One of my favorite things is visiting new places and checking out the real estate! A few weeks ago, my REALM Global partners Matt Zaremba and Allen Potts of the Zaremba Potts Group invited a group of agents from across the country for a weekend in Big Sky, Montana, to ski and explore some of the incredible ski communities the area has to offer. It was an unforgettable experience!
Big Sky has long been known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation. Still, its transformation into a luxury ski destination began in the 1970s when Chet Huntley, a former NBC newscaster, envisioned it as a world-class resort. Over the decades, Big Sky has evolved into a premier mountain retreat, drawing high-net-worth individuals seeking privacy, adventure, and world-class amenities.
Of course, I always love combining my trips with an opportunity to tour exclusive and breathtaking residential communities nationwide. From private ski-in/ski-out estates to five-star club communities, Big Sky offers an incredible blend of luxury and nature. How gorgeous is this listing!?
Here’s a look at some of the top neighborhoods and club communities that define the region we visited.
The Yellowstone Club
Arguably the pinnacle of exclusivity, the Yellowstone Club (YC) is a private, members-only ski and golf community that caters to ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Its private ski mountain offers meticulously groomed slopes and untouched powder, so the club provides an intimate and luxurious ski experience without crowds. Somebody told me the YC has more skiable terrain than Jackson Hole, which is incredible!
Summer activities are just as impressive. The resort features a championship golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, extensive hiking and biking trails, and a world-class spa. Residents enjoy unparalleled privacy with custom-built mountain estates boasting panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
One nice thing about the YC is that you must own a property to become a member and join to buy a property. The policy keeps the membership small and exclusive, as the barrier to entry is high. When you buy a membership, your parents, grandparents, children, and grandchildren are automatically members and can utilize the club amenities. The YC also doesn’t publicly list its properties on the open market or post home sales prices. No hotel is part of this community; you cannot rent from a member. Privacy and exclusivity reigns.
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Moonlight Basin + The New One&Only Resort and Residences
Moonlight Basin is another prestigious enclave in Big Sky. This club area is well located within Big Sky. The Moonlight Lodge, one of the main clubhouses, is gorgeous! We had a great lunch here, and I was impressed with the access to the lifts and the very cool indoor/outdoor pool and hot tub area.
Moonlight Basin’s recent partnership with One & Only has elevated it to new heights and will continue to do so as the One & Only is built out. The resort and residences promise to blend five-star hospitality with Montana’s rugged beauty.
They are in their first phase of sales for the residences. I loved the clean lines and the way the windows take a strategic view of mountain vistas on all sides of the property. Homeowners will have access to an elite private club, luxury spa services, and a pristine stretch of ski terrain connected to Big Sky Resort. We had dinner at the private club while we were in town. The food was terrific, and I loved the oversized fireplace anchoring the room, but my favorite was the outside area with firepits overlooking Lone Peak.
The development redefines mountain luxury with sustainable, high-end architecture and a focus on seamless indoor-outdoor living. Another phase of residential sales will occur, and the One&Only Hotel is still under construction. The One&Only Moonlight Basin is a development to watch!
Have you caught the travel bug? Here are a few more Travel with Compass blogs from previous years:
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Spanish Peaks Mountain Club + The Montage
Spanish Peaks Mountain Club is one of Big Sky’s most sought-after private communities, offering luxury homebuyers an exclusive yet welcoming atmosphere. The community boasts a stunning 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, ski-in/ski-out access to Big Sky Resort, and a range of upscale amenities, including fine dining and a private clubhouse. Spanish Peaks offers custom homes, ski chalets, and luxury residences, all designed to embrace the region’s natural beauty. The community’s emphasis on outdoor recreation and world-class hospitality make it a top choice for those seeking adventure and relaxation. This club is also adding more amenities for the upcoming season.
For those seeking a turn-key luxury experience, Montage Big Sky offers the perfect blend of convenience and elegance. This newly opened five-star resort and residence community is nestled within Spanish Peaks Mountain Club, granting residents and guests direct access to some of the best skiing in Big Sky. The residences at Montage are impeccably designed with high-end finishes, offering expansive views and modern alpine aesthetics. With a full-service spa, a championship golf course, and curated outdoor adventures, Montage provides an unparalleled resort-style living experience in the heart of Montana. We stayed at The Montage, and it was a seamless experience.
Compass Sports was on-site for ski rentals, lessons, and instruction, making things easy. For my kids, we loved that there was access to easy skiing right outside the doors of the Montage. The bowling alley and the unbeatable S’mores cart were also big hits with the kids! I was a big fan of the Ramen, Margaritas, and DJ at Backcast!
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The Bottom Line
Big Sky, Montana, has solidified its reputation as a premier destination for luxury mountain living, and after touring these communities, it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re seeking a private members-only club, a resort-style residence, or a home that seamlessly integrates with the great outdoors, Big Sky offers something exceptional. With its breathtaking landscapes, world-class amenities, and unparalleled privacy, this mountain retreat is a true gem for discerning buyers. This resort is poised for more development and big price appreciation. Compared to many other ski towns out west, there are still great opportunities for future investment. I’m a believer!
Let me know if you’re considering investing in Big Sky’s luxury (or entry-level) real estate. I’d be happy to share insights from my recent trip and connect you with my partners in Big Sky, who can help guide you through the possibilities in this spectacular region. Feel free to reach out and start your journey toward owning a piece of Montana. Don’t forget, wherever you are considering exploring real estate, I am here to help. Always reach out, and I am happy to bounce ideas around with you, weigh in on investment opportunities, and connect you with my partners worldwide.
PS—If you’re heading to Big Sky, I have some recommendations for dining. See below!
Backcast at The Montage—I mentioned this above. Yum! The views are beautiful, and I loved the ramen. The tequila cocktail was so refreshing, and their Sancerre was divine! They have a DJ on the weekends, which helps set the scene. I loved that they also had blankets in there—they were so cozy!
The Sleigh Dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch is a memorable evening. You meet at the lodge, hop onto a horse-drawn sleigh, ride through the snowy woods, and enter a quiet log cabin without electricity. The cabin has lanterns, communal tables, and a cowboy singing songs throughout the meal. Afterward, grab a drink by the fire or in the small tavern.
Also, at Lone Mountain Ranch – Horn and Cantle, their traditional dining experience is supposed to be incredible. On one night of our trip, we had dinner at The Auric Room at Lone Mountain with our friends who are members. This is a jewel box of a room for private members or hotel guests. If you can dine here, do it! It is a fantastic experience. Although, as a Realtor, it was hard locking my phone away in the adorable phone lockers for the meal!
Tips Up—I didn’t eat here, but it is your traditional in-town bar for a night out. Obligatory shotski’s? Check!
PPS—We also attended a private dinner at Alder and Tweed, an interior design company with offices in Big Sky, Park City, and NYC. Their taste is impeccable, and I can’t recommend them enough for your interior design needs.
