The 15 Best Activities and Restaurants in Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky is so much more than a destination. It’s a collection of all the activities for which America is famous, from skiing to mountain biking, hiking to golf, picnicking and simply taking in the view. For decades, this stretch of Southern Montana, nestled high in the Rocky Mountains, has made outdoorsy dreams come true … and now it’s your turn.
However, as you might expect given the name, it’s a large area. Therefore, it is helpful to have a few ideas of things to do in Big Sky before you sit down to plan your itinerary. Accordingly, here’s a quick look at the best places to go, the best things to see, and the best restaurants in Big Sky. Get ready to plan your outdoor adventure in Montana!
Yellowstone National Park Hikes
Of all the things to do in Big Sky, hiking is surely right at the top. People come from all over the country (and indeed, all over the world) to hike this unspoiled wilderness area for a reason. Accordingly, here are five of the best treks to consider.
1. Ousel Falls Road
This is one of the best trails in Big Sky for families. It’s only 1.7 miles out and back, taking an average of 45 minutes to complete. You’ll see some very impressive falls while still staying on mostly paved trails, perfect for children and the older set.
2. Reflector Loop
Discover what Big Sky is known for with this “lollipop trail,” an out-and-back with a loop at the end that takes you through gorgeous meadows and tree groves. It’s more than 3.5 miles long and moderately difficult, so this is a good way to work up a sweat.
3. Lemonknob Loop
Another of the best things to do in Big Sky, Lemonknob Loop is about 3.7 miles long, takes about 2 hours to complete, and comes with some nice views of the surrounding countryside.
4. Beehive Basin
If your outdoor adventure in Montana will include a hike a day (relatable), then Beehive Basin is a great one to add. This moderately challenging, seven-mile, out-and-back trail has some of the best views in Big Sky.
5. Porcupine Creek
If you have older children or just want a sunny amble, this relatively undemanding 3.5-mile out-and-back trail will do the trick. With river and ridgeline views, you’re going to want your camera.
Other Activities
Want to add some variation to your outdoor adventure in Montana? Here are another four activities to consider.
6. Mountain Biking
Big Sky is famous for its mountain biking. With serious elevation and sprawling wilderness, there’s no lack of options. From community trails to lift-assisted downhill runs, this is a mountain biker’s paradise.
7. Ziplining
When it comes to thrilling things to do in Big Sky, ziplining is probably at the top of the list. Fly through the air with outdoor adventure companies such as the Big Sky Resort, Montana Whitewater, and Yellowstone Zipline.
8. Skiing and Snowboarding
It goes without saying that both skiing and snowboarding are among the prime candidates for outdoor adventure in Montana. Big Sky Resort has 38 lifts, 300 trails, and more than 5,800 skiable acres.
9. Horseback Riding
Classic ranching country, Montana has no lack of horseback riding opportunities. If you want to add one to your outdoor adventure in Montana, consider Jake's Horses or Cache Creek Outfitters, both of which will take care of experts and novices alike.
Places to Eat and Drink
Enough of the things to do in Big Sky; now it’s time to consider where to eat. Here are six of our favorite places to eat and drink in and around the area:
10. Horn and Cantle
750 Lone Mountain Ranch Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716
Decorated in classic Old West style, Horn and Cantle is one of the best restaurants in Big Sky for both the ambience and the food. Technically a ranch, this establishment hosts a number of bars, eateries, and even meals on the go. You heard that right: take your dinner on a sleigh ride.
11. Riverhouse BBQ
45130 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730
Nothing says “cowboy” like some really good barbecue. Once you’ve finished with your outdoor adventure in Montana for the day, you often want a filling meal, and Riverhouse BBQ comes through with an amazing menu that features nearly every meat under the sun.
12. Michaelangelo's Big Sky
1554 Center Ln, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730
One of the best restaurants in Big Sky provides home-cooked Italian food high in the Rockies. Enjoy après-ski and post-hike comfort food dinners such as squid, pasta, polenta, and more. With drinks galore, you can enjoy a simple lunch or a huge dinner here with equal ease and enjoyment.
13. The Montana Dinner Yurt
50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716
Hosted by Montana Backcountry Adventures, the Montana Dinner Yurt provides delicious dining in the middle of nowhere. Your Snowcat ride will take you to the cozy yurt, where you’ll enjoy a fabulous three-course meal with a range of refreshment choices … but beware, it’s BYO booze.
14. Beehive Basin Brewery
245 Town Center Ave, Big Sky, MT 59716
Beeraholics, we haven’t forgotten you. One of the best restaurants in Big Sky is not actually a restaurant at all. Rather, it’s a brewery, named after one of the most famous trails in the area (see above).
With a range of staple and rotating ales, you can enjoy a taste of wide-open country while you learn about how the ales are made in the tasting room. Be warned: There is no food, so eat before or have a plan for after.
15. Tips Up Big Sky
76 Town Center Ave, Big Sky, Montana 59716
If you want a place in Big Sky that’s full of energy, Tips Up is the spot to go. This lively restaurant and bar is known for its juicy burgers, crispy fried chicken, and cold local beers. After a day on the slopes or hiking trails, it’s the perfect place to relax and fill up on comfort food.
Tips Up is more than just a restaurant, you can listen to live music, catch a DJ set, or challenge friends to a game of shuffleboard or cornhole. Located right in Big Sky Town Center, it’s an easy walk from nearby shops and lodges, making it a favorite hangout for both visitors and locals.
Have Questions? Ask Our Partners – Ascend Properties
Ascend Properties takes pride not only in providing excellent places to stay but in also being your local expert. We know the ins and outs of beautiful Montana, especially this neck of the woods, from restaurants to cafes, hikes to horses, and we’re always happy to lend free advice on the area we love.
However, the places to stay aren’t half bad either. With sweeping views, spacious homes, beautiful yards, and lots of amenities, our vacation rentals are some of the most prized in Big Sky for a reason. If you’d like to find out more about what we can offer, or just have a question about what to do in Big Sky, we invite you to get in touch today!
