About Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky, Montana
Though best known as a fantastic place to ski with miles of runs, few crowds, and spectacular views from the slopes, Big Sky is also an excellent place for fishing, hiking, rafting, horseback riding, golf and relaxing while taking in the beautiful mountain views.
Location
Accessed via US Route 191, Big Sky, Montana is an unincorporated, tourism based community that straddles two counties: Gallatin County at its lower elevation, commonly referred to as "The Meadow" area; Madison County at its higher elevation, commonly referred to as "The Mountain" area. It is located midway between Bozeman, 33 miles north and the northwestern border of Yellowstone Park, 18 miles south. The town of West Yellowstone, where the northwest entrance of the Park is located, is just 48 miles south of Big Sky. View the Big Sky Area Map.
Recreation
Big Sky Ski and Summer Resort and Moonlight Basin both offer alpine skiing to the general public. The private Club at Spanish Peaks connects to the Big Sky Resort. The private Yellowstone Club has its own ski area and also connects to Big Sky Resort. Lone Mountain Ranch is a Nordic ski and summer resort that professionally grooms 75 kilometers (more than 46 miles) of cross country ski trails. A public golf course is located in Big Sky's Meadow area while both the Club at Spanish Peaks and the Yellowstone club have private golf courses.
The Gallatin River runs along Route 191, the area commonly referred to as "The Canyon". Fish, raft or kayak on your own or contact one of the local outfitters for a guided experience. Be certain to get your fishing license which is available from local stores.
Hiking trails and campgrounds are abundant in the area.
Hunting is not permitted in Big Sky proper but is permitted throughout the national forests in the surrounding area. Hunting permits are required.
Recreational snowmobiling is not permitted within Big Sky proper but is permitted in portions of the Gallatin Canyon. Contact local outfitters for information.
Schools
Big Sky has its own public school district, Ophir School District #72. The school, located in Gallatin Canyon on route 191 is located two miles south of Big Sky. Ophir School combines elementary, middle and high school in one location and has a student population of approximately 170.
Community Services
The Big Sky Chapel and Soldier's Chapel are non-denominational and open to the public.
Big Sky has its own local fire department and advanced emergency services. The nearest hospital is in Bozeman. There is a local medical clinic.
Sheriff services are provided by Gallatin County.
Facts and Figures
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Population: Altitude: Meadow Village Mountain Village Lone Peak Average Snowfall: Average Temperatures: Winter Spring Summer Fall ZIP code: Area code: |
Approximately 2,500 6,200 feet 7,500 feet 11,166 feet 400 inches 21 degrees 43 degrees 74 degrees 62 degrees 59716 406 |