Oct 25, 2021 / BUYING

Big investment, enormous ski area - Big Sky Resort is big news

Big Sky Resort has been a draw for skiers since it was founded in 1973 by Chet Huntley, a former news anchor. This is a place that is proud of it’s rural roots, and revels in the fact that it's a little bit harder to get to - there’s a quiet confidence that once you’ve made the effort to reach Big Sky, you’ll understand why it’s worth it. 

Big Sky Resort enjoys over 400 inches of snowfall each year, plus a ski area that extends over 5850 acres and the locals reckon that even in the busiest time there are two acres of mountain for every skier. Those who reach the peak of Lone Mountain, which stands at 11,116 feet enjoy 360° views of three states, two national parks and distant mountain ranges. Big Sky Resort is a place to come for peace, beauty and tranquility - somewhere to truly escape the noise of modern life. 

Why is this such a good time to buy in Big Sky Resort? 

Montana has experienced the same phenomenon as many rural areas in that it’s become a magnet for those seeking an alternative to cramped city life. Towns like nearby Bozeman have seen property availability drop by almost 80% since the start of the pandemic. The desire for space, clean air and to live where one's passions lie is inescapable, and seems to show little sign of stopping. Even as we emerge from, or adjust to, pandemic life, Big Sky has a canny eye on what will attract visitors - as well as the obvious draw of the great outdoors, the resort offers a 2000 capacity conference centre - a sure fire way to guarantee a need for accommodation all year round. Combine smart thinking with a solid programme of investment and you've got a ski resort that’s growing a reputation as a hot ticket for investors and home hunters seeking property to buy in Big Sky.

Big Sky 2025 - a grand investment project

Don’t be fooled by the resorts sense of distance from the hustle and bustle - Big Sky is far from being a backwater. It’s enjoyed a steady level of improvement and investment throughout its life, and the Big Sky 2025 project means investment to the value of $150 million. Since the start of the project in 2016 the resort has seen the installation of 2 Doppelmayr chairlifts, including the Ramcharger 8, billed as “the most technologically advanced lift ever built”. The combined efforts of Big Sky’s 38 lifts can whisk an impressive 38,300 skiers per hour up and down the slopes. 

Big Sky Resort Ski Stats

  • 400 + inches of snowfall each year
  • 5,850 skiable acres
  • 4,350 vertical feet
  • 38 lifts
  • Highest peak of 11,166 feet
  • Longest run - 6 miles from Liberty Bowl to Mountain Village
  • 7 Terrain parks

Terrain split

  • 15% Green runs
  • 25% Intermediate runs
  • 42% Advanced runs
  • 18% Expert runs

A splendid family residence with views of Lone Peak and the Spanish peaks

What does Big Sky Resort have to offer away from the slopes? 

Big Sky Resort is a purpose built town, so at first glance it lacks some of the attractions of the classic old mining towns that are home to some of the best known U.S. resorts. Yet again though, Big Sky rewards those who seek something a little less obvious. Mountain Village is a practical space, packed with amenities, as well as a strong sense that all anyone really needs is the beauty of this incredible landscape. Retail therapy simply isn’t necessary when you’ve over 5,000 acres of pristine peak to enjoy - that said there’s a clutch of shops selling top notch equipment, as well as clothing and souvenirs, so there’s no need for die-hard shopaholics to go without, and no danger of being stranded without an essential piece of kit.. 

Drinking and dining at Big Sky Resort

Food wise there's a top notch range of places to refuel at Big Sky. You’ll find a choice of pizzerias, grill houses and burger joints, as well as taquerias and the pleasingly named Yeti Dogs, home to the most stupendous hot dogs. You’ll not find fine dining as such, but Montana Dinner Yurt is a great spot for a memorable evening made of great quality food and beautiful views of Lone Peak itself. 

Apres ski is low key here. You’ll find several bars including Vista, which boasts a collection of craft beers to enjoy whilst gazing over an unobstructed view of Lone Peak and if you crave something like a music scene head to Westward Social, which offers farm to restaurant food, craft cocktails and tunes from a resident DJ. 

Enjoy a wealth of activities at Big Sky Resort, both on and off the slopes

Big Sky Resort isn’t just about skiing - there’s a bunch of other activities to enjoy and to help you experience every aspect of this stunning part of Montana. Thrill seekers will want to sample what USA Today called “one of the best zip lines in America”, while those who seek something more sedate will appreciate the calm of a sleigh ride, or the joy of a snowcoach to spot flora and fauna in Yellowstone.

A great basecamp for Yellowstone national park

As well as the usual summer activities like mountain biking, golf and whitewater rafting, Big Sky Resort is just an hour away from the entrance to West Yellowstone, so it’s ideal for anyone seeking a summer base to enjoy the geysers, hot pots and stunning scenery of the USA’s first national park. 

Alongside the joy of the great outdoors, Mountain Village offers the thrill of escape room challenges, and kids will enjoy the bungee trampoline and giant swing at the adventure park. The village has a feeling of being somewhere with enough to occupy its visitors, but not so much that it overwhelms the beauty and respect for the landscape that it borrows.

A unit at the summit hotel puts you at the heart of Big Sky Resort

Property to buy in Big Sky Resort

As a property portal, SnowOnly has access to a huge range of property across the globe, including Big Sky Resort. You can see what’s available from multiple agents, without the pain of trawling each website. Here are some of our current favourite properties in Big Sky. 

If you’re looking for a simple ski pad, with an eye on the rental market too, then this unit at the Summit Hotel is ideal. It has a master bedroom, as well as a queen sized murphy bed in the living area, plus a sofa bed so there’s space for six to sleep. You’ll also enjoy all the hotel amenities like hot tub, fitness centre and ski storage, plus it’s right in the centre of the village so it’s easy to access everything you need. If you are seeking somewhere as that will be a great family base, then this 5 bedroom home in the Diamond Hitch community is ideal. As well as beautifully appointed interiors, the property enjoys incredible views, and superb outside space complete with hot tub, BBQ and fire pit - plus it’s ski-in ski-out. We also love this property at Black Eagle condo, it’s a great opportunity to own a space with a proven rental record and great access to all that Mountain Village has to offer. 

To stay abreast of the latest additions to the market in Big Sky Resorts, then you may like to join our property alert service. You can add your own criteria, and be sure that you’ll be first to know when the right property reaches the market. To help make the process as smooth as possible we’ve created a selection of buyers guides too, as well as a range of articles to help make buying your dream space in the mountains as simple as the sweet taste of a Yeti Dog.