What is the difference between Montage Big Sky and One&Only Moonlight Basin?
My firsthand review!
I just got back from Big Sky and I’m still riding the high you can only get from a good-vibes, mountain-town weekend. I was there for the Wildlands Music Festival where Dave Matthews played in a venue that felt almost unreal. The area was small and intimate, and had a backdrop so stunning I felt like I was at a private concert.
Big Sky is the perfect setting for a summer show and, just as fun, was exploring town, hiking the trails, and soaking in everything Montage Big Sky had to offer. I also had the chance to tour the soon-to-open One&Only Moonlight Basin, and below I'm sharing my impressions of both resorts along with a few Big Sky highlights you can't miss on your next visit - summer, fall or winter.
We have a strong relationship with both resorts, which means we can get you VIP perks like daily breakfast, a $100 resort credit, and top of the list for an upgrade. Depending on the season, there are often promos and extra perks we can add in too. Always reach out before you book so we can make sure your stay is as special as possible.
Montage Big Sky
I stayed here and loved it!! This was my second stay here (went skiing here last winter as well!) Can't say enough good things about the location, room-product and atmosphere. While it's relatively new (opened in late-2021) it blends into the mountainside like it has been there forever. I'm calling the vibe "timeless mountain luxury" because it's authentically Montana with a contemporary design touch that lets you know it's a new property. It's built for families with their Paintbox kids' club, pool and outdoor activities but here is plenty of adult fun to be had. The late-night live music in the Alenglow bar was packed at 10PM after dinner on friday night! They are still dialing in some aspects of their service - specifically around the pool - but their staff was very hospitable and the rooms are so peaceful we felt relaxed the whole time. Below are the highlights:
Family-centric convenience: Montage is built for ease, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Everything is in one place: lodging, dining, spa, kids’ club, and ski access.
Ski-in/ski-out: Just steps from the Lewis & Clark chairlift, the ski-in/out access is seamless. Compass Sports inside the hotel will help you with everything from ski rentals to putting on your boots.
Proximity to town: About a 12-minute drive to downtown Big Sky, with a complimentary shuttle within a 15-minute radius.
The vibe: A lodge-style retreat with a full-service spa, cozy communal spaces, five restaurants and bars, and a Paintbox program for kids ages 5–12.
Spa Montage: 1,000-square-foot retreat featuring indoor and outdoor pools, steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation lounges. It offers a full menu of holistic treatments, from high-altitude therapies to signature body rituals, it’s designed as a restorative haven after days of skiing, hiking, or exploring Big Sky’s wilderness.
Where you’ll stay: It has King Rooms, multi-bedroom residences (up to six bedrooms) and private homes across the street. This hotel works for everything from a couples retreat to a multi-gen family vacation.
One&Only Moonlight Basin, Big Sky
In true One&Only style, Moonlight Basin is an ultra-modern take on a mountain lodge. The striking black exterior stands out as a unique contrast to the lush green setting that it was built upon. We started with brunch and everything about the experience felt elevated. The food wasn't a traditional eggs and bacon buffet, but a luxury, curated tasting menu complete with a tableside margarita cart and a live band. The resort is separated into 4 buildings, which can be confusing but the Sky Lodge is the heart of the property, housing The Landing restaurant, ski valet, gondola and more. The residence we toured was similarly modern in its design and spacious enough to house a family of 4-5 comfortably with a two-car garage and private hot tub, which all residences come with! Be mindful that this property is further from town so it's perfect if you're craving seclusion, privacy and stunning mountain views; not as convenient if you're looking to be close to the center of the action and "downtown" Big Sky.
Romantic luxury: A visually striking, intimate resort designed with couples in mind.
Ski access: A brand-new gondola connects the ski shop and storage directly to the slopes. They are calling this Gondola-in & Gondola-out
Private & peaceful: Standalone houses offer spacious, secluded accommodations perfect for couples or small groups, a touch removed from the main lodge.
Location: Set in Moonlight Basin, about 20-25 minutes from town. The setting feels like a scenic hideaway, but be prepared for a twisty-road drive on the way up.
One&Only Spa: A modern, nature-inspired sanctuary, with eight treatment rooms. indoor pool, heated outdoor pools, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and cold plunges. Blending modern design with nature, it offers massages, facials, hydrotherapy, and Ayurvedic-inspired treatments, perfect for restoring balance after outdoor adventure.
The vibe: A vibrant après scene, chic design, and a stunning spa with a sexy, modern edge.
The Quick Take
Montage Big Sky – Best for families and anyone who wants convenience, comfort, and an all-in-one resort experience.
One&Only Big Sky – Best for couples and luxury seekers looking for privacy, romance, and a stylish social scene.
Where to Eat in Big Sky Town Center
Horn & Cantle (Lone Mountain Ranch) – Rustic fine dining with bison, local ingredients and a warm, wood-hewn atmosphere. We ate here and loved the food, views and vibe. Plus, a great sommelier picked the perfect wine.
Riverhouse BBQ – Texas-style barbecue on the Gallatin River, family-friendly with live music in summer. Great outside place for the kids to play while adults chat and enjoy the views.
Blue Moon Bakery – Pizza, sandwiches, pastries—perfect for a casual bite and some coffee in the morning.
Olive B’s Bistro – Upscale yet cozy; don’t miss the wild-game bolognese or huckleberry martini.
Ousel and Spur Pizza – Craft brews at Beehive Brew and great pizza at Ousel and Spur next door.
Thai Basil -Serves flavorful, authentic Thai dishes with big portions!
When to Visit Big Sky
Winter (Dec–March) – Peak ski season with reliable snow, festive holiday events, and prime après-ski vibes.
Spring (April–May) – Quiet shoulder season with fewer crowds. Ideal for relaxation, though some restaurants and activities may be limited.
Summer (June–August) – Warm weather brings hiking, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, scenic drives through Yellowstone and awesome concerts!
Fall (Sept–Nov) – Crisp air, golden aspens, and a peaceful atmosphere before the winter rush.