Big Sky Resort Ski Resort Review

🎿 Terrain & Snow Conditions

Big Sky, Montana, is a skier’s paradise for those who crave vast expanses and varied terrains. As the third-largest resort in North America, Big Sky offers a whopping 5,850 skiable acres, with a vertical drop of 1,325 meters. This immense size translates to an extensive range of slopes suited for all skill levels, although 60% of the terrain is dedicated to advanced and expert skiers. For those less experienced, the 2,300 acres of beginner and intermediate terrain are more than enough to explore. Above the tree line, expert skiers can revel in steep chutes and challenging couloirs, including the famed Big Couloir on Lone Peak, which offers a thrilling descent for those equipped with the proper avalanche safety gear.

🏡 Atmosphere & Amenities

Big Sky’s atmosphere is one of awe and adventure, with the imposing Lone Peak visible from nearly every corner of the resort. While the resort lacks a quintessential town center, it compensates with multiple bases and scattered accommodations, ensuring that skiers can easily access the slopes. The resort is also home to Uncle Dan’s Cookies, a delightful local treat found throughout the area, offering flavors from classic chocolate chip to exotic varieties. Although apres-ski activities might not be as vibrant as other resorts, Big Sky's commitment to sustainability, with its zero carbon emissions policy and plans for complete clean energy by 2030, adds a commendable touch to the overall experience.

💰 Value & Accessibility

While Big Sky offers an unparalleled skiing experience, accessibility can be a challenge. The closest major airport, Bozeman, is serviced by direct flights from over 10 cities, but the flight schedules often require travelers to allocate two full days for travel, making quick weekend getaways difficult. The resort’s popularity also means long lines at certain lifts, especially the Lone Peak tram, which can have waits exceeding an hour. However, with four different bases, there are ample opportunities to avoid crowds and enjoy less congested parts of the resort.

⚠️ Considerations

Potential visitors should be aware of a few considerations when planning a trip to Big Sky. The lack of a centralized town may be a drawback for those seeking vibrant nightlife or a bustling apres-ski scene. Additionally, the need for avalanche safety gear on certain expert slopes, such as the Big Couloir, adds an extra cost and complexity to the experience. Long lines at popular lifts and the challenge of convenient flight schedules can also impact the overall enjoyment of the resort.

✅ Summary

Big Sky, Montana, stands out as a premier destination for adventurous skiers and snowboarders, offering a vast array of terrains and breathtaking views. Its commitment to environmental sustainability is admirable, and the presence of unique local treats like Uncle Dan’s Cookies adds a charming touch. While accessibility and the absence of a centralized town may pose challenges, the sheer scale and diversity of skiing options make Big Sky a worthy destination for those ready to embrace the mountain’s vastness and natural beauty.

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Our experts

Jake Thornton

Jake has been skiing since he was 8 years old and has completed over 20 ski seasons. Based in Colorado, he’s explored more than 40 ski resorts across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. He’s a certified ski instructor and backcountry safety advocate known for his detailed resort reviews and gear testing.

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Lena Rivera

Lena picked up skiing during a family trip at age 10 and never looked back. She’s known for her energetic reviews of terrain parks and has a following for her video guides aimed at young women entering the sport. She’s skied in over 25 resorts, including Japan and the Alps.

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Andre Malik

Andre is a passionate snowboarder who started at 12 and has since racked up 18 seasons across the U.S., Chile, and Switzerland. A freestyle specialist, he’s a former slopestyle competitor and now focuses on resort reviews with a snowboarder’s perspective.

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Mark Jensen

Mark’s decades of experience give him a steady, seasoned view of the ski world. He brings a quiet confidence and measured tone to every review he writes.

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