Quick Facts

• Population: 3,591 (2020 Census)
• County: Gallatin and Madison counties
• Founded: 1973-1974 (when Big Sky Resort was established)
• Elevation: 6,200 ft (Meadow area) to 11,166 ft (Lone Mountain summit)
• Known For: World-class skiing, proximity to Yellowstone National Park, Blue Ribbon trout fishing
• Nearby Landmarks: Yellowstone National Park, Gallatin River, Madison Range, Lone Mountain
• Fun Fact: Big Sky Resort markets itself as having the "Biggest Skiing in America" with over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain and receives approximately 400 inches of snowfall annually at higher elevations.

Notable People & Pop Culture

• Chet Huntley – Legendary NBC news anchor who co-hosted "The Huntley-Brinkley Report" (1956-1970), winning 8 Emmy Awards and 2 Peabody Awards. As Big Sky's visionary founder, he transformed this Montana wilderness into a world-class resort destination before his untimely death in 1974.
• Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel – This A-list Hollywood power couple owns property in the area and frequently visits Big Sky. Timberlake, a Grammy-winning musician and actor, and Biel, an acclaimed actress and producer, are among the most recognizable celebrities associated with the region.
• "A River Runs Through It" – The 1992 film, directed by Robert Redford and starring Brad Pitt, featured the Gallatin River which runs through Big Sky, bringing national attention to the area's spectacular fly fishing opportunities and pristine natural beauty.
• Films Shot in Big Sky:
  • "The River Wild" (1994) – This thriller starring Meryl Streep, Kevin Bacon, and John C. Reilly features several scenes shot on the Gallatin River near Big Sky.
  • "The Horse Whisperer" (1998) – While primarily filmed in the Paradise Valley, this Robert Redford film showcases the breathtaking landscapes of southwest Montana that surround Big Sky.
  • "The Ballad of Lefty Brown" (2017) – This Western film starring Bill Pullman features several scenes shot in the Big Sky area, highlighting Montana's dramatic landscapes.

Top Things to Do in Big Sky

• ✧ Skiing and Snowboarding at Big Sky Resort – Carve through over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain with the Lone Peak Tram reaching a breathtaking 11,166 feet, offering some of North America's most challenging expert runs and spectacular views.
• ✧ Fly Fishing on the Gallatin River – Cast your line in this legendary Blue Ribbon trout stream that attracts anglers from around the world seeking the perfect catch in pristine mountain waters.
• ✧ Yellowstone National Park Exploration – Use Big Sky as your basecamp for day trips into America's first national park, just 45 miles away, where geysers, wildlife, and natural wonders await.
• ✧ Whitewater Rafting Adventures – Navigate thrilling rapids on the Gallatin River, where experienced guides lead heart-pounding journeys through spectacular canyon scenery for all skill levels.
• ✧ Hiking and Mountain Biking – Explore hundreds of miles of trails that wind through wildflower-filled meadows and dense forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
• ✧ Zipline Tours – Experience the thrill of soaring above the treetops on zipline courses that provide a unique perspective of Big Sky's stunning landscapes.
• ✧ Scenic Gondola Rides – Take a ride on the Swift Current 360° Gondola for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially breathtaking during fall foliage season.

Local Industry & Economy

Big Sky's economy pulses with the rhythm of outdoor adventure, primarily driven by tourism that flows through the region year-round. Since its founding in the 1970s by NBC news anchor Chet Huntley, this mountain community has transformed from remote wilderness to a thriving resort destination. The economic backbone consists of several major resorts: Big Sky Resort (which merged with Moonlight Basin in 2013 to create "the Biggest Skiing in America"), the Spanish Peaks Mountain Club, Lone Mountain Ranch, and the adjacent private Yellowstone Club. These establishments not only attract wealthy visitors and celebrities but provide substantial employment opportunities for local residents. The population has surged by nearly 25% since 2010, fueling a robust real estate and construction sector that continues to reshape the landscape with luxury homes and expanding commercial developments. Despite its remote setting, Big Sky has cultivated a resilient economy that balances winter ski tourism with summer activities like hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing, while its proximity to Yellowstone National Park ensures a steady stream of visitors exploring Montana's natural wonders. The service industry—restaurants, retail, and hospitality—forms the third pillar of the local economy, catering to both the influx of seasonal visitors and the growing permanent population seeking the mountain lifestyle.

History & Heritage

Big Sky's story begins relatively recently in Montana's rich history, emerging from pristine wilderness to world-class destination in just a few decades. Before development, the area was primarily ranch land, with the Crail Ranch (established in 1902) being one of the most significant historical properties still preserved today. The pivotal moment came when renowned NBC news anchor Chet Huntley, a Montana native, envisioned creating a mountain resort in his home state. Huntley began conceptualizing the resort in 1968 while still at NBC, and after retiring in 1970, he returned to Montana with his wife Tippy to transform his dream into reality. He purchased Crail Ranch and assembled investors to develop what would become Big Sky Resort.

The resort officially opened for its first winter season in December 1973, initially featuring just four chairlifts and a gondola. Tragically, Huntley died from lung cancer on March 19, 1974, just months after the resort's opening, never fully witnessing how his vision would flourish. Despite this loss, development continued, with the area growing steadily through the decades. A significant milestone came in 1995 with the construction of the Lone Peak Tram, taking skiing to higher altitudes at 11,166 feet. In 2013, Big Sky Resort merged with neighboring Moonlight Basin, creating what they market as the "Biggest Skiing in America" with over 5,800 acres of terrain.

Throughout its development, Big Sky has maintained three distinct areas: the "Meadow" (an alpine valley at 6,200 feet), the "Mountain" (base elevation of 7,400 feet where the ski resorts are located), and the "Canyon" (along the Gallatin River). While lacking the century-old mining or railroad heritage of many Montana towns, Big Sky's history represents American entrepreneurship and the vision to transform untamed wilderness into a world-renowned destination while preserving the natural beauty that makes Montana "Big Sky Country."

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

• Spring/Summer: Embark on epic mountain biking adventures on over 40 miles of lift-accessed trails at Big Sky Resort, challenge yourself with fly fishing on the legendary Gallatin River, conquer whitewater rafting expeditions through dramatic canyons, explore hundreds of miles of hiking trails through wildflower-filled meadows, and experience the thrill of zip lining across mountain valleys.
• Fall/Winter: Carve through "the Biggest Skiing in America" with 5,800+ acres of terrain and 4,350 vertical feet, glide along 85km of meticulously groomed Nordic trails at Lone Mountain Ranch, embark on guided snowmobile tours through pristine backcountry, experience the magic of dog sledding behind enthusiastic huskies, and snowshoe through silent forests under Montana's vast winter sky.
• Annual Events:
  • Big Sky PBR (Professional Bull Riders) event in July
  • Music in the Mountains summer concert series featuring free weekly performances
  • Big Sky Classical Music Festival in August
  • Vine & Dine Festival celebrating food and wine
  • Big Sky Biggie mountain bike race challenging riders with 30 and 50-mile courses
  • Big Sky Skijoring competition combining horses, riders, and skiers in a unique Montana spectacle

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

Big Sky sits nestled along the scenic U.S. Highway 191 corridor, approximately 45 miles southwest of Bozeman and 45 miles north of West Yellowstone. Most visitors arrive via Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), Montana's busiest airport, which offers direct flights from major U.S. cities and seamless connections worldwide. From the airport, the drive to Big Sky takes about an hour along the Gallatin Canyon, a spectacular journey that follows the rushing Gallatin River through towering rock formations and dense forests—keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings along this stretch. For those driving from further afield, Big Sky is 320 miles from Spokane, 420 miles from Salt Lake City, and 450 miles from Calgary. Once in Big Sky, a rental car is recommended for exploring the region, though free shuttle services connect the Mountain Village with other areas during ski season. Nearby destinations worth exploring include Yellowstone National Park (the west entrance is just 45 miles south), the vibrant college town of Bozeman with its museums and dining scene, the historic fishing town of Ennis on the Madison River (50 miles west), and the charming gateway community of West Yellowstone. The surrounding Gallatin National Forest offers endless opportunities for backcountry adventures in virtually every direction.

Where to Stay in Big Sky

Big Sky offers an impressive array of accommodations that blend mountain luxury with Montana's rugged charm, catering to every preference and budget. The area's lodging is strategically divided across three distinct zones: Mountain Village, Meadow Village, and Canyon. For those seeking the ultimate ski-in/ski-out experience, Mountain Village delivers with the historic Huntley Lodge—named after founder Chet Huntley—featuring heated pools, hot tubs, and easy access to the slopes. The Summit Hotel elevates the luxury experience with spacious suites and panoramic mountain views, while numerous luxury condominiums and vacation rentals provide privacy with premium amenities.

In the Meadow area, about 15 minutes from the ski resort, the Residence Inn Big Sky/The Wilson Hotel offers contemporary comfort in the heart of Town Center, and the iconic Buck's T-4 Lodge combines authentic Montana hospitality with exceptional dining. For travelers seeking extraordinary luxury, the Montage Big Sky presents 139 rooms and 39 residences framed by the Spanish Peaks, featuring a 10,000-square-foot spa, indoor pool, and bowling alley. Unique lodging experiences await at Lone Mountain Ranch, where historic log cabins dating back to 1915 offer a glimpse into Montana's past while providing modern comforts amid 148 acres of pristine wilderness. For those seeking seclusion, numerous vacation homes and cabins are tucked into the surrounding forests and mountainsides, offering privacy with breathtaking views. During peak winter and summer seasons, accommodations fill quickly, making advance reservations essential for securing your perfect mountain retreat.

• Hotels: Find hotels in Big Sky on Expedia.
• Vacation Rentals: Find houses, condos, and cabins for rent on VRBO.