Big Sky

If there ever was a skier’s mountain, Montana’s Big Sky is right up there on the top with the very best. M-a-s-s-i-v-e terrain (5,850 acres) with tons of variety (as gnarly as you like), huge vert (a 4,350-foot vertical drop, anyone?), insane backcountry access and cold, dry powder en masse. Plus there’s, and that’s a big one no pun intended, often a lack of crowds. 

On offer: 2 acres per skier

4,350 vertical feet equals two acres on average per skier. That’s the most in the state of Montana, and a decent piece of statistics. You’ll find the ski resort 18 miles north of Yellowstone National Park, and 50 miles south of Bozeman (the city’s been called, “the most livable place” because of its supernatural surroundings, made for outdoor adventures). The resort kind of sits in splendid isolation in the southwest corner of the state. In normal (non-pandemic times), several U.S. cities offer non-stop flights to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. From there, hop on the Big Sky shuttle and keep your eyes glued for a glimpse of one (or if you’re lucky, all) of the state’s real giants: bishop sheep, bald eagles and bison.

The Freeride World Tour zone

The backside of Lone Peak’s shoulders hold the best inbound line. Expert skiers take the iconic Lone Peak passenger tram and hike to the Headwaters Ridge. It’s been the host of many freeride competitions (for example, the Subaru Freeride Series’ qualification round). If you don’t mind a 45-minute hike, head over to the Three Forks, where the FWT quarter finals were held back in 2016. More than a dozen double-black diamond runs will definitely keep the adrenaline going. Heads up though, if it’s snowing heavily or the flat is light, locals recommend staying off the upper mountain and instead play in the trees close to the Dakota lift. Rather work on your jump turns? Then Jack Creek is your destination. The hike can be quite technical so best to take off your skis, just in case.