By Troy Nedved GUEST COLUMNIST
When I first joined Big Sky Resort in 1996—the year we installed the Swift Current quad—I couldn’t have imagined the remarkable journey ahead. Now, as we prepare for another winter season, I’m struck not only by how far we’ve come, but by the boundless possibilities that lie before us.
First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Taylor Middleton. His extraordinary 43-year tenure has been instrumental in transforming Big Sky from a hidden gem into a world-class destination. As I step into the roles of COO and president, I’m both humbled and energized to build upon Taylor’s remarkable legacy and our shared vision: to lead the transformation of the American mountain resort experience.
When we launched Big Sky 2025 nine years ago, we set forth what seemed like an audaciously ambitious plan to elevate Big Sky into the ranks of world-class resorts. Looking back, I’m proud to say we haven’t just met those goals—we’ve surpassed even our boldest expectations. The completion of 12 lift projects stands as a testament to this progress, with Madison 8 on track to open in December. Our 13th, the state-of-the-art Explorer Gondola, is set to debut next year, marking another milestone in our resort’s evolution.
Yet in the midst of these major investments, we recognize that sometimes it’s the thoughtful refinements that most enhance our guests’ daily experience. This season, we’re excited to announce the expansion of ski access on Hangman’s, creating a dedicated public lane for days that Big Sky Ski Education Foundation may be training or hosting races.
Investment in world-class snow conditions remains at the heart of our commitment to excellence. This summer marked a major expansion of our snowmaking infrastructure, with new high-efficiency systems now extending to both Hangman’s and the Calamity Jane headwall. These strategic improvements don’t just guarantee better early-season coverage—they ensure more reliable access to these beloved runs throughout the season. Our modernized snowmaking system represents the intersection of sustainability and performance, using less energy while producing more snow, exactly where and when we need it.
In what I consider our most significant achievement this year, we’ve reached a transformative milestone in our commitment to the people who make Big Sky exceptional. Our team member housing capacity now exceeds 1,000 beds—a benchmark that few mountain resorts have achieved. This investment goes far beyond providing shelter; it’s about creating a true mountain community where our team members can live, thrive, and build lasting careers. By offering affordable, quality housing in one of the country’s most challenging real estate markets, we’re ensuring that the passionate individuals who create the Big Sky experience can be fully part of the community they serve. This commitment to our team directly translates to the consistent, high-quality service our guests have come to expect, while fostering the authentic mountain culture that makes Big Sky unique.
As we look toward our next half-century, I’m filled with unwavering optimism. The spirit of community that first drew me to Big Sky remains our greatest asset and differentiator. While we may now ride slightly warmer and faster chairlifts than we did in 1996, the genuine warmth and camaraderie that makes this place extraordinary continues to flourish.
Here’s to another phenomenal season in this remarkable place we all call home. May your turns be endless, your powder days abundant, and your mountain memories unforgettable!
Troy Nedved is Big Sky Resort’s president and chief operating officer.
