24 Hours in Big Sky: The Perfect One-Day Plan!

Chasing those big park adventures? Big Sky is the perfect place to inject some Montana magic into your trip, even if you're short on time. We get it – sometimes you only have a day to spare. But trust us, 24 hours in Big Sky is enough to ignite your adventurous spirit and leave you craving more. This isn't just a pit stop; it's a chance to experience our unique blend of rugged beauty and mountain town energy. To help you squeeze every ounce of awesome out of your brief visit, we've put together a must-do list that will make your 24 hours in Big Sky truly epic.

Take the scenic 7-mile drive up the mountain from Town Center to Big Sky Resort.  The drive itself offers unprecedented views, and you may even spot elk, marmots, eagles, and other wildlife along the way.  During the summer, Big Sky resort offers a variety of activities, but for a truly breathtaking experience, take a scenic chairlift ride, or embark on the Lone Peak Expedition (The Lone Peak Expedition will be unavailable for Summer 2025 for construction)

Lunch time! You have a couple of convenient options to fuel up. On the mountain, you can grab a quick bite. Alternatively, head back toward the town center for more choices. For those wanting to keep the adventure going on the trail, pre-made sandwiches or burritos make excellent picnic items. Popular spots include Yeti Dogs and the Hungry Moose, both offering options on the mountain and in town. The Wrap Shack is another great lunch choice in town. Remember, wherever you eat, please pack out all items you bring, including trash, fruit peels, and pet waste.

In the summer, Ousel Falls can easily become crowded. If parking is not available, we encourage visitors to turn around and embark on a different trail, such as Hummocks or Uplands. Depending on the time of year, both Hummocks and Uplands are perfect trails for wildflower viewing. While out on the trail, leave no trace and be bear aware.  For more hiking options in the Big Sky area, check out our summer hiking page. 

To extend your afternoon and delve deeper into Big Sky's story, consider a visit to the Crail Ranch Museum. Step back in time and explore the preserved buildings and artifacts that tell the tale of our valley's pioneering past. Alternatively, find a moment of quiet reflection at the historic Soldiers Chapel, a beautiful landmark with its own unique history. Afterwards, browse the charming shops of town center and the meadow village center, picking the perfect memento to take with you. When evening rolls around, treat yourself to a hearty meal. From Texas-style BBQ to Mexican cuisine, you'll find the perfect spot to satisfy your hunger and top off your day of adventure!

Flexibility is key! Feel free to adjust this itinerary based on your interests. If you're more into mountain biking, you could spend the morning exploring the resort's trails instead of taking a scenic lift ride. If you're traveling with children, you could factor in some time to explore the storybook trail or play at Kircher Discovery Park. No matter how you choose to spend your 24 hours, you'll leave wanting to return to explore more.