Kircliff
THE EDGE OF POSSIBILITY
Kircliff, perched at 11,166 feet, is a two-story glass observation deck reaching out over terrain shaped by millions of years.
For the first time ever, any guest, any age—on foot or on skis—can experience Lone Peak from this stunning glass enclosure. Here, the world opens around you, the horizon stretches wide, and peaks rise endlessly in every direction.
Savor the rare moment of stillness, perspective, and awe that will stay with you long after you’ve descended. Kircliff redefines what it means to experience Montana's high country.
Big Sky Resort is currently open for summer. Buy summer Kircliff tickets now, or sign up for our email newsletter to be notified when Kircliff tickets are available for winter 2026-27.
The Journey to the Top
EMBARK ON THE NEW EXPLORER GONDOLA
The marvel of Kircliff begins when you board the Explorer Gondola, the world’s fastest 10-person gondola. Featuring heated seats and panoramic views, you will travel over a mile into the mountain, reaching 9,000 feet. At the top of the gondola, you’ll step out into the Bowl, in the heart of Lone Peak.
RISE ABOVE THE CLOUDS ON THE LONE PEAK TRAM
Travelling over 2,000 vertical feet in just 4 minutes, the Lone Peak Tram is an iconic piece of Big Sky. The glass windows allow you to take in your surroundings as you are whisked up the mountain at over 20 miles per hour. Watch the machinery of the mountain as you rise above skiers and the Powder Seeker lift in the Bowl.
TAKE IT ALL IN FROM KIRCLIFF
Immerse yourself in the mountains—from the sharpness of dramatic peaks, the soft expanse of untouched snowfields, and the thrill of standing above it all. Atop Lone Peak, Montana's highest scenic overlook at 11,166 feet reveals more than ten mountain ranges, two national parks, and three states. Step onto the glass floor that dares you to look down, deeper into the power of the mountains.
Kircliff Highlights
HIGHEST SCENIC OVERLOOK IN MONTANA
On a clear day, take in views of over 10 mountain ranges.
GLASS FLOOR
An alpine engineering marvel lets you look out over the fall line of Lone Peak.
WALK-UP ACCESS
From base to peak, no skis required.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
For the first time ever, any guest, any age—on foot or on skis—can experience Lone Peak.
Kircliff FAQs
Kircliff is located at the top of Lone Peak, accessed by riding the Lone Peak Tram.
Skiers and snowboarders can ride Swift Current 6 and ski Jaywalk (an intermediate run) or ride the Explorer Gondola to the Lone Peak Tram.
Walking guests can access Kircliff by riding the Explorer Gondola to the Lone Peak Tram. There is a short walk between the top of the Explorer Gondola and the base of the Lone Peak Tram. The walk is over snow, on an incline, and may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
Skiers and snowboarders of all abilities can reach Kircliff by skiing directly to the Lone Peak Tram and riding up.
Tram rides grant entry to Kircliff. Lift tickets come with tram rides. Season passes must enable Tram Autocharge to pay for tram rides.
You can ride the tram up to Kircliff, then ski/snowboard back down or take a scenic ride down.
No, Kircliff access is included with a Lone Peak Tram ride or walk-up access scenic ticket.
Summer Season: Yes, the Explorer Gondola, Lone Peak Tram, and the Kircliff observatory are all ADA-accessible and ready to welcome wheelchair users. During the summer months, a 517-foot paved path (max slope 4.9%) connects the gondola and the tram, making the high-alpine experience accessible to all.
Winter Season: In winter, the Explorer Gondola is accessible for wheelchair users. Guests can unload at the midstation or top terminal of the gondola to take in the views. However, the connection path between the Explorer Gondola and Lone Peak Tram is snow-covered, which makes it unsuitable for wheelchairs and can be challenging for guests with limited mobility. We recommend reaching out to our guest services team ahead of your winter visit for more detailed information.
Scenic rides visiting Kircliff can leave the tram top terminal to explore the peak. Take in the 360-degree views and walk down to the titanic deck for another scenic overlook.
