A summer vacation everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
As the snow melts away and the temperatures start to warm, the mountains awake with wildlife and endless outdoor activities. Big Sky Montana offers a playground for all ages. Whether you are seeking colorful hot springs, lakeside serenity, or world class fishing, Big Sky is the place for you. Those that know me, know how much I truly love this destination. Montana stole my heart with its country spirit and breathtaking backdrops.
How to get there
Book a flight into Bozeman International Airport (BZN) and you are just a little over an hour away from amazing ranches and resorts. We were able to get a direct flight form SFO to Bozeman on United Airlines. Upon arrival, you can arrange for The Montage to send a car service to greet you and have you on your way without delay. If you prefer to rent your own car you can do so at the airport which will allow you more flexibility for day trips.
Accommodation
If you are looking for a luxury resort that caters to both adults and children look no further than the Montage Big Sky. The luxurious property opened in 2021and has top-class amenities which include a 10,000-square-foot spa and upscale locally sourced dining options. Forbes refers to it as “The best luxury hotel in Yellowstone National Park” and Luxury Travel Magazine deemed the resort a “dream destination” and here’s why I couldn’t agree more.
When you first arrive your kids will be greeted with stuffies and cool lanyards for their Montage Pins. Each activity they participate in has a pin in which they can earn and keep. If you are lucky, Jeffery will be working by the front desk. His sense of humor won my kids over in seconds and you can’t miss him because he stands 6’8” tall.
The rooms have thoughtful layouts with a timeless design. The beds are oh so comfortable and most of them have expansive balconies with mountain views. The coffee table book decor is amazing and I could say the same for all of David Yarrows art that hangs on the walls of every hallway.
Day time Activities
Filling your day in the magical place is easy to do as there are so many activities to choose from. Let’s start with on property activities. You have an outdoor pool with beverage and food service, music and two hot tubs. Some days there are free smoothies, and if you’re really lucky they will have melted Raclette to scrape off onto piles of prosciutto and pickles.
When you dry off you can head over to Compass sports and participate in actives such as mountain biking and archery. Don’t forget to stop in at the boutique and spa where you will find wellness products and upscale accessories like Canty Boots.
If you choose to venture off property here are some fun places to visit. Let me start with one of my all time favorites, Americas oldest national park Yellowstone. If you are up for a guided tour Yellowstone Safari Company brings you through the park and has all the equipment you need to see unbelievable wildlife. From the Geysers to the Bison to soaring bald eagles, the park never disappoints.
Down the hill form the resort you will find Ousel Falls. It is great for a short hike with beautiful scenery. You will find waterfalls, and see wild flowers on a well marked path. This hike is low key and family friendly.
If you are up for world-renowned fly fishing Gallatin River Guides provides year round fly fishing trips. They are fantastic with children and know all the surrounding waters well. Whether you are on the banks or floating you’ll be sure to land some beautiful fish.
If you are hungry after fishing you can stop off at the Gallatin Riverhouse Grill. This local hangout is known for their Texas BQ Montana style and fun atmosphere with live music. The fried Mac and Cheese Balls are an absolute must.
If white water rafting is your thing make a reservation at the Montana white water company. Rafting allows you to spend a few hours on the water while seeking adventure and taking in the surrounding beauty. This is a family fun activity for kids 6 years of age and up.
If you and your family want to participate in some zip lining head over to Big Sky resort Zip-line Tours. Walk up, then zip down for a fun and scenic experience. When you are all done zipping there are some quick bites at the base of the mountain as well as a little putting green for the kids to play at.
Horseback riding is always one of my favorite activities to do. There are many places that offer rides however Lone Mountain Ranch is one of my favorites and very close to the resort. You can ride horses throughout the flower fields, across mountains and over rivers. After your ride head into the main store where you can pick up bags of carrots for free to feed to the horses and property goats. If horseback riding leaves you hungry head up to Horn and Cantle for amazing dishes and cocktails. The ranch also has a rodeo every Thursday evening so if cowboys are your thing be sure to check their schedule and grab yourself a ticket.
It is important to note that if your activity of choice isn’t ideal for your families little ones, The Montage has just the program for them. Welcome to Paintbox, a children’s program onsite for youngsters of all ages. They provide indoor and outdoor pursuits based on different themes. Kids can craft, learn outdoor camping skills and partake in obstacle courses and games. My kids chose a movie night with mac and cheese and smores. They had a blast and my husband and I had a date night. It’s a win win situation that I recommend looking into.
After a long day of activities you can head back to the Montage for craft cocktails, live music and an insane complimentary smores' bar. Think whole candy bars and many different marshmallow flavors...hello sugar high.
Evenings at the resort
A majority of the evening excitement takes place at the main bar Alpenglow. At Alpenglow you will find amazing live music by well known artists like Amanda Stewart. This creates an upbeat atmosphere to enjoy food and sip crafted cocktails. The scene is filled with local artists, and members of Yellowstone Club often join as well donning chic cowboy boots and one of a kind western hats.
Dining Options
For these on property dining options you have your choice of Cortina, Wildflower Market, Backcast and Beartooth Rec and Pub. Cortinas Italian dishes such as their Carnoara, or Risotto Al Quattro Formaggi with Mascarpone are incredible.
For a more casual dining experience head to the bottom floor where you will find The Beartooth Rec and Pub. Here you will most likely be greeted by a tall and handsome man, Niko. He’s a crowd favorite and you will see why. At Beartooth you will find a menu of comfort food. I highly recommend the oversized soft pretzel paired with hot cheesy goodness. This is the perfect time to send your kiddos to the bowling ally, the arcade (which is complimentary). There you will also find a pool table, darts and a shuffle board incase you are in the mood for some friendly family competition. Pro tip: The seasonal huckleberry milkshake topped with kit-kats is bomb.
Now onto Wildflower Cafe. It is located on the main floor and features everything from local artisan goods to house made ice cream. A morning staple in which I enjoyed daily was an oat milk latte and a fresh croissant; Their pastries and grab and go food items never disappoint.
ARE YOU SOLD YET? Wait until you see it with your own eyes.
Last notes to know before you go:
-Weather: Summer season typically runs end of June to mid September. The highs are around 76 degrees and the low are around 40.
-What to pack: Layers! Be sure to have everything from a warm jacket to shorts. The temperatures swing a lot from morning to night. If you choose to hike, bike, or cruise Yellowstone don’t forget athletic clothes, comfortable shoes and sunscreen (the hotel pool provides sunscreen if you forget). If you are going to try fishing be sure to bring sunglasses, hat and light long layers for extra sun protection.
-Rental Car: The montage has a shuttle and car service however if you think you may want to drive into Yellowstone by yourself or down to the falls to hike you may be better off renting a car. You can pick one up right when you land at the airport and be on your way.
-Bear Spray: Yes the backcountry has bears and yes if you choose to hike or go out into it you should not only carry bear spray but also know how to use it. Compass sports has bear spray to give out and will show you how to use it. Always better to be safe and prepared.