Zermatt and Big Sky Resort offer distinct skiing experiences. Zermatt boasts a larger skiable area and a vibrant apr s-ski scene in a car-free village, while Big Sky Resort provides a less crowded experience with a significant vertical drop and various accommodation options. The choice depends on priorities: vast terrain and European charm versus spacious slopes and North American accessibility.
| Attribute | Zermatt | Big Sky Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Average Annual Snowfall | Averages 414cm per year. Another source states 3-4 meters (13-14 ft). | 400 inches |
| Skiable Terrain (acres) | 200 km (79,532.80 Acres) | 5,850 acres |
| Number of Lifts | 53 lifts | 40 (26 chairlifts, 12 surface lifts) |
| Vertical Drop | 2,278.99 meters (7,477 ft) | 4,350 feet |
| Price of Lift Ticket (peak season) | A day ticket is 92.00CHF | 4-of-5 day adult lift ticket: $800-$900, Child lift ticket: $500-$600 (February and March) |
| Number of Runs | 149 trails | Over 300 |
| Difficulty Ratio (Beginner/Intermediate/Expert) | 75 kilometers of beginner slopes, 220 kilometers of intermediate, and 27 kilometers of advanced | 15% beginner, 25% intermediate, 42% advanced, 18% expert |
| On-Mountain Dining Options | Many mountain restaurants are available | Vista Hall, Shedhorn Grill, Everett's 8800 |
| Apr s-Ski Scene | Zermatt offers a vibrant and varied apr s-ski scene with pubs, bars, cocktail lounges, and clubs | Alpenglow Bar, Carabiner Lounge, Chet's Bar & Grill, Umbrella Bar |
| Accommodation Options (hotels, condos, etc.) | Hotels, apartments, and chalets are available | Hotels, condos, vacation rentals (many ski-in/ski-out) |
| Accessibility (airport proximity, transportation) | Nearest major city is Geneva, 228 km away (2.5 hours drive). Zermatt is a car-free village with electric buses and taxis for transportation. | 50 miles south of Bozeman, Montana. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). Rental cars, shuttles, private drivers |
| Crowd Levels (peak season) | Expect crowds spilling onto the streets between 5pm and 7pm. | Peak visitation during Christmas, New Year's, and holiday weekends, but expansive terrain prevents overcrowding |