A Strike of Luxury in Big Sky Montana

Big Sky, Montana, is known for its rugged peaks, pristine powder and a particular untamed spirit that draws skiers and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. But beneath the refined alpine luxury of The Montage, tucked away like a well-kept secret, there’s a place where the après-ski vibe takes a playful turn: Beartooth Pub & Rec, a subterranean retreat with a four-lane bowling alley, craft cocktails and the kind of laid-back charm that makes you forget you’re in one of the country’s most exclusive mountain resorts.

Descending into the warmly lit restaurant, the transition from sleek mountain lodge to a cosy pub-cum-bowling alley is arresting. The sound of ski boots clicking on polished wood gives way to the soft rumble of bowling balls on timber lanes, followed by the unmistakable crack of a perfect strike. The pub’s rustic modern aesthetic, with rich timber accents, leather banquettes and glowing neon signs, sets the scene for a night that feels equal parts elevated and unpretentious.

At the bar, local brews flow alongside signature cocktails, like a huckleberry old-fashioned that pairs effortlessly with the lodge’s elevated pub fare. Between frames, guests can fuel up on bison burgers, truffle fries, and house-made pretzels with beer cheese, which is the kind of mountain sustenance that keeps the energy high well into the evening.

It’s a scene that feels quintessentially Big Sky, where adventure isn’t just about the mountain but about the moments that follow. Whether you’ve spent the day carving down Lone Peak’s legendary terrain or simply soaking in the high-alpine grandeur, there’s something irresistible about ending it with a cold pint, a little friendly competition and the comfort of knowing that tomorrow brings fresh powder, another adventure and maybe, just maybe, a rematch at the lanes.