Is Big Sky the Biggest Ski Resort?

By Michael Ferguson

Big Sky is a well-known ski resort located in southwestern Montana, United States. With its breathtaking views and vast terrain, it has become a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.

However, the question on everyone’s mind is – Is Big Sky the biggest ski resort? Let’s explore this in detail.

What Makes a Ski Resort Big?

Before we can answer this question, we need to understand what makes a ski resort big. Typically, the size of a ski resort is determined by its skiable acres or the total area available for skiing. The more skiable acres a resort has, the bigger it is considered to be.

Big Sky’s Skiable Acres

According to Ski Big Sky Resort, Big Sky has 5,850 skiable acres spread across four mountains – Lone Mountain, Andesite Mountain, Spirit Mountain, and Flat Iron Mountain. To put this into perspective, Vail Ski Resort in Colorado has 5,317 skiable acres while Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia has 8,171 skiable acres.

Other Factors to Consider

While skiable acreage is an important factor when considering the size of a ski resort, there are other factors that come into play as well. For instance:

  • The number of lifts and trails available
  • The vertical drop
  • The variety of terrain – beginner to expert levels
  • The length of ski runs
  • The number of on-mountain restaurants and amenities

How Does Big Sky Compare?

When considering all these factors together, it becomes clear that Big Sky is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. It boasts an impressive 36 lifts and over 300 named runs across its four mountains. Its vertical drop of 4,350 feet is also one of the largest in the United States.

Moreover, Big Sky offers a diverse range of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels – from beginner to expert. Its longest ski run, Liberty Bowl, is a whopping 6 miles long! The resort also has plenty of on-mountain amenities and restaurants to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for its guests.

The Verdict

So, is Big Sky the biggest ski resort? While it may not have the most skiable acres compared to other resorts like Whistler Blackcomb, it certainly holds its own when considering all factors together. With its vast terrain, numerous lifts and trails, impressive vertical drop, and diverse range of terrain, Big Sky is undoubtedly one of the largest ski resorts in North America.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for an unforgettable skiing or snowboarding experience that offers both quantity and quality in terms of terrain and amenities, Big Sky should definitely be on your list.