Rachel’s Big Sky Recap
Scrolling through our Instagram feed over the past few months has undoubtedly highlighted Big Sky, Montana's growing allure as a top ski destination. With so much natural and pristine beauty, it’s unsurprising that it made Travel + Leisure’s 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024. Fresh off the slopes, Rachel is sharing her favorite things to do in Big Sky to inspire your next adventure in this northern Rockies paradise.
I've been visiting Big Sky with my family for ski trips since 1995. It was a small resort back then, and it's been incredible to witness its growth over the last 30 years. When we first started coming, there was barely a lodge, and we had to drive into Bozeman for groceries. Over the years, they've added two more skiing sides to the mountain, making it North America's most extensive skiing terrain.
During one summer in college, I lived in Big Sky with some friends. We had an incredible time waitressing, exploring the area, hiking, camping, whitewater rafting, and visiting Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. I even went skydiving, which is very unlike me! I loved the summer so much that I told my parents I wanted to stay out there and take a year off from school, but that idea was met with a hard “NO.”
Sharing one of my favorite places with my husband and kids has been incredibly special. After our recent family vacation to Big Sky, I found myself reminiscing about many of my favorite spots on the flight home. I thought it would be fun to share them with all of you!
Photo Credit: Visit Big Sky
Best Places for Food
Uncle Dan’s Cookies. If you only eat one thing in Big Sky, make it these cookies! You can ski in and get warm cookies on the Madison side of the mountain. My favorite flavors are ginger molasses and sky cookie, but they are all delicious.
Olive B’s. Great farm-to-table food! I highly recommend the blue cheese creme brulee and the mud pie.
Pinky G’s. Great pizza for casual dine-in or takeout with multiple locations in other ski towns.
Corral. A true cowboy bar! Perfect for a good steak and local spot.
The Mint. You can check out this cafe during or after your Big Sky trip, as it is close to the airport. I recommend the filet mignon and loaded baked potato.
Best Places to Ski
Make sure to explore all sides of the mountain! My family only recently discovered the Madison side, and there are some fantastic long runs there. We also love the runs on the south side and often start there in the morning to take advantage of the shorter lines, then ski the main area and Madison in the afternoons.
The Madison side of the mountain is excellent for checking out some destination real estate (one of my favorite houses is in this area!) represented by highly reputable brands like Big Sky Builds, Moonlight Basin, and One&Only Resorts.
Photo Credit: Montage Hotels & Resorts
Best Places TO STAY
Montage Resort. This resort only recently opened and is an exquisite place to stay (with a spa). It has many other upscale amenities worth checking out!
The Huntley Lodge. This mountain retreat is located right at the base of the mountain and is not to be missed.
Wilson Hotel. This newer luxury hotel is in the town center—about a 10-minute drive to the mountain—but it is situated perfectly amongst the restaurants and shopping in Big Sky. My family usually rents a house in this area.
Yellowstone Club. For anyone considering a permanent destination residency in Big Sky, Montana - this luxury private community would be the perfect home away from home.
I hope my list of Big Sky favs inspires you to make your own Big Sky memories. If you’re interested in learning more about our process and designing your mountain retreat, be sure to contact us. We’d love to talk about your next destination home design project.
Live well,
