Yellowstone National Park in Big Sky, Montana

Destination

The Marvels of Montana

Less than an hour drive from West Yellowstone, Montage Big Sky provides a gateway to exploring one of the world’s most treasured regions, from the majestic geysers to the wildlife and wonders of Yellowstone National Park.

Lone Peak on a sunny day.

Big Sky

Big Sky, Montana, is the ultimate all-season destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Landscapes unfurl as far as the eye can see, from the striking facade of Lone Mountain to the rugged outline of the Spanish Peaks and the surrounding three million acres of national forest. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, bighorn sheep and more, it’s a true haven for nature enthusiasts. In the winter, carve through 5,800 acres of world-class skiable terrain at Big Sky Resort. Come summer, Big Sky draws in avid anglers from around the globe, eager to cast their lines into the storied blue-ribbon rivers of the Gallatin and Madison. Located less than an hour from the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky serves as a gateway to the park’s massive 2.2 million acres abundant with wildlife and iconic geothermal wonders found nowhere else. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling adventure or a peaceful retreat to the mountains, Big Sky delivers an unforgettable experience in every season.

Summer Attractions

Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky Resort summer scenic chairlift ride.

Big Sky Resort

Summer activities at Big Sky Resort offer centralized adventures the whole family can enjoy including scenic chairlift rides, mountain biking, zipline, disc golf and Adventure Mountain for kids.

Aeriel image of Big Sky Town Center

Big Sky Town Center

Experience the best of Montana summer in Big Sky Town Center with community events like the Farmer’s Market and Music in the Mountains concert series where you can sample fresh produce from local farmers, peruse goods from local artisans and enjoy live music surrounded by eponymous Big Sky views.

Big Sky Farmer’s Market | Wednesdays | June – September

Music in the Mountains | Thursdays | June – September

Hikers in the mountains

Trails

Wander alongside processions of colorful wildflowers, up lushly shaded hills and through blue-skied clearings on a summer hike in Big Sky. Encompassing nearly 30 trails, there’s one for every experience level, whether you’re seeking a brief, heart-pumping trek or a leisurely, drawn-out morning spent entirely in nature. The area’s top five hikes include: 

  • Ousel Falls | Meadow | 1.5 Miles Round-Trip | Elevation Gain: 500 feet 
  • Beehive Basin | Mountain | 6.6 Miles Round-Trip | Elevation Gain: 1,625 feet 
  • Lava Lake | Gallatin Canyon | 6 Miles Round-Trip | Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet 
  • Storm Castle Peak | Gallatin Canyon | 4.7 Miles Round-Trip | Elevation Gain: 1,850 feet 
  • Porcupine Creek | Gallatin Canyon | 2.3-Mile Loop | Elevation Gain: 442 feet 
A cowboy at the Valley View Rodeo.

Rodeos

Experience a thrilling blend of Western tradition, skill and excitement. Held throughout the summer, these events showcase the state’s rich cowboy heritage. Rodeos feature bull riding, bronc riding, steer wrestling and roping, with competitors demonstrating incredible strength, precision and bravery.   

  • Valley View Rodeo | Thursdays | June 5 – July 31 | 7:00pm 
  • West Yellowstone Rodeo | Select Dates | June 13 – August 16 | 7:00pm 
  • Big Sky Community Rodeo | July 11 | 7:00pm 
  • PBR Rodeo | July 17 – 19 | 4:30pm 

Summer in Yellowstone National Park

Grand Prismatic Spring

Natural Wonders

Home to the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, known for its vibrant hues, the park’s geothermal features include bubbling mud pots and hot springs and majestic waterfalls, like the Lower Falls and the iconic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Yellowstone is regarded as one of the world’s most expansive and active volcanic systems with landscapes ranging from lush forests to vast meadows, creating a breathtaking one-of-a-kind environment. With its unique geography and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone offers an unparalleled experience of nature’s raw beauty. 

Bison roaming in a valley in Yellowstone National Park

Wildlife

Yellowstone is a haven for wildlife that spans across three states Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. The park fosters an abundant and diverse ecosystem, home to iconic species like bison, grizzly bears and wolves. Since 1872, herds of pure, wild bison, have been preserved in the park, embodying a living testament to America’s wild and untamed heritage. Visitors might also spot elk grazing in the meadows while bighorn sheep scale rugged cliffs. The park is home to diverse mammals, including beavers, otters, and coyotes, as well as over 300 bird species. Yellowstone offers thrilling opportunities to observe these creatures in their natural habitats, making it an unforgettable wildlife destination. 

Winter Attractions

Big Sky, Montana
Mountain lone peak at Big Sky Resort

Big Sky Resort

Home to 38 chairlifts, 400 inches of annual snowfall and 5,850 acres of world-class skiable terrain, Big Sky Resort is an ideal destination for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. Now you are able to experience Big Sky Resort like never before with a scenic ride up the new state-of-the-art Lone Peak Tram. Marvel at panoramic views of Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks from the 11,166 ft summit of Lone Mountain.  

friends walking down the street in Town Center

Big Sky Town Center

Experience Big Sky Town Center’s charming allure in the winter with boutique shopping, dining and winter activities the whole family can enjoy. Glide across the skating rink with glee, sip a warm beverage, gather around the fire and experience the magic of this bustling mountain community.  

Winter in Yellowstone National Park

Old Faithful geyser erupts with a cloud of steam on a cold snowy Winter day at Yellowstone National Park USA

Natural Wonders

In winter, Yellowstone National Park transforms into a serene, snow-covered wonderland. Geysers and hot springs emit steam, creating light clouds against the crisp air. The iconic Yellowstone River freezes, while snow blankets the trees. Bison and elk roam the quiet landscape, and wolves traverse in the snowy terrain. With fewer visitors, the park offers a peaceful and almost otherworldly experience, showcasing nature’s raw beauty in its most tranquil season.  

Plains bison in snow

Wildlife

Winter in Yellowstone National Park brings a stunning display of wildlife resilience. Bison, with thick fur coats roam the snow-covered plains. Elk and mule deer are seen in lower elevations seeking food in the snowy meadows. Wolves travel in packs, hunting for prey, while coyotes scavenge as they search for small mammals. Otters and beavers continue their activities in icy waters, while bald eagles soar above hunting for fish.