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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more slope time

Sunlight Mountain Resort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more slope time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, uncrowded Colorado ski resort offering affordable fun, stunning views, and a friendly atmosphere for all skill levels.
"This is THE BEST place to ski in CO - great runs, groomed trails, amazing staff that are helpful and really like their jobs!"

🎯 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Challenging Terrain
Upper Mountain
Discover advanced runs and challenging terrain for experienced skiers and snowboarders looking for an adrenaline rush.

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.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Save
Lift Upgrades & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
⬆️ Be Prepared for Older Lifts
Some lifts are vintage. Be patient and enjoy the ride; upgrades are in progress!
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Sunlight is great for families, with runs suitable for all ages and abilities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
⬆️ Be Prepared for Older Lifts
Some lifts are vintage. Be patient and enjoy the ride; upgrades are in progress!
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Sunlight is great for families, with runs suitable for all ages and abilities.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The mountain vistas, especially of Mount Sopris, are stunning.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 ⛷️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget-Conscious Skiers
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.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sunlight Mountain Experience: More Than Just Skiing
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.
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.
Glenwood Springs: The Perfect Basecamp for Adventure
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.
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.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit