Visitors Guide
Welcome to Big Sky Resort
Big Sky is 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!
Trip Planning
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. Keep an eye on our social media and emails for real-time updates leading up to the season.
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.
Trip Planning Checklist
Lift Tickets
It’s not a ski vacation if you can’t ride the lifts. Purchase lift tickets early for the best price—and the more days you add, the more you save. Our lift tickets have built-in rest days, so when you purchase a “3 of 4” ticket, you can ride the lifts for 3 days over a 4-day period. Use them all in one go, or explore all Big Sky has to offer off-mountain (and give your legs a rest.)
Lodging
Big Sky Resort Central Reservations provides an array of slope-side properties to fit every group. All properties offer access to fitness facilities, pools, and hot tubs. To make sure you can book the perfect accommodations for your stay, we recommend booking well in advance. You’ll also save the earlier you book.
Lessons & Guides
Whether you’re a lifelong skier or just starting on snow, our Mountain Sports School can take your skiing or snowboarding to the next level. Our certified instructors can help you take on that next challenge—from your first blue run to the Big Couloir. They can also guide you across the expansive terrain of Big Sky and tailor your day to your ability level, with no instruction required.
Ski & Snowboard Rentals
Skip oversized baggage fees and get high-performance rentals and demos in Big Sky. Our rental shop will ensure you’re set with comfortable, fitted gear for any type of skier or snowboarder. With two types of rentals and a wide variety of demo options for both disciplines, you’ll be ready to take on any conditions. Save 20% by booking online.
Flights & Transportation
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’ve got your own ski gear, you can mail your skis right to the resort with our partner, Ship Skis. 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.
Lay of the Land
Map showing Big Sky Resort location in relation to the town of Big Sky and Bozeman
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. If you are staying with Big Sky Resort Central Reservations, check in at the Huntley Lodge or Summit Hotel. 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.
Check In To Your Lodging
If you’re staying with Big Sky Resort Central Reservations, you’ll check in at the Summit Hotel or Huntley Lodge. Not sure which? Here's a cheat sheet.
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.
Getting Ready for Your First Day
Before you hit the slopes, swing by the nearest Sky Card Express box to pick up your lift tickets or season pass. Use the scanner to scan the QR code in your confirmation email. 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.
Helpful Links
Current Conditions
Planning your next move on the mountain shouldn't be guesswork. Check real-time lift and trail status, groomed trails, weather, temperatures, and snowfall from our website or app.
We also recommend signing up for our daily Snow Report email. In it you'll find highlighted snow totals and a summary of the day's expected conditions, compiled with insight on what's skiing well from our tram operator team.
Download our App
Even if you know the mountain like the back of your hand, we recommend downloading the Big Sky App. It has all the trail maps pre-loaded, and it also has up-to-date lift and trail status, so you can check what’s open before heading to a new spot.
Parking Status
If you are driving to the resort for the day, we have plenty of parking options, free and paid. Our parking page has real-time updates about parking availability in all our lots. And don’t worry about carrying your gear—we have parking shuttles that run every few minutes from 8 AM - 6 PM.
On the Slopes
Get to Know the Mountain
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.
Private Lessons & Mountain Guides
For first-timers to Big Sky, we recommend booking a private lesson 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. For those looking to push the limits, booking a Tram Guide is the best and safest way to venture into Big Sky’s high-alpine expert terrain.
Terrain for all levels
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.
Ride the Lone Peak Tram
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.
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.
Off the Mountain
There's more to Big Sky than the mountain. Experience all of what makes this place special.
Dining
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.
Shopping
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.
Winter Activities
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.
Events
Whether it's a concert, weekly wine night, holiday tradition, or performance sports competition, there's always something going on in Big Sky. Explore all our events and happenings all season long.
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.
You made it to the end! We hope you feel prepared for your upcoming trip to Big Sky, or inspired to start planning one. If you have any questions, you're in the right place. Find more information on our website, social media channels, and email newsletter, or contact us with specific questions.
