Big Sky is probably most well-known for its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, but that’s only part of what makes this charming little corner of the Treasure State such a popular tourist destination. The town is about 20 minutes away from Yellowstone’s western edge and its natural beauty continues well past the borders of the park. Most Big Sky tours will focus on getting you out into that gorgeous wilderness so you can explore it for yourself.

The area surrounding Big Sky is split into three sections: the mountain, the meadow, and the canyon. One of the largest ski resorts in the country, Big Sky Resort, dominates the Mountain Area, which is located north of town. Featuring over 5,800 acres of fresh alpine snow and a wide variety of terrain for any experience level, Big Sky is a true skier’s paradise. If skiing isn’t your style, there’s still plenty of space to hike in the mountains, so you can get some peace and quiet.

The Meadow section is an alpine valley formed during the Cretaceous period, millions of years ago. Today, these gorgeous rolling meadows are home to some of Big Sky’s hipper residents and businesses, featuring free concerts and the best shopping in town. Although Big Sky has plenty of world-class amenities, it’s managed to maintain that laid-back, small-town feel, perfect for a relaxing vacation.

Finally, the Canyon area is south of town and offers some of the most stunning vistas in the region. Sometimes called the Gateway to Yellowstone, the canyon follows the path that the Gallatin River carved through the sheer rock centuries ago and leads to Yellowstone National Park in the east or the town of Bozeman to the north.

To make the most of your trip, check out our Big Sky Self-Guided Driving Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.