Welcome to the breathtaking winter wonderland of Big Sky, Montana! As you plan your holiday season escape to this picturesque destination, we want to ensure that your vacation is nothing short of memorable. Whether you’re an avid skiing family, learning the art of snowboarding, or simply just seeking a cozy mountain retreat for the holiday season, Big Sky Montana is a magical place to spend the holidays.
To make your holiday season experience in Big Sky Montana unforgettable, we’ve put together a list of top tips to help you navigate the destination, plan your activities, and make the most of your holiday season travel to Big Sky.
1. Find a Holiday Home First!
As the holiday season approaches, keep in mind that Christmas and New Year are peak visitation times in Big Sky, and the demand for vacation rental homes and condos is high! Finding a holiday home first, sets the stage for a magical stay filled with festive feasts, quality time with friends and family, and snowy adventures right from home.
Our Big Sky vacation rentals are designed and equipped for holiday gatherings of all sizes. From well-equipped kitchens and snug living spaces with crackling fireplaces, to outdoor hot tubs and firepits nestled beneath star-studded skies, your Big Sky holiday home is the cornerstone of an enchanting holiday season in Big Sky.
2. Secure Your Ski Passes in Advance
With 5,800 acres of diverse terrain, Big Sky is a haven for skiing and snowboarding – but the holiday season draws the crowds! Reservations are required for Mountain Collective and Ikon Passholders to use their days at Big Sky, all other skiers and snowboarders should purchase tickets in advance for the best prices and availability. Securing your lift tickets before arriving in Big Sky will be a game-changer for your holiday season getaway.
This holiday season, all visitors to Big Sky get to experience the all-new transformed Lone Peak Tram! Note that advance lift tickets are not available for the Lone Peak Tram. Whether you’re a skier, snowboarder, or a scenic sightseer, simply enable autocharge on your Big Sky account and tram rides are charged directly to your credit card as you pass through the entrance gate. It’s a must-do attraction for the ultimate holiday hoorah in Big Sky.
3. Arrange Ski & Snowboard Delivery
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time skier, having the right gear and equipment enhances your overall winter sports experience on the slopes of Big Sky. Instead of waiting until you arrive, standing in lines, and wasting valuable time on the slopes, Ski Butlers in Big Sky offer the convenience of having top-notch equipment delivered to your Big Sky vacation rental, ensuring a hassle-free and personalized experience on the slopes.
Simply reserve the equipment you want online, relax in your vacation home while they fit your gear, and enjoy full support on the slopes while you ski or snowboard – their ski technicians will even meet you on the mountain while you enjoy an apres break! If you’d rather ship your gear from home, we’ve got you covered too!
4. Plan Your Off-Piste Pleasures
Big Sky is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, but your off-slope adventure options are as diverse as the Big Sky slopes! To avoid missing out on these unforgettable and popular winter experiences, be sure to book all your off-slope activities in advance.
Picture the enchantment of a horse-drawn sleigh ride with the jingling serenade of sleigh bells, the tranquility of soaking in natural hot springs, or a bucket-list worthy guided winter tour of Yellowstone National Park, where the wonders of nature take on a whole new allure in the winter season. Follow the quick links below to Big Sky’s off-slope activities, or download the Big Sky app on your phone for easy planning at your fingertips!
Winter Fly Fishing with Gallatin River Guides
Nordic Skiing & Snowshoe Tours
5. Make Dinner Reservations Now!
Equally important are reservations for your dining experiences in Big Sky. Big Sky has an amazing selection of restaurants or, for a true taste of Montana, book a sleigh ride dinner with cowboy singers, dine by candlelight in a backcountry yurt, or cozy up with cowboy cuisine on a dude ranch. During peak season, dinner reservations are required at most Big Sky restaurants and you’ll definitely want to plan ahead for Big Sky’s unique adventure dining experiences!
Of course, you’ll want to warm up the evening with aprés ski and live music (no reservations required!) or, if you prefer fine dining in the comfort of home, reserve a private chef to bring a magical Montana holiday feast to you!
6. Schedule Your Festive Fun
For a small mountain town, Big Sky Montana knows how to celebrate the holiday season! Make sure you capture every moment of the festive magic by noting the array of enchanting events and festivities happening in Big Sky during the holiday season. Immerse yourself in the whimsical wonders of an enchanted forest, surprise the kids with photos and stories with Santa, browse the holiday markets, and witness the mesmerizing torchlight parade and fireworks illuminating Big Sky’s iconic Lone Peak.
Check out our 2023-24 Big Sky Winter Events Calendar for holiday festivities and special events taking place during your stay.
7. Pack Essentials for Cold Weather
Big Sky’s winter temperatures can be chilly, so it’s important to pack the right essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable vacation. Make sure to include windproof and waterproof winter clothing to shield yourself from the cold, warm socks and insulated winter boots to keep your feet toasty, and accessories like beanies, gloves and hand warmers to protect against the chill.
The mountain air is dry so include lip balm, moisturizer, and sunscreen to keep your skin feeling its best. If you happen to forget something, don’t fret! Big Sky Town Center and Mountain Village are home to local stores offering a diverse range of winter essentials including clothing, sports gear, and personal care items. These conveniently located shops serve as a swift solution for any unexpected needs during your stay.
8. Be Mindful of Altitude
When visiting Big Sky, it’s crucial to be mindful of the high altitude at play! The base elevation of Big Sky Resort sits at 7,500 feet above sea level, and the summit of Lone Peak soars to a staggering 11,000 feet, adding an extra element of adventure to your trip. Take a leisurely start on your first day to allow your body to acclimate gradually.
Staying hydrated is key at these heights, so be sure to take breaks as needed and drink plenty of water, not alcohol! A lesser known fact, the effects of alcohol are more pronounced at higher elevations so take it easy this holiday season! Adventure awaits at every elevation in Big Sky, MT.
9. Check the Road Conditions!
Before traveling to Big Sky, check the road conditions and weather forecasts. Winter conditions can impact road safety, so it is essential to be prepared and informed about the route you plan to take. Please also download directions to your vacation rental prior to your travels. Cell phone signal can be spotty in the mountains and we want to ensure you reach your vacation rental with ease.
Highway 191 to Big Sky is known for its wildlife crossings! This region is a habitat for bears, elk, moose, deer, bighorn sheep, foxes, and more! Always be wildlife aware, especially when driving, and follow the guidelines to observe wildlife from a safe distance. If you’d prefer to leave the driving to a local, regular airport shuttles and taxi services are available from Bozeman to Big Sky.
10. Book Direct for a Local Experience!
For a quintessential Big Sky adventure, the service of a local team, and the best lodging prices in Big Sky, book your stay directly with Big Sky Vacation Rentals. Whether it’s a contemporary ski condo, a cowboy cabin, or a luxury slopeside chalet, Big Sky Vacation Rentals offers a variety of accommodations to suit your group size and preferences. After a day of exploring, you’ll be unwinding in the comfort of your private holiday home, snuggled by the fireplace, and celebrating the holidays with your nearest and dearest, surrounded by the spectacular scenery of Big Sky, MT.
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With these tips in mind, your holiday season travel to Big Sky Montana is sure to be filled with unforgettable moments and winter magic. Bundle up, hit the slopes, and savor every moment in this enchanting mountain retreat. Happy holidays and safe travels!
All that’s left is to start planning your luxury slopeside vacation in Big Sky! Our team at Big Sky Vacation Rentals live here, work here and play here – we know Big Sky!
For further assistance in trip planning, give our team a call at (888) 915-2787
Browse our Big Sky Vacation Blog for inspiration, download our Big Sky Vacation Guide for all the local information in one place, and book your stay with BSVR for a customized vacation experience and long lasting memories!
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