Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Big Sky, MT

  • Published 2022/10/05

If you’re looking for a place with plenty of adventure and beautiful sights, Big Sky is the community to visit.

Found in Southern Montana and settled within its Rocky Mountains, Big Sky has some of the best outdoor views you can explore.

Being southeast of Yellowstone Park and northeast of Gallatin River, which cuts through Gallatin Canyon, there’s no shortage of natural sights to discover.

You’ll be sure to have your trip filled with activities while in Big Sky.

Having that in mind, here are the 20 best things to do in Big Sky, Montana:

Ski the Slopes at Big Sky Resort

Daytime view of Big Sky Resort

A-Reck, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Are you looking for some outdoor fun?

Or perhaps you need somewhere for a little bit of relaxation?

A skier at Big Sky Resort

alexfe / Shutterstock.com

Big Sky resort can provide you with either option.

Whether you want to try every activity that the resort has or need a comfortable stay, there is something for everyone.

Aerial view of Big Sky Resort

Jim from Lexington, KY, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

For anyone who is a fan of outdoor activities, there are different terrains you can explore.

The prime activity you need to try at the resort, especially in winter, is skiing on the slopes.

Snowboarders at Big Sky Resort

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You can also travel around on the lifts or check out the view on the tram.

Big Sky Resort is a prime location to go to, and there are different attractions you can find on sight.

Snow landscape of Big Sky Resort

Goldman60, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Go Dog Sledding with Spirit of the North Dog Sled Adventures

Is skiing not your thing?

Then perhaps you’d like to go sledding with dogs.

Head to the Moonlight Basin and sign up for the opportunity to mush a team of sled dogs.

You can make a reservation online and check out their website for details and other services.

Don’t worry; you’ll receive guidance and tips from reliable guides to accommodate your comfort level and ensure you have the best experience.

Enjoy a beautiful view of snowfields and mountains as you experience the thrill of rushing through the snow with a team of loveable canines.

Plus, get a chance to have a photo session with the dogs and can enjoy some snacks as you sled through the snow.

Check Out Yellowstone Club

Another resort that may interest you in Big Sky is the Yellowstone Club.

In comparison to the Big Sky Resort, Yellowstone is for members only and is a short drive from the Yellowstone International Airport.

Experience a different kind of luxury with the various amenities available at the resort.

From outdoor activities you can enjoy with your family to multiple self-care services and areas for relaxation, Yellowstone Club has plenty to offer for its members.

In addition to the different services, the resort also offers a selection of residences that members can choose to stay.

If you are interested in becoming a member, you can check out their contact on their website for further details.

Travel Around with the Big Sky Shuttle Luxury Airport & Tour Service

If you are interested to tour Big Sky, book a ride with Big Sky Shuttle.

The Big Sky Shuttle Luxury Airport & Tour Service provides convenient transportation to your desired destination and offers different service options.

Regarding the tour services, they mainly feature the public and nature sights of the area, and only private tours are available for booking.

For those interested in a private ride around the area, the service provides different vehicle options you can check out on their website.

The transportation service is available for booking at any time, and you can find all contact details on the website.

Go Rafting with Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater Rafting at Big Sky

Rob Crandall / Shutterstock.com

There are plenty of activities you need to try when in Big Sky, and one of them is rafting.

There are different raft services in the area, but booking with Montana Whitewater will provide you with plenty of experiences.

More than the rafting tours you can take with Montana Whitewater, there are other activities, such as tubing and paddling, you can try as well.

Whitewater Rafting at Big Sky

Rob Crandall / Shutterstock.com

If that isn’t enough, there are also zip lining and horseback riding options you can check out.

To find their office, you will need to head to the area between Bozeman and Big Sky proper, or you can check out their contact on their website.

When making a reservation, you need to enter a request on their website first.

Whitewater Rafting at Big Sky

Rob Crandall / Shutterstock.com

Book a Spa Day at Solace Spa and Salon

With the different activities you can choose to do in Big Sky, you’ll also need a place to relax, and an ideal spot is the Solace Spa and Salon.

Found within the Big Sky Resort and open via reservations, the spa and salon provide plenty of services for guests looking for some pampering.

You can choose from a selection of options, such as various treatments and massages.

In addition, the Solace Spa and Salon also provides an area to try out different relaxation and treatment equipment.

You can make your booking now by checking out their contact on the Big Sky Resort website.

Treat Yourself to Drinks and Desserts at The Standard

Plenty of places can get a good drink, but The Standard is the only place in Big Sky where you get a dessert as a pairing for your cocktail.

You can find this bar at Town Center Ave and visit any weekday.

Other than dessert pairings, The Standard also offers a selection of charcuterie boards and other snacks you can pair with your choice of drink.

Some of their drinks include a variety of wine, beer, and even some tropical drinks.

Another service you can enjoy at the bar is a weekend brunch service during the summer.

If you are interested in The Standard’s other services, you can check out their website for events and more.

Have a Look at the Big Sky Chapel

Are you interested in seeing a chapel settled in the mountains?

You can find this with the Big Sky Chapel on Little Coyote Road.

The building goes back to 1999 and still features a rustic style with different mosaic glass for decoration.

Currently, the chapel provides an interfaith service and hosts a variety of programs.

In addition to congregations and wedding ceremonies, the chapel also hosts classes.

Not only that, but the chapel also opens its doors as a venue for different community events.

Find the Best Views at Beehive Basin Trail

Best Views at Beehive Basin Trail

SCampbell / Shutterstock.com

To further explore the different hiking trails Big Sky has to offer, head to Beehive Basin Trail.

The Beehive Basin Trail is the best place to visit for anyone who is a fan of hiking, given the variety of options it provides.

One of the trails you can take to make the most of your hiking trip is the six-plus mile-long round trip.

A lake at Beehive Basin Trail

Meghan Marron / Shutterstock.com

If you’re looking for one way route trail, there is an over three-mile one with a high elevation and photo-worthy scenery.

During the summer, you can find beautiful fields of wildflowers.

Hikers at Beehive Basin Trail

Danita Delimont / Shutterstock.com

Get a Horseback Tour at Lone Mountain Ranch

Another way you can explore the beautiful sights of Big Sky is by heading to Lone Mountain Ranch for a horseback tour.

Lone Mountain Ranch provides various services and different horses you can meet.

The ranch also offers different packages with different features you can check out.

Whatever package you choose, you’re sure to receive a gorgeous view of natural scenery and other sights on miles-long tours.

Aside from tours, the Lone Mountain Ranch also provides other outdoor activities you can enjoy, such as biking and archery.

In addition to this, the ranch also holds lodging services with a selection of cabins you can choose to book.

You can check the ranch’s websites for further details on their services.

Peruse and Purchase Unique Jewelry at Ari O Jewelry

For those interested in doing some shopping, head to Ari O Jewelry.

Ari O Jewelry features a variety of uniquely designed jewelry with eye-catching stones and multiple options.

Whether you’re looking for large accessories or delicate pieces, Ari O Jewelry offers a wide selection you can peruse.

The store aims to feature the beauty of different handcrafted pieces, and you can find the store near the heart of the city.

You can also browse their different pieces on their website and make an online purchase to ship to your home.

Another service with Ari O Jewelry is commissioning for different events.

Get Hunting at Jake’s Horses

Experience different ranch activities by heading to Jake’s Horses.

Jake’s Horses offers all kinds of outdoor activities to try, ranging from horseback tours to fishing.

What makes the ranch so unique is that guests have the option to do some hunting.

Under the guidance of licensed ranch staff, guests can experience the feeling of hunting game under their comfort level.

For the hunt, guests will receive accommodation with three meals and horses to travel around.

To book a reservation for hunting or any other activity the ranch offers, you can find their contact on their website.

Take Some Photos at Ousel Falls Trail

Scenic view of Ousel Falls Trail

Steve Melnyk / Shutterstock.com

Big Sky has plenty of beautiful views, and the top-rated sight you need to explore is the Ousel Falls Trail.

The Ousel Falls Trail has two different options you can choose to take.

If you’re looking to try a short trip to view the falls, you can take the official route close to two miles, and it’s a pretty easy hike to traverse.

Waterfall of Ousel Falls Trail

Megan M. Weber / Shutterstock.com

When exploring this trail, you have the chance to spot three different bridges, each with its beautiful backdrop.

The other trail you can take is the round trip of nearly six miles, and you have the option to take a car.

Compared to the other trail, you have a chance to see more while traveling on a five-foot-wide gravel trail.

Experience Fly Fishing with East Slope Outdoors

Try something a little simpler for outdoor activity by heading to East Slope Outdoors.

With East Slope Outdoors, you can experience your hand at fly fishing and check out their different options on their website to help out with this.

Whether you’ve never done fly fishing or want to experience the local fishing scene, you’ll get plenty of accommodation from the staff.

In addition to the fly fishing options, you can also explore the nearby river with a guide.

You can contact the store any day of the week to book your choice of package and consult on their other services.

Listen to Music with the Arts Council of Big Sky

For something a little more laid-back, try heading to the Arts Council of Big Sky to listen to some music.

The non-profit organization provides a variety of music events throughout the year, and you can check out their website for further details.

While the organization may hold different concerts at different locations, you can find their office at Meadow Village.

More than the different music events, you can also explore their many programs and lessons available for booking.

Other than music, the Arts Council of Big Sky also has different art displays you can check out.

Experience Fine Dining at The Montana Dinner Yurt

Have a chance to experience a luxury-style dinner by heading to Big Sky and booking a meal at The Montana Dinner Yurt.

Featuring a gorgeous view of the mountainous area and a chance at stargazing, plus a warm fire you can enjoy during the winter, The Montana Dinner Yurt is a treat to enjoy when visiting the resort.

You’ll need to check in during the evening and take a trip up to the venue, but the restaurant offers a delicious three-course meal to try.

It is best to make a reservation in advance, and you can check out their website for further details.

Create Your Pizza at Blue Moon Bakery

For more than 25 years, Blue Moon Bakery has been a locally owned and managed business, continuing the legacy of serving the neighborhood.

Everything on the food menu is freshly made in Big Sky, utilizing their best ingredients.

They provide something for every family member and are well known for their hearty sandwiches and pizza, which have consistently been awarded “Best in Big Sky.”

Their handcrafted dough is spun thin, wrapped at the edges, coated with garlic butter, and powdered with parmesan for the premium pizza.

Additionally, you may create your pizza by picking the toppings, including meat, cheese, and vegetables.

Along with juice, sodas, and specialty coffee, they also provide a variety of beer and wine.

Admire the Elements of the Summit Hotel

The Summit Hotel stands as magnificent as the mountaintop it calls home, on the outskirts of the Big Sky Resort community and at the base of Lone Mountain.

The Summit Hotel is situated in the middle of Big Sky country and is among the top resort in the Mountain Village.

It expertly combines a fondness for natural Montana elements with contemporary, alpine-chic decor in a makeover that enhances its visitors with modern luxury and thoughtful hospitality.

The Summit Hotel & Resort offers a variety of amenities, including a hotel gym, laundry facilities, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, concierge services, free Wi-Fi, and more.

The Summit enriches every feature, from the polished finish of its lobby that draws inspiration from the elements to the seductive touches that adorn its on-mountain suites and creative food options.

Shop for Gears in Grizzly Outfitters

One of the leading ski retailers in the United States is Grizzly Outfitters.

It is the first store in Montana to feature the revolutionary Wintersteiger Jupiter M automated ski tuning machine.

Personalized ski boot sizing and skiing and snowboarding rentals are a few services they provide.

Grizzly Outfitters conducts guided fly fishing trips and offer fly fishing gear and equipment rentals throughout the summer.

They also supply the newest equipment for outdoor excursions, bike rentals, purchases, and repairs.

Visit Grizzly Outfitters whether you plan a day on the river or a trip to the slopes.

Enjoy a Massage at Santosha Wellness Center

The Santosha Wellness Center provides a variety of ways for you to achieve Santosha (Sanskrit for contentment).

Whether through a yoga routine, massage techniques, skin treatments, sauna, seasonal cleaning, or an Ayurvedic evaluation.

A broad range of massage techniques is available at Santosha Wellness Center, such as Swedish massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Reflexology, and more.

Additionally, you may select from various facial treatments or create your own; waxing and lash tinting services are also offered.

They will help you cleanse, stretch and relax your muscles, develop core stability, and feel renewed after their courses.

Walk around the Big Sky Town Center

Welcome sign of Big Sky Town Center

Jay Yuan / Shutterstock.com

Big Sky Town Center is a skiing and summertime destination above the Rocky Mountains in southwest Montana.

Beautiful 11,000-foot snow-capped peaks around the 165-acre pedestrian town.

Although the slopes appear just meters away, they are a couple thousand feet above the residences and businesses, offering a cooler environment and quick access to the mountains.

Aerial view of Big Sky Town Center

Jay Yuan / Shutterstock.com

Hotels, housing, entertainment, farmers’ markets, medical facilities, performing and visual arts theaters, and much more are available.

Numerous options are available for spending the day, including dining, shopping, snowshoeing, ice skating, hiking, bicycling, and many more outdoor and indoor activities.

A hotel at Big Sky Town Center

Jay Yuan / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

Featuring plenty of gorgeous sights to explore, Big Sky, Montana, is the best place to go for all kinds of outdoor adventures.

From rushing down a river to hiking through the different nature trails, there is plenty you can choose to do when visiting Big Sky.

In addition to outdoor activities and sights, Big Sky has plenty of options for you to treat yourself, such as going to spas, fine dining, and some shopping.

Get your fill of adventures and unique experiences by visiting Big Sky, Montana.

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