5 Winter Activities Off the Slopes in Big Sky



Big Sky, Montana is a hub for outdoor adventure in all seasons! If you want a break from the ski slopes, there are plenty of ways to get out and enjoy the winter scenery and weather in and outside of Blue Sky. Dress warmly for each of these activities to ensure that you can enjoy these activities to the fullest and see the winter landscape and adventure that Big Sky has to offer!

Visit Yellowstone National Park

During the winter months, most of the roads in Yellowstone National Park are closed to road traffic. Visitors can still see the beauty of the park on snowmobiles or snow coaches. Take a tour to see the iconic sights of the park including Ole Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and be on the lookout for wildlife throughout the park!

Ride in a Dog Sled

For a unique over snow transportation experience, try dog-sledding during your Big Sky vacation! Sail through the winter landscape with a team of stunning huskies and a seasoned dog sledder leading the way. You can choose between trips where you get to sit back and take in the stunning scenery, or you can opt for a more hands-on experience where you get to learn the ropes of driving a sled team.

Head Out for Snowshoeing

For a bit of aerobic activity during your Big Sky vacation, try snowshoeing! If you have your own snowshoes or want to go out without a guide, head out on the Big Sky community trails or in the National Forest. If you prefer to explore with the instruction of a guide, take a snowshoeing tour at the Big Sky Resort or at the Lone Mountain Ranch.

Hit the Ice During Open Skate

Get out on the ice during your Big Sky winter getaway!  The Big Sky Skating and Hockey Association will have an ice rink open for the season between December 2023 and March 2024. Open Skate is available daily with some time blocked off for ice maintenance and hockey league play. Ice skate rentals are available in town and skaters can enjoy open skate with a $5.00 donation to the rink!

Visit a Bar for Après Ski

Even if you don’t partake in the skiing of the day, you can enjoy après ski drinks and bites to eat at the bars, saloons, and restaurants in Big Sky’s Town Center. Scissorbills Saloon is a quaint, local spot for beer, wine, craft cocktails, live music, and après appetizers. Stop in to warm up with a great drink and good times shared with family and friends.

Beer enthusiasts won’t want to miss an après ski drink at the Lone Peak Brewery and Taphouse. With 14 brews on tap, an array of appetizers, soups, and entrees, this Big Sky establishment will not disappoint. Stop in to warm up after a day of dog sledding, snowshoeing, or ice skating.

Find Your Big Sky Vacation Rental

Looking to plan a winter getaway to experience Big Sky for yourself? Book a Big Sky vacation rental to enjoy skiing and all the winter adventures you can imagine. You can find a variety of ski-in/ski-out properties for the most ideal locations for a winter vacation. Bringing a big group? Book a luxury Big Sky rental to enjoy the space and privacy you need as well as amenities such as private hot tubs, multiple fireplaces, and more!

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