15 Things to Do in Big Sky, MT, Year-Round {Complete Guide}

If you are looking for the best things to do in Big Sky, Montana, many activities are available that can match your budget and interests. The good thing is that Big Sky offers so much more than skiing. From hiking in the summer to various sports in winter, there is something for everyone.

To help you plan more easily, this guide will break down everything so you can enjoy more and spend less time researching season-based activities. So, let us get started!

15 Things to Do in Big Sky, MT Year-Round

There are several activities in Big Sky, Montana, that you can do and enjoy without waiting for a season. For seamless exploration, you can book a rental car by comparing live prices and ongoing offers on ZadCars.

Besides, here are some fun and exciting activities that you can enjoy throughout the year, in summer and winter:

1. Visit Big Sky Resort

Although this place is primarily on the list to enjoy snowboarding and skiing in winter, you can still enjoy activities like mountain biking and chairlift rides at any time of the year. You can also indulge in dining and try local cuisines. Besides, you can go shopping and buy gifts.

2. Explore Lone Peak

This is one of the most beautiful attractions in Big Sky, Montana, best known for its panoramic, eye-pleasing mountain views. Irrespective of the season, you can visit here and have a memorable tram experience.

3. Discover ‘Ousel Falls’

For spontaneous travel plans, no other place is better than Ousel Falls in Big Sky. It features many family-friendly hiking trails. Along with this, you can capture picturesque waterfall views here.

4. Walk Around Town Center

This spot consists of many local shops and restaurants. Here, you can come, sit, and sip coffee while enjoying community gatherings and live music. It also holds many public events throughout the year that you can also enjoy.

5. Scenic Rides Through the Gallatin Canyon

If you love wildlife, you can plan your trip to the Gallatin Canyon. Here, you can view wildlife and enjoy scenic river sides. To have more fun, you are advised to book everything, including rental cars in Big Sky, before visiting.

6. Hiking

In Big Sky, you will find so many hiking trails. Some of the most popular names include Storm Castle Peak, Beehive Basin Trail, and Lava Lake Trail. With easy, moderate, and difficult levels, you should visit from June to September for the best experience.

7. Fly Fishing

For a guided fishing trip, you can head to the Gallatin River. Here, you can have opportunities for trout fishing. To catch the maximum number of fish, visit during the summer months like June, July, August, and September.

8. White Water Rafting

To have the best rafting experience, you can go to the ‘Mad Mile’ of the Gallatin River. It offers Class 3 and 4 rapids to enjoy against the towering and dramatic cliffs. Alongside, you can visit the Gallatin Canyon to the crystal-clear and scenic mountain water. If it is your day, you could also see bald eagles here.

9. Mountain Biking

Big Sky has many downhill, world-class, and interconnected trails for mountain biking, specifically during the summer. Among all, Big Sky Bike Park is the most famous for offering a high-alpine and scenic riding experience.  Additionally, the Rocky Mountains have dedicated trails with high berms and big drops.

10. Horseback Riding

Big Sky is one of the areas that offers an exceptional experience to those who want to enjoy horseback riding. For this, visitors can head to the Lee Metcalf Wilderness and the Gallatin National Forest between June and September. In addition to this, Jake’s Horses and Lone Mountain Ranch are there, where you can experience wildlife and local ecology.

11. Snowboarding and Skiing

Situated close to Yellowstone National Park in Southwestern Montana, it is counted among the largest ski zones in North America. The best thing about this terrain is that it has dedicated zones for beginners and pro skiers. For ultimate fun, visit from December to March.

12. Snowshoeing

With this activity, you can follow beautifully frozen rivers, traverse serene meadows, and join the expertly guided wildlife tours to Lone Mountain Ranch, Beehive Basin, and Ousel Falls Trail. Since it requires pre-booking, you must do it in advance.

13. Dog Sledding

Big Sky has dedicated services to let visitors experience top-notch dog sledding. For this, you must go to the Moonlight Basin in the winter months between December and March. You can also opt for the Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures to ride in the sled baskets.

14. Winter Recreation and Ice Skating

For the ultimate winter recreation and ice skating option, set out for the Marty Pavelich Ice Rink. Additionally, Ulery’s Lake is also there to provide a memorable experience. Here, you can rent skates, a sled, and have your dinner while sitting beside the bonfire.

15. Winter Wildlife Sightseeing

For winter wildlife, you can head to the Yellowstone National Park in the months of winter, fall, and spring. You can book a safari here and spot wolves, bison, bighorn sheep, and elk. Besides, you can also plan your trip to Gallatin Canyon, Lamer Valley, etc.

Tip: To explore Big Sky in winter, always book a rental car with snow tires. Check availability and prices on ZadCars.

What is the Best Time to Visit Big Sky, Montana?

To enjoy an activity at its best, you will need to experience it during the peak time only. This means it is necessary to know the best time for unusual things to do in Big Sky, Montana. Look at the following table to get more details:

Summary

Whether you are planning a winter ski vacation or a trip in summer, Big Sky has enough activities and attractions to fill your days with excitement. From iconic Big Sky Resort to Lone Peak, there is no scarcity of exceptional things to do. However, plan well, make a list of things to do in Big Sky, MT, and book rental cars on ZadCars to meet all your travel goals and avoid unnecessary stress.