The Perfect Day Trip to Big Sky Resort: 2020-2021 Ski Season

With just a little planning and some important skiing-in-the-time-of-Covid intel, enjoying the perfect day trip to Big Sky can be an absolute breeze. When you’re staying in the heart of Bozeman, all of Big Sky’s unique offerings are a quick trip away and well worth your time. Of course, we understand that for the visitor, these kind of day trips can require scouring on the internet for pertinent information, as well as asking your local barista with the classic ski bum shag how to make the most of it. That’s why we’ve put together our best intel on what makes for the perfect day trip to Big Sky, whether you’re packing up the family or rounding up a group of friends.

Your Drive to Big Sky

While the drive from downtown Bozeman clocks in at just over an hour, don't let the distance deter you. A quick jaunt by all Montana standards, this drive is sure to zip by as you take in its scenic views through the dramatic Gallatin River Canyon. By the time you reach the base of Lone Peak, Big Sky's distinguished mountain, you'll find yourself completely immersed in the stunning countryside Montana is known around the world for.

The Snow Connoisseur’s Dream

There's a reason Big sky isn’t often mentioned in the same breath as places like Aspen or Vail. While more popular destinations are sought after for their frills, Big Sky is for the true snow connoisseur. With nearly 6,000 acres of skiable terrain between four mountains and 300 runs, Big Sky is often called the "biggest skiing in America." Skiers and snowboarders who seek out this mountain from across the country aren't here for the hot cocoa. Instead, they’ve come to shred pow in a world-class environment with more than enough room to breathe.

Don’t let the mountain’s intensity fool you, however. It’s not all ridge hikes and double blacks. One of the many attributes that makes Big Sky skiing so great is the diverse experiences it offers its guests. For every inch of backcountry, there are dozens of beginner-friendly runs with more giving terrain. And if you’re completely new to the sport, Big Sky Resort offers some of the best ski school instruction in the country.

Something for Everyone Under the Big Sky

While the resort doesn’t boast some of the hyper-luxurious amenities of places like Aspen or St. Moritz, a day spent at Big Sky is by no means roughing it. Visitors can enjoy ski valet services, a fine steak at Peaks chophouse with an award-winning wine pairing, a hot stone massage from the spa, or an impromptu shopping spree. But Big Sky maintains its laid-back attitude that comes standard with the ski hill: one that prizes shredding pow over just about anything.

COVID-19 Precautions

Of course, with the new challenges of operating a ski hill in the middle of a pandemic, safety is one area the resort is not taking a relaxed attitude about. On the contrary, the growing resort has big plans for the upcoming ski season and what it will look like to accommodate their guests in this new era. Rest assured, the resort has gone above and beyond to ensure not only the accessibility of the mountain, but the health and safety of its patrons, making a day trip to Big Sky easy and accessible.

With new strategies for keeping lift lines quick and sparse, as well as new dining precautions, school ski measures, and more, the resort is taking a vigilant approach to their guests’ wellbeing. These new strategies have allowed them to open up for the season without having to limit capacity. You can find all the information you need about lift tickets, season passes, and more here.

Season passes, Ikon passes, and Mountain Collection passes will function more or less the same as past years, but people looking to purchase lift tickets are encouraged to do so in advance, as same-day lift ticket sales can be restricted at any time. Just like they ask of their guests, they intend to use good judgment and common sense as they navigate the ever-changing conditions that come with such an unforeseen time as this. Continue to plan ahead and check the resort’s website for updates as the situation continues to evolve

As for now, things seem to be business as usual, and business never looked so fun. Start planning your day trip to Big Sky now, and check out our recommendations for things to do in Bozeman during your visit as well.