Thinking about a trip to Big Sky, Montana? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure surrounded by towering peaks, powdery slopes, and endless outdoor thrills. Big Sky is a slice of mountain paradise, offering everything from world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting in the summer.
But before you pack your bags, there’s one thing you’ll want to factor into your plans—the altitude. At over 7,000 feet above sea level, Big Sky’s elevation can be a bit of a surprise for those not used to mountain life. Don’t worry, though—being prepared will make sure your trip is nothing but smooth sailing (or should we say smooth shredding?).
Big Sky Ski Resort sits at a base elevation of 7,500 feet, with its Lone Peak Summit towering at a breathtaking 11,166 feet. For some visitors, the thinner air at these elevations can cause altitude sickness, which often feels like a mix of headaches, fatigue, or dizziness. But don’t let that scare you off! The key is hydration, taking it easy your first day, and listening to your body.
Many people experience no issues at all, and if you’re prepared, you’ll likely be too busy soaking in the jaw-dropping views and adrenaline-pumping activities to notice the altitude. Pro tip: pack some electrolyte tablets and plan a low-key first afternoon exploring the town or grabbing a bite at one of Big Sky’s cozy eateries.
Once you’re acclimated, Big Sky has a long list of must-do activities waiting for you. In the winter, skiing and snowboarding at the resort are unbeatable, with over 5,800 acres of terrain to explore. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll love hiking trails like Ousel Falls or Beehive Basin, offering stunning views of wildflowers and alpine lakes.
Don’t forget to snap a photo of Lone Mountain—it’s a view that’ll stick with you long after your trip. So, whether you’re chasing fresh powder or tranquil mountain trails, being altitude-ready ensures your Big Sky adventure will be as incredible as the landscape itself.
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Big Sky is a year-round outdoor paradise. Known for its pristine skiing conditions and breathtaking scenery, it’s no wonder it is a bucket-list destination for adventurers.
Big Sky is perched at an elevation of 7,218 feet (2,200 meters), a significant jump for anyone arriving from sea level.
Big Sky altitude: 7,218 feet (2,200 m)
Within an hour's drive of Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky is Montana's ultimate destination for outdoor adventure. This premier resort offers a wide array of activities, including ziplining, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, hiking, tram rides to breathtaking summits, golfing, wildlife viewing, and world-class skiing.
Nestled within the majestic Rocky Mountains, Big Sky shares the high-altitude allure of destinations like Colorado, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Additionally, over half of Big Sky's summer visitors reported including Yellowstone National Park in their travel plans⁴. The park’s elevation average is 8,000 feet (2,438 m)⁵, and it varies between 7,000 and 8,500 feet (2,133 to 2,590 m).
With the elevations of Big Sky and its surrounding areas, altitude sickness can dampen your visit.
Big Sky Resort boasts an impressive elevation, with its base ranging from 6,800 to 7,500 feet. For those venturing higher—whether skiing or hiking—the summit rises to a breathtaking 11,166 feet, offering unparalleled views and experiences.
Elevation of Big Sky Ski Resort:
Opened in 1973, Big Sky Resort has a growing reputation as one of America’s premier ski destinations, known as “The Biggest Skiing in America.”
With 5,800 acres of skiable terrain and 36 ski lifts, Big Sky Resort is the second largest ski resort in the United States.
At these high altitudes, it's best to be well prepared for altitude sickness so that your trip isn't ruined.
If you're wondering, do people get altitude sickness at Big Sky? Yes. At Big Sky there is certainly a high risk of getting altitude sickness for visitors, especially if coming from sea level.
Mountain Medicine says high altitude starts between 4,900 and 11,500 feet in elevation.² Big Sky altitude ranges from 6,800 to 11,166 feet.
Also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), visitors have a chance of feeling mild altitude sickness when visiting Big Sky. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, fatigue and shortness of breath.
Altitude sickness in Big Sky is a frequent concern and common for travelers coming from sea level or low-altitude regions, as their bodies require time to adapt to lower oxygen levels. In places of similar elevation like Colorado, at least 25% of visitors experience symptoms, with the risk rising as they venture higher into the mountains.
Big Sky Montana altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness, is the result of a lack of oxygen at high altitudes. The higher the altitude, the less oxygen there is in the air you breathe, also the more you lose fluids through increased respiration.
It's common for people to feel slightly sick, tired, or nauseous during the first day or so after arriving at Big Sky. Be on the lookout for symptoms of altitude sickness so you can catch it early enough.
Big Sky altitude sickness symptoms include:
Knowing these symptoms is important to preventing Big Sky altitude sickness, a common challenge in the region. With thinner air and less oxygen at higher altitudes, taking precautions is key to enjoying your trip.
Renowned as "The Biggest Skiing in America," Big Sky attracts over 500,000 visitors each year with its stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and endless activities. It's a destination that offers adventure and beauty at every turn.
As Rocky Mountain altitude experts, here are five essential tips to help you avoid altitude sickness in Big Sky:
Altitude sickness is caused by the body's difficulty adjusting to lower oxygen levels and physiological stress. It can cause breathing problems, headaches, and other issues that make it difficult to enjoy your trip to Big Sky.
To avoid this, it's best to acclimate slowly.
One of the best ways to do this is to stay a night when you fly into the airport before heading to Big Sky. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is at an altitude of 4,473 feet. Similar to Denver's altitude, this gives your body some time to adjust before dealing with over 7,000 feet in altitude.
Another way to do this is to avoid skiing or hiking the first few days when you first arrive at Big Sky at 7,218 feet, as altitudes can reach 11,166 feet.
Like the locals, who are typically not highly affected by altitude sickness, you should give your body time to adjust to Big Sky's altitude.
You should drink plenty of water before and during your travel to the high altitudes of Big Sky.
With lower oxygen and increased respiration combined with the dry climate, your body will lose fluids faster, causing dehydration.
Similar to altitude sickness, the symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, dizziness or light-headedness, decreased urination frequency, headaches, and fatigue or weakness.
Most visitors do not drink enough fluids to replenish themselves. Experts recommend drinking at least half your body weight in ounces of water, but we recommend drinking more, especially if you're doing outdoor activities.
TIP: Add sea salt to your foods/water or take Zaca's chewables to enhance hydration.
A key to avoiding Big Sky altitude sickness is to take it easy during your first few days.
If you feel tired or weak after being active for only a short time, rest for an hour or two before returning to activity.
If you are coming straight from sea level, avoid skiing, hiking, whitewater rafting, or any other strenuous activities for at least 1-2 days. Don't overdo it on your first day out without acclimatizing first.
Altitude sickness symptoms usually appear within 6-24 hours, so make sure you're feeling great and don't show symptoms before doing activities. Sleep is also very important. Get proper sleep, at least 7 hours, which allows your body to adjust and recover faster.
Alcohol and high altitude don't mix well.
Alcohol can cause dehydration, slow down your breathing, and cause other issues like headaches. A hangover and altitude sickness have a lot of similar signs, you won't want both at the same time.
Limit your alcohol intake on your first day at minimum, or until you know you're not feeling the Big Sky altitude sickness.
If you do drink alcohol at Big Sky's high altitudes, make sure you hydrate properly with lots of water and even taking a product to aid your liver can help too.
Often overlooked, yet the most powerful option, supplements for high altitude can help fuel your body with the right mountain-friendly nutrients.
A study showed that high altitudes can deplete glutathione by up to 45%. 7 Supplementing glutathione can help replenish your levels and fight off oxidative stress.
Take altitude supplements to best prepare and fuel your body for your Big Sky trip.
Founded in Colorado in 2008, Zaca offers a one-of-a-kind supplement trusted by thousands of athletes, travelers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts. These convenient chewables feature a powerful herbal blend to enhance performance, boost hydration, and support recovery. Enriched with Glutathione, they also elevate antioxidant levels to combat oxidative stress.
Take these fast-acting chewables daily before and during your trip for best results. Experience the difference with Zaca Chewables and feel your best, faster.
Big Sky isn’t just about skiing. There’s a wealth of activities to enjoy, no matter the season.
Big Sky has something for everyone—thrilling ski runs for adrenaline junkies, peaceful hiking trails with breathtaking views, and vibrant community events that bring people together. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, this incredible destination promises unforgettable experiences.
The high altitude at Big Sky can be challenging, but with a little preparation and by following our tips, you can avoid altitude sickness and make the most of your trip. Get ready to immerse yourself in Big Sky’s breathtaking natural beauty, thrilling outdoor adventures, and warm, welcoming community. So, why wait? Big Sky is calling!
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