Big Sky, Big Fun, Big Resort

Golfing Big Sky, Montana
Part 1

by Anthony Scaggs
Golf Clubs, Golf Resorts, Golf Courses

The staff at the Huntley Lodge and Resort Complex could not do enough to ensure a pleasant arrival and a positive start to my "big" mini-vacation.

The complex is named for the newscaster and founder Chet Huntley

and is one of the accommodation possibilities at the Big Sky Ski and Summer Resorts in Big Sky, Montana.

The bellman escorted me to a luxuriously spacious room with its big view. Everything met my expectations. After settling in, I went to the Huntley Bar and Grill for a snack and planned my adventure for the next day, golf, golf and more golf.

Up bright and early, I grabbed a big espresso in the lounge. My driver was waiting by his big van to take me partway down the mountain to the Big Sky Golf Course. Arriving in ten minutes at the Pro Shop, he instructed me to call the hotel at any time for return transport. We both imagined it would be a big mistake to hike back up the mountain with my full complement of clubs in tow after playing 18 holes.

A staff member wheeled around a spotless cart and gently loaded my clubs. Heading to the driving range to stretch and hit some balls, I encountered my first hazard.

Water comes into play or awaits an errant ball on many holes. The remaining holes are guarded by a plethora of bunkers, strategically located for the careless or overly aggressive golfer. From the blue tees this is a par 72, 6,806-yard long course designed by Arnold Palmer, with hole 17 being the signature hole. Big hitters will love the distances, but at this altitude remember balls fly with less effort. So do not worry about a big score or if you are a flatlander, use one less club.