Experiencing First Tracks After a Snowfall at Big Sky Resort
There’s nothing quite like being among the first skiers or snowboarders on the pristine trails following a fresh snowfall. At Montana’s Big Sky Resort, this exhilarating experience is made even better through the First Tracks program, which grants privileged early access to the mountain from 8 to 9 a.m., before it opens to the general public.
Under the guidance of Lina, a skilled Swedish ski instructor, families can discover the best powder-filled slopes and hidden tree trails, maximizing enjoyment during the early morning hours. The program is particularly advantageous for aficionados eager to carve fresh tracks off the Ramcharger 8 lift, which has significantly upgraded the skiing experience since its installation in 2018 as North America’s first eight-seat chairlift.
This “bubble” chairlift features heated seats and a protective dome to shield riders from the cold—a welcome feature at 8 a.m. in the Rocky Mountains during March. Riders can quickly access the lift without needing to remove skis or snowboards, optimizing time spent on the slopes.
As part of a massive enhancement initiative called Big Sky 2025, the resort has significantly expanded its lift systems. Last year, the opening of the Madison 8—a record-breaking eight-seater lift—added to the existing facilities, enhancing the area’s capacity and drastically reducing wait times.
The upgrades are part of an ambitious $150 million project that began in 2016. With the recent additions, the Madison 8 lift has nearly doubled uphill capacity, reducing ride time to a mere 8 minutes. Similarly, the Swift Current 6 lift, opened in 2021, increased the efficiency of accessing the Mountain Village base area by up to 50%.
Lone Peak can be reached via Big Sky’s Lone Peak Tram, accommodating up to 75 people per trip. Photo Credit: Chris Kamman @skylabmediahouse
Discovering Lone Peak: A Worthwhile Tram Ride
The Lone Peak Tram, a highlight of the Big Sky 2025 project, opened in 2023, offering access to the 11,166-foot Lone Mountain, known for advanced terrain and breathtaking views. With a capacity for 75 passengers—significantly increasing access compared to the previous tram that accommodated just 15—this state-of-the-art tram includes a stunning glass-dome terminal designed to resemble snowflakes.
The quick 3.7-minute ride to the top provides awe-inspiring sights, with views that stretch across three states: Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho, along with two iconic national parks—Yellowstone and Grand Teton. In warmer months, the tram will feature glass floor panels allowing guests to marvel at their surroundings at heights of up to 300 feet.
In the upcoming year, visitors can expect even easier access to Lone Peak with the addition of the Explorer Gondola. This new gondola will replace an outdated two-person chairlift, allowing up to 10 passengers per cabin to travel from the Mountain Village directly to the tram terminal, enhancing accessibility.
Big Sky’s Madison 8, the world’s longest eight-seater chairlift, was installed last year. Photo Credit: Johanna Jainchill
Big Sky’s Comfort and Convenience
First-time visitors often share how the recent improvements enhance both comfort and convenience, citing shorter lines and a broader selection of accommodations and dining options. With 40 lifts and a sprawling 5,850 skiable acres, it’s no surprise that Big Sky has emerged as one of the largest ski resorts in the U.S. During peak season, even with high occupancy due to fresh snowfall, lift lines tend to move swiftly, thanks to the state-of-the-art bubble lifts.
The expertise of a ski instructor proves invaluable, as Lina deftly navigated our family through the less-trafficked trails, uncovering hidden gems like delightful tree runs that cater to all skill levels. With her guidance, families can split up comfortably, allowing advanced skiers to explore black diamond trails while others enjoy more accessible slopes.
Uncle Dan’s Cookies, a Big Sky institution since 1985, serves paninis and cult-status cookies at the base of Madison 8. Photo Credit: Johanna Jainchill
Beyond skiing, food options abound at Big Sky. Westward Social, a popular dining spot, is known for its crowd-pleasing gnocchi with mushroom ragu. For a quick bite, Uncle Dan’s Cookies stands out, famed for scrumptious cookies and paninis, making it a favored pitstop among many.
