Cozy Cabin/House with Private Pond and 7KM of Skiing/Hiking Trails
Experience the quiet solitude of old Montana, yet have easy access to the amenities of a modern resort community.
Nestled in the Gallatin Valley minutes from Big Sky Resort and town center, this well-appointed, 2-bedroom log cabin style home, built in the 1990s, features a full kitchen, full bath and a living/dining room. Yes, there is a queen-size bed in one bedroom, two twin beds in the other bedroom, and one queen-size fold-out sofa in the living room.
But, you will probably want to spend all of your time outside - summer and winter! You will be surrounded by, a private, century-old, 250 acre homestead with miles (7KM) of groomed walking and skiing trails, a private pond for fishing, big Montana skies, and incredible views of the Gallatin Range, Ramshorn Peak and the Porcupine Wilderness Management Area.
The cabin's property provides winter range for elk, moose and deer and a well-marked and a private trail system for summer and winter. In the summer you will hike the trails searching for recently shed antlers and photographing the bird life and wild flowers. The private trout pond is well-stocked for catch and release fishing from the shore, floating dock or provided canoe. Ferry yourself and a friend to the dock in the center of the pond and spend the day lounging. There is a small fire pit on the shore side deck near the pond and a larger open pit fire ring with seating to watch the sunset and moon rise while BBQing on the fire's adjustable cooking grate. Fireside stargazing, away from light pollution, is spectacular!
In the winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on the groomed trails, range from beginner to advanced, and are perfect activities for the whole family. The cozy cabin is warm and the kitchen has the tools you need to make a feast.
The private road is plowed but we still recommend 4 WD vehicles from December through March. Our road is not always plowed first thing in the morning so if you are set on getting 'first tracks' up at Big Sky Resort, this may not be the best place for you.
In 2007, a conservation easement was established on the property to protect the undeveloped land surrounding the cabin. This short video describes the family history and the conservation effort: https://youtu.be/j9-eDh5IuBM
30 minutes drive from the cabin to the alpine ski-area complex at Big Sky and Moonlight Basin. 45 minutes by car to Yellowstone National Park. this will be your home base for many adventures. Other nearby amenities include Lone Mountain Ranch Nordic Resort with 80km of groomed ski trails and 20 km of snowshoe trails and sleigh/hay ride dinners; outstanding restaurants, shops and boutiques; Big Sky Meadow Village 18-hole golf course and trout fishing on the blue ribbon Gallatin River and nearby streams. Tennis is available at the Big Sky Tennis Club and on public courts at Ophir School.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Mountain view
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Similar properties
Townhome with private hot tub, river rock wood fireplace near Town Center
Big Sky
Townhome with private hot tub, river rock wood fireplace near Town Center
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
About the area
Gallatin Gateway
Located in Gallatin Gateway, this cabin is in a rural area and in the mountains. Big Sky Resort and Big Sky Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Gallatin National Forest and Gallatin River. Enjoy the area's slopes with cross-country skiing and snowboarding, and don't miss out on the sledging and snowmobiling.
Warren Miller Performing Arts Center - 7 min drive - 4.2 km
Soldiers Chapel - 11 min drive - 11.2 km
Big Sky Community Park - 14 min drive - 15.0 km
Historic Crail Ranch - 14 min drive - 15.0 km
Big Sky Town Center - 15 min drive - 16.8 km
Restaurants
Cowboy Coffee Co. - 14 min drive
Horn and Cantle - 18 min drive
Corral Bar, Steakhouse & Motel - 9 min drive
Tips Up - 14 min drive
Blue Moon Bakery - 15 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Cozy Cabin/House with Private Pond and 7KM of Skiing/Hiking Trails pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Cozy Cabin/House with Private Pond and 7KM of Skiing/Hiking Trails?
As of 3 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Cozy Cabin/House with Private Pond and 7KM of Skiing/Hiking Trails on 31 Dec 2026 start from AU$384, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Cozy Cabin/House with Private Pond and 7KM of Skiing/Hiking Trails?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Cozy Cabin/House with Private Pond and 7KM of Skiing/Hiking Trails?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Cozy Cabin/House with Private Pond and 7KM of Skiing/Hiking Trails?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Cozy Cabin/House with Private Pond and 7KM of Skiing/Hiking Trails located?
Situated in the mountains, this cabin is steps from Gallatin National Forest and within 3 mi (5 km) of Warren Miller Performing Arts Center and Gallatin River. Soldiers Chapel and Big Sky Chapel are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Breath taking views, deep and utter quiet, ultimate location with solitude yet close enough to adventure and people to still feel connected. Would stay again!
The location of the cabin was perfect! It was private with the pond and private drive, yet has easy and quick access into Big Sky. We absolutely loved our time there. The kitchen was well stocked with cookware, dishes, and utensils needed to cook a big pot of chili to welcome the chilly night.
Incredible property a true Montana experience awaits all. To have the acreage to yourself after fighting the crowds in Yellowstone was incredible. Mornings and evenings were awesome.
The cabin was cozy for our family. The property is breathtaking. Our kids enjoyed fishing in the pond and we hiked the trails. It was so peaceful and exactly what we needed to reset on the vacation. The cabin is close to Big Sky, Bozeman, and Yellowstone so you have lots of opportunities to experience different things depending on your interests.
Our family truly enjoyed our stay in this remote cozy cabin. We took advantage of all the hiking trails, the gorgeous view while sitting around the fire pit and of course we were fortunate to see a bunch of elk in the area. Would highly recommend this property and owners if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway.
Justin R.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug 2023
We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay, especially that you were able to get out on the trails.
This experience in the winter time was just what we were looking for! Lots of snow, close to Snowmobiling, Excellent Zip Lining and just a short drive to Yellowstone. The Host was the BEST, was available for help with everything and even helping us getting down the snow covered mile long driveway the day we left. A Four-Wheel drive is a must in winter time! We highly recommend this property❤️❤️
It was absoulty perfect. Lisa was a wonderful host and had everything ready when we got there. The property was amazing. Woke up every morning to a beautiful sunrise, sometimes with a herd of elk out on the hill. We got to listen to them bugling the whole time, which was a beautiful experience. Walking the property each morning on the groomed trails
With my cofeee, just made my vacation. The pond was awesome to hang out at during the day.the cabin had everything we needed,and was plenty warm. I loved it!
Brian K.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Oct 2024
Brian, Thank you so much for your review! I’m so glad you enjoyed your stay. Please come back anytime!
For what appears to be a smallcabin from the outside, it has all you need. A great kitchen with all the accessories you need. A dining spot with with a view to the pond. A comfy living room and bedrooms. The property allows you to hike in many directions for many views with birds of prey flying everywhere. From the bald eagles to the 8 point buck always exciting. Many thanks.
A gr
We absolutely loved our week long stay here! We had about 30 elk walk right by the cabin on our second day, with babies in tow. Sighted a fox and a pair of Sandhill Cranes down around the pond. Enjoyed being a kid and swinging on the sturdy swing outside the cabin, saw the Milky Way for the first time in a long time, and enjoyed the many hikes around the whole area. If you have binoculars you can see a herd of a couple hundred elk across the valley from where you sit at the pond, up on the far grassy hilltops. Definitely stock up in Bozeman, as the ski town of Big Sky is expensive. Granny’s Gourmet Doughnuts in Bozeman is a must if you are a donut lover, BTW. The cabin is simple, but we found very comfy and had what we needed. One of our new favorite VRBO’s! So grateful to have the opportunity to have such solitude in nature.
Christine E.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug 2023
We are so glad you enjoyed your stay! Please ignore my request for review. I hadn't seen this yet. And in regards to the glass, it's part of doing business, so don't worry about it. Enjoy the rest of your summer.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Chad N.
25 July 2018
Perfect cabin if you're looking for solitude and convenience
The cabin was perfect for my family of 4. Everything you need including a gas grill. It's close to services in Big Sky but very secluded which is exactly what we wanted. I have 2 boys ages 3 and 7. They fished and swam in the pond daily. Plenty of room to roam and they played in the dirt by the fire pit every night while my wife and I enjoyed beers.
We stayed for 7 nights and spent most of the time at the cabin since there's plenty of things to do right there. The trails were perfect for the kids. The location is perfect with Yellowstone an hour south and Bozeman an hour north. We spent a day in each location. Being 15 min from Big Sky services and restaurants is great as well.
We picked up groceries for the week in Bozeman on the way to the cabin and cooked most of our meals there with the exception of a couple nights out in Big Sky. Big Sky isn't busy in the summer which is nice. No lines for the restaurants.
I also have to mention the wildlife on the property. Mule deer are daily visitors near the cabin and the pond. The resident elk herd was around 3 days of our stay. It's easily over 100 head. Always great to see all the critters.
Liesl was great. Incredibly responsive to any questions and always helpful. Overall an awesome trip. We'll be back!
Chad N.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug 2023
Chad, Thanks so much for your review. Our place is unique and not for everyone. Am so glad it was what you and your family were looking for! Look forward to your return! Hope you enjoy the rest of your summer! Liesl
We spent 10 days at this charming cabin in the remote area of Big Sky. Yes! There are still some areas where you can enjoy the peace & beauty of Big Sky without the noise of construction, being right next to other people in a condo and find the absence of artificial lights. The natural light of the nighttime stars was amazing!
This cabin was the perfect fit for the 2 of us and our daughter & granddaughter. Having said that the absence of cell phone service, using a corded landline phone, putting up with those pesky summertime bugs and adapting to the quirks of an older cabin may not be appealing to everyone. The owner Liesl honestly informed us upon booking that this was not the typical Big Sky rental with new & updated amenities, however, it was clean and provided what we needed to enjoy our time together. As with most Big Sky homes, there’s no A/C, so we opened the windows in the daytime and slightly opened them at night to enjoy the cool mountain air. The screens weren’t a perfect fit so we had to contend with moths attracted to the lights inside at night. What the cabin may have lacked in the “newness” factor, it surpassed in outdoor activity with hiking trails, a pond with a canoe and floating dock for fishing, 2 fire pits and our granddaughters favorite, 2 swings. In addition we had lots of visitors of the wildlife variety - deer, elk, grouse, ducks and Sandhill cranes. The long gravel road to the cabin was a bit intimidating at first but we quickly adapted to navigating it. I’m not so sure I would want to drive it in the winter with snow & ice on the road, but that’s because I’m not accustomed to those conditions living in the southern US. I know this is a lengthy review, but I wanted to provide a picture of what we experienced during our stay in mid August. We would definitely stay here again even knowing that it has what some people would consider annoyances, because in our mind the beauty of the land and spending time with family far outweighs those little things.
Dianna B.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug 2023
Thanks, Dianna, for your thoughtful review. We’re so glad you found the wonder of nature in our place and enjoyed your stay!
The host gave great directions on how to get up to the cabin as it is not on a main road and secluded. You definitely need an AWD car though to safely get up the road and reach the cabin. The cabin was super clean, it had essential spices for cooking and the Wifi worked great. The TV had Roku, live TV and options to log into other providers too. The rooms were tidy, clean and had all you need. We did not go hiking but there were trails visible from the house. The host was very easily reachable and accommodating. The only things we noticed were that 1) there were not curtains on all the windows so having those would have been nice for comfort and 2) if you wanted to keep the windows closed at night - it got toasty at times even when we turned the temperature down and there are no ceiling fans. Other than those minor details, the rest of the stay was perfect.
Not much more required than saying it was fantastic. The home was clean and exactly what we wanted and needed for our trip. In addition to the home being great the location and outdoor amenities were also great. From fishing in the pond to hiking around the property on the trails, this property has it all. We were able to see lots of wildlife including elk, wolf, and many birds. We will for sure keep this in mind for future trips.
We stayed for 10 days in Februaary, and could have easily stayed longer. Leisl was an awesome host who responded immediately to any questions we had, and the cabin had everything we needed for a comfortable stay. We loved the flannel sheets and fluffy towels, which were better than any hotel. You will need 4WD or all-wheel drive to get there, at least in the winter. It is about a 20 minute drive to Big Sky for alpine skiing, and the property has several kilometers of trails right out the door which we used for XC skiing and snowshoeing. It was an all around lovely stay, and we truly did not want to leave!
We had a wonderful time at this cabin.
We heard elk bugling. We saw deer going to the pond for water. We saw an eagle.
We caught trout from the pond. The trails were awesome. So peaceful and quiet.
Betsy M.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021
About the host
Hosted by Liesl Pessl
Four generations of owner family have lived on or near this unique property. Our great grandparents were immigrants from Austria and Canada with a love of horses and skiing. The family has gathered, enjoyed and maintained this property for generations. In 2007, a conservation easement was established on the property to protect the undeveloped land surrounding the cabin. This short video describes the family history and the conservation effort: https://youtu.be/j9-eDh5IuBM We want to share this unique Montana experience with you to inspire the love of the outdoors and understand why we are committed to maintaining this land for generations to come.
Why they chose this property
You are not just renting a cozy cabin! This is your own 250 acre private paradise. You will escape the crowds and the condos and experience the big skies and open spaces that make Montana special. This property is totally unique: expansive and cozy. It appeals to the adventurer and the lodge bunny. This is how Montana becomes a part of your heart forever.
What makes this property unique
1. Privacy: There are many places on this property where you can't see (or be seen) by another home or person. With 250 acres of private property, you can totally escape here. 2. Trail System: step outside the cabin and embark on a system of groomed trails that connect to each other and traverse the entire 250 acres. Enjoy a short morning walk with a cup of coffee down to the pond or an entire afternoon of exploring the hills and basin. 3. History: This Homestead property still has the original 1904 settlers log-cabin and a newer cabin built in the 1950's. 4. Pond: in the summer you can fish, swim, canoe, float and hangout on the refreshing pond. 5. Wildlife: Elk, frogs, fish, deer, marmots, quail, bunnies, and sometimes there are cranes that visit the pond each evening. Also, pine trees, aspen groves, wild sage, beautiful grasses and wildflowers. 6. The vistas and views: The best Montana has to offer.
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests