Big Sky is essentially a resort town, so it can be pretty expensive to visit. The town itself sits in a valley below Big Sky Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in the US. While the ski resort is a huge draw and well worth visiting, it’s also fairly pricey, and other accommodations in town can get fairly expensive too. Ultimately, it all comes down to how much you’re willing to spend. If you feel comfortable spending a couple thousand dollars on an incredible ski vacation in one of the most beautiful natural wonderlands on Earth, then a Big Sky tour is perfect for you.

Of course, there are ways to enjoy Big Sky country without paying out the nose. You can find some less expensive places to stay in town, but the cheapest option is camping out in Gallatin National Forest, which can be as inexpensive as $15 per night. Luckily, Big Sky’s greatest attraction is the natural beauty that surrounds the town, so you don’t have to pay resort prices.

We highly recommend exploring Gallatin, Beaverhead-Deer lodge National Forest, and, of course, Yellowstone National Park, located only about an hour away from Big Sky.

If you want to visit Big Sky without breaking the bank, we would recommend planning your trip for the summer months. There’s not much hiking to be done when the whole area is covered in snow, and any outdoor winter activities through the resort are going to be pricey. If you do visit during the summer, however, Big Sky can be a relatively inexpensive place to get back in touch with nature and see some awe-inspiring scenic views.

To make the most of your trip without straining your wallet, we also recommend checking 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.

Essential Travel Guide: