Things really are big at Big Sky Ski & Summer Resort: big vertical, big snowfalls, big mountain. Annual snowfall is an impressive 400 inches and the vertical drop at this 3,600-acre resort, which sprawls under big Montana skies, is a huge 4,350 feet. In fact, it’s one of the biggest lift-served vertical drops in the United States. Even the longest run, at six miles, is outsized. The only thing that’s small here are the crowds. As in: There aren’t any. Lift lines are essentially non-existent. There’s an average of less than two skiers per acre, but that’s on the resort’s busiest days!

If that’s not enough to entice you to this relatively remote resort, consider its proximity to fabulous Yellowstone National Park, just 20 miles away. Winter tours of the park – with its abundant wildlife, impressive geothermal features and notable absence of summertime crowds – are a definite must.

Snowboards are welcome, and cross-country skiing is available nearby. Terrain is designated 10% beginner, 47% intermediate and 43% expert. In 2000/2001 the resort announced a $400 million improvement plan that will enhance the overall skiing experience. Over the next decade developers will add more than 100 shops and restaurants, a European spa, and more than 1,800 acres of new terrain (and six new high-speed lifts to serve it). By 2010, Big Sky should include more than 5,000 skiable acres; a big chunk of terrain in anyone’s book of big things.

Family Friendly
Big Sky prides itself on its family friendliness. Numerous ski and snowboard schools and camps are available for all ages and ability levels, as well as day care facilities and plenty of enticing freebies. In fact, as Outside Magazine noted when it praised the resort in its 1998/1999 annual travel guide, Big Sky is a winner with families due to its penchant for giving away plenty of free stuff. That includes free skiing and snowboarding for children 10 and under, and free lodging and breakfasts for the same age group when staying with paying adults.

The fun doesn’t stop there, however. Children can enjoy free fireside bedtime stories, and there are crafts for teens and game nights for the entire family. Entertainment programs are always expanding. The resort recently added outdoor activities such as dog rescue demonstrations, on-mountain scavenger hunts and castle creations with snow.

While this may not be the place to come if you’re interested primarily in people-watching and the latest fashions, or gourmet dining and five-star service (look to Aspen or Vail for these), it is definitely worth a try if you’re committed to a fun family winter vacation that places a strong emphasis on skiing.

Big Sky for Families
Big Sky appeals to family’s pocketbooks by offering freebies on many things, from free family programs and activities, to free skiing and snowboarding for children under 10.

Families shouldn’t miss the opportunity to take a side trip to nearby Yellowstone National Park while at Big Sky. This crown jewel of the nation’s park system is delightfully uncrowded, and teeming with natural wonders, in winter. Local outfitters offer guided tours, but forget driving there yourself; private vehicles are banned in winter.

Big Sky on a Budget
Big Sky can save budget-conscious travelers with children considerable savings. Children under 10 ski and lodge for free, and can belly up to the breakfast bar at Huntley Lodge for free, to boot. Free Focus of Fun programs offered by the resort insure that kids of all ages will be entertained après ski.

Sidebar: Where to Ski
Beginners
Only ten percent of runs at Big Sky are designed for beginners. Sounds discouraging, but remember that ten percent of 3,600 acres still works out to a whole lot of ground and a plenty big chunk of that big sky for learning skiers. Big Sky is famously uncrowded, which always benefits beginners. Head to south-facing beginner trails on Andesite Mountain.

Intermediates
Head for Andesite Mountain, where you’ll find plenty of intermediates cruising runs and varied, groomed terrain. South-facing beginner runs provide a pleasant occasional respite from burning legs and panting lungs. Heartier intermediates may wish to consider challenging some of the killer moguls at the top of Mad Wolf on Andesite Mountain. Warning: Lone Mountain’s tram-accessed terrain is seriously expert-only. Step up at your own risk.

Experts
You’ve come to the right place. Nearly 40% of terrain here is for you. Take the Lone Peak tram to Lone Mountain’s signature peak (11,166 feet) and plunge into what’s been called “European-style expert terrain”, and “one big nasty looking mountain. Photos don’t do it justice.” Plenty of variety is also available on Andesite Mountain and at Flat Iron Mountain on Andesite’s eastern shoulder. Hit Challenger, Liberty Bowl and the Front Bowl.

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