Kircliff Construction Updates
In the latest chapter of Big Sky Resort’s ongoing transformation, the mountain is preparing to unveil Kircliff, an alpine summit observatory unlike anything else in the American West. Perched at 11,166 feet on Lone Peak, Kircliff is a stunning glass enclosure that offers sweeping 360-degree views across three states and two national parks, redefining what it means to experience Montana's high country.
Kircliff Structural Steel & Glass Installed
At 11,166 feet atop Lone Peak, something extraordinary is taking shape.
The structural work for Kircliffis is now complete. After months of precision engineering in one of the most challenging construction environments imaginable, the steel framework and specialized glass installation are finished. What remains is the final interior work before Kircliff opens to guests on December 20.
Each element of this alpine marvel has been engineered to withstand the extremes of Montana's high country: wind loads exceeding 100 mph, temperature fluctuations of over 100 degrees, and heavy snow accumulation. The custom glass panels—each weighing approximately 2,000 pounds—have been precision-installed to create seamless, distortion-free views across Yellowstone, the Tetons, and more than ten mountain ranges spanning three states.
"Reaching this milestone took incredible coordination between our construction crews, engineering partners, and specialized trades," explains Jas Raczynski, Big Sky Resort Construction Project Manager. "Everyone working on this project has brought their expertise to solve the unique challenges of building at 11,166 feet."
Soon, this cantilevered observatory will welcome any guest, any age—on foot or on skis—to experience one of the West's most legendary views.
Kircliff Steelwork
The framework for Kircliff—Big Sky’s alpine summit observatory—has taken shape at 11,166 feet, on the peak of Lone Mountain.
The construction process is precise, technical, and ever-changing. Each beam of structural steel must be precisely calculated, expertly flown in by helicopter, and installed by crews working in an environment where weather can change in minutes and oxygen is noticeably thinner.
The completed steel framework for levels one and two now stands at the summit, creating the skeleton for what will become one of the country’s most innovative mountain experiences. Engineered to withstand extreme wind loads exceeding 100 mph, temperature fluctuations of over 100 degrees, and heavy snow accumulation, this structure represents a triumph of modern alpine engineering.
"Building at this elevation requires specialized approaches to every aspect of construction," explains Jas Raczynski, Big Sky Resort Construction Project Manager. "From the specialized glazing systems designed for these extreme conditions to the precise helicopter deliveries, every part of the project has to be perfect. There's no room for error at 11,166 feet."
When it opens in December 2025, this steel framework will support an all-glass observatory offering sweeping views across three states, two national parks, and numerous mountain ranges.
