There’s a place to ski where the runs are long but the lift lines are short. Every year brings about 400 inches of snowfall, covering acres of terrain, and easily boasts some of the sweetest pow pow around and its all in the lower 48. As you spot Lone Mountain for the first time, it is unlike anything you’ve seen before and the tell-tale sign you’ve reached a snow lovers paradise at Big Sky Resort in Montana. This is a place where you’ll want to live Big and not go home...
Just like any winter retreat, the Mountain Village Center at the base offers dining, shopping, and après ski fun, but with a rustic flair and cozy mountain feel. You’ll hear bluegrass music in the background and probably spot a few cowboy hats; all serving as a reminder of the relaxed culture and ski heritage here. Of course the bluebird days and monster flurries that keep the slopes rich brings visitors here annually; but unlike some of its Rocky Mountain competitors, there’s no 20 minutes line to your first chair and surprisingly prices are reasonable for a getaway. From the runs, to the giant ribs at Chet’s, everything here is Montana sized and it’s no wonder people love to ski the sky.
Village life: Stud skier and Big Sky sweetheart, Keely Kelleher, wasn’t exaggerating when she said how awesome her home mountain is; but before you conquer it, you have to get some gear! The best place to go for rentals is Lone Mountain Sports at the base of Big Sky's slopes in the Arrowhead Mall. As the only shop in Big Sky to have the most advanced technology in custom ski boot fitting, they offer the Fischer Vacuum Fit system, and their dedicated staff is eager to help any level powder hound. They are open seven days a week and their gear is top-notch to take on some serious runs.
When deciding where to stay, one great option is the newest accommodations at the Village Center. Guests have the ultimate in ski in/ski options featuring designer décor, complimentary breakfast at the nearby Huntley Lodge, amazing views and convenience to everything from the Mountain Mall to yummy Yeti Dogs. Although there are not tons of dining options, everyone will be happy as there are low-key choices and higher-end fare like Andiamo Italian Grille which features tasty Tuscan treats. Also, many accommodations offer a kitchenette set-up so bring some snacks and goodies for your trip.
But after a big day on the slopes, why not head in for a little R&R at Solace Spa and Salon. Don’t worry about helmet hair anymore as they offer amazing services to fit your needs from nails, to Aveda hair services to massages and just overall relaxation. It is lovely and just book ahead as it is also very popular!
Where the wild things are: Many visitors want to head to nearby Yellowstone (yes, it is very close as the park's west entrance is only 48 miles away!), but don’t realize in the winter only guided tours are allowed. This means you have to plan a little ahead and while there are many options for touring the park, a strong recommendation goes toward booking your snowcoach tour with Yellowstone Tour Guides/ Tour Yellowstone. They offer tours to Old Faithful and other attractions in the warmth and comfort of a snowcoach. One of their seasoned tour guides such as Jim Holstein, picks up guests at the Huntley Lodge and whisks them away to views native wildlife where you may see moose, bison, bald eagles, and more. This only-in-Big Sky experience makes for a great day-off the slopes.
So if you hunting for some new terrain and want to get off the ski-grid a bit, head to Montana. The snow is unbeatable, the resort is just right and you’ll get the winter adventure you’re seeking while making Big memories…
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