Montana Airbnb
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Photograph: Airbnb

The 8 best Airbnbs in Big Sky, Montana this year

A day on the slopes and trails means an evening of scenic respite—here are our favorite spots

Daniela Toporek
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Snow-dusted peaks for skiing, running rivers for fly fishing, wildlife around every bend and views that make your jaw drop. Big Sky, Montana, really is the United States’ major playground, and it’s just been named the top trending destination this year by Expedia. 

So before prices skyrocket, we’ve dug deep to find some of the best Airbnbs on the market to book before the crowds do. And don’t you worry, the list is loaded with cozy fireplaces, hot tubs with views, and properties that take full advantage of the the Big Sky’s big spread, including Yellowstone National Park. From mansions to one-beds, and social-friendly wooden A-frames to secluded sanctuaries of glass, these are the best Big Sky Airbnbs this year that will upgrade your trip into an outdoor-packed experience. 

The best Airbnbs in Big Sky, at a glance: 

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Frequently asked questions about staying in Big Sky

Do I need a car in Big Sky?

For the most flexibility, we recommend a 4WD/AWD rental car from Bozeman (BZN) airport, especially in winter. However, if you stay in Town Center or Mountain Village, you can use the Skyline Bus, which offers free transportation between the slopes and town. Uber and Lyft are virtually non-existent here, so book private shuttles like Big Sky Shuttle in advance. 

When is the best time to visit Big Sky?

For skiing, mid-February to March offers the best snow base. If you want deals, early December or April provide lower rates. For summer or visiting Yellowstone, July and August are prime for hiking and rafting, but these dates can be pricey so book well in advance. As for the shoulder season, September and October offer stunning fall foliage and 30–40 percent lower accommodation rates.

How far is Big Sky from Yellowstone National Park?

Big Sky is an ideal basecamp for it. The West Entrance of Yellowstone is roughly 47 miles (a scenic, one-hour drive south) along highway US-191. Keep an eye out for elk and moose in the Gallatin Canyon on your way.

What is the elevation in Big Sky, and will I get altitude sickness?

Big Sky Town Center sits at 7,280 feet up, while the top of Lone Peak reaches 11,166 feet. To avoid altitude sickness, drink at least one to one and a half liters more water than usual, and take it easy on your first day. Ask your luxury Airbnbs hosts if you need assistance as they might offer supplemental oxygen services.

The best Airbnbs in Big Sky, Montana

1. Best for indoor entertainment: The big cabin by Beehive Trail

Neighborhood: Big Sky Mountain Village

Five bedrooms, five bathrooms and a score of 10 across the boards, this two-floor cabin is near multiple resorts and hiking trails, and offers just as much entertainment inside as out. It has two home theaters and a Sonos sound system that works through the entire house, as well as four fireplaces (three gas, one wood-burning), a shuffleboard table and—if this wasn’t enough fire for you already—an outdoor fire pit on the first-floor patio. And yes, that means that on the second floor, there’s a brilliant wooden balcony (that matches the place’s entire wood and neutral-toned theme) for views of with spectacular views of Lone Mountain and the Madison Range, from the hot tub, of course.

Time Out tip: Reservations between mid-April and the end of October are the priciest, but they come with one complimentary Yellowstone Luxury Tours excursion (resort tax and park entry fees excluded). 

Sleeps: 12

Perks: Beehive Trail right up the road, and is the perfect

Price: From $2220 per night. Four-night minimum. (Around $740 per person for 12 guests)

2. Best interior design: The three-story house with the expansive patio

Neighborhood: Big Sky Meadow Village outskirts

In a gated community of 20 acres, the “Solitude Summit” house stands three floors tall, highlighting its soaring ceilings with exposed beams, and big wide windows for excellent views. The first floor has your car garage, laundry room, two bedrooms with ensuites and a recreaction room with a TV, desk, body-hugging beanbag chairs and a massage chair. The second floor is a massive open plan that blends the kitchen, dining room, living room and bar (yes, bar), all into one inviting space. There’s also the primary suite (with a bathtub and balcony) and a bunk-bed bedroomeach with its own outdoor views. And the third floor is saved for the junior primary suite, private and spaceous, with a standalone bath, too. The deck is sublime, and with a steaming hot tub, it’s the best place to watch the sunrise over the Gallatin Range without bothering to put on a robe.

Time Out tip: Don’t feel like cooking your massive chef’s kitchen? Take a 10-minute drive to Mi Pueblito taco bus for some impressively Mexican fare. 

Sleeps: 13.

Perks: You’re only 15 minutes away from town, which hosts plenty of concerts, farmers markets, and seasonal festivals. 

Price: From $1262 per night. Three-night minimum. (Around $292 per person for 13 guests)

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3. Best for socialites: The tiny A-frame in Tiny Town

Neighborhood: Emigrant (Paradise Valley)

Located in the picturesque Paradise Valley in Tiny Town Campground, this sleek little A-frame is the stuff of Pinterest dreams, and comes at a fraction of the price of peak mountain lodging. Sure, compared to the thousand-dollar cabins, this one’s a little bare, and amenities are shared. There’s a men’s and women’s bathroom with all essentials provided, and a large commercial kitchen with stainless steal counters, a double sink, two stoves, two refrigerators with freezers and two microwaves. With a firepit and picnic tables to share, this is a great choice for travelers looking to make new friends and connections. As for the A-frame, there’s a cozy hanging bed, a small table and comfy chairs, and heating and AC. Best part? Your personal patio with chairs under the late-night stars.

Time Out tip: Stop by the Wild Flour Bakery & Cafe by morning, and The Old Saloon bar by night for some local food that’s just outside the site. 

Sleeps: Two. 

Perks: Bring your pooch along! The campsite is dog-friendly for an extra fee. 

Price: From $116 per night. 

4. Best for avid skiers: The elegant cowboy suite

Area: Big Sky Mountain Village

If you’re here to ski your heart out, this elegant suite is a top suiter and is steps away from the Alpine Meadows Ski Run, with views of Big Sky Resort and the surrounding Spanish Peaks. There are three bedrooms, each with its own bath, and the master bedroom boasts hardwood floors, sheepskin rugs, a gas fireplace and deep standalone tub to soak your ski soreness away. The living room is a homely mix between modern and rustic with wooden details, a stone fireplace and TV, cushioned seating and lots of natural light. But the piece de la resistance is the kitchen, a marble-top masterpiece with dark wood paneling that’s stocked with everything you need for an apres-ski feast. It’s compact compared to the secluded mega-mansions, but packs a punch with a private hot tub that feels like it’s hanging off the edge of the world.

Time Out tip: Hungry Moose Market and Deli is a six-minute drive, and great for groceries to take advantage of that dreamy kitchen. 

Sleeps: Eight. 

PerksSki directly in and out of the unit by utilizing the property’s lift ticket and ski rental delivery system. Just ask your host. 

Price: From $1214 per night. Three-night minimum. (Around $455 per person for eight guests)

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5. Best for city and nature roaming: The Aspen yurt near the city

Area: Gallatin Gateway (15 minutes from Big Sky)

New to Airbnb is the cozy Aspen yurt cabin in Gallatin Gateway. You’re a quick drive from Big Sky Town Center, but far enough to soak up Montana’s natural surroundings. Impressive for a yurt, this small home stores quite a bit of space. There are two bedroomsone with a queen bed, and the other with a bunk bed, a bathroom, a full kitchen and four-seat dining table and a warm, snug living space with a TV. Somehow, there’s even a little breakfast bar. There’s air conditioning for summer, an old-school fireplace for winter and a shared laundry space. There’s also an outdoor picnic table to dine al fresco with a mountainous view, but keep on the look-out for a herd of seasonal elk just casually passing through. They like to graze near the property.  

Time Out tip: Have more than four guests? You can book the adjoining yurt cabin, too, to expand the space. 

Sleeps: Four. 

Perks: You get a stunning view, you’re close to town and all the hiking spots, and when you get hungry but don’t feel like cooking, you have Riverhouse BBQwith live music, and river views—right down the road. 

Price: From $392 per night. Two-night minimum. 

6. Best for large groups: The luxury chalet near Lone Mountain

AreaBig Sky Mountain Village

There are so many exposed wooden beams in this enourmous chalet, you might think you’re in a great medieval hall. The chalet covers expansive floors, and includes five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths (two come with standalone tubs), a living room with a stone wood-burning fireplace and large TV and a chef’s dream of a kitchen. On the lower level, there’s a wet bar and wine fridge, shuffleboard, a pool table that converts into a ping pong table and a giant courch for movie nights. And when you’re wiped out after a day outdoors, there’s a 10-person hot tub to relax and stargaze.

Time Out tip: The AC in the chalet makes for a great stay at any season, but here’s an extra tip: If you’re here in winter, take a bath in the first bedroom’s standalone tub for the most peaceful view of snowfall. Peak R&R. 

Sleeps: 14 

Perks: The picture-perfect view of Lone Mountain from the outdoor deck and hot tub. 

Price: From $1525 per night. Three-night minimum. (Around $327 per person for 14 guests) 

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7. Best for ultimate seclusion: The glass cottage with sprawling views

Neighborhood: Roberts (Beartooth Mountains)

When people talk about cutting ties with society and moving to the mountains, they probably meant moving to a place like this. It’s a one bed, one bath log-and-glass cabin built on a hilltop and overlooking the Beartooth Mountain Range. There’s no other sign of human life in sight, and no Wi-Fi or internet either. Just more rolling hills, and mountains in the distance. When you do need a little entertainment, there’s a DVD player with various DVDs and surround sound system. And when it gets chilly, the heated floors and indoor no-smoke fire will keep you cozy, especially after a few glasses of bubbles. This home is isolated, intimate and incredibly romantic. 

Time Out tip: Wake up early for a yoga session or coffee sip on the patio while birds sing good morning. 

Sleeps: Two.

Perks: The intentionally placed hot tub for views of the mountains and starry skies. 

Price: From $576 per night. Two-night minimum.

8. Best for fly fishing: The cabin by Gallatin River

AreaGallatin Gateway

Wake up to the trickling sounds of the Gallatin River, running right outside this rustic cabin for four. There’s a bedroom, a loft accessed by ladder with another cozy bed, a full bathroom and a kitchen right across from the toasty fireplace. There’s no indoor living space per se, but that’s the last thing on your mind when the woods, river and hiking trails are right at your door. And there’s a fire pit outside, for late-night s’mores and stargazing, too. 

Time Out tip: Bring a laptop or some boardgames for some on-screen entertainment in case the weather turns. There’s spotty cell signal, but elite Wi-Fi. 

Sleeps: Four. 

Perks: This is an excellent spot for fly-fishing, especially if you like trout. 

Price: From $231 per night. Three-night minimum. 

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