BIG SKY SKI RESORT
They Don’t Call It Big Sky (Montana) For Nothing!
Anita R. Paul
Admiring the expanse of the sky might not be possible amid the
skyscrapers of most large cities. But when city dwellers visit Big Sky,
Montana, they soon understand that its not called big sky for nothing.
Located 48 miles north of Yellowstone National Park in the Rocky
Mountain West region, Big Sky is a winter paradise that offers
breathtaking views of the raw, natural beauty of Montana. And the sky
really does seem bigger there!
Nestled between Madison County and Gallatin County, Big Sky is ski
country at its best. With temperatures ranging from the low 40s to the
high 50s in the fall and winter months and an average annual snowfall
of 400 inches, Big Sky is a welcome sight for snow bunnies of all ages.
BIG SKY MONTANTA ACTIVITIES
Big Sky is a winter haven for families, offering something for everyone.
Big Sky Ski Resort (800-548-4486) offers winter activities for children
including arts & crafts, games and nature exploring. The die-hard
skiers in the family can hit the slopes and enjoy seemingly endless
acres of downhill runs and cross-country trails with lots of elbow room
for beginners to advanced skiers.
With breathtaking scenery and unbelievably un-crowded trails, Big Sky
Resort can seem like a forgotten winter wonderland. But make no
mistake, this world-class ski oasis has been wowing winter
vacationers since 1973, and features some of the best skiing in the
west. And with a variety of ski packages feature lodging, lift tickets,
breakfast and resort fees, planning your family ski vacation is easy.
For those families a bit out of practice on the slopes, the resort offers
ski lessons for beginners and for groups, as well as snowboarding
lessons for those in search of a more extreme experience. Whether
your interest is powder or moguls, instructors can customize your
lesson for maximum benefit and fun. Reservations with the
Snowsports School are recommended for all lessons.
Don’t want to travel with your skis? Not to worry. Big Sky Sports Rental
has snow gear for rent for adults and children, including snowboards,
snowshoes, skis and more.
For a 360-degree view of Big Sky that will cause your jaw to drop, take a
ride on the Lone Peak Tram. This 15-passenger tram lifts thrill
seekers 11,150 feet during a 3-minute ride to the top of the mountain,
exposing miraculous views of the surrounding mountain ranges—
including the Grand Tetons on a clear day. From there, intermediate
and advanced skiers hop on the Lone Peak triple chair for a run down
to the tram station and then back to the mountain base.
BIG SKY ACCOMMODATIONS
For the complete ski experience. stay at one of the hotels at Big Sky
Resort. The Huntley Lodge, Summit at Big Sky and Shoshone each
provide a unique and luxurious perspective of skiing at Big Sky. The
mountain also offers nine condominium complexes to choose from.
But if you want to get a feel for the town of Big Sky, simply venture down
the mountain away from the resort and discover some slightly different,
yet equally beautiful scenery. Amid the expanse of tall pines and snow-
lined highways that trace the trail of the Gallatin River, rests a variety of
lodging choices—from romantic bed and breakfasts to family friendly
budget hotels.
The Rainbow Ranch Lodge (800-937-4132) is a cozy inn overlooking
the Gallatin River. With a rustic cabin-like look, the lodge features 16
elegantly appointed rooms with fireplaces and balconies. To
accentuate the romantic experience, the lodge features an extensive
wine list and exceptional dining including hand-cut Montana beef,
homemade pastas, fresh fish and seafood.
The Gallatin Gateway Inn (800-676-3522) is a stunningly restored 1927
grand railroad hotel with a historic flair located between Bozeman and
Big Sky. Restaurant choices include fine dining, a casual pub, and
complimentary continental breakfast.
Comfort Inn (800-228-5150) offers family accommodations at an
affordable price, with ski and stay packages available. Rooms
available in standard, deluxe, family suites, and hot tub suites, each
including a complimentary deluxe continental breakfast every day, and
ski lockers. The Inn offers free snow shuttle to the mountain from the
front door.
BIG SKY RESTAURANTS
You can’t visit Big Sky without enjoying at least one meal featuring
succulent prime-cut Montana beef. And with over 25 bars, restaurants
and eateries offering an array of tastes from around the world, you can
have it served up just the way you like it. From elegant dining to casual
faire to quick picks from the grill, the restaurant scene in Big Sky
includes standalone bars and grills as well as fancier eateries located
in many of the area’s lodges and hotels.
The Bugaboo Café (47995 Gallatin Rd., Ste. 101, Gallatin Gtwy., MT
(995-3350) offers comfort food with a gourmet flare in a fun, family-
oriented atmosphere. While Dante's Inferno (406-995-3999) features
an array of dinner options including pasta, steaks, seafood, salads,
pizza, and a children's menu, as well as quick lunches and nightly
entertainment.
The Cabin Bar & Grill (406-995-4244) is located in Big Sky's Mountain
Village, and features rustic Montana elegance in a warm and inviting
atmosphere. Lunch and dinner are served in a fine dining setting
enhanced by the enormous windows and deck overlooking the snow
covered ski runs.
Getting There
Billings (BIL) is the largest and busiest airport in Montana, but there are
also regular flights into Bozeman (BZN). From either airport, rent a car
and hit the open road to explore the beauty and vast open landscape of
this unique state. You’ll reach Big Sky in about 2 ½ hours if you fly into
Billings. The drive is only about one hour from Bozeman.
FAMILY TRAVEL FUN.COM
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