There's never been a better time to bring the whole crew to Big Sky. Freshly named the No. 1 ski resort in the U.S. in Condé Nast Traveler's 2026 Readers' Choice Awards, Big Sky Resort opens its 2026–27 season on November 25 — and it's ready for your whole family. From ski lessons and snowy adventures to cozy evenings and non-skiing excursions, we've put together a fun-filled 5-day itinerary for the whole family, perfect for children ages 4 and up.

Before You Go: This itinerary is a starting point! Adjust activities to fit your family's interests, ages, and energy levels. We recommend booking ski lessons, rentals, and Yellowstone tours in advance, especially during holidays and peak winter travel periods. Seasonal activities, operating hours, and weather conditions can vary, so check directly with providers before heading out.

Day 1 | Arrival Day

Afternoon & Evening | Arrive & Settle In

Welcome to Big Sky! Check into your family-friendly accommodations, whether that's a slopeside stay in Mountain Village or a cozy retreat in Meadow Village.

Get a head start on tomorrow's adventures by picking up your ski rentals or arranging for delivery. If you're skiing at Big Sky Resort, grab your Sky Card at an express pickup station to save time in the morning.

After a day of travel, keep dinner easy with pizza from Blue Moon Bakery, a longtime local favorite known for its made-from-scratch pies. Then settle in for a good night's rest before your first day on the mountain.

Day 2 | Fun on the Mountain

Morning | Gear Up & Hit the Slopes

Fuel up, layer up, and tuck some snacks into your child's pockets. You'll be spending a full day at Big Sky Resort, so bring sturdy winter boots and extra layers to change into after the ski day.

Meet your child's instructor at Mountain Sports for the day. For younger children, we recommend half-day lessons. New for the 2026–27 season, the Explorer Gondola Mid-Station Learning Center gives beginner skiers and riders a welcoming mid-mountain environment — dedicated surface lifts and open terrain right alongside everyone else on the mountain, with the comfort of gondola loading.

Afternoon | Family Fun on the Mountain

After morning ski lessons, regroup for lunch and a little downtime before heading back outside. Enjoy a few relaxed laps on the beginner terrain accessible from the Explorer Gondola mid-station, or spend some time playing in the snow.

Visiting on a Wednesday? Catch Big Sky Resort's Avalanche Dog Demo at the Explorer Gondola mid-station, where you can meet a ski patrol dog and learn about its training. A valid lift ticket, pass, or Kircliff Scenic ticket is required for access.

Check the Big Sky Resort events calendar for additional activities, including seasonal s'mores in Mountain Village Plaza.

Late Afternoon & Evening | Après-Ski & Mountain Magic

After a day on the slopes, warm up with hot cocoa or grab a casual bite at Montana Jack in Mountain Village.

Looking for an evening adventure? Experience Big Sky Resort's Enchanted Forest, where thousands of lights illuminate a snowy trail atop Andesite Mountain. Ride the heated Ramcharger 8 lift, explore the illuminated forest, and warm up by the outdoor fire pit. Advance reservations are required, and the experience is offered on select evenings.

Afterward, head back to your accommodations for a restful evening before tomorrow's off-mountain adventures.

Day 3 | Off-the-Slopes Adventures:

Morning | Coffee & Winter Trails

Ease into the morning with coffee and breakfast at Cowboy Coffee Co. in Town Center, then head to Ousel Falls. This scenic 1.6-mile round-trip trail winds through a snow-covered canyon to a beautiful frozen waterfall. Pack water, warm layers, and traction devices for potentially icy conditions.

Afternoon | Lunch & Ice Skating

Grab sandwiches from Hungry Moose Market & Deli, and don't forget a few of Uncle Dan's cookies or Rice Krispies treats!

Then, enjoy some family time at the Marty Pavelich Ice Rink in Town Center. Public skating is free, and skate rentals are available locally, including at East Slope Outdoors. Afterward, head back to your accommodations for a little downtime before dinner.

Evening | Dinner & Tomorrow's Adventure

Head to Alberto's Mexican Cuisine in Town Center for a family dinner featuring Central and Southern Mexican flavors.

Before calling it a night, get ready for tomorrow's Yellowstone adventure. Pack warm layers, snacks, water, and a camera for your snowcoach tour.

Day 4 | A Winter Adventure in Yellowstone

Morning | Off to Yellowstone

Start with breakfast at your accommodations, then head to your designated pickup location for your Yellowstone snowcoach tour.

Yellowstone in winter is a completely different experience, with snow-covered landscapes, steaming geysers, and opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

Daytime | Discover Yellowstone in Winter

Spend the day exploring Yellowstone National Park by snowcoach. From geothermal features to bison moving through snowy landscapes, it's an unforgettable way to experience the park with your family.

Plan ahead for lunch. Depending on your tour operator, you may need to bring your own or arrange a boxed lunch when booking.

Evening | BBQ by the Gallatin River

After a full day of exploring, unwind with a casual family dinner at Riverhouse BBQ along the Gallatin River. Enjoy hearty barbecue and a relaxed atmosphere before heading back to your accommodations.

Day 5 | One Last Big Sky Morning

Morning | Breakfast & Farewell

Enjoy a leisurely morning before checking out. On your way out of town, stop at Cafe 191 in Gallatin Canyon for a hearty breakfast and one last taste of Big Sky.

Make Your Family Winter Getaway a Big Sky Adventure

Five days in Big Sky are just the beginning. Whether you're making first turns together, exploring snowy trails, or discovering Yellowstone in winter, the whole family has plenty to do on and off the mountain.

👉Ready to start planning? Explore places to stay, discover more winter activities, and build a Big Sky getaway that works for your family.