re: Skiing at Big Sky versus CO and UT

Big Sky is a little odd. Its not a town, its not incorporated, and if anyone runs it, its probably CrossHarbor Capital at this point. There is a little village square, with a few (good) restaurants and a movie theatre, but it’s very underdeveloped compared to other ski destinations. What it does have is a lot of cheaply built, and quickly made, luxury housing. Prices are still crazy though, because it’s a ski destination and because Big Sky is now on the map, it got discovered the way Charleston did, and traffic is exploding.

The mountain is a ten minute drive from the village. I lived in Big Sky, honestly, I don’t think it makes a huge difference. If you stay on the mountain, then you’re probably driving into town for dinner. And if you stay in town, that means you’re driving up to the mountain in the morning to ski.

I would get a cool Airbnb if it was me though. Probably something up in Powder Ridge, in the resort.

My three favorite spots in Big Sky, the Corral, River House, and Cafe 191.


To answer the original question, go where the snow is. If it’s in Colorado, then go to Telluride. If Montana and Wyoming have good snow, then Big Sky, Grand Targhee, and Jackson are all awesome.

How much would a family of 4 cost to ski a week at one of these places mentioned? I know skiing is pretty expensive so what would be the minimum?

Telluride is amazing. It is one of my favorite places on this earth. For skiing, the mountain is great with terrain for all levels. The views are unbelievable as well (especially skiing down the gondola line towards the main town). Also, the town is a true mountain town unlike Vail. The restaurant and bar scene, including nightlife, is also great. I think Aspen, Vail and Breck are 'slightly' better, but it is right up there with them.

My only beef with the skiing part is that the mountain (in terms of acreage) is on the smaller side when compared to other CO resorts. Especially Vail. We typically run out of new areas to ski on day 3 at Telluride.

As far as getting there, you need to fly into Montrose and drive about 1.5 hours. I have heard that some people fly to Durango and then it's about a 2.0 hour drive.

The town and the views really make Telluride special. The town is nestled in a box canyon with steep mountains surrounding it on 3 sides. One road in, one road out. It's extremely picturesque.

There is a mountain village (over the ridge and up the mountain from the town) that is newer and includes upscale resorts. My suggestion is to stay in town though on your first trip just for that experience.

Telluride is a place I recommend everyone experience once. Just don't plan on skiing like 6-7 days. You'll run out of terrain.

I spent a lot time out west, but I was on my own, and living there, so my costs were a little different there should be tons of people who would have a good answer though

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How much would a family of 4 cost to ski a week at one of these places mentioned? I know skiing is pretty expensive so what would be the minimum?

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I've posted this before, but it is helpful.

Most resorts end up being around $1500-2000/per adult for this type of itinerary. Kids average around $1200-1400, mostly due to lessons.
6 days and 5 nights.
Arrive, Ski, Ski, Off, Ski, Depart.

When they get older, you don't need the lessons. So, there is a window where it's a bit cheaper. But before long, they get big, and the the lodging has to get bigger (so, you don't end up saving much versus being adults).

Biggest issue is finding the right timing for flights and lodging, as they are the most variable.
Flights are usually between $300-400/pp.
Lodging can usually be found between $1500-2500.

Otherwise, the rest doesn't change much.
Ikon/Epic 3-4 day pass - $400/pp
Rentals ~$75/d/pp - $300/pp
Transfer to from airport - rental car - $300 total

2 adults = (300*2 + 2000 + 400*2 + 300*2 + 300) = $4300
This is true for ($4.3k-$4.5k): Palisades, Park City, Beaver, Telluride Town, Zermatt, Solitude, Brighton, Vail.

You can get better flights and lodging ($3.6-4.0k): Breck, heavenly, snowbird, steamboat, whistler, northstar, and crested butte.

Super cheap (under $3600): Keystone, Jackson Hole (due to flight discount from resort), Winter park, & copper.

If you've never gone before... breck and steamboat are good options. Good mountain and town for reasonable price.

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In some ways it’s an analog of Jackson Wyoming.

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Funny, I think of it as Colorado's Jackson too.

Despite Aspen being the better $$$ analog.