As the seasons evolve and signs of summer start to shine, many people are looking for new and exciting places to visit. And when it comes to picturesque mountain towns, Big Sky, Montana, is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. With a mountain town feel and over 5,800 acres of world-class ski terrain, it’s no wonder that Big Sky attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the world. As the snow melts, this stunning mountain town turns into a summer wonderland. Whether you’re in Big Sky for the first time, a local homeowner, or someone who just can’t get enough of the area and return year after year, the adventures are endless. Following are a few of our favorite summer adventures not to miss!
Hiking in the mountains:
One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Big Sky is through hiking. Big Sky offers hikes for all skill levels, from a quick day hike to multi-day backpacking trips, there is something for everyone. Some of our favorite hikes include Beehive Basin, where you visit spectacular alpine cirque filled with wildflowers. Ousel Falls trail is perfect for all ages covering 1.6 miles and leading up to beautiful Ousel Falls waterfall. Lava Lake trail follows Cascade Creek for three miles to the high alpine Lava Lake which is a great spot to enjoy your packed lunch.
Mountain Biking:
With over 50 miles of mountain biking trails at Big Sky Resort and even more throughout the broader Big Sky community, this is a growing paradise for bikers. From technical single-track to flowy downhill trails, Big Sky offers a variety of mountain biking options for all levels. Make sure to check out the Big Sky Bike Park – a downhill park that offers adrenaline-pumping fun for bikers of all skill levels. The Mountain to Meadow flow trail is a favorite of the locals covering six miles of downhill riding from Big Sky Resort to the Town Center.
Music Events:
Big Sky is home to some of the most exciting music events in Montana. From the annual Big Sky Classical Music Festival to the free Music in the Mountains concert series there is no shortage of live music to enjoy. Make sure to check out the Wildlands Festival and Big Sky PBR – a rodeo-style event that also includes concerts and other entertainment.
Wildlife Watching:
Big Sky is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, elk, foxes, moose, coyotes, and wolves. Join a guided wildlife tour to nearby Yellowstone National Park and experience the thrill of spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Make sure to bring your camera!
Whitewater Rafting:
During the summer, Big Sky’s rivers offer some of the best rafting opportunities in Montana. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a beginner looking for a thrilling adventure, there are plenty of tour companies that offer guided rafting trips for all skill levels. With its rugged mountain scenery and exciting rapids, a whitewater rafting trip is an excellent way to get your adrenaline pumping and to get a unique view of the area from the water. Join a guided tour through Montana Whitewater or Geyser Whitewater or for those more experienced, rent a raft and hit the river on your own.
Take in the Big Sky Farmers Market:
If you’re looking for a more relaxed, leisurely activity, then a visit to the Big Sky Farmers Market is a must. This weekly market features local produce, hand-crafted goodies, and live music. Grab a coffee from one of the many vendors and stroll through the market, admiring the exceptional quality of Montana’s farming community.
Go on a Yellowstone National Park Tour:
Known as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky is a short drive from America’s first National Park, and it’s an absolute must-visit when you’re in the area. With a wide range of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and geothermal features, Yellowstone is an adventurer’s paradise. Whether you’re hiking one of the park’s many trails, visiting Old Faithful, or taking in the stunning views from a scenic drive, a tour of Yellowstone will undoubtedly be a highlight of your Big Sky memories. With guided or self-toured options this day trip, or multi-day trip, is worth the time to explore.
Take a Scenic Chairlift Ride:
While many know Big Sky as the world-class ski resort that has grown into, it’s also gorgeous in the summer! One of the most popular and easily accessible summer activities is taking a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain. From there, you’ll experience some of the most breathtaking views of the great outdoors. You’ll see lush meadows, towering peaks, and perhaps even spot some of the local wildlife.
Savor Big Sky:
Indulge in the ultimate culinary celebration amidst the breathtaking scenery of Big Sky, Montana at Savor Big Sky. New this year, join Big Sky Resort for a long weekend of unforgettable experiences that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more. Savor Big Sky has an impressive lineup of world-renowned chefs, wineries, breweries, and spirits purveyors who will be showcasing their craft with the freshest local ingredients. Amidst Big Sky’s majestic grandeur, you can relish in a variety of activities like hiking to brunch, savoring a glass of wine with live music, or stargazing with spirits in hand. Savor Big Sky is an experience that you simply cannot miss!
Learn to Fly Fish
Learn the art of fly fishing surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Big Sky, Montana. With pristine rivers and lakes close by, Big Sky offers the perfect backdrop to learn the basics or continue to master the art of fly fishing. Whether you’re an aspiring angler or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone within the waters of the Gallatin, Madison, and Yellowstone Rivers. There is no shortage of fly shops in the area that have amazing guides who love to share their love for the sport and are also available for personalized instruction. These privately guided experiences, lead you to the best fishing holes where you can practice your casting techniques and learn to fall in love with Montana’s favorite pastime. Get ready to immerse yourself in this tranquil and rewarding experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Big Sky, Montana, truly has something for everyone during the summer months. With an endless array of outdoor activities and incredible natural beauty, it’s no wonder that this delightful mountain town is a favorite of travelers worldwide. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Big Sky has it all. Start planning your summer trip today and discover why this charming town is one of the best destinations in the world!
