Activities

Outdoors

Montana is full of possibilities for outdoor recreation and other activities. The Big Sky area has many great hiking trails ranging from gentle to strenuous.  Our favorites include Lava Lake, the Beehive Basin and Porcupine Creek. There is a nice, short hike to Ousel Falls just outside of the town of Big Sky. You don’t have to work that hard to find beautiful views; there is a beautiful hike that begins at the 320 Ranch and leads to Big Horn Mountain. Look for wildlife such as elk, moose, bears, eagles, coyotes, weasels, hares, and bighorn sheep. The Gallatin River, which runs through the canyon and the Gallatin National Forest, features rafting and world-class trout fishing (see below).

Yellowstone National Park is just an hour’s drive away – you can see wildlife from your car, or get out to explore the many hiking trails and view unique and smelly geothermal activity. Geysers, fumaroles, and hot springs dot the landscape.

The Big Sky area is home to people and wildlife.  There are large and small animals around during all seasons.  Please respect the animals, view them from a safe distance, and do not feed them or leave food or garbage in places that animals frequent.

Adventures

If you are interested in fishing, there are many options.  The 320 Ranch stocks their own pond for people who want to practice casting; the Ranch can provide poles and tackle.  If you buy a fishing license you can fish on the Gallatin River. (Please ensure that the Online Licensing System site has updated its security features before putting your credit card number in).

There are a number of ranches along the Gallatin that feature trail rides and other “western” activities. Check out Jake’s Horses, just down the mountain from Bjerghuset, or ask at the 320 Ranch if they are leading any trail rides directly from the ranch!

Skiing

Although we’ll be there before the ski season begins, Big Sky has fantastic skiing. It’s worth heading up towards Lone Peak and gawking at the big couloir as well as the myriad smaller chutes & bowls on the mountain.  If the tram is running, you should consider getting a close-up view of the terrain from 11,150 feet.

Dining and drinks

For local color, check out the Half Moon Saloon, Buck’s T-4, or the Corral Bar — or go into Big Sky and sample local beers at the Lone Peak Brewery. There’s a brand new movie theater in town, too.