The Lowdown

The Big Sky region in southwest Montana earned its name for a reason. Here, all views are dominated by the blue sky above and the vast mountain terrain below, with little room for anything else. And Moonlight Basin, a luxury resort, puts guests at the heart of the area. Impressive 11,166-foot Lone Peak dominates the landscape, serving as an anchor for this ski resort; Moonlight Basin’s 92 trails snake down the mountain’s northern flanks. But this is also a four-season offering: In summer, whether you’re on Moonlight’s private golf course or at the public Big Sky course nearby, views of the peak vie for your attention at every hole. Activities at Moonlight Basin focus on the incredible skiing and Moonlight Lodge, located part way up the mountain, which houses Jack Creek Grille (featuring fireside dining), a bar and a deli, as well as a full spa and fitness center. To be close to these amenities, book a penthouse. Each 2,500-square-foot unit includes three bedrooms plus a sleeping loft, a great room with a soaring ceiling and a full kitchen. Furnishings vary, but penthouses are outfitted in a Western style befitting lodge accommodations. If you get lonely soaking in the private hot tub on your penthouse deck, ride the elevator to the lodge’s heated outdoor pool: one side has a waterfall and the other is partially covered by a large deck, giving it a grotto-like feel. The slopeside Mountain Homes, just a couple of minutes by car from the lodge, offer more privacy. These three-bedroom, two-story chalets start at 1,800 square feet and include wraparound decks with a hot tub, both wood-burning and gas rock-rimmed fireplaces and attached garages. Rustic two-bedroom Cabins are also available; both Homes and Cabins offer ski-in/ski-out access.

In the Area

Adjacent to Moonlight Basin is Big Sky Resort; the two resorts share the slopes of Lone Peak. When you’ve exhausted what Moonlight has to offer, head to Big Sky for additional dining and drinking options (like the pub at Buck’s T4, a longtime favorite housed in former hunting cabins known for its inventive truffle “fries” and sliders) as well as activities and entertainment both on and off the mountain, such as exploring nearby trails on horseback. The concierge in the Moonlight Lodge can help you sift through the numerous options for outdoor recreation, including excursions to Yellowstone — which is just 18 miles away.