Your Guide to Planning the Perfect Big Sky Vacation
When you picture the perfect mountain getaway, what do you have in mind? Is it snow-capped peaks, a cozy mountain lodge, or lots of outdoor activities? No matter your vision for a mountain vacation, Big Sky in beautiful Montana is a dream destination.
With Ascend Properties, you can find exceptional vacation rentals to serve as your home base. But even with your accommodation booked, organizing the perfect trip is a challenge. So, here's your guide to planning an unforgettable Big Sky vacation.
When to Visit Big Sky
Before you can start booking Big Sky vacation rentals and organizing activities, you'll need to choose the right time to visit this Montana getaway. The best time of year to visit depends largely on how you want to spend your time. If you're coming to take advantage of the amazing ski slopes, you'll want to plan your visit for December, January, or February. However, March and April are also excellent months to get in some last-minute skiing and snowmobiling.
If hiking and festivities are more your speed, consider visiting in the summer. May and June are perfect for hiking, and July is when the town puts on an array of events. August also works well for outdoor activities like rafting, golfing, or trekking to nearby Yellowstone.
Getting to Big Sky
Looking at Big Sky on a map, this town seems quite isolated, with few major cities within an hour's drive. Nevertheless, getting to Big Sky isn't as difficult as you might think. The easiest way to get to town is to fly into Bozeman. Several major cities have direct flights to BZN, and the airport is only about an hour from Big Sky.
Once you land in Bozeman, you can rent a car and make the easy drive to town via Montana Highway 191. If you'd prefer not to rent, several private shuttles run between the airport and Big Sky. Whatever you choose to do, we recommend booking your car rental or private transportation in advance.
Don't Miss These Things to Do
Depending on the time of year you visit, you'll have the chance to experience numerous attractions in Big Sky. Here are some of the popular activities available seasonally:
1. Skiing and Snowboarding
The ski slopes are synonymous with Big Sky. When you visit, make sure you take advantage of them! You'll find numerous trails in town and the surrounding areas, some beginner-friendly and others requiring an experienced skier. If skiing is outside of your wheelhouse, consider getting on a snowboard instead.
2. Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is another incredible way to take advantage of the winter weather. As you rumble through the backcountry, you'll enjoy pristine views and breathe the clean mountain air. You can either book a guided snowmobile tour, or opt for a GPS-guided option. Remember, a valid driver's license is required to drive a snowmobile.
3. Fishing
You can go fishing almost any time of year in Big Sky. Take a full-day ice fishing trip in the winter or try your hand at fly fishing in the summer. Plenty of local guides would be happy to help you make the most of your fishing trip and outfit you with the necessary gear.
4. Hiking and Mountain Biking
You can hardly visit Big Sky without taking a hiking trip! There are trails for all skill levels, but no matter which you choose, you'll be met with magical mountain views. If you want to really explore the landscape, hire a local trail guide for the best experience. Mountain biking is also an exciting way to see the surroundings.
5. Whitewater Rafting
If you're hoping to get a burst of adrenaline, whitewater rafting is the perfect activity to add to your Big Sky vacation. Rent a raft and take on the river with an experienced local guide. In addition to helping you navigate, they might also go into detail about the area's history and plant life.
Try These Big Sky Restaurants
After a long day of skiing or hiking, you need a good meal! Fortunately, Big Sky is home to lots of restaurants, both in the main downtown area and set back into nature. Try these Big Sky restaurants on your next trip:
- Tips Up- This stop serves classic bar and grill fare like burgers, sandwiches, and cold beer. You'll love sitting down here after a day on the slopes.
- Ousel & Spur- This Italian restaurant is particularly known for pizza, but also has a selection of authentic Italian dishes like pappardelle and burrata.
- Horn & Cantle- While Horn & Cantle is a bit off the beaten path, its decadent menu will have you excited to make the quick drive. This upscale restaurant has tried-and-true classics as well as high-end dishes.
Choose From Top Vacation Rentals
No matter how you spend your trip, you'll need a cozy home base to come back to. Luckily, Ascend Properties has some amazing Big Sky vacation rentals to pick from. You can't go wrong with these options:
1. 7 Manitou Cabin
Stay in a classic mountain cabin! This five-bedroom rental sleeps up to 11 guests and features elegant furnishings while maintaining that rugged look. You'll have access to premier amenities, including a Sub-Zero fridge, stone countertops, and a convenient route to the slopes.
2. 220 Lake Lodge
Perhaps you want a more modern aesthetic for your vacation rental. In that case, 220 Lake Lodge was designed with you in mind. With space for up to six guests, this condo offers impressive modern design, two hot tubs, and stunning views of Lone Peak.
3. 141 Copper John Loop
Choose this townhome if you're looking for a cozy, welcoming space with quick access to downtown Big Sky. There's room for eight guests and all the modern conveniences you could need. Take advantage of premium appliances, smart TVs, and a gas fireplace.
A lot goes into trip planning, especially if you're new to the destination. But with so many attractions in Big Sky and Ascend Properties' quality accommodations, vacation planning can be a breeze! Find the right vacation rental for you today.
