Public

Big Sky Course

Big Sky Resort Golf Course

Big Sky, MT, USA
406GOLF
23jman
BBoyd14
will.gillette
jackderks42
+24
18 holesPar 726,800 yds73.3/134

About this course

Big Sky Resort Golf Course sits in the Gallatin Canyon of southwestern Montana, approximately 45 miles south of Bozeman at the base of Lone Mountain. Arnold Palmer designed the course in the mid-1970s as part of the broader Big Sky Resort development, one of several mountain resort layouts he created during that era. The course occupies a high-elevation valley setting at roughly 7,500 feet, where the thin air affects ball flight and the short growing season shapes maintenance practices and playing conditions. The routing works through meadowland and stands of lodgepole pine and spruce, with the Gallatin River running along portions of the property. The terrain features moderate elevation changes, and several holes play across or alongside natural creek drainages. Mountain views, particularly of Lone Mountain and the surrounding Spanish Peaks, frame many holes. The design reflects Palmer's characteristic approach from that period, with strategic bunkering and greens that reward accurate approach play, though the course is generally accessible to resort guests of varying skill levels. The course operates as part of the Big Sky Resort amenities, serving both resort visitors and local members during Montana's relatively brief golf season, typically from late spring through early fall. The high-altitude environment and mountain setting create playing conditions distinct from lower-elevation courses, with cooler temperatures and the occasional afternoon weather pattern common to the northern Rockies.

Rankings

Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.

1617

Best in World

1430

Best in USA

10

Best in MT

Quick facts

Location
Big Sky, MT, USA
Access
Public
Year built
1973
Holes
18
Par
72
Length
6,800 yards
Difficulty
73.3/134
Course Vaults score
7.7

Getting there

Most visitors to Big Sky Resort Golf Course arrive through Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, a straightforward hour's drive south along U.S. Highway 191 as it traces the Gallatin River into the heart of the Madison Range. The route itself is part of the experience - a gradual climb through narrow canyon walls and dense lodgepole forest, with the river rushing alongside and the peaks growing taller with each mile. As the valley opens near the resort, the road delivers you into a high-altitude basin where the golf course unfolds beneath the commanding presence of Lone Peak, its granite summit towering more than 11,000 feet above the first tee.

FAQ

Common questions about Big Sky

Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.

Big Sky has a Course Vaults score of 7.7 out of 10 based on 29 logged golfers.

Big Sky was designed by Arnold Palmer.

Yes. Big Sky is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.

Par at Big Sky is 72.

Big Sky plays 6,800 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.

The slope rating at Big Sky is 134.

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Course Reviews
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