The scenic community of Big Sky is nestled high in mountain meadows, surrounded by timberland, the Lee Metcalf Designated Wilderness Area and the Gallatin National Forest. Majestic 11,166-foot Lone Mountain towers over the paradise, where in 1969, the late newscaster Chet Huntley and a group of corporate investors purchased ranchland. Chet loved his native Montana and wanted to contribute to its tourism industry by establishing a high-end resort with complete lodging and recreation facilities. Big Sky Resort, a four-season ski and summer paradise, was the result. This lively mountain village is a year-round playground for outdoor recreationists. Golf, tennis, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, skiing and snowmobiling are all passionately pursued here. Tram rides to the summit of Lone Mountain offer spectacular views in the summer. Hiking is popular in the nearby Lee Metcalf Spanish Peaks Wilderness and Big Sky is an excellent base camp for day trips to Yellowstone National Park, which is a mere 48 miles away.
For an exquisitely breathtaking view of Lone Mountain, stop by Soldier's Chapel, built in 1955. This small church of native stone and logs was built as a memorial to the fallen soldiers of World War II, and to serve the spiritual needs of the ranchers and families living in the Gallatin Canyon and their many summer visitors.
Population: 1,559 | County: Gallatin | Elevation: Canyon Village 6,001ft. Meadow Village 6,240ft. Mountain Village 7,510ft. | www.bigskychamber.com