Sunday River Resort
A premier Northeast ski destination offering diverse slopes, summer adventures, and unique attractions like the Alpeniglu ice bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh snow and fewer crowds.
Sunday River Resort
Best Time
Fresh snow and fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier Northeast ski destination offering diverse slopes, summer adventures, and unique attractions like the Alpeniglu ice bar.
"Sunday River is one of the best mountains in the Northeast without question."
🎯 Book Lodging Early
Secure your hotel or condo well in advance, especially for peak ski season. :housewithgarden:
Check Trail Reports
Stay updated on conditions for the best skiing and snowboarding experience. :snowboarder:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Alpeniglu Ice Bar
Base of Jordan Bowl
Experience North America's first snow igloo and ice bar, serving drinks and offering a unique après-ski vibe.
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Santa Sunday Event
Sunday River Resort Slopes
Witness or participate in the festive annual event where hundreds of skiers and snowboarders dress as Santa Claus.
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Locke Mountain Trail
Sunday River Resort
Enjoy a scenic hike with rewarding views, perfect for a break from the slopes or a summer activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Lodging Early
Check Trail Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Lodging Early
Secure your hotel or condo well in advance, especially for peak ski season. +1 :housewithgarden:
Check Trail Reports
Stay updated on conditions for the best skiing and snowboarding experience.
Try the Waffles!
Don't miss the delicious waffles at the top of the Chondola lift. :pancakes:
Spa Day Relaxation
Indulge in the Jordan Spa for a perfect end to your ski days. :massage:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Lodging Early
Secure your hotel or condo well in advance, especially for peak ski season. +1 :housewithgarden:
Check Trail Reports
Stay updated on conditions for the best skiing and snowboarding experience.
Try the Waffles!
Don't miss the delicious waffles at the top of the Chondola lift. :pancakes:
Spa Day Relaxation
Indulge in the Jordan Spa for a perfect end to your ski days. :massage:
Ski-In/Ski-Out Caution
Verify trail access for ski-in/ski-out condos; return routes can be tricky. :ski:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sunday River Resort for its excellent skiing conditions suitable for all levels, friendly staff, and unique attractions like the Alpeniglu ice bar. The resort is highlighted as a top Northeast mountain, with many guests eager to return. However, some have encountered unfriendly phone booking staff, and icy conditions can be a concern for some skiers.
"Studio with kitchenette was plenty spacious for one or two people. Clean and comfortable! Staff was very accommodating. I enjoyed hiking the trail up to Locke Mountain."
Lauri Hawley
"My 7 day stay was spectacular! I had a blast each day and all the staff were amazing!
The young kids were an absolute breath of fresh air to see each day. (Brandon, Joseph, Emily, Phil and Alexis)
Despite the unfriendly, rude and unsympathetic lady I booked over the phone with was a bit too much to deal with. She definitely needs a refresh on customer service when a guests is looking to spend an entire 7 day vacation at a destination resort!
Jordan Spa located in The Jordan Hotel was the perfect ending to each of my 7 days. I decided to choose a different spa option each day to really really the experience of a true vacation and I enjoyed all SIX of my spa days and everyone in the spa was absolutely amazing! Meghan, Andi, Kristy, Birch and Lucas!). I can’t wait to come back for another ski and spa vacation!
Cheers to Sunday River Resort for such a memorable ski trip for me!"
Julie Gough
"We went there in July for a conference, and I found the staff to be really friendly. The food was great, and there are plenty of trails to explore and enjoy."
Arezou Fadaei Tehran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sunday River Resort is located in Newry, Maine. The closest major airport is Portland International Jetport (PWM), about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away. Many visitors drive directly to the resort, especially from New England states. Car rentals are available at the airport.
Yes, Sunday River Resort offers ample parking for skiers and visitors. Designated lots are available near the base areas. Consider arriving early during peak season to secure a convenient spot.
While driving is the most common method, some shuttle services operate from nearby towns or airports during the ski season. It's advisable to research specific transportation providers in advance if you plan to visit without a car.
The drive from Boston to Sunday River Resort is approximately 3 hours. Many visitors opt to drive, but bus services are also available, though less frequent.
Yes, Sunday River typically offers on-resort shuttle services to help guests move between different base areas and lodging options, especially during the winter months. Check their website for current schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift ticket prices for Sunday River vary based on the day, season, and whether you purchase in advance. It's recommended to check the official Sunday River website for the most up-to-date pricing for Sunday River lift tickets and Sunday River ski passes.
Yes, purchasing Sunday River ski tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This often provides better rates and guarantees your access, especially during busy periods.
Look out for potential discounts on Sunday River lift tickets through various promotions, multi-day passes, or package deals. The resort sometimes offers deals for specific groups or times of the year.
Sunday River's operating hours for lifts and the resort typically vary by season. During winter, lifts usually start running in the morning and operate into the late afternoon. Check the official Sunday River hours for specific daily times.
For the Alpeniglu ice bar, especially for the après-ski experience via snow cat, booking in advance is advised as spots can be limited.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
For beginners, the South Ridge area at Sunday River is highly recommended, offering gentle green trails. The Moonstruck trail is also a favorite for its enjoyable experience.
The Alpeniglu is North America's first snow igloo and ice bar, located at the base of the Jordan lift. It offers a unique après-ski experience with drinks and fire pits.
Yes, Sunday River Resort offers summer activities like hiking, biking, and chairlift rides, making it a year-round destination.
Santa Sunday is an annual event at Sunday River where hundreds of skiers and snowboarders dress as Santa Claus, often raising money for charity.
Sunday River offers various lodging options, including hotels like the Jordan Hotel and Grand Summit Hotel, as well as condos and vacation rentals. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options at Sunday River range from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. The Mountain Room is noted for delicious food, and the waffles at the top of the Chondola lift are a must-try.
Après-ski at Sunday River can include lively scenes with live bands, as well as unique spots like the Alpeniglu ice bar. The resort offers various bars and lounges for post-ski relaxation.
Yes, Sunday River generally offers a variety of dining choices that cater to families, with casual settings and menus suitable for all ages.
Most hotels and lodges at Sunday River offer breakfast options, either through on-site restaurants or grab-and-go services.
The Alpeniglu ice bar serves an assortment of beverages, including beer, mixed drinks, and Jaegerbombs.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots from the summit overlooks, especially during sunrise or sunset. The Alpeniglu ice bar offers unique, frosty photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The scenic mountain vistas and the vibrant atmosphere of the resort provide endless photo opportunities. Be mindful of other skiers and snowboarders.
The Santa Sunday event is a fantastic visual spectacle, with hundreds of Santas on the slopes, making for incredibly fun and memorable photos.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is typically restricted at ski resorts for safety reasons. It's best to check Sunday River's official policy regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the slopes, consider the unique Alpeniglu ice bar for a fun, albeit brief, experience, and don't miss the chance to witness or participate in the Santa Sunday event if your visit aligns with it – a truly memorable occasion for kids. Lodging options like condos with kitchenettes can also add convenience for families needing to prepare meals.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look into condo rentals or accommodations slightly further from the immediate resort base, which can sometimes offer more affordable rates than on-site hotels. Packing your own snacks and some meals can also help reduce dining costs.
+1💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
During the summer, the resort transforms into a scenic backdrop for hiking and biking, offering a different kind of romantic adventure. Many of the condo rentals provide a private, intimate setting with amenities like fireplaces and full kitchens, perfect for a quiet retreat.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Lodging at Sunday River: Jordan Hotel vs. Grand Summit
The Grand Summit Hotel, on the other hand, is frequently mentioned in discussions about its location and amenities, particularly for families. While both hotels offer ski-in/ski-out access, the specific trails and convenience can vary. Travelers often compare the nightlife and après-ski options between the two, with both providing access to resort dining and entertainment.
For those seeking a more secluded or private experience, condos and vacation rentals are also available near Sunday River, offering amenities like full kitchens and living spaces, ideal for groups or families. These can provide a home-away-from-home feel, though they might require a short drive or shuttle ride to the main resort base areas.
Experiencing the Alpeniglu: More Than Just an Ice Bar
+1Beyond the drinks, the Alpeniglu provides a cozy atmosphere with outdoor fire pits and Adirondack chairs, perfect for warming up and socializing. For those who want an even more exclusive experience, the resort offers an après-ski package that includes a snow cat ride to the igloo at night. This elevates the visit from a simple stop to an adventurous journey.
+1It's important to note that the Alpeniglu is open from 10 am to 4 pm, with last call occurring 40 minutes before the last chair on the Jordan 8 lift. While it's a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders, non-riders can also access it, making it a versatile destination for various visitors looking for a distinctive mountain experience.
Navigating Sunday River for All Skiing Levels
Intermediate skiers will find a good selection of blue trails, offering more challenging terrain without being overly daunting. Advanced skiers and snowboarders can tackle the resort's double black diamond runs, which are often manageable even during less-than-ideal conditions. The resort's commitment to grooming ensures that trails are well-maintained, providing a consistent experience across different skill levels.
Even when conditions are icy, as noted by some visitors, the resort's layout and trail design allow skiers to feel comfortable and confident. The availability of ski-in/ski-out condos can be a great convenience, but it's wise to check the specific trail access for these properties, as getting back to them might sometimes be more challenging than skiing out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit