14 Best Things to Do in BigSky Montana

You can see why Big Sky, Montana, in the Northern Rockies, is billed as “The Biggest Skiing in America” with its 5,850 skiable acres across four summits. Located between the exciting cities of Bozeman and West Yellowstone, this area is a year-round paradise for nature lovers.

For instance, the Big Sky Resort offers a wide variety of winter activities. Some of the things to do in Big Sky, Montana, during this season are downhill skiing, snow coach trips, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and dog sledding.

Like in other parts of Montana, the summertime in Big Sky is also filled with spectacular and entertaining activities. While summer is typically considered the off-season in Big Sky, locals and visitors still think it the best. So, tune in until the end of this post to learn some of the Big Sky activities to add to your travel bucket list.

Our Top Recommendations

• Most significant landmark – Big Sky Town Center
• Best park – Exploring the Yellowstone National Park
• Best water activities – Rafting at the Gallatin River
• Best activity for kids – Tour the Beehive Basin Trail
• Best activity for adults – Horseback Riding In Lone Mountain Ranch
• Best hiking trails – Hiking at the Ousel Falls Trail
• Best nightlife – Attend Music Concerts In The Mountain
• Best all-around accommodation – Stay at the Big Sky Resort

Best Things to Do in BigSky Montana

1. Most Significant Landmark – Stroll Around The Big Sky Town Center

Address: 33 Lone Peak Dr, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

The location that is commonly referred to as Big Sky’s most recognizable landmark may be found in southwest Montana, atop the Rocky Mountains. The Big Sky Town Center is a preferred location for a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

The pedestrian hamlet, which encompasses 165 acres, is surrounded on all sides by breathtaking snow-capped mountains that rise to an elevation of 11,000 feet. The slopes may appear to be only a few meters away, but in reality, they are a couple of thousand feet above the residences and businesses that are located below them. This results in a more agreeable environment and provides speedier access to the mountains that are in the surrounding area.

Hotels and accommodations like Cabin in the Heart of Town – Big Sky and The Wilson Hotel are located nearby. There are also different forms of entertainment, medical facilities, farmer’s markets, performing and visual arts venues, and a great deal more.

Opportunities include dining, shopping, snowshoeing, ice skating, hiking, cycling, and other outdoor and indoor pursuits are also available. Then you can complete the day with fine dining at The Standard, a highland retreat complete with an art deco bar and charcuterie platters.

2. Best Park – Exploring the Yellowstone National Park

Big Sky makes for an excellent home base for excursions to Yellowstone National Park, the most popular site in the surrounding area. The West Entrance of the park can be reached in a little under an hour, and the drive there is absolutely breathtaking.

Due to Big Sky’s close vicinity to the nation’s first national park, tourists have the option of embarking on multi-day journeys or experiencing amazing day trips there. This is one of the  Big Sky Montana Summer vacation getaways.

Yellowstone National Park encompasses a total area of 3,472 square miles and is home to a wide array of stunning natural wonders. The park was named after the famous American national park. The invariable Old Faithful geyser, the jaw-dropping hues of Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, and the ever-present traffic congestion brought on by herds of wild bison are just a few of the factors that contribute to the extraordinary nature of this location.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs are just two of the many breathtaking vistas and some of the best Big Sky activities that can be seen by taking advantage of Yellowstone’s various hiking trails. Taking advantage of Yellowstone’s hiking trails is one of the best ways to get the most out of your time in the Big Sky.

After exploring the park, you may regain your strength for the rest of the day’s adventure by taking a good rest at Old Faithful Inn and dining in their very own Old Faithful Inn Dining Room.

Related: Best Things to Do in Billings, Montana

3. Best Water Activities – Rafting at the Gallatin River

Highway 191 is followed by the Gallatin River all the way from its beginnings in Yellowstone National Park to Bozeman.

This renowned Montana river starts its treacherous fall into a steep canyon right adjacent to Big Sky. Due to the presence of challenging rapids such as House Rock and the Mad Mile, this section of the river in Big Sky is considered to be one of the best in all of Montana for whitewater rafting.

The upper canyon of the Gallatin is a beautiful place to raft, and some guides arrange trips there. Out of Big Sky, one of the most well-known outfitters for trips down the Gallatin is Geyser Whitewater Expeditions. This group caters to families, so they provide special packages that include white-water rafting trips and other fun things to do, including guided equestrian rides and zipline adventures.

This fun adventure will surely leave your body exhausted for the day, so it would be best to stay at nearby accommodations like the Gallatin River Lodge and the Gallatin River Getaway. Both accommodations also offer great dining experiences, so you don’t have to worry about going hungry

Related: Best Things to Do in Whitefish Montana

4. Best Activity for Kids – Tour the Beehive Basin Trail

Address: Beehive Basin Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730, United States

People of all ages, including children and those with varying levels of experience, are able to go on a variety of experiences in the neighboring Custer Gallatin National Forest. The 6.6-mile out-and-back to Beehive Basin is one of the most notable hikes in the area, despite the fact that there are many other worthwhile hikes in the vicinity.

The hiking prospects in Montana are highlighted by the fact that the trail to Beehive Basin gives breathtaking views of the mountain ranges that can be found throughout the state. The trailhead is very close to Big Sky Mountain Village, which makes it a popular destination for people who like to go hiking on the weekends.

The one-way trail has a length of somewhat more than three miles and an elevation gain of around 1,500 feet. The trail spends a good portion of its distance traversing lovely mountain meadows; make sure to bring your camera.

The breathtaking glacial cirque at the end of the Beehive Basin Trail is the perfect place to take it easy for the day. The glacier’s meltwater is extremely clear, and the bare mountains in the background are quintessential Montana. If you are from smoking hot bbq after, the Riverhouse Bbq & Events is the perfect place to be. Then to complete your vacation, stay at the best hotel accommodation from The Huntley Lodge and The Summit At Big Sky.

Related: Best Things to Do in Bozeman Montana

5. Best Activity for Adults – Horseback Riding In Lone Mountain Ranch

Address: 750 Lone Mountain Ranch Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

The rocky landscape and vast open spaces of Montana are best experienced from the back of a horse, which is also how the state was intended to be traveled through and experienced. The community of Big Sky is home to a variety of outfitters, many of which offer the opportunity to go on horseback trail rides. This is another one of the best attractions in the Big Sky area.

Lone Mountain Ranch is another equine boarding and riding facility that is well-known. The guided horseback rides, which are supervised by seasoned wranglers, are one of the most enjoyable aspects of this all-inclusive ranch. Guests can book guided trips as part of a hotel package or on their own between the months of June and the beginning of October.

People visiting Big Sky who enjoy riding horses will find that this location, which is only a short distance from the main strip, is ideal. Big Sky boasts dozens of horses free to wander the surrounding fields and slopes, stables and cages spotless and well-maintained, and friendly staff members to ensure that visitors have a wonderful day. Although we prefer to go to Big Sky in the summer, a visit to Lone Mountain Ranch in the winter is a fantastic idea because of the Nordic skiing and sleigh ride dinners that are offered there.

Related: Best Things to Do in Missoula, Montana

6. Best Hiking Trails – Hiking at the Ousel Falls Trai

Address: Ousel Falls Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730, United States

The Ousel Falls Trail is often considered to be the most popular hiking path in the Big Sky region. This trek is quite popular due to the fact that it is kid-friendly and the little distance that separates the starting point of the path from the center of town. The truly unique feature of this resort is the spectacular vistas that may be seen when hiking to the Ousel Falls, which are 100 feet in height.

The official beginning of Ousel Falls Park and Trailhead may be found very close to the center of town. You’ll need to walk around 1.6 miles round trip and climb a little less than 400 feet in elevation gain to get to the waterfalls. Along the course of this rather short trail are three stunning bridges that cross the South and West Forks of the Gallatin River.

Hikers also have the option of finishing a loop that begins in the middle of town by following a gravel path that is only about five feet wide and that runs parallel to Ousel Falls Road. From the heart of the city to Ousel Falls and back again on foot is approximately a 5.6-mile round trip.

The climb to the waterfall is popular all through the seasons. In the winter, tourists should pack traction gear in case the ground is slick. Wet weather can sometimes make surfaces dangerously slippery. But this place usually gets a lot of visitors, so to make sure that you can get the best nearby accommodations, make sure to book in advance the best vacation rental at the Ski-out Gem! Diamond Hitch and to enjoy the outdoor view, you may dine at Horn & Cattle Big Sky because they offer outdoor seating available. 

Related: Best Things to Do in Montana

7. Best Nightlife – Attend Music Concerts In The Mountain

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

The community has developed a long-standing custom of attending the summer concert series known as “Music in the Mountains,” which takes place on the Center Stage in Town Center Park. This musical event happens once a week on Thursdays from June through September. The months covered are June through September. Every year, the event planners put up a famous roster that is full of acts that are both free and suitable for people of all ages.

An enjoyable community gathering takes place each time one of the area’s talented artists performs on stage. This event was hosted in a breathtaking outdoor park, which is a perfect example of why the summertime in Montana is one of the best times of the year. Guests are strongly encouraged to bring blankets with them so that they can enjoy lounging on the grass during their time at the property.

A spectacular concert on the Fourth of July, replete with fireworks, is also sponsored by the series. Then grab some food at Montana Jack and Tips Up Big Sky to enjoy the concert. And you don’t even have to worry about where to stay the night, The Summit At Big Sky and The Lodge At Big Sky.

Related: Epic Must-See National Parks in Montana

8. Best All-around Accommodation – Stay at the Big Sky Resort

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

The most famous attraction in Big Sky is the Big Sky Resort, which boasts the title of “Biggest Skiing in America.” This mountain destination, known as one of the top ski resorts in Montana, is readily deserving of its reputation because of its location around the towering Lone Peak and its expanse of over 5,800 acres.

The ski resort receives an annual average of 400 inches of snowfall, allowing guests to access many powder stashes. In addition, the resort features a large number of acres. During the winter months, Big Sky Resort is visited by thousands upon thousands of skiers. Nevertheless, there are an astonishing 36 lifts, so skiers and snowboarders have plenty of room to spread out.

One of the most famous ways to climb the mountain is on the Ramcharger 8. This state-of-the-art lift has heated seats and an enclosed, weatherproof bubble for a total capacity of eight people. On the other hand, the Lone Peak Tram is the resort’s crowning achievement in terms of attractions. At any given time, this Doppelmayr lift can carry a maximum of 15 skiers to the summit of Lone Peak (elevation 11,166 feet). Skiers often descend the mountain via a black-diamond run after reaching the peak.

People who are solely interested in the views in all directions may want to select the top-loading option on the tram for a more expeditious ride back down the mountain when they visit Big Sky. You can enjoy your stay at the Big Sky Resort with all the restaurants surrounding the place.

9. Best for Angler Enthusiasts – Fly Fishing At Blue Ribbon Waterways

Anglers from all over the world travel to Montana in order to fish in the numerous rivers and streams that can be found in and around the Big Sky region of the state. In the movie “A River Runs Through It,” the Gallatin River that is located nearby plays an important part in the story’s progression. In addition, this is only one of the many outstanding streams in the area that have been recognized with a blue ribbon.

In the general area of Big Sky, one can also cast a line into the Yellowstone and Madison Rivers, both of which offer excellent fishing opportunities. These three rivers, together with the Gallatin, are commonly regarded as some of the best places in Montana to go fly fishing.

When deciding where to cast a line, it is always in one’s best interest to seek the advice of local gear and a guide shop. Local businesses such as Grizzly Guides provide guided tours to customers searching for friendly assistance.

Fishing can be done in Big Sky at any time, although the spring and summer months are ideal for entering the lake through the shallow wading area. With many hotel accommodations in the area, you can grab delicious American cuisine and pizzas at the Blue Moon Bakery.

10. Best Mountain Viewing – Scenic Chair Lift Ride at Big Sky

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

During the summer, passengers on the scenic chair lift ride at Big Sky are treated to a bird’s-eye view of the mountain village. Enjoy the outdoors on one of the mountains and the surrounding area’s many hiking and biking paths. When you go to Big Sky, you should definitely make time to go on a scenic chair lift trip at least once. 

The standard ski lift operates during the summer to transport guests up Lone Mountain, providing them with expansive views across the Gallatin River Valley. This lift may be accessed upon leaving the Yellowstone Basecamp area. Mountain bikers can get their bikes to the top of the mountain using the same primary ski lift skiers use and then ride down the mountain using trails specifically designed for mountain biking.

Due to the relative lack of noise, the scenic chair lift ride up Lone Mountain will undoubtedly provide you with an opportunity to unwind and have a good time during your climb. You can add this to your list of things to do in addition to the other activities available at the Big Sky Resort.

Depending on the size of the party, a chair lift can accommodate anywhere from two to four persons. You will have so much fun doing this with the kids, and they will think it is exciting. Access to the scenic chairlift calls for the purchase of a pass or a ticket. This is why you surely need to add this destination to the Big Sky Montana things to do.

11. Best in Shopping – Big Sky Montana Shopping

Shopping in Big Sky may be considered an adventure in and of itself due to the large number of one-of-a-kind boutiques that stock a diverse selection of Montana-made products for sale. Big Sky is home to a large number of shops and establishments that are reflective of the local culture.

These establishments can be of assistance to you whether you are looking to purchase fashionable western wear, gear for outdoor activities, or items made by local artisans as a memento of your trip.For example, the Boutique at Spa Montage features the work of local artists in addition to the surrounding natural surroundings.

Each hand-selected item is a stylish statement of the true personality of Big Sky, and they include bath items with botanically themed, hand-tooled leather items, woven riding blankets, and, of course, a variety of traditional cowboy hats.Additionally, the shopping in Big Sky offers a wide variety of things, ranging from handcrafted jewelry and art galleries to sports equipment, novelty items, and furnishings with a rustic, shanty chic aesthetic.

Whether you are looking for something new, in need of a new top, forgot your base layer or shoes, or just want to try something different, you are certain to find something that complements your sense of style. Due to the fact that there is no sales tax in the state of Montana, you are free to take as much time as you like looking around the many stores.

12. Best for a Staycation – 320 Guest Ranch, Big Sky MT

205 Buffalo Horn Creek Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730, United States

This homestead, which dates back 125 years, has just been converted into a guest ranch. You may recapture the mood of the Old West and experience true hospitality all inside the confines of a single historic property, regardless of whether it is summer or winter. It is the epitome of what it means to live the good life out in the country, along with mountain views, cowboy gourmet meals that will make your mouth water, plus friendly service.

This is definitely one of the best destinations for parents and children to enjoy a vacation together.   There are a variety of horse-related activities available, such as having lunch delivered by horse-drawn carriage, riding horses through the forest, and more.

There are 70 horses, sleigh rides, BBQ space, conference and wedding facilities, river access straight outside the front door, cozy log cabins stashed away in the shadow of the Gallatin National Forest, and close proximity to Yellowstone National Park and Big Sky Resort. In addition,  kilometers away from easily accessible hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, golf, and snowshoeing trails.

13. Best historical tour – Crail Ranch Museum

2100 Spotted Elk Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

After leaving Bozeman with his wife Sallie and their three children in 1902, Augustus Franklin Crail established a permanent home on a 160-acre parcel in the Gallatin Basin, now known as the Meadow Village neighborhood of Big Sky. 

The folks who were the first to settle in the area constructed the remarkable log houses that are now part of the Historic Crail Ranch. Over the course of more than half a century, the Crail Ranch functioned as a functioning ranch. During that time, it was home to cattle and sheep herds and finally encompassed 960 acres of wheat and hay fields.

The Crail Ranch is now run as a homestead museum by the Big Sky Community Corporation, which is a charitable organization with 501(c)(3) status. A selection of historical records, photos, and artifacts that shed light on the lifestyle of the Crail family during the homestead era have been restored, and two of the original log houses have also been brought back to their former state.

14. Best for relaxation – Solace Spa

Huntley Lodge, 44 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

It’s likely that a Signature Solace encounter will help you reach a satisfying conclusion to your long mountain adventure. They provide professional services such as body treatments, facials, massage services, and salon services that will help you relax, renew, and restore both your body and spirit.

Every person who comes to Solace has the opportunity to relax and be transported to an atmosphere that is calm and invigorating.In the Solace Recovery Lounge, you can take use of cutting-edge recovery technology especially if you are an athlete. This technology can be found in the room. Recovery is the key to enhancing efficiency on the slopes for skiing and snowboarding of all skill levels.

It also provides its guests with a unique contactless treatment experience that combines the benefits of Theragun percussion therapy with those of the athlete-proven Recovery Air Pro compression system. This is done in order to ensure that guests get the most out of their time both on the slopes and in the resort itself.

You will be able to bring out the natural beauty that you have due to the extensive range of luxurious, all-natural products that they proudly offer. You can also walk around the storefront of their spa, where they sell fashionable women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, and one-of-a-kind gifts for the body, mind, and spirit of the guest.

15. Best for a BBQ Night Out – Big Sky BBQ at Gallatin Riverhouse Grill

45130 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730, United States

On the banks of the Gallatin River, you’ll find The Riverhouse, a restaurant that serves true Texas barbecue prepared in the Montana way. Since it first opened its doors in 2013, The Riverhouse has become a popular gathering spot for residents of Big Sky.

It is also a popular destination for tourists who are searching for a place to have a delicious meal or a beer while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Spanish Peaks. Visitors to Big Sky, residents of the surrounding area, and tourists driving on Highway 191 to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park will find it welcoming to families, reasonably priced, and simple to reach.

The barbecue & grill serves house-smoked meats such as pig ribs, beef ribs, brisket, pork, chicken, turkey, and fish. Other options include pork and beef ribs. In addition to beef burgers and turkey burgers, we will also be offering Monster Beef sandwiches, flank steak sandwiches, snacks, and salads from the grill.

In addition, there are foods on the menu that are suitable for consumption by vegetarians as well as by people who have food allergies. Guests at the Saloon and Restaurant have the option to sample items from the entire menu while sipping on their choice from a comprehensive selection of on-tap and bottle beers, spirits, specialty drinks, and wines.

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