Crail Ranch Trail
A gentle historic pathway connecting visitors to the Crail Ranch Homestead and the early history of Big Sky.
A flat, family-friendly gravel trail through historic meadowland with year-round access.
Minimal
Easy
2.6 miles
Crail Ranch Trail
Crail Trail offers a leisurely 2.6-mile round-trip path through the historic meadowlands of Big Sky’s Meadow Village. Named after the Crail family — some of Big Sky’s earliest homesteaders — this easy, wide gravel trail provides a scenic and accessible route for walking, running, biking, and winter recreation.
Beginning at Big Sky Community Park, the trail heads west across open meadow terrain with sweeping views of Lone Mountain and surrounding canyon peaks. Shortly after leaving the park, the trail crosses Little Coyote Road and continues across Spotted Elk Road near the Historic Crail Ranch Homestead Museum. The route passes a small bridge, meanders alongside homes and the Big Sky Resort golf course, and parallels a small creek.
Most users enjoy Crail Trail as an out-and-back route totaling 2.6 miles, though it can also serve as a point-to-point connector across the meadow. Due to its flat terrain and wide surface, Crail Trail is considered one of Big Sky’s most family-friendly and accessible trails.
During winter months, the trail is groomed for cross-country skiing. Dogs are not permitted in winter when grooming operations are underway.
More Trail Details
Crail Trail traces the historic land of the Crail family, who established one of Big Sky’s earliest homesteads in 1902. The preserved log cabins along the route now operate as the Historic Crail Ranch Museum, offering educational programming and a glimpse into the area’s ranching and farming history.
The trail sits within meadow grasses and open terrain, offering consistent views of Lone Mountain and surrounding canyon peaks. Benches along the route provide rest points, and the nearby Community Park includes picnic tables and recreational amenities.
In winter, Crail Trail becomes a groomed Nordic ski route maintained for cross-country skiing. Dogs are not allowed during grooming season to preserve trail quality and safety.
Maintained by Big Sky Community Organization (BSCO), Crail Trail connects recreation, history, and open space in one of the community’s most accessible corridors.
Support a Project that matters to you.
BSCO leads major initiatives that shape Big Sky’s future — from park renovations and trail expansions to youth program scholarships and community recreation improvements. Supporting a campaign allows you to invest directly in projects that expand access, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure long-term stewardship.
Become a Community Sponsor
Businesses and community partners play a critical role in sustaining recreation in Big Sky. Sponsorship opportunities support events, leagues, trail development, and year-round programming at BASE — while aligning your organization with the places and experiences that define this mountain community.
