Why We Love January Skiing in Big Sky
Why We Love January Skiing in Big Sky
January in Big Sky feels like winter in its purest form. Snowbanks are built up, lifts are spinning smoothly, and Lone Peak rises sharp against a deep blue sky. After the holidays wrap up, expect dependable snow, fewer crowds, and a rhythm that makes it easy to settle into vacation mode. For guests planning a Big Sky ski trip, this stretch of winter delivers ideal daytime skiing conditions, paired with the coziest of après ski evenings, making January the best time for ski enthusiasts to settle in for a stay at The Wilson Hotel.
Snow That Builds and Stays
The first two months of the year bring the most reliable snowfall of the Big Sky ski season, and locals count on it. Storms move through regularly, stacking coverage and filling in terrain across the mountain. Cold temperatures keep the snow light for skiing and snowboarding, and Big Sky Resort’s 11,166 foot summit elevation helps protect conditions even during clear stretches.
With 5,800 acres of terrain spread across four mountains, a 4,350-foot continuous vertical drop, and more than 250 runs, there's more skiable acres than any resort in the entire state of Colorado. It’s why winter skiing Big Sky feels different this time of year, with snow quality that holds up from first chair well into the afternoon. Another thing skiers love about Big Sky is the minimal lift lines. No more waiting around to start the fun.
A Local Guide to the Best Runs
Beginners often start in the Explorer area and its new mid-station learning center, where novice skiers can comfortably experiment with enclosed magic carpets and gentle pitches.
Intermediates tend to spread out across Andesite Mountain and the Spanish Peaks zone, linking blue runs like Mr. K and Calamity Jane or committing to the long fall line of Mad Wolf, known for its iconic descent.
Advanced skiers tend to spend time on Challenger and Shedhorn, where steeper pitches and classic lines like Dictator Chutes and Rockville Bowl offer strong conditions on clear days and wide open views of the Madison and Gallatin ranges.
Experts watch storm totals closely and time access to Lone Peak, where the Big Couloir averages 42 degrees of sustained steepness and zones like the Gullies and North Summit Snowfield hold deep snow after storms.
Liberty Bowl remains a favorite for its nearly six mile run from summit to base, with sweeping views that change as the light shifts.
A New Way to See the Mountain
This winter is a particularly exciting time to visit Big Sky with the arrival of the new Explorer Gondola. Designed to create a more seamless way to experience Lone Mountain, the gondola connects Mountain Village to Lone Peak and opens access that was previously limited to advanced skiers.
For the first time in Big Sky’s history, full lift access exists in both summer and winter, and Lone Peak is now accessible on foot as well as on skis. Inside Kircliff’s glass enclosed observatory, the scale of the landscape is breathtaking, with wide views across the Spanish Peaks, Gallatin Range, and Madison Range, and even Yellowstone and the Tetons, on clear days. A transparent glass floor offers a striking look straight down over Big Sky’s steep terrain. The horizon opened December 20, carrying forward the legacy of the original Explorer lift installed in 1973.
Dressing for January Days
The key to a comfortable ski day is dressing correctly. Base, mid, and outer layers allow for easy adjustments as the weather changes throughout the day. Opt for Merino wool or synthetic fabrics to stay comfortable, and avoid cotton, which tends to hold moisture and cold.
Don’t forget high SPF sunscreen, even when skies are overcast. Goggles with multiple lens options help on flat light days, and sunglasses are useful for after-ski activities. Our advice is to pack a small backpack to stash your essentials, especially on longer days exploring the mountain.
Après Ski, Big Sky Style
January après ski feels like a well-earned reward after a long day on the slopes. At The Wilson Hotel, evenings are cozy and social, with live music on Fridays from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Happy Hour pricing from 3:00 to 7:30 p.m. Snow gear is swapped for comfy sweaters as guests settle in to warm up by the fire. We even have a hot tub, perfect for post-ski relaxation and recovery.
Just steps away, Tips Up brings a livelier scene with live music, TVs, and the familiar hum of a ski bar as the crowd filters in from the mountain. Locals love digging into a BBQ Bison Burger paired with a craft cocktail after working up an appetite.
Beehive Basin Brewery draws beer enthusiasts to its tasting room to sample what’s on tap and get some behind-the-scenes looks into the brewing process.
On the mountain, Scissorbills Saloon remains a classic stop, where Happy Hour specials and live music most days from 3:30 to 5:30 pm cap off the ski day before the last descent.
The Winter Stay That’s Right for You
If you’re wondering where to stay in Big Sky, The Wilson is your gateway to the best skiing in the area, and our offers elevate your experience even more. A minimum three-night stay unlocks our Ski Butler Bundle, which includes a $200 rental credit for premium gear delivered directly to you.
Our Après All Day package adds thoughtful touches like welcome beverages and Wilson souvenir cups with $3 draft during your stay, along with beanies and hand warmers.
Finally, Ikon Pass holders can save up to 15% with our Ikon Pass Holder Escape, subject to availability and blackout dates. With consistent snow and a welcoming place to stay, January in Big Sky brings the kind of ski season guests come back for.