Hristina Lozanovska 
If you consider yourself an adventurer and Big Sky is on your destination wish list, you’ve landed in the right place! As a skiing enthusiast, this destination ranks high on my bucket list.
I have spent time comparing all the most amazing areas around Big Sky and finding the best hotels! Let me make planning your trip easy so your vacay is a blast!
In this article, I will give you some valuable tips on where to stay in Big Sky, what each area is best for, and highlight the best hotels for your stay. Big Sky’s Mountain Village is the most attractive area, especially for first-time visitors. It offers many accommodations to suit every budget, and you can enjoy plenty of activities while staying there.
I also found some hidden gems in the mountains around Big Sky during my research. Go through my list of recommendations, find something that strikes your fancy, and make your reservations in advance!
Contents
- If you are in a hurry
- 1. Mountain Village – where to stay in Big Sky for first-timers
- 2. Canyon Village – where to stay in Big Sky for an active trip
- 3. Meadow Village – where to stay in Big Sky on a family trip
- 4. Moonlight Basin – where to stay in Big Sky for skiing
- 5. Town Center – where to stay in Big Sky for shopping and fun
- BONUS: Best ski-in/ski-out resorts in Big Sky
- FAQs about where to stay in Big Sky
If you are in a hurry
The Big Sky Mountain Village hosts the most significant number of Big Sky hotels, lodges, and other accommodations. It also enables easy ski access and boasts gorgeous mountain views! So, if you don’t have time to read the whole post, here are the best hotels for each budget:
Check out the map I’ve created to help you navigate the different areas of Big Sky:
- Mountain Village: for first timers
- Canyon Village: for an active trip
- Meadow Village: for a family trip
- Moonlight Basin: for skiing
- Town Center: for shopping and fun
1. Mountain Village – where to stay in Big Sky for first-timers
The Mountain Village is the most popular area of Big Sky Resort. The Alps inspired this part of the ski resort, with chalets adorning the landscape and giving the place a magical touch.
Besides the magnificent views, the Big Sky Mountain Village offers you the option to experience luxury in the heart of nature. This area features the best luxury hotels in the Big Sky and deserves a spot on your list of best destinations for staying in Montana.
The many Mountain Village restaurants offer fine dining options, but you can also eat in a more relaxed setting. There are many bars, bakeries, and coffee shops where you can spend some leisure time.
I highly recommend checking out Montana Dinner Yurt (map) while you’re there! You’ll be transferred through the woods on a sled to get there, it’s so much fun and set in a candlelit yurt – perfect for those romantic gestures!
Mountain Village also gives you easy access to ski lifts, so going up and down the ski mountain is easy. And if you’re visiting in summer, you should take one of the scenic lift rides and marvel at the surrounding nature!
In the summer, you can also go ziplining, try archery, or participate in watersports on Lake Levinsky. The Basecamp at Big Sky Resort is worth a visit, and there are many activities for kids and adults alike.
Montage Big Sky is a luxury hotel in the Spanish Peaks mountain, perfect if you want to unwind in places with spa services. Guests can enjoy the outdoor heated pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The hotel is the ultimate ski-out destination, and it’s trendy among couples, one of those locations perfect for a romantic getaway.
Other accommodation options in Mountain Village
The Summit Hotel offers marvelous Lone Peak mountain views and access to a sauna and a hot tub
The Huntley Lodge features standard hotel rooms plus an outdoor pool, fireplace, and à la carte dining experience
This cozy place has a fully equipped kitchen and is located within walking distance of the ski resort
2. Canyon Village – where to stay in Big Sky for an active trip
Canyon Village is the best Big Sky area to settle in if you’re looking for unique stays for a memorable trip. This village is located on Gallatin Road, right by US Highway 191, across the road from the Gallatin River.
The Canyon is close to many Big Sky landmarks, and many accommodation options provide convenient access to various tours and activities.
Along Gallatin Road, there is more than enough choice of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops, but this road along the canyon is better suited for other activities.
If you stay in this area, you can go horse riding or take a bolder approach and give it your best shot at the shooting range. In the warmer months, the Gallatin River is an excellent choice if you want to try white water rafting and fly fishing.
The main ski destinations are a little further away from the Canyon Village, but there’s plenty of adventure, and you probably won’t have a moment to spare during your stay!
Are you on a quest to discover the most charming lodges? Then look no further than the Rainbow Ranch Lodge. Located just a few minutes from Gallatin Forest, this lodge is the perfect place to enjoy rustic charm and modern amenities. The property offers free Wi-Fi, parking, and easy Big Sky golf course access.
Other accommodation options in Canyon Village
Guests will discover that the ranch offers dog-friendly lodgings for pet owners and amenities such as fishing and horse riding
Luxury Cabin on Gallatin River
River and mountain views, private outdoor hot tubs, and a barbecue grill are the perks of staying at these cabins
The tiny house is one of the best budget-friendly places for backpackers, with a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable beds
3. Meadow Village – where to stay in Big Sky on a family trip
Meadow Village is home to top-rated accommodations for families and offers many family-friendly activities. Within the village, you’ll find a variety of shops, quite a few of the best restaurants in Big Sky, and a couple of golf courses, some of the best places to immerse in local culture.
If you want a more active vacation, Meadow Village is the perfect place to stay close to the best hiking trails; several trails have different difficulty levels. Taking a family hike on one of the more accessible trails is a great plan! Check out all your trail options here.
In Meadow Village, you can also enjoy breathtaking views of Lone Mountain and go Nordic skiing from one of the nearby locations!
During peak months, you can also use the complimentary shuttle to the town center or take a bus to Yellowstone National Park. If you decide to stay there, prepare in advance and learn what the best areas in YNP are.
Nevertheless, since you’ve headed to Big Sky, don’t miss out on going to the Big Sky Resort, which is 7 miles (11 km) from Meadow Village, so you can take a shuttle or drive there. It’s only 15 minutes away.
The Spanish Peaks 6 hotel offers the perfect combination of comfort and luxury. All rooms have a balcony and private bathrooms equipped with hot tubs. Besides the room amenities, the guests can use a heated outdoor pool and are just a short walk from various activities like mountain biking and skiing.
Other accommodation options in Meadow Village
These cabins that offer breathtaking views have a comfortable setting area, private bathroom, and a kitchen with all the facilities
Big Sky Dreamin offers lodging options where every room has a view, plus a private patio and free Wi-Fi
Enjoy the privacy of your bedroom and private bathroom, or go for a swim in the shared outdoor heated pool
4. Moonlight Basin – where to stay in Big Sky for skiing
The Moonlight Basin area has ideal spots for ski enthusiasts of all skill levels. There are trails for recreational and advanced skiers, but there are also many hiking trails and opportunities for mountain biking.
Don’t forget to hike the Beehive Basin Trail (see trail map) for the ultimate views!
Moonlight Basin is one of our top recommendations for solo travelers, as plenty of activities keep you busy during your stay there.
At Moonlight Basin, you will find lodgings with top reviews and ratings and discover the best spots for stargazing at night.
Shopping and dining options are more limited compared to other areas of Big Sky, but there are many things to make up for it. Nordic Skiing, snowmobiling, white water rafting, and fly fishing are just a few of the things to fill your time in the Moonlight Basin area.
These lodgings are renowned for exceptional service. With easy access to the Big Sky Resort, you will find the perfect blend of comfort and adventure in each rental. From here, you get the best views of Lone Mountain and can choose from various resort amenities like a private pool and a hot tub.
Other accommodation options in Moonlight Basin
The cabins have private hot tubs on the outdoor decks, gorgeous panoramic views, and comfortable living areas
Tanager is among the best vacation rentals in Big Sky, with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a private hot tub
A modern kitchen, 4 bedrooms with private bathrooms, and a private deck with a hot tub, perfect for group stays
5. Town Center – where to stay in Big Sky for shopping and fun
The town center area offers the best accommodations close to popular attractions, hosts various special events, has many shops and restaurants, and is within walking distance of different parks and community spaces.
In the Big Sky town center, visitors will find child-friendly spots for worry-free stays, discover places with a rich local history, and experience true mountain hospitality.
The Big Sky town center is a good choice if you’re a person who appreciates good cuisine and wants to stay near top dining destinations. Plus, you can use the complimentary shuttle to get around town for free!
The Big Sky resort is easily accessible from the town center, but if you stay in town, you can spend time at one of the many coffee shops or have fun at the ice rink.
You can also check the calendar for upcoming events or catch a movie at the Movie & Performing Arts Theater. Check out the local farmer’s market for fresh produce and delicious street food!
If you want to venture further, take the 36-mile (58 km) trip to the Bozeman Hot Springs, enjoy the natural thermal waters, and have a relaxing day.
Residence Inn by Marriot, also known as the Wilson Hotel, is a 3-star hotel that can provide a luxury stay in the heart of this mountain town. The Marriott Big Sky has a fitness center, a dining area, and an outdoor pool, and it is one of Big Sky’s best eco-friendly accommodations for green travelers.
Other accommodation options in the Town Center
A holiday home with a kitchen, seating area, 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, each with a hot tub
4-bedroom apartment, great for group stays, with free parking, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and barbecue facilities
A 3-bedroom condo with a fireplace, kitchen, parking garage, and free Wi-Fi within walking distance of the town center
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$400 |
| 💵 Mid Range: | US$350 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$300 |
| 📍 Best area: | Mountain Village |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Montage Big Sky |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Summit Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Huntley Lodge |
BONUS: Best ski-in/ski-out resorts in Big Sky
Many people eager to visit Big Sky want to stay where the adventure begins, so they’re looking for resorts offering a ski-in/ski-out service. Some of the accommodations featured in this article, such as the Summit or the Huntley Lodge, offer this service. But I thought it best to recommend a few additional options if skiing is your primary interest while visiting Big Sky.
The 4 accommodations listed below offer the best stays for those who want to step outside and ski out. The list starts with the most luxurious option and moves down to include more budget-friendly options. The prices range from US$180 to US$2,300, but the more expensive options can usually accommodate more people.
1. Powder Ridge Cabins
If you’re the type that wants to discover serene retreats away from crowds and have untethered access to the slopes, then Powder Ridge Cabins is the ultimate choice. These luxury log cabins with private hot tubs provide direct access to 5,850 acres (2,367 ha) of Big Sky slopes, costing around US$2,300 per night for up to 9 people.
2. Shoshone Condominium Hotel
Located in the Mountain Village, the Shoshone Condominium Hotel offers its guests the opportunity to go down to the Big Sky resort and access one of the nearby ski lifts, like the Magic Carpet 1 and 2 or the Black Bear Poma. A night in the hotel will cost you approximately US$630 for 2 people.
3. Alpenglow at Big Sky
The Alpenglow units are part of the Big Sky resort, where guests can ski out onto the slopes and marvel at the magnificent views of Lone Peak and Andesite Mountain. And if you’ve ever wanted to find lodgings with the best sunrise views, book one of the Alpenglow condos – prices per night start at US$180.
4. Saddle Ridge Condominiums
Right in the center of the Moonlight Basin area, the Saddle Ridge condos are within short walking distance of the Pony Express 3 Chair Lift. The property has many amenities, including a private outdoor hot tub. You’ll have to pay almost US$1,000/night to stay at this vacation rental, but up to 6 people can be comfortably accommodated.
5. Lone Mountain Ranch
The Lone Mountain Ranch is a 3-star resort with ski-to-door access and a concierge service. It’s just a short walk from Big Sky Resort, and besides skiing, the property offers horse riding, fly fishing, or to embark on an all-access tour to Yellowstone National Park. The average price for a night at the Ranch is US$1,200.
FAQs about where to stay in Big Sky
⛰️ Is it better to stay on the mountain or in the town at Big Sky?
If you visit Big Sky exclusively for skiing, it’s better to stay on the mountain, either in the Mountain Village or the Moonlight Basin. But if you want to wine and dine, the town center is the better option, notably the Residence Inn by Marriott.
🤩 Where do celebrities stay in Big Sky Montana?
Celebrities that visit Big Sky stay at The Yellowstone Club, a bit further away from all the popular areas. However, this is a members-only club, and you can’t get in without an invite, but you may spot some familiar faces around town.
⛷️ What is the best area to stay in Big Sky for skiing?
The best Big Sky area for skiing is the Mountain Village, and the best hotel in this area is the Montage Big Sky, a 5-star hotel with various amenities. The Mountain Village offers plenty of other options for travelers with different budgets.
❄️ What is the best time to visit Big Sky?
The best time of year to visit Big Sky is winter. As this is primarily a ski resort, visitors flock to Big Sky during the winter months to use the snow and embark on a skiing adventure.
Conclusion
When I started writing this article, my main goal was to discover where to stay in Big Sky, in terms of areas and hotels, and the best things you can do in each area. Luckily, my mission was successful. Big Sky has the perfect spots for outdoor enthusiasts and many great accommodation options, as you know if you’ve read this far.
In this article, you’ll find everything from 5-star hotels and high-end condos to rustic lodges and cozy Airbnbs, but I wanted to share my 2 favorite options for staying in Big Sky:
- Montage Big Sky – I love the comfortable rooms and the spa center.
- Summit Hotel – the hotel has many amenities, but I particularly like the restaurant.
I hope my recommendations helped you decide where to stay in Big Sky so you can book your room in advance and start looking forward to your trip!
Leave a comment and let me know your thoughts on Big Sky, Montana!
Have fun on your adventure,
Hristina
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