ELLE Escapes: Big Sky
You’ve seen it on Yellowstone, why not IRL? I recently had the opportunity to visit Big Sky—a mountain destination in the Rockies of southern Montana known for skiing just as much as its abundance of wildlife, natural hot springs, and proximity to Kevin Costner—with Veuve Clicquot to celebrate the opening of La Grande Après at Backcast, a new outdoor dining spot and champagne bar conveniently located at the base of Big Sky Resort. Spoiler alert: it was just as enchanting as the show. Without further ado, here’s what to see, and where to eat, drink, and stay.
What to See
Big Sky Resort
Having received record levels of snowfall early in the season, Big Sky Resort’s reputation as the biggest and best skiing in the U.S. is warranted. With incredible views, European-level après experiences (looking at you, Backcast), and some of the best runs on the West Coast, you’ll leave wanting to come back.
Yellowstone Club
Arguably the hottest invite in town, the uber-exclusive, members-only Yellowstone Club has been frequented by the likes of Gisele Bündchen and Justin Timberlake, and with 18 ski lifts, 100 trails of “private powder,” and star-studded galas, it’s easy to see why.
Ousel Falls
If you’re willing to sacrifice a ski day, check out Ousel Falls, a short, scenic hike right in the center of town along the Gallatin River. Just make sure to wear a good pair of snowboots with grippy tread soles.
Where to Eat
Everett’s 8800
Accessible via ski or the Ramcharger 8 lift (featuring heated seats and a blue bubble cover leftover from the Sochi Olympics), Everett’s 8800, at 8,800 feet of elevation, beats most on-mountain dining options with a menu of alpine-inspired dishes including a charcuterie plate that rivals those in the Italian Alps.
Cortina
Situated within the Montage Big Sky, Cortina serves northern Italian fare combined with local game (think: Chestnut and Truffle Stuffed Montana Chicken and Herb Crusted Rack of Venison) that are sure to satisfy your cravings after a day on the slopes.
The Montana Dinner Yurt
When in Montana...eat in a candlelit yurt in the middle of the forest, only accessible by a 15-minute sled ride pulled by snowcats. (Why not?) This one-of-a-kind culinary experience complete with a multi-course dinner (the Toblerone chocolate fondue is a highlight) and acoustic guitar is one for the books. Don’t forget to BYOB.
Where to Drink
La Grande Après at Backcast
Take a half-day at La Grande Après at Backcast, Big Sky’s answer to Cloud Nine in Aspen, Colorado, and it’ll be worth it. Arrive by ski or foot to indulge in champagne flights (we recommend La Grande Dame 2015 in particular) and caviar as you listen to live music by an outdoor fire pit against a mountain backdrop. This is your Instagram opportunity.
Montana Jack
For a more low-key après scene, stop by Montana Jack. Also nestled at the base of the mountain in The Exchange dining hall, the family-friendly bar and grill offers over 30 beers on tap and great craft burgers to pair with them.
Tips Up
Head to Tips Up “when you’re down for a good time,” according to the bar’s Instagram bio. As one of the few places in town, it has shuffleboard, cornhole, arcade games, and even a casino (yes, you read that right). Order a beer and a fried chicken sandwich.
Where to Stay
Montage Big Sky
The much-anticipated Montage Big Sky was worth the wait. The ski-in, ski-out resort has redefined luxury in every sense of the word. Featuring 139 rooms, suites, and residences, six dining establishments (the Alpenglow bar is named after Big Sky’s blazing sunsets), a full-service spa, a fitness center with an indoor lap pool, a recreation room with golf simulators, a bowling alley, an art collection by local artists, on-site ski rentals, and one hell of a turndown service, all your needs will likely be met without having to lift a finger.
The Summit Hotel
At the bottom of Lone Mountain, the towering Summit Hotel boasts guest rooms, suites, condos, and penthouses with rustic-meets-alpine-chic interiors. Pro tip: book an upper floor for a slopeside view.
Lone Mountain Ranch
Between Big Sky Resort and Yellowstone Park is Lone Mountain Ranch. Founded in 1915, the historic mountain property is beloved for its private cabins and famous Sleigh Ride Dinner, where horses transport you to a dimly-lit cabin for a family-style meal and sing-along. Bring your cowboy hat.
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