Big Sky Resort is a popular ski resort located in Montana, USA. It has become a favorite destination for skiers and snowboarders from all around the world.
If you are interested in the history of this resort, you might be wondering when it opened. In this article, we will dive into the history of Big Sky Resort and find out when it first started welcoming visitors.
The Early Days
The land where Big Sky Resort now sits was originally owned by the US government. It was used for logging and mining activities until 1946 when Chet Huntley, a prominent television journalist, discovered the area while on a fishing trip. Huntley was captivated by the beauty of the landscape and saw potential for a ski resort.
In 1967, Huntley teamed up with fellow businessman Arthur Woodward to create Lone Mountain Ski Area, which would later become Big Sky Resort. The original plan was to build a small ski area with just three chairlifts, but over time it grew into something much bigger.
Big Sky Resort is Born
On December 15th, 1973, Big Sky Resort officially opened its doors to the public. The resort featured six chairlifts and 25 runs spread across three mountains: Andesite Mountain, Lone Peak Mountain, and Flat Iron Mountain. As soon as it opened its doors, it quickly became one of the most popular ski resorts in Montana.
Over time, Big Sky Resort continued to expand its facilities to accommodate more visitors. In 1995, a new base village was built at the bottom of Lone Peak Mountain with hotels, restaurants, shops and other amenities for visitors to enjoy.
Today
Today, Big Sky Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in North America with over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain spread across four connected mountains – Lone Peak Mountain being the highest at 11,166 feet. The resort boasts 38 chairlifts and over 300 runs catering to all skill levels.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Big Sky Resort offers a range of other winter activities including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and more.
Conclusion
Big Sky Resort has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a small ski area. Today it is a world-class resort that attracts skiers and snowboarders from all around the world. It has continued to evolve over the years to offer an unforgettable experience for visitors in both winter and summer seasons.
Whether you are a seasoned skier or just starting out on your skiing journey, Big Sky Resort is definitely worth visiting. It’s impressive history and expansion makes it an exciting destination for all types of travelers.