Moonlight Basin Resort

"Fabulous Four Season Family Playground"

Moonlight Basin is set in on a dramatic mountain peak in Big Sky, MT.  It is the largest ski resort in the nation, but is still deliciously undiscovered.  Families will find a private mountain resort, newly built, with every convenience and amenity.  Lodges are brand new, luxurious, and comfortable.   The gorgeous main building is done in a contemporary mountain villa style- beautiful wood beams and intricate stone work.  I was impressed with both the architecture of the resort, as well as the plethora of available summer activities.  I cannot wait to return in winter to sample the snow sports, as they are sure to be well-run and plentiful.  

ROOMS TO SUIT EVERY FAMILY
Moonlight offers endless accommodation choices to fit every families needs.  Summer rates are very reasonable; Our 2 bedroom cabin in the Cowboy Heaven development was approximately $200 per night, with many summer specials available.  For larger families, there is anything from a 3 bedroom cabin to a palatial 6 bedroom custom built home.  
Our adorable log cabin- decorated in a chic mountain style- had a full kitchen, comfortable living room with wood stove and flat screen TV, and 2 tidy bathrooms stocked with L’Occitane amenities.  Everything was brand new and extremely clean.   We also had a hot tub on the deck, which looked fabulous.

A POOL FOR ALL SEASONS
When we visited in mid- June, it was still chilly on the mountain, with rain or snow falling every day.  The Moonlight pool-which is heated to a toasty 85 degrees year round- is perfect for this weather, however.  There is an indoor pool entrance, so swimmers can enter and exit the pool in the warm, dry spa.  A small swim-under partition leads to the large outdoor pool, which ranges from 3 to 5 feet deep.  Half of the outdoor pool is covered by a deep portico, so even when it is snowing heavily, families can still hang out in the water and watch the flakes drift by.   If kids get too cold, they can plunge into the heavenly cascading waterfall hot tub, with dramatic views of the snowy mountains.
SPA SANCTUARY
Parents will love the cozy and serene spa, with a large, comfortably appointed relaxation sanctuary.  Come at least 30 minutes prior to your appointment to avail yourself of the peaceful lounge and eucalyptus steam room reserved for spa guests only.  You will be completely transported away from all the cares of children and family- a much deserved respite.
I had a deep tissue massage with Ali, who is fabulous.  After driving from San Francisco to Montana, I was in desperate need of some serious shoulder work.  She skillfully worked out my knots as I drifted off for a blissful hour.  

YEAR ROUND FAMILY PLAYGROUND

In addition to beautiful lodging, Moonlight and Big Sky offer many fun activities for families.  Winter brings every conceivable snow sport, while summer in the mountains in made for hiking, floating, and riding!
Cedar Mountain Corrals offers everything from 1 hour horseback rides, to stagecoach and covered wagon trips, through some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.  Will, a Cedar Mountain wrangler, led my daughter and me on what I call “The Man from Snowy River” ride.  If you haven’t seen the movie, watch it before you go to Big Sky.  Even though it takes place in Australia, the gorgeous scenery is strikingly similar.  
If you prefer two footed adventures, the 1 mile Ousel Falls trail is spectacular.  It is one of the most beautifully maintained parks for families- the trails are wide and stroller friendly, but very hilly.  Wildflowers and serene resting spots dot the path, making for ideal snack spots, as well as beautiful family photos.  
The Gallatin River- of A River Runs Through It fame- rushes through the valley at the foot of Moonlight Basin.  Fly-fishing, floating, and white water rafting are some of the many activities on offer.  Mid June was too cold to be on the water, but come July, there is no finer place to be.  

Disclosure: Although I received complimentary lodging and spa treatments from Moonlight Basin, my reviews are my own opinions and were not influenced by the resort staff or its affiliates.