Youngest son hitting the cornice at the top of Mountain. Yeeeehaaaw!
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Sunlight Mountain Resort

4.8
·43 reviews·Glenwood Springs, United States

A charming, uncrowded Colorado ski resort offering affordable fun, stunning views, and a friendly atmosphere for all skill levels.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more slope time

CrowdLow
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Youngest son hitting the cornice at the top of Mountain. Yeeeehaaaw!

Sunlight Mountain Resort

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more slope time

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming, uncrowded Colorado ski resort offering affordable fun, stunning views, and a friendly atmosphere for all skill levels.

4.8
(43 reviews)

"This is THE BEST place to ski in CO - great runs, groomed trails, amazing staff that are helpful and really like their jobs!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Lift Tickets Early

Secure your spot and potentially save money by purchasing lift tickets online in advance.

👟 Embrace the 'Hidden Gem'

Enjoy the lack of crowds and friendly staff. It's a quaint, less commercialized ski experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mountain Views

Mountain Views

Summit

Breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Sopris and the surrounding Rockies. A true visual reward after a day on the slopes.

InstagramReddit
Challenging Terrain

Challenging Terrain

Upper Mountain

Discover advanced runs and challenging terrain for experienced skiers and snowboarders looking for an adrenaline rush.

Reddit
Family-Friendly Slopes

Family-Friendly Slopes

Lower Mountain

Gentle, groomed trails perfect for beginners and families learning to ski or snowboard. A welcoming environment for all skill levels.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

Sunlight Mountain Resort is a hidden gem, often overlooked by larger resorts. To maximize your experience, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Booking lift tickets in advance can also secure better prices and guarantee your spot, especially during peak season. Reddit

Lift Upgrades & Access

While Sunlight Mountain Resort offers a charming, less crowded experience, be aware that some lifts are older. The resort is undergoing upgrades to Primo and Segundo lifts for smoother rides and increased capacity. Check the resort's status for which lifts are operational during your visit. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more slope time
Crowd
Low
When
Early Season (December)
Why
Fresh powder, festive atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Season (March-April)
Why
Warmer days, spring skiing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Atrevidos! #glenwoodsprings #Aventure #swing #fypシ #fun #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp
@adriella817
195.3K likes • 1.9M views

🎯 Book Lift Tickets Early

Secure your spot and potentially save money by purchasing lift tickets online in advance. TikTokReddit

👟 Embrace the 'Hidden Gem'

Enjoy the lack of crowds and friendly staff. It's a quaint, less commercialized ski experience. InstagramReddit

ICE in Colorado is getting more aggressive. People need to know about this. I’m sure it’s happening in other areas. #ice #colorado #fortcollins #glenwoodsprings
@anafiredfed
39.5K likes • 277.8K views
Heading to the lifts for our stupid mental health. It’s called therapy! • Snow is in the forecast for next week so get out here and enjoy the blue skies! #primolife #sunlightmountain #sunlightmountainresort #stupidmentalhealthwalk #stupidwalkforstupidmentalhealth #tiktok
sunlightmountainresort
518 likes • 12.7K views

⬆️ Be Prepared for Older Lifts

Some lifts are vintage. Be patient and enjoy the ride; upgrades are in progress! InstagramReddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Fun

Sunlight is great for families, with runs suitable for all ages and abilities. Reddit

Currently happening at our favorite mountain, @SunlightMountainResort.⁠ ⁠ Not one, but two lifts are getting a glow-up this summer! Primo and Segundo are being replaced with brand-new upgrades featuring modern tech, enhanced safety, and more uphill capacity.⁠ ⁠ Which means smoother rides, shorter lines, and more time for carving turns. ⁠ ⁠ Want to be the first one to test it out? Get your pass tod...
visitglenwood
149 likes • 4.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Lift Tickets Early

Secure your spot and potentially save money by purchasing lift tickets online in advance. TikTokReddit

👟 Embrace the 'Hidden Gem'

Enjoy the lack of crowds and friendly staff. It's a quaint, less commercialized ski experience. InstagramReddit

⬆️ Be Prepared for Older Lifts

Some lifts are vintage. Be patient and enjoy the ride; upgrades are in progress! InstagramReddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Kid-Friendly Fun

Sunlight is great for families, with runs suitable for all ages and abilities. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera! The mountain vistas, especially of Mount Sopris, are stunning. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(43 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sunlight Mountain Resort is lauded as a fantastic, uncrowded ski destination with friendly staff and runs for all abilities, offering great value. While some lifts are vintage and in need of upgrades, the overall experience is consistently praised for its authentic charm and beautiful mountain views, making it a beloved hidden gem for many skiers. InstagramReddit

"This is THE BEST place to ski in CO - great runs, groomed trails, amazing staff that are helpful and really like their jobs and don't mind helping!, runs/trails for all skiing abilities, with NO LINES at the lifts and reasonably priced lift tickets!"

Shelley Creed

"Came here last year and one of the best ski resorts I've ever visited. Great prices and not huge crowds I skied from open to close, and conditions were great all day. It's not my home resort, but it's definitely one I want to come to more often, it's kid friendly but also has some very advanced runs would recommend to stop by this place"

RAHB Janzen

"My wife and I haven’t skied in 25 years and this was a great place to get back out there!! We will definitely be back."

Jay Clayton

What People Like

No lift lines
Reasonably priced tickets
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Vintage lift infrastructure

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sunlight Mountain Resort is approximately a 3-hour drive from Denver. You can take I-70 West towards Grand Junction and exit at Glenwood Springs. Alternatively, Amtrak offers a scenic train route to Glenwood Springs, followed by a short taxi or shuttle ride to the resort. Reddit

While direct resort shuttles might be limited, many hotels in Glenwood Springs offer transportation options or can assist in arranging rides. Check with your accommodation for the most convenient travel arrangements. TikTok

Many visitors opt to drive, enjoying the scenic Colorado mountain routes. For a unique experience, consider the Amtrak train to Glenwood Springs, which offers a relaxing journey and avoids winter driving concerns. Reddit

Yes, Sunlight Mountain Resort offers ample parking for visitors. It's generally easy to find a spot, especially if you arrive earlier in the day or on weekdays. Instagram

The closest major airport is Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE), about an hour's drive away. Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) is about 1.5 hours away. Denver International Airport (DEN) is the furthest but offers the most flight options. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Lift tickets can be purchased online through the official Sunlight Mountain Resort website for the best rates and to guarantee availability. You can also buy them at the ticket window, though prices may be higher. TikTokReddit

Ticket prices vary based on age, day of the week, and season. It's recommended to check the Sunlight Mountain Resort website for the most current pricing for day passes, season passes, and any available discounts. Reddit

Yes, Sunlight Mountain Resort often offers discounts for advance online purchases, military personnel, and sometimes through partnerships. Keep an eye on their website for special promotions and early bird deals. TikTok

A standard lift ticket grants you access to all open lifts and runs at Sunlight Mountain Resort for the duration of your ticket. Some packages may include rentals or lessons. Instagram

Sunlight Mountain Resort offers season passes, which can be a cost-effective option for frequent visitors. Check their website for details on pass types, pricing, and benefits. TikTok

🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience

Sunlight offers a variety of runs for all levels. Beginners will love the gentle slopes on the lower mountain, while intermediates can enjoy groomed cruisers. Advanced skiers should check out the challenging terrain on the upper mountain for an exciting experience. Reddit

Absolutely! Sunlight Mountain Resort is known for being very beginner-friendly, with dedicated learning areas and patient instructors. It's a great place to learn or get back into skiing after a long break. InstagramReddit

While Sunlight Mountain Resort is more focused on natural terrain and groomed runs, they may have some smaller features available. It's best to check with the resort directly or look for trail maps upon arrival for the most up-to-date information on terrain parks. TikTok

Yes, Sunlight Mountain Resort offers ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and skill levels, from first-timers to those looking to refine their technique. Booking lessons in advance is recommended. Instagram

Operating hours typically vary by season. During the winter ski season, Sunlight Mountain Resort is usually open daily from mid-December to early April. Check their official website for exact opening and closing dates and daily operating hours. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Sunlight Mountain Resort has on-site dining options, including a lodge restaurant and potentially a grill or cafe, offering convenient meals and refreshments during your ski day. TikTok

Expect typical ski resort fare, such as burgers, sandwiches, chili, and hot beverages. They aim to provide hearty meals to fuel your day on the mountain. TikTok

While outside food and drinks are generally allowed in designated areas like the parking lot or picnic spots, it's best to check the resort's specific policy. Consuming food inside the lodge may be restricted to purchased items. TikTok

Glenwood Springs offers a variety of dining options, from casual pubs to more upscale restaurants. Many visitors enjoy exploring the town's culinary scene after a day of skiing. TikTok+1

Popular choices in Glenwood Springs include The Pullman for upscale American cuisine, Slope & Hatch for tacos, and Riviera Scratch Kitchen for a diverse menu. Many visitors also enjoy the local breweries. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially of Mount Sopris. The ski runs themselves, with skiers and snowboarders in action against the mountain backdrop, also make for great shots. TikTokInstagram

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Mid-day can offer clear blue skies, perfect for capturing the vast mountain landscapes. TikTok

Yes, the ski lifts, especially the vintage ones, can add a unique element to your photos. Be mindful of safety and resort regulations when taking pictures around operational lifts. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at ski resorts for safety reasons. It's crucial to check Sunlight Mountain Resort's specific drone policy before flying one for aerial photography. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for action shots of skiers and snowboarders. Don't forget a protective case for your gear against the cold and snow. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sunlight Mountain Resort is an excellent choice for families. Its reputation for being kid-friendly means there are plenty of gentle slopes and beginner areas perfect for little ones learning to ski or snowboard. The resort's less crowded atmosphere compared to larger resorts makes it easier to manage children and reduces stress for parents. Reddit

Beyond the slopes, the proximity to Glenwood Springs offers additional family entertainment, including the famous hot springs, which are a huge hit with kids. Consider booking a 'Ski, Swim, Stay' package for a convenient and value-packed family getaway. Instagram

💰 Budget-Conscious Skiers

Sunlight Mountain Resort is often highlighted for its affordability, offering a refreshing alternative to the high costs associated with many Colorado ski resorts. Lift tickets are reasonably priced, especially when purchased in advance, and the overall cost of visiting is generally lower. Reddit

Staying in Glenwood Springs can also be more budget-friendly than lodging directly at some of the more exclusive mountain towns. Look for deals on accommodation and consider packing some of your own snacks and lunches to further reduce expenses on the mountain. TikTok

💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples seeking a romantic mountain escape, Sunlight Mountain Resort offers a charming and intimate setting. Enjoy skiing together on uncrowded slopes, followed by a relaxing soak in the hot springs of nearby Glenwood Springs. TikTokInstagram

Consider booking a 'Ski, Swim, Stay' package for a seamless romantic getaway. The scenic beauty of the area, especially during sunset, provides a perfect backdrop for memorable moments. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sunlight Mountain Experience: More Than Just Skiing

Sunlight Mountain Resort is celebrated for its authentic, uncrowded ski experience, often described as a 'hidden gem.' Unlike larger, more commercialized resorts, Sunlight offers a laid-back atmosphere with friendly staff and a genuine sense of community. Visitors frequently praise the well-groomed runs suitable for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly slopes to challenging advanced terrain. The resort's commitment to providing a great experience without the overwhelming crowds is a major draw for those seeking a more relaxed mountain getaway. InstagramReddit

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Sunlight Mountain Resort offers stunning natural beauty. The panoramic views from the summit, particularly of the iconic Mount Sopris, are a highlight for many visitors. This scenic backdrop makes for memorable photos and a truly immersive mountain experience. The resort also hosts events and activities, especially towards the end of the season, like the 'Color Festival,' adding to its vibrant community feel. Instagram+1

While the resort is known for its charm, it's worth noting that some of its infrastructure, like the vintage top lift, is in need of modernization. However, the resort is actively working on upgrades, with plans to replace key lifts like Primo and Segundo to enhance the guest experience with smoother rides and increased capacity. This ongoing development ensures Sunlight remains a beloved destination for years to come. InstagramReddit

Glenwood Springs: The Perfect Basecamp for Adventure

Sunlight Mountain Resort is conveniently located near the vibrant town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, offering visitors a perfect blend of mountain adventure and town amenities. Glenwood Springs is renowned for its natural hot springs, providing a relaxing way to unwind after a day on the slopes. The Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Glenwood Hot Springs Resort are popular choices for soaking in mineral-rich waters with stunning mountain views. TikTok+1

The town itself boasts a charming downtown area with a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, catering to diverse tastes. Visitors can also explore local breweries and shops. For those seeking more adventure, Glenwood Springs is also home to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, offering thrilling rides and cave tours, and is a gateway to numerous hiking trails and outdoor activities. TikTok+1

Glenwood Springs serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the surrounding Roaring Fork Valley. Its proximity to other mountain towns like Aspen and Carbondale, combined with its own unique attractions, makes it a versatile destination. Whether you're arriving by car or taking the scenic Amtrak route, Glenwood Springs provides easy access to Sunlight Mountain Resort and a wealth of other Colorado experiences. TikTok+1

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