Big Sky Events

Each winter, the Big Sky area brings us more than just the biggest skiing in America. Here are some of the best events around town and the surrounding resorts that you don’t want to miss. 

December 15 – March 31

320 Guest Ranch Sleigh Rides

Monday through Saturday, conditions permitting, these one-hour rides leave three times daily. Pulled by draft horses along the Gallatin River, participants get views of the river and starry winter sky before enjoying an appetizer or dessert by the bonfire. 320ranch.com.

December 18

Guided Snowshoe Hikes Begin

Every Tuesday throughout winter, Moonlight Basin offers guided snowshoeing trips around the area to explore the scenery and wildlife. moonlightbasin.com.

December 24

Big Sky Christmas Eve Festivities

This event at Big Sky Resort has something for everyone: alpine skiing, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, horseback riding, dog sledding, interdenominational services, and more. bigskyresort.com.

January 4

Montana Appreciation Day

Local skiers and boarders receive a special $20 single-day pass at Moonlight Basin. Be sure to bring your Montana driver’s license or college ID. moonlightbasin.com.

January 12

Winter Trails Day

At this Lone Mountain Ranch event, children and adults learn and enjoy the fitness benefits of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing—totally free. As the LMR motto says, “Bears hibernate. People ski.” lonemountainranch.com.

January 12 & January 19

Big Sky SnoBar

The SnoBar offers plenty of activities, but the spinnin’ DJ, dance floor made of snow, and badass bar are the main highlights of this 21-and-over party. bigskyresort.com.

February 9

Dummy Jump

Let your creativity run wild by building a dummy to launch down a ramp and into the air at this annual Big Sky Resort tradition. bigskyresort.com.

February 25

Special Olympics Montana

Moonlight Basin hosts the Special Olympics, with events including alpine and Nordic skiing, as well as snowshoeing. moonlightbasin.com.

March 1-2

Chamberlin Rail Jam

Rail jams, live music, competitions, and parties on the slopes of Big Sky. Need we say more? bigskyresort.com.

March 16

Big Sky Sunset Saturdays Begin

When daylight savings hits, the Ramcharger ski lift at Big Sky operates for an hour longer until the close of the season. bigskyresort.com. 

Photo by Ryan Turner