Sun Valley vs Big Sky
Which ski resort is right for you?
Sun Valley
Idaho
2,154 acres
Epic
VS
Big Sky
Montana
5,800 acres
Ikon
| Sun Valley | Big Sky | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Idaho | Montana |
| Skiable Acres | 2,154 | 5,800 |
| Runs | 121 | 317 |
| Lifts | 18 | 39 |
| Vertical Drop | 3,400 ft | 4,366 ft |
| Summit | 9,150 ft | 11,166 ft |
| Base | 5,750 ft | 6,800 ft |
| Avg Snowfall | 220 inches | 400 inches |
| 7-Day Snow Forecast | 0.1" | 1.1" |
| Temperature (High/Low) | 35F / 26F | 29F / 17F |
| Season | Late November to Mid-April | Late November to Mid-April |
| Night Skiing | No | No |
| Season Passes | Epic | Ikon |
| Beginner Terrain | 36% | 15% |
| Expert Terrain | 22% | 60% |
| Kids/Senior Discounts | Contact resort | Kids 5 and under: FREE |
Resort Locations
182 miles apart
The Verdict
Big Sky is significantly larger with 3x the skiable terrain, making it ideal for multi-day trips where you want variety without repeating runs. At 11,166 feet, Big Sky offers a true high-alpine experience with better snow preservation. Your pass matters here: Sun Valley is on Epic while Big Sky is on Ikon. Check which you hold before booking. Consider your priorities: terrain size, snow quality, or convenience. Each factor may point to a different choice.