Big Sky Guide
Meadows & Mountains.
Crail Ranch: BSCO
Although the U.S. acquired the land that is now Montana through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, it wasn’t until the late 1890s that homesteaders began settling in the remote area now known as Big Sky. In 1902, Augustus Franklin Crail established his homestead, which still stands today in Big Sky’s Meadow. For the next 70 years, the area was home to a small group of ranchers. It wasn’t until 1973, when NBC newscaster Chet Huntley opened Big Sky Resort, that the region began to take the shape it holds today. Museums & History.
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Big Sky, Montana, nestled in the scenic Gallatin County, is a relatively young but rapidly growing community. Here is a brief overview of its history:
Early Inhabitants and Exploration
Before European settlers arrived, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Crow and Shoshone people. They utilized the rich natural resources of the area for hunting, fishing, and gathering.
1800s: European Settlement
In the 19th century, trappers and traders began exploring the area. The Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804-1806, which passed through nearby regions, spurred further interest in the Montana territory.
1900s: Ranching and Development
Throughout the early 20th century, the region was primarily used for ranching and agriculture. The land that would become Big Sky was owned by various ranchers and used for grazing livestock.
1970s: The Birth of Big Sky
The modern history of Big Sky began in the early 1970s when renowned NBC news anchor Chet Huntley, who was originally from Montana, had a vision of creating a mountain resort. Huntley partnered with other investors to develop the area, and in 1973, the Big Sky Resort officially opened. The resort featured ski slopes, lodging, and recreational facilities, transforming the once quiet ranching area into a bustling tourist destination.
1980s-1990s: Growth and Expansion
Big Sky Resort's popularity grew steadily, attracting more visitors each year. In the 1980s and 1990s, additional ski lifts, trails, and amenities were added. The area's real estate market also began to flourish, with vacation homes and condominiums being built to accommodate the growing number of tourists.
2000s: A Premier Destination
In the early 2000s, Big Sky continued to expand with the development of the Moonlight Basin and Spanish Peaks resorts. These additions further solidified Big Sky's reputation as a premier destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities. The community also saw increased investment in infrastructure and services to support the growing population of residents and visitors.
Present Day: A Year-Round Resort Community
Today, Big Sky is not just a winter resort but a year-round destination offering a wide range of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and golf. The community has grown significantly, with a mix of permanent residents and seasonal visitors. The area is also known for its stunning natural beauty, with Yellowstone National Park just a short drive away.
Big Sky, Montana, has transformed from a rugged wilderness into a vibrant community that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world, while still retaining its unique charm and connection to the natural landscape.
Big Sky Resort
Life’s most impactful moments occur when we fully engage our senses—when we immerse ourselves in nature, stay present, and quiet our busy minds. At Big Sky Resort, these experiences are what guide you. From the crispness of your first breath in the mountain air to the warmth of hot chocolate and the tranquility of the forest, explore what it truly means to come to your senses. Dining Options.
TOWN CENTER
Town Center Biz Directory
Big Sky Town Center is nestled in the heart of the Big Sky resort, high in the Rocky Mountains of southwest Montana. Centrally located within the Big Sky community, it sits 7 miles below Lone Mountain, at the intersection of Ousel Falls Road and Lone Mountain Trail.
This 600-acre walking village is surrounded by breathtaking 11,000-foot snow-capped peaks. While the slopes appear just a stone's throw away, they’re actually a few thousand feet above the shops and homes, offering a milder living climate with mountain access just minutes away.
If you’re looking for great people, music, sports, cocktails, and beer, you’ve found the right spot! Known for their hand-tossed pizza and a warm, family-like atmosphere, they’re sure to become your favorite neighborhood pizzeria.
Moonlight Basin
Alpenglow
Named after the vibrant pink-hued sunsets of Big Sky Country, Alpenglow is a welcoming centerpiece offering craft cocktails, beer, and an Alpine-inspired brasserie. With glowing fireplaces, live local entertainment, warm wood accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing stunning mountain views, it’s the perfect spot for pre-dinner cocktails, evening nightcaps, and everything in between.
The Montage
Village Center Hotel
Located in the heart of Big Sky Resort, the Village Center hotel blends rustic Montana charm with elegance inspired by Alpine chalets. Offering unparalleled access to the slopes, it’s the only true ski-in, ski-out hotel in Big Sky, and is just a short walk from all the village’s restaurants and shops.
The Bozeman Guide
TheBozemanGuide.com
by Courtney King
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