Welcome to Big Sky Resort, a special place that takes skiing seriously. Surrounded by the beauty of the Greater Yellowstone Region, 5,850 acres of skiable terrain range from cruisy groomers to bucket-list descents. This guide will help you navigate through the basics of visiting Big Sky in winter.
Planning a ski vacation takes a lot of logistics - and we’re here to make it as seamless as possible. We’re so excited to have you here!
When to Visit
Big Sky Resort has historically opened on Thanksgiving Day, but we've started a new tradition, opening the day before. The amount of ski terrain open varies each year depending on weather and conditions. Big Sky is known for consistently getting snow throughout the season, averaging 400 inches of snowfall a year. No matter the weather, with over 5,850 acres of terrain covering a variety of micro-climates, you can find good conditions all over the mountain.
Traditionally, peak visitation to Big Sky Resort is over Christmas, New Year’s, and holiday weekends in January and February. Many school breaks fall in March, which also makes that a popular time to visit. If you have the flexibility, skip the holidays and come when it’s a little quieter-it's also the best time to save on lift tickets, lodging, and more. If you ask us, the “secret season” here in Big Sky is April. Most of our terrain is still open, the snowfall continues to be plentiful, and temperatures become a bit milder for outdoor après on our amazing decks.
Insider Tip: Plan Your Trip With Concierge - Exclusive perk for guests staying in Big Sky Resort Central Reservations lodging: Allow our concierge team to help with trip planning-our team can assist with dining reservations, booking off-slope activities, and setting up ground transportation.
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| Biggest Skiing in America • BIG SKY, Montana | GoPro HERO 4 • Brian Obritsch
Getting to Big Sky
Getting to Big Sky is a breeze with direct flights from 20 major cities. Big Sky Resort is located approximately one hour south of Bozeman International Airport. Fliers can rent a vehicle from the airport in Bozeman or arrange a shuttle-either way, be sure to arrange transportation early. Winter driving conditions can impact the road, so if you are planning on driving, make sure you have good tires and a 4WD or AWD vehicle.
Insider Tip: Transportation Services - Ride-sharing programs like Uber and Lyft are not reliable ways to get between Bozeman and Big Sky. There is also no cell service in Gallatin Canyon, so be sure to make any arrangements in Bozeman.
What to Pack
In Montana, the elements of winter demand function over fashion. Grab your trusty puffy jacket, shoes with good traction, and a beanie (or three). Whether you’re out on the mountain or hanging out in the base area, layering will keep you warm. For skiing and riding, we recommend waterproof outer layers gloves, and always a helmet. If you don’t have gear, Big Sky Sports Rentals & Demos has skis and boards suitable for all levels. If you’re coming from somewhere with a warmer climate, there are plenty of shops in Mountain Village to stock up on mountain gear.
Getting Around Big Sky
Make your way to Big Sky from Bozeman along the Gallatin River as it winds its way through the canyon. Watch for eagles, hawks, and the local herds of deer, elk, and Bighorn Sheep. Always be mindful of wildlife when driving, especially at night. As you leave the canyon, you’ll come upon Big Sky Town Center and Meadow Village. Town Center has shops, restaurants, and the Big Sky Medical Center. You might want to stop by one of the grocery stores if you’re staying in a condo or home. About 10 minutes past Town Center, Mountain Village sits nestled at the base of the ski area. Mountain Village is the main hub of the mountain, with ticket and lesson offices, rentals, shops, dining, Basecamp activities, and more.
Past Mountain Village, on the north side of Lone Mountain, is the Madison Base. Many vacation rentals are in this area. The Madison Base has a ticket and lessons office, rentals, a gear shop, and the Headwaters Grill. It’s a great spot to swing by during the ski day, even if you are staying in Mountain Village.
If you’re staying with Big Sky Resort Central Reservations, you’ll check in at the Summit Hotel or Huntley Lodge.
Insider Tip: Getting Around Big Sky - Big Sky Resort offers free transportation to and from town for dinner reservations and off-mountain activities for guests staying in Big Sky Lodging. Make sure to call the bell team ahead of time to arrange your trip-they can get busy. The Skyline Bus also provides free public transportation in the area.
Hitting the Slopes
Before you hit the slopes, swing by the nearest Sky Card Express box to pick up your lift tickets or season pass. The box will print out your Sky Cards with your tickets or passes pre-loaded. Ikon passholders can use their existing Ikon RFID card or swing by our Mountain Services office to pick one up. Mountain Collective passholders can load their days online and print out their Sky Card using the Express Boxes. Place your Sky Card in a pocket of your ski coat. It is reusable year after year, so hang on to it! If you’re renting gear, avoid the morning rush and save time by picking up your rentals the day before between 2 - 4 PM. If you’re arriving later than 5, use our Rental Delivery service to have your rentals dropped off at your lodging anywhere in Big Sky. Drop by Big Sky Sports to stock up on any forgotten pieces of gear (we always forget our buffs). Grab some dinner in the Mountain Village, stay hydrated, and get a good night’s sleep to prepare for your first day on the mountain.
Insider Tip: Chairlift Bubbles & Safety Bars - When riding Swift Current 6 or Ramcharger 8, the safety bar locks for the entire ride. This means that when you pull the bar down, it will stay locked until you reach the top terminal, where it is released for unloading. On the new Madison 8 chairlift, the safety bars also lower automatically. The bubbles do not lock and can go up or down during the ride.
Mountain Information
With 5,850 acres, there’s more terrain than you can ski in a day (we recommended at least three!) to explore the nooks and crannies across 38 chairlifts and four peaks. There are maps and wayfinding signage in the base areas and on-mountain. Still, it's good to take a look at our trail maps before heading out for the day.
For first-timers to Big Sky, we recommend booking a private lesson or guide to have an instructor show you around. They will help you figure out the best spots on the mountain for what you’re looking to ski and your ability level, including the high alpine and Lone Peak Tram terrain.
Big Sky Resort features a unique 50/50 split between beginner-intermediate and advanced terrain, making it a great place to learn or to push yourself to the next level.
Mountain Stats
Smooth, fast, and awe-inspiring. The new Lone Peak tram opens up a world of wonder to all. Ski down or take a scenic ride-the tram is accessible by green runs, making it great for skiers and riders of all levels. Starting winter 2024-25, lift tickets include Lone Peak Tram access.
**Note, get to the Lone Peak Tram as fast as possible in the morning. The tram has a 15 person capacity, so the wait gets long fairly quickly. If you’re not on the first few trams, you’ll wait upwards of an hour. Getting there fast starts with getting in line at Swift Current early. Swift Current doesn’t open until 9am, but put your skis in line before opening. Your skis’ place in line will be respected without you standing watch, allowing you to grab breakfast at Hungry Moose Market & Deli.
From MOUNTAIN VILLAGE take Swift Current ("Swifty" to locals) and exit right to follow Jay Walk, a cat track, to Powder Seeker. Exit Powder Seeker to the right. You'll see the Lone Peak Tram base on the left. Your run selection will depend on what’s open. The SOUTH FACE is open most of the time and is also the easiest way down. If The Big Couloir is open, it’s a must-ski. You are required to have a partner and avalanche gear, and to sign a waiver in the ski patrol office at the top of the tram. Ski patrol limits access to two people every fifteen minutes. Once you’ve signed up, your time slot is reserved. You can either wait in a shack at the summit called "The Penalty Box," or ski a run and try to make it back in time for your reservation. We recommend waiting at the summit. The Big Couloir ends up at the base of the tram. Ski past the tram onto Upper Morningstar, a groomer, which becomes Lower Morningstar. Lower Morningstar returns you to Swift Current.
Beyond the Slopes
There's more to Big Sky than the mountain. Experience all of what makes this place special.
Outdoor adventure is sure to enhance your appetite. For lunch and snack breaks while you’re out on the mountain, Vista Hall in Mountain Village is easy to stop by and has lots of options. Headwaters Grille is great for families if you’re on the North Side. For upscale alpine dining, make a reservation for Everett's 8800 for lunch or dinner, accessed by a ride up Ramcharger 8. Mountain Village has a variety of dining options, from full-service restaurants to cafes and a small grocery store. A short drive down the road, the Big Sky Town Center and Meadow Village offer even more variety.
Here at Big Sky Resort, aim to outfit you with the best gear so you can make the most out of your time on our mountain. In every shop, we help you seek your adventure, whether it be with gear or gifts for your family. Don’t miss a trip down to Big Sky Town Center, where even more shopping and opportunities await.
There are so many ways to get outside and enjoy the magic of winter off of your skis or board. Explore nighttime in the mountains in the Enchanted Forest or relax your mind and body at Solace Spa. If you’re looking for something more active, take a snowshoeing tour or explore the miles of cross-country skiing at the Big Sky Nordic Center. No matter your preference, your rest days and evenings off-mountain will be great experiences on their own.
Whether it's a concert, weekly wine night, holiday tradition, or performance sports competition, there's always something going on in Big Sky.
Explore Greater Yellowstone
Big Sky is less than an hour’s scenic drive from West Yellowstone, the park’s west entrance. It is a beautiful place under the cover of snow but most roads are closed to cars in the winter. The only way to access Yellowstone National Park from the west entrance is via snowmobile, nordic skiing, or snowcoach. Tours can be booked through Yellowstone National Park-approved outfitters.
