Many times I’m dreaming up our next adventure somewhere exotic, when really we have some of the best places in the U.S. right here in our beautiful state of Montana. Montana is really a destination hot spot right now. Whether you are visiting in the summer or in the winter, Montana truly is “the last best place.” With the holidays just around the corner, I wanted to put together a packing list for the snow + the best places to eat and drink in Big Sky during this magical season.
PACKING LIST
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DOWN JACKET — I like to bring one down jacket that is versatile and can be worn with everything.
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COZY SWEATERS — This is the obvious and also best option for the mountain. After a long day skiing, throwing on a good cashmere sweater is perfect.
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WATERPROOF BOOTS — I love Sorel boots, and they are worth the investment!
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SCARVES — Adds a little something to every outfit.
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GLOVES — These are a must in the snow. I like the Echo tech gloves.
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SNOW PANTS — if you are looking for a very affordable option, check out Top Shop
EAT @ EVERETT’S
My new favorite lunch spot on the mountain. You must ski or at least ride the chair up to the lodge. The food is great and the views are just the best.
My very favorite place to lunch while skiing Big Sky is Moonlight Basin lodge. Our best days consist of skiing 5 runs, then making our way over to Moonlight Lodge for lunch. Getting there typically requires a few tough runs, so you really earn your lunch getting here. Check into lunch before you head here. I heard they have turned the lodge into a private dining experience for guests only. Nick and I ate there the other day and we had no problem, but just a heads up if you go.
EAT @ OLIVE B’S
Our first choice for dinner is always Olive B’s. You’ll find a delicious menu utilizing local protein and produce. This place gets pretty crowded at night, so make sure to make a reservation.
EAT @ LOTUS PAD
Big Sky really offers some delicious restaurant options. Lotus Pad is a long-standing crowd favorite for great Asian cuisine.
EAT @ OUSEL & SPUR
Great pizza, but my favorite dish is the MT bison carpaccio!
APRES @ CABABINER
We love to grab a drink here after a long day of skiing. They have live music daily and a great wine list.
STAY
SKI @ BIG SKY RESORT
Look, there are a lot of great ski mountains in Montana. However, I grew up skiing Big Sky Resort since I was a little girl, and it will always hold a big place in my heart. Not only does it have some of the best powder in North America, the terrain is also the largest in North America. You can ski as extreme as you want, or as leisurely as you like as well.
STAY @ RAINBOW RANCH
Located at the bottom of the mountain, about a 15-minute drive door-to-door up to the ski hill, this spot is the place for romance. The lodge sits on the Gallatin River, with spectacular views, a 5-star restaurant, and cozy rooms.
STAY @ THE SUMMIT
The Summit is hands down the easiest location for accessing the mountain. If you want ski-in, ski-out…this is your spot. Ask for a mountain view room, it is worth the extra $$.
STAY @ LONE MOUNTAIN
For a cozy Montana experience, Lone Mountain Ranch is your place. Little cabins serve as guest rooms, the restaurant is one of the best on the mountain, and the bar is the perfect place for a great cocktail and live music.
TO DO
SLEIGH RIDE @ LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH
Taking a sleigh ride up to a cozy lodge, no cell phone service, and a delicious meal is the perfect place for a memorable night.
WATCH A MOVIE @ LONE PEAK CINEMA…THEY SELL BEER & WINE!
Catch up with the latest movies and enjoy a beer or wine!
ICE SKATE IN THE BIG SKY TOWN CENTER
Skis and snowboards are not the only way to enjoy wintertime in beautiful Big Sky! Rent a pair of skates from East Slope Outdoors or Grizzly Outfitters and enjoy this timeless tradition!
Hi! I’m Hillary. I’m a small-town Montana gal with big dreams. I created the Lady H lifestyle brand as a creative outlet to inspire, from the indulging in the joys of being a first-time mom, to rediscovering wellness beliefs that keep me sane, to travel that keeps my spirit alive. This space is meant for you and me to celebrate this crazy life together.
