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This Uncrowded Ski Resort Has Heated Lifts and a Scenic Tram With Views of 3 States and 2 National Parks

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, November 3rd 2025 at 9:36 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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Big Sky Ski Guide – The Ultimate Playbook for Montana’s Mountain Playground

For anyone dreaming of a snow‑filled getaway that balances world‑class skiing, luxury lodging, and a splash of rugged Western charm, the Travel + Leisure “Big Sky Ski Guide” is the go‑to resource. The piece dives deep into every aspect of the resort, from lift statistics and terrain breakdowns to dining spots and off‑slope adventures, giving readers a clear, practical roadmap to planning their Big Sky trip. Below is a comprehensive synthesis of that guide, distilled into a single, easy‑to‑digest article.

The Resort at a Glance

• Location: Bozeman‑area, Montana, 120 mi east of the world‑famous Glacier National Park.
• Vertical Drop: 3,460 ft – the 2nd largest vertical in the United States after Vail.
• Base Elevation: 8,750 ft; Summit: 12,300 ft.
• Terrain: 4,150 acres of skiable land with 33 % beginner, 37 % intermediate, and 30 % advanced/expert trails.
• Lifts: 24 modern lifts including 10 high‑speed quads, 4 triple chairs, and a scenic gondola that winds through a 30‑acre alpine forest.
• Season: Roughly mid‑October to early May, with an average snowfall of 400 inches per season (though a good snow‑pack can be found as early as September 1 and can last until June 30).

The guide highlights that Big Sky’s “terrain parks are arguably the best in the West, with 10 parks ranging from beginner-friendly to world‑class terrain.” For those who are more interested in carving down groomers than performing aerial tricks, the resort’s “snow‑plow trail” and “Sunshine Express” offer easy, scenic routes that showcase the resort’s signature panoramic views.

Skiing & Snowboarding

• Snowboarding: Big Sky boasts one of the nation’s largest snowboarding zones, with 20% of all runs open for boarders and a dedicated “Snowboarder’s Paradise” park featuring half‑pipes, rails, and big‑air boxes.
• Ski School: The resort’s ski school is consistently rated among the top in the United States, offering beginner courses, intermediate clinics, and private lessons. The school’s instructors hold FIS certification, and the curriculum is tailored for all ages and skill levels.
• Lifts & Rides: The “Big Sky Express” gondola connects the base lodge to the top of “Eagle Ridge” in a 25‑minute ascent, giving skiers a panoramic view of the Gallatin Range. The resort’s “Sunset Express” quad lifts are highlighted for their speed and minimal wait times, making them favorites for intermediate skiers.

For advanced riders, the guide recommends the “Boulder Loop” for its challenging chutes and “Turtle Ridge” for steep, tree‑lined runs that test even the most seasoned riders.

Lodging

Travel + Leisure’s guide gives an inside look at a spectrum of accommodation options:

1. Big Sky Lodge – A rustic‑modern hotel with heated indoor pool, a spa, and on‑site ski‑parking.
2. Little Big Sky Lodge – A more boutique experience, offering cabin‑style rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families.
3. Luxury Condo Rentals – The guide lists the “Alpine Suites” and “Peak Villas,” both featuring kitchenettes, fireplaces, and ski‑lift access.
4. Budget Options – The “Big Sky Bunk” provides dorm‑style lodging and communal kitchens for budget travelers.

Each lodging type is reviewed for its proximity to the ski area, in‑room amenities, and overall value. The article also notes that most hotels offer free shuttle service from the town of Big Sky, which itself has a limited selection of shops and restaurants.

Dining

The guide curates a list of restaurants that represent Big Sky’s culinary scene, from hearty steakhouses to contemporary farm‑to‑table fare:

• The Summit Lodge Restaurant – Offers a classic American menu with locally sourced beef and trout.
• Bald Eagle Grill – Known for its signature “Big Sky Burger” and a rotating selection of craft beers.
• Snowplow Café – A casual spot where diners can enjoy artisanal sandwiches, homemade soups, and local coffee.
• Alpine Bistro – A fine‑dining experience that serves seasonal mountain cuisine, with a focus on organic produce and locally harvested mushrooms.

Each dining option is evaluated for service speed (crucial after a day on the slopes), price point, and atmosphere. The guide stresses that most restaurants offer ski‑in, ski‑out access and that many feature open fireplaces for a cozy winter vibe.

Off‑Slope Activities

Big Sky is more than just skiing. The guide recommends a variety of off‑slope experiences that capitalize on Montana’s wild landscape:

• Night Skiing – Nighttime runs on the “Sundance” lift and “Nightfall” trail allow skiers to experience the mountain after dark.
• Snowshoeing & Cross‑Country Skiing – The “Trailblazer” network offers well‑maintained cross‑country routes, ranging from beginner loops to advanced, 10‑mile loops that weave through the forest.
• Tubing & Luge – The resort’s “Tumbling Tundra” tubing hill is a family favorite.
• Heli‑Skiing – For those seeking the ultimate powder experience, a partnership with a local helicopter service offers guided flights to untouched slopes.
• Spa & Wellness – The “St. Regis Mountain Spa” offers full‑body massages, hot tubs, and a “Melt‑Down” chair that uses infrared heat to relieve post‑ski aches.

The article highlights that visitors should book certain activities (especially heli‑skiing) months in advance due to high demand.

Practical Tips & Travel Logistics

• Transportation – The nearest major airport is Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BOZ), 115 mi west of Big Sky. Rental cars and shuttle services (e.g., “Big Sky Express”) are readily available.
• Parking – On‑site parking is free for all lodge guests and includes a dedicated “Luxe” lot for luxury cars. Visitors staying outside the resort should plan for the 45‑minute drive via the scenic “Scenic Byway 12.”
• Ticketing – The guide recommends purchasing a “All‑Season Pass” for the best value if you plan to ski multiple days. Multi‑day passes offer a discount over single‑day tickets, and the resort offers an “Unlimited” pass that includes night skiing and snowboarding.
• Weather & Gear – Pack layered clothing, a windproof jacket, goggles, and a ski helmet. For the coldest days, a face mask or balaclava is essential.

Follow‑Up Links

To provide readers with actionable details, the guide links directly to the official Big Sky Resort website (https://www.bigska.com) for real‑time lift status, terrain maps, and pass pricing. It also references the “Big Sky Ski School” page for lesson scheduling and instructor bios. Lastly, a link to the resort’s “Dining Guide” (https://www.bigska.com/dining) is included for up‑to‑date menus and reservation requests.

Bottom Line

The Travel + Leisure “Big Sky Ski Guide” delivers a thorough, data‑rich overview of everything that matters to the modern skier: lift statistics, terrain type, lodging options, dining, off‑slope fun, and logistics. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for high‑speed runs, a family wanting a safe, beginner‑friendly environment, or a food lover eager to sample Montana’s hospitality, the guide equips you with the knowledge to plan a seamless, memorable Big Sky adventure.