21 Nov Round Up: Noteworthy: Big Sky Resort Debuts Kircliff, A Glass Observatory at 11,166 Feet

This winter, Big Sky Resort unveils Kircliff, an alpine summit observatory perched at 11,166 feet on Lone Peak. The enclosure is cantilevered off the mountain’s edge, offering sweeping 360-degree views across three states and two national parks so viewers can truly appreciate the grandeur of the Greater Yellowstone region.

For the first time in the resort’s history, the summit of Lone Peak is now accessible to every visitor, no skis or hiking boots required. “This reimagined summit experience transforms Lone Peak into a year-round, must-visit destination,” says Troy Nedved, president and COO of Big Sky Resort. “Kircliff unlocks the opportunity for every guest to stand on one of the highest peaks in the region and witness a horizon that stretches from Yellowstone to the Tetons.”

Big Sky Resort

Guests destined for Kircliff begin at the base of the resort on the new Explorer Gondola, which travels an additional 1,000 vertical feet above the original Explorer chairlift before connecting directly to the Lone Peak Tram. In just 15 minutes, travelers move from the valley floor to the high alpine before stepping into the glass summit, where views open to more than 10 mountain ranges, including the Spanish Peaks, Madison Range, and Gallatin Range.

This season, in addition to the opening of Kircliff, Big Sky Resort will host M by The Alinea Group, a four-month culinary residency led by three-Michelin-star chef Grant Achatz.