Where unforgettable adventures meet elevated mountain living.
Big Sky is where dramatic alpine peaks, world-class dining, and untamed Montana wilderness come together. Whether you're here to attend Wildlands Festival, hike, fish, ski, or simply unwind under endless skies, this guide covers the best trails, dining, shopping, and unforgettable experiences.
Explore the Outdoors
Must-Do Hikes:
Big Sky’s trail system ranges from easy waterfall strolls to steep summit scrambles.
Lava Lake
Distance: ~6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Why it’s iconic: A deep blue lake beneath rugged peaks.
Technically between Big Sky and Bozeman, but a local favorite with a rewarding alpine lake payoff.
Beehive Basin
Distance: ~6–7 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Why it’s iconic: Wildflowers, alpine meadows, and a stunning mountain lake at the end.
This is the signature Big Sky hike. In summer, it’s packed with lupine and paintbrush. The basin views are unreal.
Storm Castle Peak
Distance: ~5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate–Strenuous
Why it’s iconic: Dramatic summit views overlooking Gallatin Canyon.
A shorter hike with a steep push at the end.
Ousel Falls
Distance: ~1.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Why it’s iconic: Beautiful waterfall, very accessible.
Perfect short hike close to town. Great for families or a sunset stroll.
Hummocks Trail
Distance: ~3 miles round trip (loop options available)
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Why it’s iconic: Rolling terrain with classic Lone Peak views.
A scenic loop through open meadows and small forest patches, with constant sightlines to Lone Mountain. Great shoulder-season option and perfect for a mellow hike or trail run close to town.
Uplands Trail
Distance: ~3–4 miles round trip (loop options available)
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
Why it’s iconic: Quiet forested singletrack with wildflower meadows.
Less crowded than Ousel and Beehive, this trail weaves through aspen and pine with gentle elevation gain. A peaceful, local-favorite hike for a quick outing without committing to a big climb.
Lone Peak (via tram + hike or full ascent)
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Strenuous to Expert
Why it’s iconic: Highest peak in the area (11,166 ft).
You can hike from the base (serious climb) or take the tram and explore the summit area. Huge 360° views into Yellowstone and the Tetons on clear days.
Distance: ~8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Why it’s iconic: Wildflower meadows and fewer crowds than Beehive.
Great alternative if you want big views without the heavy traffic.
Lemonknob Loop
Distance: ~4–5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate–Strenuous
Why it’s iconic: Big summit views with fewer crowds.
A steady forest climb that opens to sweeping views of Lone Peak, the Spanish Peaks, and the Gallatin Range. Shorter than many alpine hikes but delivers a true summit payoff without heavy traffic.
Adventure Activities
Big Sky isn’t just scenic — it’s built for adventure.
Enjoy a wildlife experience in Yellowstone with expert naturalist guides from Big Sky. Wildlife sightings often include bison, elk, bears, and wolves.
Horseback Riding
Ride through open meadows, along rivers, and into the mountains for a true Montana experience.
Rafting
Montana Whitewater offers thrilling whitewater trips and scenic floats on the Gallatin River.
Fly Fishing
World-class trout waters await.
Mountain Biking, Ziplining & Golf
Available at Big Sky Resort — perfect for summer adrenaline.
Side-by-Sides
Explore backcountry terrain with Canyon Adventures.
Local Weekly Events
If you’re in town at the right time:
• Wednesdays: Big Sky Farmers Market
• Thursdays: Music in the Mountains
• Tuesdays: Lone Mountain Ranch Rodeo - A true Montana experience
Coffee Shops & Bakeries
Fuel up before the trail or settle in for a slow mountain morning — Big Sky’s coffee scene delivers everything from strong espresso to fresh-baked pastries and market bites.
Cowboy Coffee
A true local staple. Strong coffee, breakfast burritos, and a cozy mountain vibe. Great grab-and-go option before an early hike or fishing trip.
Wildflower Market
More than a coffee shop — this charming café and gourmet market serves organic coffee, fresh pastries, hearty breakfast and lunch options, plus prepared foods perfect for trail picnics.
Blue Moon Bakery
Beloved for a reason. Fresh breads, giant cinnamon rolls, cookies, and strong coffee. A classic stop for a casual breakfast or post-adventure treat.
Treeline Coffee Roasters
Small-batch roasted coffee with a modern, minimalist aesthetic. A favorite for serious coffee lovers who appreciate a perfectly crafted pour-over or espresso.
This veteran-owned roastery is known for ethically sourced beans, carefully calibrated roasts, and consistently excellent espresso drinks.
Hero Snow Coffee
Mountain-cool energy with quality espresso drinks and quick breakfast options. Ideal for grabbing something on your way to the slopes or trails.
Unravel Coffee + Bar
A Bozeman favorite with a Big Sky outpost. Thoughtfully sourced beans, clean design, and expertly made drinks. A great remote-work or relaxed morning spot.
Hungry Moose Market & Deli
While technically a market, it’s a morning essential. Coffee, breakfast sandwiches, smoothies, and everything you need to pack a full day of adventure.
Mocha in the Huntley
Located inside the Huntley Lodge at Big Sky Resort. Convenient and reliable for coffee before hitting the lifts or heading out on a summer tram ride.
Thorn Apple Baking Co.
A hidden gem for artisanal baked goods and beautifully crafted pastries. Expect seasonal flavors, flaky croissants, and small-batch quality that feels thoughtfully Montana.
Dining & Drinks
Big Sky punches far above its weight when it comes to food. Here’s where to go.
Town Center & Meadow Village:
Tres Toros Tacos & Tequila
Creative tacos, strong margaritas, lively vibe.
Blue Buddha Sushi Lounge
Surprisingly great sushi in the mountains.
Blindside Burger
Upscale sports bar energy with excellent food and cocktails.
Café 191 / Casino 191
Casual, local favorite for breakfast and comfort classics.
The Waypoint
Elevated comfort food in a stylish mountain setting.
Ousel & Spur
Modern American fare with great cocktails and ambiance.
Pinky G’s Pizzeria
Casual, fun, and perfect for families.
Block 3 Kitchen & Bar
Contemporary American cuisine with strong wine and cocktail lists.
Tips Up
Laid-back tavern feel with live music and solid pub fare.
Bucks Roadhouse
Western steakhouse vibes with big flavors.
Yeti Dogs
Legendary après-ski hot dogs.
Big Sky Scoops
Sweet ice cream treats.
Casual noodle bowls.
Ranch & Resort Dining
For elevated experiences and special nights out:
Horn & Cantle
Refined Western cuisine in a stunning ranch setting.
• Cortina – Italian-inspired mountain dining
• Beartooth Pub – Casual, lively, great après scene
• Alpenglow – Elegant dining with alpine views
• Akira Back – High-end Japanese-Korean cuisine
• Wildwood – Modern mountain fare
• The Landing – Lakeside casual elegance
• Dear Josephine – Chic lounge with crafted cocktails
• Wild CaddisOne of the best dining experiences in the region. Elevated cuisine overlooking the Gallatin River.
• Terrain TacoFun, creative tacos with a great patio vibe.
Shopping in Big Sky
Mountain town charm meets curated western style.
• Belle Shops – Western-chic fashion
• Bluebird – Stylish women’s apparel
• Christy Sports – Gear and rentals
• New West Knifeworks – Premium handcrafted knives
• Great Rocky Mountain Toy Company – Perfect for kids
• Faherty – Elevated casual wear
• Trove West – Modern western goods
• Montana Supply – Outdoor-inspired clothing
• Rhinestone Cowgirl – Western flair
• East Slope Outdoors – Fly fishing & outdoor gear
• The Cave – Spirits & gifts
• Hyde Luxury Apparel – Luxury mountain outerwear
Insider Tips
• Book dinner reservations early — especially at resort properties.
• Start hikes early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
• Wildlife is common — carry bear spray on longer hikes.
• Big Sky is spread out — plan driving time between Meadow, Town Center, and Mountain Village.
• Summer sunsets here are unforgettable. Don’t miss them.
