A Long Weekend at Big Sky: Big Mountains, Big Smiles, and Even Bigger Stories

There are trips you remember because of the views… and then there are trips you remember because of the people, the moments, and the stories you come home with. Our recent trip to Big Sky Resort was definitely the second kind, though the views didn’t hurt either. 

We took a crew of six out to Montana for a couple unforgettable days on the mountain. For some of our riders, this was their first time seeing terrain on this scale. For all of us, it was our first time experiencing just how big Big Sky really is.

We were incredibly thankful for a couple friends of JSAW, who are Big Sky locals, that took us under their wing for the trip. They showed us around the mountain, helped us navigate the massive terrain, and made sure we hit all the best spots the mountain has to offer. From perfectly groomed, sunny laps to start the day to some unforgettable tree runs and cliff drops, having their guidance made the whole experience even better, and a lot more fun. It was a huge gift to not just see the mountain, but to experience it like locals do, and we’re so grateful for their generosity, time, and stoke.

We had a few crashes, lots of laughs, and some serious fun! Watching these riders grow, not just in skill, but in courage and determination, was one of the best parts of the trip. Every fall turned into a lesson. Every tough run turned into a victory.

A highlight was taking the tram to the summit. If you’ve been there, you know, that ride alone can get your heart pumping. Stepping out of the tram and going up to the observation deck, looking out over what feels like the entire state of Montana, even being able to see the Tetons in Wyoming, was one of those “wow” moments that makes everyone go quiet for a second… then a quick picture before immediately starting to hype each other up for the ride down!

From there, it was full send!

One of our riders, along with our local friend and one of the leaders, took two runs through some of North America’s most extreme triple black diamond terrain, Big Couloir. It was one of those moments where nerves, excitement, and focus all mix together. They dropped in, rode it out, and came back with huge grins and a story they’ll be telling for a long time. It was a proud moment, and a great reminder that sometimes the biggest growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone.

But this trip wasn’t just about snowboarding and skiing.

One of my favorite moments was watching one of our riders take a huge step in his faith. He’s been coming to Bible study for a while, he’s even been on trips in previous years, but he’d never really stepped out to share his story before. On this trip, though, something clicked.

What started as casual conversations with people on the lifts turned into real talk about life and faith. Before long, he was sharing his testimony and talking about what God has been doing in his life. You could see his confidence grow right there on the chairlift, and the people he was talking with were genuinely interested and encouraging.

It was one of those moments that reminded me why we do these trips, not just for the riding, but for the way God uses them to help riders take bold steps in their faith.

By the end of the trip, we came home tired and a little sore, but very happy. We left with inside jokes, new friendships, stronger skills on the mountain, and memories we’ll be talking about for years. More than that, we came home grateful, for safety, for growth, and for the opportunity to invest in these riders in such a meaningful way.

To everyone who supports this ministry and helps make trips like this possible: thank you. Truly. Your generosity creates opportunities for these riders to experience adventure, build character, and share their faith in ways that will stick with them long after the snow melts.

Big Sky lived up to its name. And we’re already dreaming about the next adventure.

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