Is Mountain Summer the new Euro Summer?
We all love Euro Summer…days swimming in the Mediterranean or exploring an ancient city, evenings enjoying a sunset apero hour followed by a simple-yet-delicious meal. But with the heatwaves the last few summers and everyone else catching on to the joys of Europe, hotel pricing (and availability!) have gone haywire, and crowds dampen the feeling of authenticity. Not to mention the air conditioning can be less than ideal, wildfires are starting to become an issue, and locals are skeptical of the crowds as well.
So that begs the question: where should you go away during July or August? I humbly present the case for what I’m calling Mountain Summer: a luxury retreat near a state or national park.
Montana
I just returned from Big Sky, Montana, where temperatures ranged from 48 to 75 degrees in mid-August- otherwise known as perfection?! Days were sunny without being oppressive and evenings were cool but still allowed for al fresco dining with a light jacket. Here’s my guide for what to do and where to stay if you’re ready for a Mountain Summer (or fall, or spring).
Enjoying the views at the One & Only Moonlight Basin in Big Sky
For hotels, there are two fabulous options for two totally different types of travelers. Ask me about which property is right for you, but I love the Montage Big Sky for young families in the summer and serious skiers in the winter. It also affords great access to downtown Big Sky! For a more romantic and secluded option, the One & Only Moonlight Basin is a winner.
Montage Big Sky’s natural beauty
Activities
What are you doing in Big Sky besides enjoying your amazing property’s spa and activities, you ask? Of course you can check out downtown Big Sky with some cute restaurants and bars, a farmer’s market every Wednesday night, and Music in the Mountains on Thursdays, and you can also do an easy day trip to downtown Bozeman. But what you’re really here for are the amazing hikes and National Park access points.
Top hikes are Beehive Basin, Lava Lake, Storm Castle, and Ousel Falls. The beauty is unmatched, and none are too difficult, but of course evaluate for your own capabilities.
The views at Lava Lake
Yellowstone National Park is an easy day trip; it’s less than 90 minutes from downtown Big Sky! You can see all the major highlights in one day- Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, other geothermal features like the paint pots and Grand Prismatic- plus see some wildlife. If you’re really keen to spend time in the park, two days are no problem either. A longer trip is Grand Teton National Park- technically doable as a 3 hour drive from Big Sky, but worth a separate stay in Teton Village.
Found a rainbow at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone!
Fly fishing is the most popular activity in the Big Sky area for a reason. However, one hot tip I have is to do float fishing instead! Way less boring than standing around in waders, and safer too- no slipping risk.
Caught some trout on the Madison while float fishing!
And finally, a rodeo is really hokey but fun, especially with young children.
Dining
Where are you eating, you ask? Listen- I am not going to tell you Big Sky is a culinary destination. However, Riverhouse BBQ in particular is fantastic- get a sampler platter! For a nicer meal, Horn and Cantle is solid, and then the dining options at the One & Only and the Montage are solid as well- especially check out Akira Back, The Landing, and Beartooth Pub. For a quick sandwich in town, head to Hungry Moose, and Cowboy Coffee gets the job done for your caffeine fix.
Riverhouse BBQ goodies
Not sold on Montana? There are plenty of other places to enjoy your Mountain Summer.
Other Options
The Canadian Rockies are absolutely stunning, and temperatures range from 45 degrees to 75 degrees. Here, you can enjoy the Fairmont properties- not the height of luxury, but really solid options!
If you fly into Jackson Hole, you can still access Big Sky/Yellowstone with a few hours’ drive, and of course you can stay at the beautiful Amangani, Four Seasons Jackson Hole, Caldera House, and several other fabulous options.
Alaska is a summer classic for a reason. Whether you want to traverse it by land or sea, we’ve got plenty of amazing options for couples and families alike.
Of course, there’s always the Pacific Northwest, but you do need to be mindful of wildfires. The Oregon Coast is a stunner, for one example.
Ready to plan your Mountain (or Euro) trip? Get started with a Golden Ratio Travel trip inquiry here.
