A ski vacation at Sunlight is a little gem of an experience. Tucked away in the Roaring Fork Valley, a few miles south of Glenwood Springs, this family-friendly resort offers fun and value at a fraction of the cost of bigger resorts like Vail or Breckenridge.
The mountain is located in the White River National Forest and boasts a 2,010 foot vertical, 250 inches of snowfall annually, and over 680 acres of groomers, intermediate slopes, and black diamond extreme terrain. Its summit on Compass Mountain catches spectacular views of majestic Mount Sopris and the surrounding Elk Mountains.
With over 72 trails, there is something for everyone at Sunlight Ski Area. All lead back to the lodge where you can stow your gear, meet up with friends and family, or eat something hot and delicious at the grill.
Almost all Sunlight’s terrain is mild, with some intermediate and black diamond challenges for the more advanced skier or snowboarder. The East Ridge, however, features some of Colorado’s steepest and most challenging lift-accessible terrain, including the Heathen, a 52-degree pitch that is one of the steepest in-bounds runs at any Colorado resort.
Center-Pole Double Chairs
It’s getting rarer to see a double chair in a North American ski resort, but the double chairs at Sunlight are still a great feature to have. They’re easy to load, and they rarely stop!
Ski and Ride School
If you are a beginner, Sunlight’s ski and ride instructors will help build your confidence with their lessons. PSIA and AASI certified instructors will teach you the basics of skiing and snowboarding at a lower price than the larger resorts.
The Learn to Shine program is a great option, offering 3 days of lift tickets and rentals along with 2-hour lessons. These lessons are a great way to learn the basics and start enjoying the sport, even if you don’t want to take up racing or telemarking.
There are also a number of beginner trails on the mountain for you to practice your skills while learning the basics and gaining confidence. These gentle wandering greens are perfect for beginners who want to make progress and get big mountain views without taking on too much of the more difficult trails at Sunlight.
Lodging in Glenwood Spring
Stay close to the resort by booking a room at a local hotel or motel in nearby Glenwood Springs. Many of the local hotels offer shuttles to the ski area, so there is no need for a rental car.
Alternatively, you can book lodging in the town of Carbondale just 15 miles from Sunlight Mountain. Several hotels and cabins are located in this small community and you can choose from different styles to suit your budget.
You can also book a room at one of the beautiful vacation homes in the area, which provide a great place to relax and unwind after a day on the slopes. Whether you’re visiting Sunlight Ski Area for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, finding the right accommodations is important to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.