8 Tips for First Timers on the Big Sky Slopes 


Are you planning your first ski vacation in Big Sky, Montana? Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, Big Sky offers some of the best resort amenities and terrain in the West for both beginner and expert skiers and snowboarders – and those simply looking for a scenic setting to relax in the Montana mountains! 

Big Sky Montana boasts the biggest skiing in America – 5,850 skiable acres with 320 ski runs on 4 interconnected mountains, high-speed heated chairlifts, and breathtaking terrain ranging from green groomers and bunny hills in the base areas to iconic couloirs and terrifying triple diamonds stemming from the summit of Lone Peak. 

You can bring the whole crew to Big Sky and experience the winter adventure of a lifetime, and be one of the first to ride the transformed Lone Peak Tram this winter season! 

Forget the terrifying triple diamond rating at Big Sky – those slopes are for the experts! We’re here to share our 8 tips for first-timers on the Big Sky slopes  – and to tell you that there’s no better place on earth to enter the world of winter sports and learn to ski or snowboard than Big Sky Montana!


1. Book A Ski-In Ski-Out Vacation Rental

Forget the hassle of transportation, packed parking lots, and transitioning your gear from your rental home to the Big Sky slopes, and back home! Your first time on the slopes should be effortless, easy, and fun! From waking up to first tracks, skiing from your back deck, and easy access to the ski lifts and ski schools, to the convenience of taking a midday lunch break or hot tub soak, a slopeside vacation is the epitome of mountain living – and the ultimate experience for first-timers on the slopes. Word of caution, be sure the ski access is suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. On that note, our Cowboy Heaven Cabins boast TRUE ski-in/ski-out access to Big Sky Resort for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

Browse our collection of ski-in ski-out rentals in Big Sky    


2. Choose Warmth & Comfort over Style

Montana winters are chilly and weather conditions in the higher elevations are constantly changing, so prioritize warmth and comfort over designer ski styles! We recommend wearing three layers; a moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry, an insulating layer for warmth, and a waterproof outer layer to protect yourself against the elements. Top it off with waterproof gloves or mittens, a sweat-wicking skull cap beanie to wear under your helmet, and high-quality ski socks with padding to soften the ski boot. There’s a variety of outdoor gear stores in Mountain Village and Big Sky Town Center to shop locally too. 

Check out our Easy Winter Packing List for Kids


3. Rent Your Winter Sports Gear

While you may be tempted to snag a cool pair of vintage skis on eBay, for a successful first time on the slopes renting equipment locally is your best bet. There are so many different brands, types, lengths, and price ranges of skis and snowboards. As a beginner, choosing the right gear can be a confusing call. Our local Big Sky outfitters will equip you with the right gear for your weight, height, and skill level to enhance your experience, deliver directly to your Big Sky rental home, and even meet you on the mountain to switch out gear if you’re feeling out of sync. Bonus! Guests of Big Sky Vacation Rentals enjoy a 15% discount at Ski Butlers in Big Sky.   

Shop around for Big Sky winter sports rentals


4. Learn With A Pro (Not Your Pals!)

Learning to ski or snowboard is fun, but for first-timers, it can be a tiring experience with a high level of fear and frustration. But, everyone has to start somewhere, and Big Sky is the place! The seasoned instructors at Big Sky Mountain Sports School specialize in tailoring their instruction to your individual needs, ensuring you learn at your own pace, build confidence to conquer the beginner Big Sky slopes, and transition with ease from pizza slices and snow plows to smooth carves or parallel turns in no time! Big Sky Resort offers a variety of ski and snowboard lessons including kids lessons for ages 2 and up, private one-on-one sessions with an instructor, and group lessons for all ages and ability levels. 

Book Big Sky Mountain Sports School ski and snowboard lessons


5. Get Lift Tickets in Advance

For the best rates and confirmed availability, don’t wait until you’re at the resort to purchase your lift tickets. Lift tickets are not included in ski and snowboard lessons, so a pass is required for every day you intend to ski. All Ikon Passholders and Mountain Collective pass holders will need to make a reservation to use their days at Big Sky, or for daily lift tickets get the best per-day rate by booking early, and bundling up your days! Big Sky Resort offers Beginner Tickets which include access to the Explorer lift at Mountain Village, the Derringer lift at Madison Base, and the magic carpets at both Big Sky base areas. Tickets are not available in the early season and are available at ticket windows only. 

Explore all Big Sky Resort Lift Ticket Options


6. Build Confidence Cruising Big Sky’s Beginner Terrain

Big Sky Resort’s beginner terrain will have you building confidence on the slopes in no time! For those looking to escape the crowds, the Madison base area on the north side of the mountain is quieter than Mountain Village and easily accessible from our ski in ski out rentals in Moonlight Basin. Both base areas have a Mountain Sports School, gentle green trails, easy chairlifts, and small terrain parks for beginners to practice their jumps, tricks, and stunts in a fun and safe setting. You’ll be riding the iconic high-speed high-tech Big Sky Blue Bubbles and all-new Lone Peak Tram to the upper elevation slopes in no time! 

Take a Tour of Big Sky Resort Winter Trails


7. Safety First

As you embark on your snow-filled adventure, your personal safety is paramount! On your first day on the slopes, you’ll discover muscles you never knew you had, so warm up and stretch before strapping on your gear. Always use proper equipment and protective gear, and smother on the sunscreen – the higher the altitude, the easier the sunburn. Dehydration at high altitudes is also a reality, so stay hydrated – and we’re not talking about mountain mimosas and craft beer at the on-mountain restaurants! Last, but not least, familiarize yourself with the Skier Responsibility Code and safety at Big Sky Resort and, as a beginner, always hit the slopes with a buddy. 

Learn About Safety at Big Sky Resort


8. Balance Your Time in Big Sky

Balancing your time in Big Sky is all about embracing the diversity of experiences our winter wonderland has to offer, and having fun! Aside from the elevated experiences at Big Sky Resort, you’ll find an array of activities to keep your off-slope days just as exciting as your time on the mountain. Have fun and mix it up a little with an easy snowshoe hike, a coach or snowmobile tour of Yellowstone National Park, sledding and ice skating at Town Center, or a bucket-list day of mushing in the Montana mountains. Big Sky hosts a lineup of epic winter events in Big Sky and an evening of après ski always awaits!


Our Big Sky vacation rentals have been the home base of many first-timers evolving into true Big Sky triple black aficionados! We know your ski vacation is a big investment! We represent the best vacation homes and condos in Big Sky with a local team to provide you with guest services and tips to make your vacation truly exceptional. BOOK ONLINE or call our team today at (888) 915-2787.


You Might Also Like

Easy Winter Packing List For Kids

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.”― Alfred Wainwright, A Coast to Coast Walk “The cold never bothered us anyway.” – Elsa, Frozen At the intersection of these two quotes is the place where the emotional temperatures rise at the same time as the physical temperatures are falling–where parents find themselves boiling …

Read More

Babysitting & Childcare Options in Big Sky, MT 

Planning a summer vacation or ski trip 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 $1!), year-round resort activities worthy of a slot on your itinerary, local restaurants and nightlife with a focus on family, and …

Read More

8 Tips for Skiing with Kids

We’ve all seen the viral videos of vibrant toddlers sharing hilarious commentaries as they cruise effortlessly down the ski slopes! They seriously make you want to shop for funky dinosaur or unicorn ski outfits and book a vacation to the nearest winter resort – but the harsh reality is that a day of skiing and …

Read More

The Best Ski Runs At Big Sky Resort

Big Sky Resort is one of the world’s best resorts for easrly season skiing. The conditions are amazing, the stoke is real, and we’re looking forward to an epic season on the slopes here at Big Sky Resort! Big Sky Resort is massive, but far from intimidating, don’t let the size fool you! The ski …

Read More

Top 10 Winter Activities in Big Sky, MT

Big Sky Resort is gearing up for the ’23/24 winter ski season! With so much snow, skiers and snowboarders from all over are keen to ride the slopes of Big Sky Resort, ranked one the “Best Ski Resorts in the West”, but the fun doesn’t end on the ski slopes. If you’re looking to fill your …

Read More

Top 10 Restaurants in Big Sky Montana 

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 …

Read More

Big Sky Autumn Events Calendar 2023

Amidst the breathtaking scenery and crisp mountain air, a realm of fall wonders awaits in Big Sky, Montana. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, trailblazer, thrill seeker, or someone who simply delights in the beauty of autumn’s changing leaves, Big Sky boasts a delightful lineup of autumn activities and events backdropped by the majestic Montana mountains …

Read More

What’s Up With The New Tram At Big Sky Resort?

A Transformed Tram Experience at Big Sky Resort! Big Sky Resort has a goal to be “the best ski experience, the best hospitality experience, and the best community experience in the North American ski industry” and they are on track!  Imagine being perched on the edge of the Montana mountains, surrounded by breathtaking vistas that …

Read More

8 Tips for First Timers on the Big Sky Slopes 

Are you planning your first ski vacation in Big Sky, Montana? Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, Big Sky offers some of the best resort amenities and terrain in the West for both beginner and expert skiers and snowboarders – and those simply looking for a scenic setting to relax in the …

Read More

10 Tips for Holiday Season Travel to Big Sky

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 …

Read More

How To Plan A Big Sky Vacation This Winter

It’s no secret that Big Sky, Montana is booming! Big Sky Resort unveiled Big Sky 2025, a 10-year plan to invest $150-million and transform the resort and town of Big Sky into one of the top luxury alpine destinations in the US – “from the moment you touch ground in Montana to the top of …

Read More

Tips To Plan A Fall Trip To Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is the world’s first and most famous National Park! Yellowstone is huge, and spans over 2 million acres and across three states (Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana), it has five entrances and just as many visitor centers, and welcomes nearly 5 million visitors annually. With those types of stats, it’s easy to see …

Read More

How To Easily Get To Big Sky, Montana?

Big Sky, MT is a booming destination growing in popularity each and every season. Tucked in the scenic Montana mountains halfway between the bustling town of Bozeman and West Yellowstone, the charming mountain town of Big Sky is an off the beaten path destination yet ranks as one of the most connected mountain destinations in …

Read More

2023 Yellowstone National Park Wildlife Guide

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the world, dubbed the “Serengeti of North America” for its captivating landscapes, natural wonders, and abundance of wildlife roaming free in their natural habitat. Yellowstone is home to more wildlife than any of the lower 48 states with hundreds of animal species ranging …

Read More

10 Easy Ways to Support Local In Big Sky, MT

Big Sky is on the list of Time Magazines “World’s Greatest Places” and is becoming an increasingly popular destination for year-round travel. Travelers are seeking sustainable travel, eco-adventures, unique local experiences, and connection with their destination and the local community. There has been a huge influx of new locals in the past few years, and …

Read More

7 Best Hot Springs Near Big Sky, MT

Montana’s Big Sky Country is known for its vast stretches of untamed wilderness, rugged landscapes, majestic mountain views and natural, geothermal wonders bursting out from the surface of the earth.  There are over 61 known natural hot springs in Montana ranging from primitive hot springs bubbling into mountain rivers to commercial, developed hot spring resorts …

Read More

8 Spots For Working Remote In Big Sky, MT

According to a recent survey, eight in ten remote workers consider doing their jobs from vacation, with nearly half choosing a longer trip with work over a shorter trip without work involved!  Whether you’re one of the eight ready to explore beyond the boundaries of your everyday home office, or in the smaller group of …

Read More

8 Best Places To Swim & Boat In Big Sky

Getting in and on the water is all part of the Big Sky summer experience. From paddling in pristine mountain streams, floating and rafting the rivers, and swimming in alpine lakes to fly-fishing excursions, kayak and SUP adventures, wild water skiing and even luxury outdoor pools – we’ve got the best places to enjoy the …

Read More

The Perfect 3-Day Big Sky Winter Itinerary

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 to ensure your 3-day getaway to Big Sky is a special experience.  To help you plan your stay, our local team …

Read More

7 Best Aprés Ski Spots In Big Sky, MT

The term “Aprés Ski” dates back to the French 50’s ski scene and has become a culture over the years that is ingrained in the mind of every skier and boarder when planning a ski trip. Who doesn’t love a little nip after a full day on the ski hill? Aprés Ski refers to the social …

Read More

The Perfect 5-Day Big Sky Winter Itinerary

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 to ensure your 5-day getaway to Big Sky is a special experience.  To help you plan your stay, our local team …

Read More

18 Best Restaurants In Big Sky Town Center

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, embarking on an adventure with friends or escaping the city limits for a family vacation in the mountains, Big Sky is a destination of boundless beauty, immersive experiences, exhilarating outdoor adventures and classic Montana mountain cabins with a contemporary spin. Some of the best restaurants in Big Sky are …

Read More

Where Should You Stay In Big Sky, MT?

Looking to travel to Big Sky, Montana? With so many lodging options available in the area, it can be an overwhelming task to find the perfect vacation home for your stay. To make things easier, Big Sky’s lodging is divided into 3 main areas: – The Meadow Village– The Mountain Village – The Moonlight Basin …

Read More

When Is The Best Time To Visit Big Sky, MT?

One of the most common questions our guests ask is “When is the best time to ski in Big Sky?” Big Sky boasts the Biggest Skiing in America with 5,850 acres of diverse terrain for every level, a vertical drop of 4,350 feet (one of the longest vertical drops in the US), 300 runs, 7 …

Read More

Big Sky Events Calendar Winter 23/24 

Winter magic calls to you from beautiful Big Sky, Montana! From enchanting forest walks, to captivating holiday traditions, to world-class music and epic winter sports, Big Sky beckons travelers from far and wide to experience a winter wonderland amidst the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains. The winter season starts early in Big Sky, MT. …

Read More

How To Enjoy The Gallatin River In Big Sky, MT

The mighty Gallatin River that flows through Big Sky is one of Montana’s most iconic rivers. The Gallatin River is wild and scenic with one of the best whitewater runs in the Yellowstone region, world-class flyfishing, free-roaming wildlife, and captivating Big Sky Country landscapes that will leave you in absolute awe!  The Gallatin Canyon was …

Read More

Top 5 Fall Activities in Big Sky, MT

Fall is the perfect time of year for epic leaf-peeping adventures in Big Sky with cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, festive fall events and the soft golden hues of the aspens and cottonwoods highlighting the spectacular outdoor beauty that surrounds Big Sky.  1. Resort Activities Big Sky Resort offers award-winning golf, ziplining, a bungee trampoline, disc …

Read More

Best Things To Do In Yellowstone In The Fall

Yellowstone National Park is one of the top most visited and one of the most beloved parks in the USA. Yellowstone even broke records and set new visitor highs this summer! While the summertime brings in the most visitors to the area, locals know that autumn is Yellowstone’s better and quieter season. With thinning crowds, …

Read More

Not Skiing? 8 Things To Do In Big Sky Off The Slopes

Big Sky is known for its world class skiing and snowboarding, with some of the best snow in the country. But what if you’re not here to ski but still want to enjoy the snow and have some winter fun? Not to worry! The fun in Big Sky doesn’t start at the top of the …

Read More

15 Reasons To Visit Yellowstone National Park

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 …

Read More