Big Sky is divided into three areas—the Mountain Village, the Meadow Village and the Canyon. These areas are serviced by a free shuttle system during the winter. A good starting point is Big Sky Central Reservations, 800-548-4486; 866-676-9977, which can book most of the lodging listed here.

In the Mountain Village:

The Summit at Big Sky ($$$–$$$$; left) is a ski-in/ski-out condo-hotel with one- to three-bedroom units, plus eight penthouses, all with mountain views. This is low-key luxury, just as one would hope for in Montana—an artful blend of craftsmanship and comfortable furnishings. The exterior looks more like a European hotel than one in America's Wild West, but the common areas are reflective of a rancher's home, with oversized leather and animal-print furniture, artwork depicting Montana's history and natural beauty, soaring stone fireplaces and plenty of polished wood. Spacious rooms in earthy colors have a variety of options including fireplaces, oversized showers, jetted tubs, full kitchens, hot tubs and wet bars. Terry bathrobes are available upon request. The Summit also has a sauna, steam room, pool-sized hot tub with views of the mountain (part indoor, part outdoor), fitness facilities and day spa. Alpenglow ($$$$) is the newest condo complex with great views and contemporary western decor.

The ski-in/ski-out Shoshone Condominium Hotel ($$$$) has spacious condos with kitchens, fireplaces and jetted tubs, plus a lap pool, indoor hot tub, health club, steam bath and more. The Huntley ($$–$$$$), also ski-in/ski-out, includes a buffet breakfast and has an outdoor pool, two hot tubs, sauna, workout room and game room. Kids 10 and under stay free.

Mountain Village has many condo complexes, some of which are only a few years old.If you stay in condos, you have access to The Huntley's hot tubs and pool. Lone Moose Meadows ($$$$) is one of the newer slopeside complexes. If you want luxury, try Snowcrest, Beaverhead and Arrowhead Condominiums ($$$$) (right) with two to four bedrooms. You'll find two- and three-bedroom units at Skycrest ($$$$), which also has underground parking, or try the more moderately priced Stillwater ($$–$$$$), which has studios and two-bedroom units.

The slopeside Mountain Inn (877-995-7858; 995-7858; $$–$$$$) has 90 suites with fridges and microwaves that sleep up to six people. Amenities include an indoor pool, two hot tubs and an exercise room, plus a continental breakfast. Children 18 and younger stay free in their parents' room.

Condo and home rental agencies with Mountain Village properties include ResortQuest of Big Sky (800-548-4488; 995-4800) and Big Sky Chalet Rentals (800-845-4428; 995-2665).

In the Meadow Village (6 miles away):

River Rock Lodge (800-995-9966; 995-2295; $$–$$$$; right), a "boutique-style European hotel" built of stone and log with beautiful interior decoration, combines rustic rugged West with classic elegant sophistication. Each of the 21 rooms overlook the trout pond or the Gallatin River. Rates include continental breakfast in their acclaimed restaurant.

East West Resorts (800-845-4428; 995-2665) manages several condo complexes here, including Hidden Village ($$$$), units are set in the forest with in-house hot tubs and garage, and Park ($$$–$$$$), with head-on views of Lone Peak. ResortQuest of Big Sky (800-548-4488; 995-4800) rents many condos on the cross-country trail system.

In the Canyon (3 miles from the Meadow Village, in the beautiful Gallatin River Canyon, 9 miles from the lifts, serviced by the shuttle):

Buck's T-4 Lodge (800-822-4484; 995-4111; $$$–$$$$) is not your ordinary Best Western. Despite extensive remodeling in the past few years—or perhaps because of it—the former hunting lodge retains its rustic appeal. Make sure to relax in the two pool-sized outdoor hot tubs, hang out by the large stone fireplace and eat a memorable meal at its restaurant specializing in wild game (see Dining). Rates include a hot breakfast buffet. Free high-speed Internet access is available. Ski packages are offered with Big Sky and Moonlight Basin.

Rainbow Ranch Lodge (800-937-4132; 406-995-4132; $$$–$$$$; left) combines the rustic rugged West with classic elegant sophistication. The lodge’s 21 rooms offer luxurious comfort and amenities—each room overlooks the trout pond or the Gallatin River and most have fireplaces. The acclaimed restaurant (see Dining) features wild game, Montana steaks, fresh seafood and the largest wine list in the state.

The Comfort Inn (800-228-5150; 406-995-2333; $–$$$) is clean, though it has little charm. The nicest budget accommodations are at the Corral Motel (406-995-4249; $).

Accommodations Legend: (double room) $$$$–$200+; $$$–$141–$200; $$–$81–$140; $–$80 and less