Lone Peak Overlook Big Sky Montana
Ascend Lone Peak via tram for unparalleled 360° views of Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. A winter ski paradise and summer hiking haven.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Lone Peak Overlook Big Sky Montana
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Lone Peak via tram for unparalleled 360° views of Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. A winter ski paradise and summer hiking haven.
"The views are expansive and the terrain is dizzying. Your stomach turns to butterflies as you climb elevation in the tram."
Tram Ticket Strategy
Consider purchasing lift tickets in advance online to save money and time. :admission_tickets:
Dress for the Summit
It's significantly colder and windier at the top. Layer up, even in summer! :cloud: :snowflake:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lone Peak Tram Ride
Summit of Lone Peak
Ascend to the summit for jaw-dropping panoramic views of Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. A truly unforgettable experience.
Three-State Vista
Lone Peak Summit
On clear days, witness the majestic Grand Tetons and Sawtooth Range. A photographer's dream and a testament to Montana's grandeur.
Liberty Bowl Terrain
Backside of Lone Peak
For advanced skiers and riders, explore challenging yet rewarding terrain with stunning alpine scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Ascent
Beyond the Slopes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tram Ticket Strategy
Consider purchasing lift tickets in advance online to save money and time. :admission_tickets:
Dress for the Summit
It's significantly colder and windier at the top. Layer up, even in summer! :cloud: :snowflake:
Check Tram Status
The tram is weather-dependent. Always check the operating status before heading up. :iphone:
Advanced Skiing Advice
Liberty Bowl is challenging; intermediate-advanced riders can manage, but be prepared for steepness. :ski:
Tips
from all over the internet
Tram Ticket Strategy
Consider purchasing lift tickets in advance online to save money and time. :admission_tickets:
Dress for the Summit
It's significantly colder and windier at the top. Layer up, even in summer! :cloud: :snowflake:
Check Tram Status
The tram is weather-dependent. Always check the operating status before heading up. :iphone:
Advanced Skiing Advice
Liberty Bowl is challenging; intermediate-advanced riders can manage, but be prepared for steepness. :ski:
Scenic Photo Ops
The views are incredible year-round. Capture the expansive vistas and unique Montana landscapes. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the unparalleled, expansive views from Lone Peak Overlook, often describing them as breathtaking and stretching across three states. The tram ride itself is a highlight, offering a thrilling ascent. However, some find the lift tickets and overall cost to be quite high.
"The top of the tram with views of three states. It was clear enough to clearly see the Grand Tetons in Wyoming and the Sawtooth Range in Idaho. The thin snow cover made skiing off the top undesirable, but the scenic value was great!"
Alan Watson
"The views are expansive and the terrain is dizzying. Your stomach turns to butterflies as you climb elevation in the tram. The lone peak Traverse was pretty beat up so half our group skipped the skiing descent."
Shawn Stephens
"I was fortunate to work on the new tram in 2022 and spring 2023. Awesome views and I got to hit a couple of drives from the top. I hope everyone who uses the new Gondola enjoys the fruits of many hardworking men and women who made it happen. Make a run for me, cuz the lord knows I don't have the cajones to do it!!"
Kenneth Utley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Lone Peak Overlook is via the Lone Peak Tram at Big Sky Resort. You can drive to the resort base area and purchase a tram ticket. For those staying at Lone Mountain Ranch, it's a short drive or shuttle ride to the resort.
Yes, Big Sky Resort offers parking facilities. During peak ski season, parking can fill up, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! The Lone Peak Tram operates during the summer months, offering access to the overlook for hiking and sightseeing.
The drive to Big Sky Resort from Bozeman is scenic and typically takes about an hour. Roads are generally well-maintained, but winter conditions can impact travel times.
While there isn't a direct shuttle to the overlook itself, many accommodations in Big Sky offer shuttle services to the resort base, where you can then catch the tram.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tram ticket prices vary by season and can be purchased online or at the resort. It's often more expensive than a standard lift ticket.
If you plan to ski or snowboard down from the top, you'll need a lift ticket. However, for sightseeing only, a separate tram ticket is usually available.
Yes, purchasing tram tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get a better price.
Tram operating hours vary seasonally and are subject to weather conditions. It's best to check the official Big Sky Resort website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or during off-peak times. Check the resort's website or inquire at the ticket window.
🎫 🏔️ Onsite Experience
At the overlook, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views, take photos, and on clear days, spot distant mountain ranges. In winter, it's a prime spot for skiers and snowboarders.
The summit itself is for sightseeing. The ski terrain on Lone Peak is generally advanced to expert, with some challenging bowls like Liberty Bowl.
No, you need a valid lift ticket or season pass to ski or snowboard down from Lone Peak. Sightseers can ride the tram back down.
You might spot elk, deer, and various birds of prey in the surrounding areas. Keep a safe distance and do not feed the wildlife.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the summit lodge or near the tram's upper station.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for stunning photos. Midday on a clear day provides excellent visibility for capturing distant ranges.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:
The entire summit area offers incredible vantage points. Look for designated viewing platforms or simply find a safe spot with an unobstructed view.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and at ski resorts. Always check and adhere to local regulations before flying. :movie_camera:
Beyond Lone Peak, consider the scenic drives, the Gallatin River, and the charming cabins at Lone Mountain Ranch for diverse photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with young children, the base areas of Big Sky Resort offer gentler slopes and activities. If you're staying at Lone Mountain Ranch, they often have family-friendly programs and amenities.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting, but even midday offers incredible clarity for capturing the rugged beauty of the Rockies. Bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the sweeping mountain ranges and a telephoto lens for potential wildlife sightings or to isolate distant peaks. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions and sharper images. Be mindful of the weather; dramatic clouds can add to the moodiness of your shots.
⛷️ Skiers & Snowboarders
While the summit is for the daring, the resort offers a diverse range of runs for all levels. Advanced skiers will find plenty of challenging groomers and off-piste opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: Skiing & Snowboarding
Beyond the extreme terrain, Big Sky Resort boasts a wide array of runs catering to different skill levels. From groomed cruisers to ungroomed powder stashes, there's something for everyone. The resort is known for its high vertical rise and expansive acreage, ensuring you can spend days exploring without hitting the same run twice.
For those new to the mountain or looking to improve, ski lessons are readily available. It's also wise to check the snow report daily, as conditions can change rapidly. Remember to dress in layers and be prepared for varying weather, as it can be significantly colder and windier at higher elevations.
Summer Adventures and Scenic Views
The overlook is a prime spot for sightseeing, with clear days offering views stretching across three states: Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. You might even catch a glimpse of the distant Grand Tetons and Sawtooth Range. This makes it an ideal location for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light paints the mountains in vibrant hues.
Beyond the summit, the Big Sky area offers numerous other summer activities, including rock climbing, mountain biking, and fishing in the nearby Gallatin River. The Lone Mountain Ranch provides a rustic yet luxurious base for exploring the area, offering activities like horseback riding and guided nature tours.
The Iconic Lone Peak Tram
During the winter, the tram is crucial for accessing the most challenging ski terrain on Lone Peak. For those who prefer to stay dry, the tram provides a comfortable ride up and down, allowing anyone to enjoy the incredible 360-degree vistas without needing to ski.
In the summer, the tram continues its service, making the summit accessible for hiking, photography, and simply soaking in the majestic Montana scenery. It's a must-do for any visitor to Big Sky, offering a unique perspective on the vastness and beauty of the region.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit