Located 50 miles south of Bozeman, Montana, and just 57 miles north of Yellowstone Village, Big Sky Resort is a mountain biking nirvana set against a backdrop of striking alpine scenery. Known for its expansive ski field, the resort is equally impressive when it comes to its bike park, offering arguably the best collection of downhill and cross-country trails in the United States.
Here, three ski lifts service the downhill trails, offering a combined altitude gain of 3,400 feet. The trails range from easy to extreme, with an emphasis on difficult and technically challenging routes. The variety is so expansive that even the intermediate trails like "Otterslide" seem overshadowed by the other extraordinary routes available.
Among the standout trails is "Soul Hole," which begins as a rocky, root-filled technical descent and then transforms into a flow trail masterpiece. There's also "Mountain to Meadow," a down-slope cross-country trail that offers a blend of back-country adventure and spectacular views. For fans of flow trails, "Snake Charmer" and "Joker Lips" offer high-speed, smooth rides devoid of the usual brake bumps. And if you're up for a thrill, the latter even includes a road drop that will test your mettle.
Big Sky Resort isn't just about the biking. It offers a plethora of amenities like condos, bars, cafes, and an information center complete with a well-stocked bike shop. Even the Wi-Fi is reliable up to the lower trails. If you're looking for a break from the action, you'll find zip lines, a climbing wall, and a vibrant après-bike scene to keep you entertained.
Big Sky Resort offers a unique blend of high-quality trails, jaw-dropping scenery, and excellent facilities. Whether you're into flow trails, technical descents, or scenic cross-country rides, this mountain biking mecca has something for everyone. The only caveat? The trails are generally skewed toward more experienced riders, so come prepared for a challenge.