Beyond the powdery slopes, Big Sky's rugged terrain offers a thrilling playground for mountain bikers of all levels.
Biker Leg

Mountain Biking Season

Summer in Big Sky may be short, but it sure is sweet. With long days and big skies overhead, there’s no shortage of trails to explore or memories to make. Whether you’re chasing that adrenaline itch or coasting through forested paths and soaking in the scenery, Big Sky’s interconnected trail system…

 
Brief History

Lift-access mountain biking began expanding at Big Sky Resort in 2014, with the addition of new trails off the Explorer and Swift Current lifts.  Since then, through the community efforts of Boyne Resorts, the Big Sky Community Organization and Lone Mountain Land Company, the Big Sky trail system continues to build and expand, offering trail options for beginners to more advanced riders.  The Big Sky chapter of SWMMBA (Southwest Montana Mountain Biking Association) began in 2020 and partners with local landowners and managers to enhance the trail system and regularly adds new trails and bike park features.  

 

 

What to Expect:

Mountain biking in Big Sky is as unique as its landscapes.  Lift-access downhill trails at Big Sky Resort offer both technical and flow trails.  A great spot to find big drops, jumps, and flowy trails. 

Cross-Country style trails can be found throughout town and in the surrounding National Forest.  The Big Sky Community Organization maintains a variety of trails, including paved, gravel, and hard-packed surfaces, that range from easy pedaling to challenging climbs with flowing descents. 

While the Big Sky Resort bike park is only open during the summer season (June to mid-September), community trails can be accessed from May to October, depending on conditions (see etiquette below). 

 

 

Novice Riders:

If you're new to mountain biking, we strongly recommend booking a lesson at Big Sky Resort or joining one of their skill-building series throughout the summer.  This is a fantastic way to learn the fundamentals and gain confidence. 

If you're new to the area, consider joining one of the group rides hosted by the BASE Community Center. 

 

 

Gear and Rentals:

There are several bike shops located in Big Sky's town center and at Big Sky Resort.  These shops can provide you with everything from protective equipment to bike rentals and repairs, if needed.  Check the listings on our summer mountain biking page.

 

 

Biking Etiquette:

Following proper trail etiquette while biking is the responsibility of all riders to keep themselves and others safe, and to provide an enjoyable experience for everyone. 

  • Have the proper gear and protective equipment.
  • Know your limits. 
  • Stay on the trail. 
  • Obey signs and warnings. Do not trespass on private land! 
  • Do not ride trails that are severely wet and muddy; doing so damages the trail. 
  • Do not stop in the middle of the trail -- Stay visible to riders who may be coming behind you. 
  • Yield to non-biking trail users; Be friendly! Say 'Hi' and 'thank you!' 
  • Yield to uphill travel bikers when riding downhill. 
  • If you encounter horses, stop and dismount your bike while they pass.  
  • Pass all trail users safely and courteously. 
  • Leave no trace. 
  • Be bear aware on the trails. 

 

 

Popular Big Sky Trails:

While there are several trails in Big Sky, here is a list of some of the most popular:

  • Uplands/Hummocks
  • Mud Creek 
  • Huff's Trek
  • Mountain to Meadow
  • Porcupine Creek
  • North Fork