The magnificence of our mountain and ski destinations in the summertime is not to be overlooked. “Travelers are looking to escape the heat and commotion of the city and opt outside,” our Equity Estates Destination Manager tells us. “In warmer months, Big Sky, Montana positively revolves around endless opportunities to revel in the great outdoors.”
We pride ourselves on anticipating the needs of our investor families and ensuring that the trips they take to our homes are both seamless and restful. Check out this ideal three-day itinerary for families who are making their way to the beautiful Rocky Mountains this summer.
Day One: Yellowstone National Park
The Equity Estates residences in Big Sky are about an hour and a half’s drive from west Yellowstone and one of the Montana gates. With three hours to and from and ample miles to explore within the park, allowing a full day for this trip is highly recommended. We can book a private tour company for your group to be chauffeured around the wilderness in a Mercedes Sprinter. Your drivers are expert tour guides and will explain the scenery, wildlife and the park’s incredible history in great detail.
Halfway through the day, tuck into a picnic basket lunch at a picturesque stop within the park. Yellowstone spans 3,500 square miles and the Gallatin Range is seemingly infinite. “If you’re traveling with children, this hallmark day trip is one that they’ll remember forever,” the DM shares. “They’ll see Old Faithful, alpine rivers, hot springs and elk, bears, wolves, bison and more. It’s a trip the kids will talk about for months and years to come – true memory-making.”
On the way home, make a stop at the world-famous Riverhouse BBQ. The restaurant bills itself as the “Best BBQ Under the Big Sky” and their Texas-style specialties are so irresistible that travelers even pick up takeout to bring onboard during their flights home. Order a family-style takeout meal of baby back ribs and brisket to share back in the comfort of your residence.
Day Two: Fly-Fishing
If you have ever watched A River Runs Through It and longingly admired the dramatic backdrop in each scene, Big Sky is your destination and fly fishing is the order of the day. A half-day morning trip is recommended for beginners or, if you’re an avid fisherman, a full day with an early morning start is suggested.
Wades and walks in the Madison and Yellowstone Rivers are booked by half- and full-day increments. Gear, beverages and lunch (if booking a full day) are all included in your excursion. Equity Estates is partnered with the most experienced fly-fishing staff and guides in the region. Even if you’re a novice, these friendly guides will ensure you soak up every moment of your experience in the water, hopefully with a catch like a Montana blue-ribbon trout to show for your efforts.
Day Three: Outdoors at Home Base
We have two residences in Moonlight Basin, plus a third located on Lone Mountain just off of the White Otter Ski Trail. It’s on-mountain and, in the winter months, ski-in, ski-out. In that same vein, your convenient location means that single-track mountain biking and an abundance of hiking trails are available just outside the door. To meander the shops and outdoor patio dining, the mountain village below is a 20-minute walk away.
“I love to research the activities that families are interested in to make their vacation great. Recently a family wanted to enjoy some swimmable lakes in Big Sky and I mapped those out for them. Big Sky is very much down-to-earth, the opposite of pretentious. Families love it here for that very reason.”
Adrenaline junkies can make reservations to zipline or try their hand at archery. Families can take in the scenery at 11,166 feet above sea level – Montana’s highest scenic overlook – by taking a ski chair and an expedition vehicle to this world-famous spot. Just a short drive away, tee times can be arranged at Big Sky Golf Course, an 18-hole par 72 course designed by none other than Arnold Palmer.
At the end of a long day, spread out in the comfort of the Lone Mountain residence’s 4,000 square feet or soak in the private hot tub. “Most families will want to linger close to the expansive view from the great room. It might be my favorite feature of the home. It’s a gorgeous view of the Gallatin Valley down toward the mountain village.”
With groceries conveniently delivered before your arrival, your family can play all day and grill steaks at home for dinner. If you prefer, a private chef can also be arranged. Take advantage of the large outdoor dining area to dine under the stars and truly make yourself at home.
