A Guide to Big Sky, Montana Parks

Amidst the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains, Big Sky is not just a premier ski destination but also a sanctuary of natural wonder and outdoor recreation. The area’s parks and public lands offer residents and visitors a diverse array of unforgettable adventures and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply a new resident who appreciates the great outdoors, the parks in and around Big Sky provide ample opportunities to connect with nature.

If you’re interested in Big Sky real estate and wondering what the surrounding landscapes have to offer, read on. This comprehensive guide will take you through the parks in Big Sky, detailing why they are must-visit destinations.

Just a short one-hour drive from Big Sky, Yellowstone National Park, the first and arguably most famous national park in the nation, is a sprawling expanse of wilderness and wonder. Covering over 2 million acres, this vast park extends into Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, with its closest entrance from Big Sky being the West Entrance. Yellowstone is renowned for its geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the mesmerizing Grand Prismatic Spring. The park's rugged terrain, lush forests, and majestic waterfalls offer an amazing backdrop for hiking, camping, and photography.

Visitors to Yellowstone can expect to see various wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk, particularly in the Lamar Valley. The park's extensive network of trails and guided tour options provide myriad ways to explore the amazing landscapes, whether on foot, by car, or even on horseback.

Bordering Big Sky, the Gallatin National Forest encompasses over 1.8 million acres of ecologically diverse landscapes, from rugged mountain ranges and dense forests to broad meadows and swift rivers. It is named after the Gallatin River, known for its world-class fly fishing and thrilling white-water rafting. The forest is crisscrossed with trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, offering some of the best access to Montana’s wild spaces.

In the winter, parts of Gallatin National Forest transform into a snowy playground, with opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. Year-round, the forest is a habitat for abundant wildlife, including deer, moose, and black bears, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife photography and nature studies.

For those who prefer a well-defined day adventure, the Beehive Basin Trail offers one of the most scenic hikes in the Big Sky area. This moderately challenging trail stretches approximately 7 miles round-trip and offers stunning views of high alpine meadows, wildflower-filled fields, and craggy mountain peaks. The trail culminates at a beautiful alpine lake, which reflects the surrounding mountains in its clear waters.

The Beehive Basin Trail is popular among hikers and backcountry skiers in the winter months. Its accessibility and breathtaking vistas make it a favorite for both locals and tourists seeking to experience Montana's mountainous landscapes.

Ousel Falls Park Trail is a favorite among outdoor adventurers living in Big Sky. This easy, 1.6-mile round-trip trail takes visitors through a lush wooded area along the South and West Forks of the Gallatin River to the spectacular Ousel Falls Overlook. This glorious trail is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it accessible for hikers of all ages and skill levels.

The park is particularly enchanting during the spring when the snow melts and fuels the waterfall, but the area retains its charm throughout the year. In winter, the frozen waterfall creates a magical ice sculpture, while summer brings hikers and picnickers to enjoy the sun-dappled paths and cool, misty air near the falls.

For those seeking a more strenuous challenge, the Lone Mountain Trail offers a demanding but highly rewarding hike up one of Big Sky’s most prominent landmarks. The trail is steep and rough in places, making it best suited for more experienced hikers. The summit provides panoramic views of Big Sky and the surrounding terrain, including several mountain ranges and the expansive Gallatin Valley.

In the winter months, Lone Mountain is best known as the site of the Big Sky Resort, offering some of the finest downhill skiing in North America. However, for those who prefer climbing over skiing, the Lone Mountain Trail remains a rewarding year-round adventure.

Big Sky’s parks and natural landscapes offer something for everyone, from serene walks through wooded trails to challenging mountain treks. Each park provides a unique way to experience the natural splendor of Montana.

Embrace the outdoor spirit, and discover why so many people are drawn to the natural wonders of Big Sky’s landscapes. Get started in Big Sky real estate today with Ania Bulis & Ashley Quande leading the way.