How a Single Resort Is Transforming the Montana Ski Experience in Its Second Season on the Slopes

Nestled on 3,530 acres within Montana's Spanish Peaks mountain range, Montage Big Sky has rapidly redefined the luxury skiing experience since its opening in December 2021.

Upon checking into Montage Big Sky last December, I was immediately captivated by the resort's design. The natural wood and stone elements harmoniously merge with contemporary touches, creating a delightful and elegant mountain escape just an hour south of Bozeman. With 139 guest rooms, suites, and residences, the expansive windows throughout the property allow guests to take in the stunning mountain vistas. Even if I had spent my entire stay in just the lobby and my room, I would have left singing its praises. Yet, the rooms are merely the beginning of what makes this resort remarkable, and my adventure was only just unfolding.

From November to April, Montage Big Sky offers an abundance of winter activities. Guests can enjoy a traditional ski experience with direct ski-in/ski-out access to Big Sky Resort, but there's also the opportunity to try snowshoeing, tubing, and even ice skating for those seeking a different adventure during their visit. Simply exploring the hotel itself is a delightful experience—featuring artwork from local artists, on-site boutiques, and inviting bar and lounge areas, not to mention a bowling alley. I was eager to make the most of my time there, but my first focus was to seize the opportunity for a beginner ski lesson under the clear skies and on the pristine slopes. 

Since it was only my second skiing experience, Montage Big Sky tailored the ideal ski itinerary for my beginner level. After getting fitted for boots and skis at the on-site outfitter Compass Sports, I began with a private lesson on the magic carpet right outside the resort, practicing my turns, learning to speed up and slow down, and most importantly, mastering the art of stopping. Once I felt ready, we took the chairlift to tackle a short blue run on the stunning Lone Peak. The breathtaking views of the snow-covered skyline alone made the trip worthwhile; gazing up at this majestic natural wonder reminded me of the vast beauty of our world and the joy of exploring it, even when I’m still a novice.

After enjoying a hearty lunch at Everett’s 8800, Montage Big Sky arranged its complimentary Cadillac service to take me back to the hotel instead of having me ski, which was beyond my current skill level. This thoughtful touch was greatly appreciated and showcased how the property caters to all skill levels and individual preferences.

While I love embracing my adventurous side on the slopes, I must admit my favorite aspect of a ski vacation is mastering the art of après-ski. Montage Big Sky truly excelled in this area this winter with the introduction of its new dining experience, La Grande Après at Backcast. This stylish outdoor dining space and champagne bar features elevated mountain cuisine and the finest bubbly, Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame. 

During my visit, which coincided with the launch of La Grande Dame 2015 and the celebration of Veuve Clicquot’s 250th anniversary, guests feasted on exquisite seafood towers, delicious sliders, pumpkin fondue, and a cinnamon roll that still haunts my dreams. To complement these delightful dishes, Oscar Chinchilla, the beverage director at Montage Big Sky, guided us through an impressive wine flight of Veuve Clicquot selections. The evening culminated with a saber demonstration on a bottle of La Grande Dame as my fellow guests and I raised our glasses to celebrate a fabulous opening. 

La Grande Après at Backcast was the perfect spot for a post-ski retreat after a morning on the slopes, but the incredible culinary options continued inside the resort. Every morning, I visited the Wildflower Market for a flaky pastry and warm latte to start my day. For dinner, I indulged in a state-of-the-art dining experience at the resort’s signature restaurant, Cortina. I savored mouthwatering Sicilian scallop crudo, rack of venison, and tiramisu, all expertly crafted with a Montana twist on traditional Italian cuisine. It’s no wonder the restaurant received an Editor’s Pick Award for Outlaw Partner’s Best Restaurant in Big Sky 2022 during my visit. 

As a newcomer to ski-centric travel, I don’t claim to be an authority on the luxury ski experience. However, the beauty of Montage Big Sky is that you don’t need to be an expert to recognize it—the resort has crafted the ultimate ski getaway for every traveler, regardless of their skill level on the slopes. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast wanting to spend all day in the snow or a guest looking to simply “après and chill,” Montage’s interpretation of luxury caters to your unique vision for your stay. The focus on creating a personalized experience for each guest sets this resort apart, making my visit truly unforgettable.