Basin, ranked one of the world’s 10 greatest hikes!
9. Mountain Bike the Trails
Big Sky has miles of trails for horseriding, hiking, snowshoeing, and four seasons of biking! You may need to rent a fat bike (thanks to mud season)! Grizzly Loop and Lemondrop Loop are great mountain bike trails near Big Sky or the lift-served trails at Big Sky Resort open in June with 50+ miles of world-class mountain bike trails – and mind-bending alpine views to match!
Big Sky Resort’s scenic summer lift ride is breathtaking. The Explorer chairlift ride is uphill only for hiking, biking, or ziplining back down the mountain – or ride the Ramcharger 8 & Swift Current 6 to hone your archery skills, enjoy alpine-inspired on-mountain dining, and soak up sweeping views of Lone Mountain, the Spanish Peaks, and the Gallatin River Valley below.!
11. Climb Lone Mountain
Lone Mountain Trail is Big Sky’s bucket-list hike to the summit of the iconic Lone Peak that looms large over the town of Big Sky, MT. Trails lead from the base of Big Sky Mountain Village or from the top of Swift Current 6 chairlift to the 11,166-ft summit with panoramic views all the way to Wyoming’s Grand Tetons. Solid hiking boots, ski poles, and lots of hydration for a high-elevation hike are essential!
12. Paddle Lake Levinsky
Nestled at the base of Big Sky Mountain Village, Lake Levinsky is Big Sky’s summer destination for water activities or a refreshing dip in the lake! The lake is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM with first come first serve boat rentals. Or check out Montana Whitewater for more info!
13. Attend a PBR Event
The award-winning Big Sky PBR event in July is the biggest week of the year in Big Sky. Big Sky PBR tickets are on sale from March 1st and sell out fast (as does accommodation!). The event includes professional bull riding events, mutton bustin’ for the kids, a vendor village, and nightly music events to keep the party going!
14. Attend an Outdoor Music Festival
Our favorite thing about summer in Big Sky is the endless music festivals under the stars! Big Sky Town Center’s Music in the Mountains runs throughout summer with 12 weeks of free family-friendly outdoor music concerts, August brings the Bravo! Big Sky Music Festival, and Big Sky Town Center regularly host major big bands at the outdoor events arena. Sign up for our Big Sky newsletter to stay up to date with local events and festivals!
The award-winning Big Sky Golf Course in Meadow Village is open until early October, also prime time for fall foliage in Big Sky, MT! The course combines a classic links-style golf course and the natural beauty of Big Sky’s stunning landscapes with a pro shop, golf lessons for all abilities, and a bar and grill to end your game. Tee times are now available for Summer 2023.
16. Saddle Up for a Western Trail Ride
Another bucket-list fall foliage adventure is exploring Big Sky’s cowboy country on horseback. Saddling up for a western trail ride with a local cowboy on an authentic Montana dude ranch sure sounds bucket-list to us! Classic old-west horseback experiences are available for every age and adventure level in Big Sky, MT.
17. Fly-Fish the Gallatin River
Sit back and watch “A River Runs Through It” and flyfishing the blue-ribbon Gallatin River will soon be on your bucket list of skills to learn and fly fishing destinations!Gallatin River Guides in Big Sky Town Center are your one-stop shop for fishing gear rentals and local tips, or reel in a trophy wild trout with a local Gallatin River guide leading the way.
18. Take a Trip to Yellowstone National Park
Tours of Yellowstone National Park are available year-round from Big Sky but in fall the crowds are thinner, wildlife is abundant, and vibrant fall foliage sets the steamy landscapes (and your heart!) on fire. The roads are open to take a self-guided tour or book a guided tour of Yellowstone National Park to tick America’s oldest national park and top natural wonder off your bucket-list.
Big Sky is a small mountain town with a tight-knit local community, unique stores and restaurants, and a seasonal summer farmer’s market that attracts our guests back to Big Sky each year! The Big Sky Farmers Market features 100+ local vendors, amazing food stalls, one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and live music in Fire Pit Park at Big Sky Town Center.
20. Eat at Local Restaurants
For a small mountain town, Big Sky has an amazing selection of coffee shops, breweries, bars and restaurants with culinary experiences unique to Big Sky! Savor Montana’s finest elk, bison, or wild trout at Lone Mountain Ranch, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride to dinner, ride a snowcat for a candlelit dinner in a backcountry yurt, or indulge in a private local chef for an intimate gathering at home.
21. Relax at a Spa
Every vacation bucket list deserves a little self-pampering! Revitalize your body and spirit at the Solace Spa at Huntley Lodge, soak in the rejuvenating natural hot springs surrounding Big Sky, or experience the ultimate self-pampering in our Platinum Collection of Big Sky vacation rentals with private outdoor hot tubs and spa-inspired bathrooms including all the luxe amenities for a pampering spa session at home.
22. Stay in a Classic Montana Mountain Cabin
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking romance, a fun-loving family, or a group of bucket-list adventurers, you’ll find a classic Montana mountain cabin with Big Sky Vacation Rentals. Our hand-picked collection of 125+ Big Sky vacation rentals includes everything from classic cowboy cabins with rustic charm to modern mountain marvels to accommodate even the most distinguished guests.
COME STAY WITH US! BOOK BIG SKY!
Begin your Big Sky mountain escape with Big Sky Vacation Rentals. Start planning your Big Sky bucket-list adventures with our local team at Big Sky Vacation Rentals! Book online or call our team of vacation specialists at (888) 915-2787 today!
Escape the mundane and explore miles of wilderness for hiking, biking, horseback riding, ATV adventures, ziplining, river rafting, and famous blue-ribbon fly fishing. Big Sky Resort opens up its world-famous ski slopes for classic summer alpine adventures and the town is abuzz with locals and tourists soaking up the sunshine, swimming and boating on Lake Levinsky, dining on outdoor patios, and living the laid-back mountain life.Summer is the best season to plan a getaway to Big Sky, and the the Town Center is a destination for family fun, fab festivals & all things farmers’ markets.
Situated in Meadow Village, Big Sky Town Center is a year-round destination for family fun, fab festivals, summer farmers markets, and world-class golfing. Big Sky Town Center is the heart and soul of the Big Sky community, the best place to shop, dine and sip local craft beer, and a hangout for locals and visitors alike.
Throughout the summer Big Sky Town Center is the central hub for some of the biggest events in Big Sky and free festivals. Nothing beats browsing vibrant mountain markets, listening to live music in an iconic outdoor arena with top touring bands, and enjoying free fun for the whole family.
Here are 4 events not to miss at Big Sky Town Center this summer:
Every Wednesday from June to September, the Big Sky Farmers Market comes to Big Sky Town Center, and it’s one of our favorite events of the year! The Big Sky Farmers Market features 90+ vendors ranging from regional farmers with fresh local produce to eclectic craftsmen with creative arts, crafts, and one-of-a-kind treasures found only at Big Sky Farmers Market. The market is family-friendly with fun activities for the kids, the setting is spectacular with Lone Peak looming in the background, and the small-town charm of Big Sky is evident at every stall!
Center Stage in Len Hill Park, Big Sky Town Center
Thursday evenings, rain or shine, you’ll find an amazing lineup of talented artists at Music in the Mountains, Montana’s finest free outdoor concert hosted by the Arts Council of Big Sky. The Music in the Mountain series takes place on Center Stage and includes 12 weeks of free family-friendly concerts, the Bravo! Big Sky Music Festival (formerly the Big Sky Classical Music Festival), and a special free performance from Montana Shakespeare in the Parks. View the full line-up for Music in the Mountains 2024 HERE!
There’s still time to book your vacation condo or cabin for Big Sky’s biggest week of the year, the award-winning PBR Rodeo. The PBR event includes three nights of Touring Pro Division professional bull riding events, mutton bustin’ for the little buckaroos, and fun nightly after-party concerts with live music. The PBR event is sold out with a waiting list, however, you can still get tickets for the nightly music events!
Produced by Outlaw Partners, the Wildlands Festival is one of the biggest music events of the summer! The outdoor music festival celebrates a mutual love for music and Big Sky’s wild and scenic landscapes and features a two-day star-studded lineup with world-class artists taking center stage at the Big Sky Events Arena. Tickets to the Wildlands Festival sell fast and availability is limited! A percentage of all ticket sales for the Wildlands Festival are donated to local nonprofits for the preservation and protection of the wildlands of Big Sky.
Tickets to the Wildlands Festival sell fast and availability is limited! A percentage of all ticket sales for Wildlands Festival are donated to local nonprofits for preservation and protection of the wildlands of Big Sky.
Where to Stay near Big Sky Town Center
Big Sky has three main neighborhoods: Mountain Village at Big Sky Resort, Moonlight Basin on the slopes of Lone Mountain, and Meadow Village, the nearest neighborhood to Big Sky Town Center.
Big Sky Vacation Rentals offers a selection of luxury vacation homes and condos walking distance to Big Sky Town Center, the Big Sky Golf Course, and some of the top trailheads in Big Sky! Our vacation homes are fully-equipped with modern comforts, luxury amenities and all the bells and whistles for a memorable Big Sky vacation.
Whether you’re planning a golf getaway, romantic escape or family reunion in Big Sky, Big Sky Town Center is a destination for endless summer fun and the team at Big Sky Vacation Rentals are ready to help you plan your trip and find your dream vacation home in the Montana mountains.
In Big Sky, there are so many waterways to fish that it can be hard to find the perfect spot for your next trip. So, we teamed up with Gallatin River Guides to bring you the current fishing report in Big Sky, Montana for the summer.
There are several ways to count the population of fish which helps to understand the fishing conditions. For example, you can set up a fish ladder to manually count every fish as they pass through. You could use a counting fence to count the fish in that restricted region. Or, you could try electro-fishing where a section of the river is electrically shocked, then the fish are temporarily stunned long enough to count once they float to the top, where they can be counted. Instead of making you research things like population dynamics, probability sampling, abundance density distribution, and genetic data, we talked to Hunter McPhillips to get the latest run-down on Big Sky’s fishing report.
Instead of relying on numbers and equations for how many fish are in the water, fishing reports focus on the prospects of catching fish and give advice on how to make your catch. When you’re here in Big Sky, don’t worry about how deep the trout are, what they’re eating, and whether or not they’ll like your bait because we’re saving you that trouble.
The likelihood of catching fish in a river can depend on many things. What predators are in the area and how many? What are the dynamics of the river? How long, wide, and fast is it? Is the river heavily fished? Knowing how many fish are in the river is not going to help us catch more fish. A fishing report will help, but it must come from a trusted source that knows the waterways well and fishes them often.
Gallatin River Guides has been a year-round source for fly fishing the Gallatin, Madison, Yellowstone, and Paradise Valley Spring Creeks for over 30 years. With their expertise in guiding and fishing experience, they’re sure to know their way around the waters. Gallatin River Guides is the best source for all things fishing on your next Big Sky vacation.
Gallatin River Guides’ fly fishing trips showcase the great waters of Montana, like the Gallatin River and the Madison River. From these central locations, you can find the highest concentration of world class, wild fly-fishing waters. Take a look at Gallatin River Guide, Hunter McPhillips’, favorite fishing spots for the summer of 2023.
Gallatin River
The Gallatin River has bumped up and turned brown, making for a great fishing option. Targeting water from the bank and fishing the first 1-2 feet off the river’s bank will be key. Fly selection will be easy as bugs release in the high water. Rubber legs, prince nymphs, and worm patterns will be your best bet.
Madison River
The Upper Madison River is starting to rise which should put fish back in easy holding water where the water will be clearer above the West fork. Check the Upper Madison flowcharts to see any plugs of mud heading down low. Stonefly and caddis patterns are the go-to and small streamers near the banks could move some bigger fish.
To reserve your next fly fishing day trip or custom fly fishing adventure, request Hunter McPhillips at Gallatin River Guides.
Big Sky is an outdoor paradise and with so many summer adventures to choose from why not start planning your mountain getaway with Big Sky Vacation Rentals. Stay in the heart of all that our majestic mountain town offers and soak up the beauty of nature. You can enjoy the views while you cook up your fresh catch in one of our luxurious kitchens!
