Sunday River

About Sunday River

Known for its dependable snow, Sunday River boasts some of the most diverse terrain in the Eastern United States. Spread across eight interconnected mountain peaks, the resort has 870 skiable acres and 135 trails. The slopes are accessed by a modern lift system consisting of 18 lifts which include four high-speed quads and the only Chondola—half high-speed six person lift, half gondola—in New England. The resort's state-of-the-art snowmaking system ensures excellent conditions throughout the season. Sunday River’s sprawling terrain is divided over eight peaks, all of which are easy to navigate with terrain for every level of skier or snowboarder.

This Maine resort has the most slopeside lodging in the East, so all of its impressive terrain is very accessible no matter where you stay. Choose from hundreds of ski in, ski out condominiums, all conveniently located around the resort and ranging in size from studios to three-bedroom units. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, and ice skating, or unwind at the Jordan Spa. The vibrant après-ski scene includes numerous bars and restaurants, providing a lively atmosphere to recount the best lines of the day. Sunday River's commitment to family-friendly experiences is evident through its excellent ski school and kid-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for families.

Accessing Sunday River is convenient, with Portland International Jetport and Boston Logan International Airport offering easy access within a few hours' drive. Free public shuttles provide access to the vast number of dining, shopping and activity options both at the resort and in the nearby village of Bethel. The resort offers a unique and exhilarating experience, combining the thrill of the slopes with the charm of a quintessential New England ski village.

How to get to Sunday River

Reaching Sunday River Resort is easy with direct access from Portland International Jetport and Boston Logan International Airport. Shuttle services and car rentals are available at both airports. Your Mountain Travel Expert can get you hooked up with the best deal.

Sunday River Resort offers a complimentary shuttle service. The shuttle connects the main village, South Ridge, and other key locations, ensuring seamless access to all resort amenities and activities.

Skiing in Sunday River

Renowned in the East, Sunday River’s White Cap—the peak on looker’s left side of the resort—is known for its more difficult terrain and is the place to go for steeps, glades. “White Heat,” which is located just below the White Cap chairlift, is the resort’s infamous bump run. Obsession is also a favorite on White Cap and features lots of rolls and variations in pitch.

Lockee Mountain, Sunday River’s original peak, is mostly blue and includes favorites like Monday Morning, Cascades and Sunday Patch. It’s also where jibbers and freestylers will find the Superpipe and the Rocking Chair terrain park. Barker Mountain, Spruce Peak, Aurora Peak, Oz and even Jordan Bowl all feature green runs from their summit, allowing beginner skiers the opportunity to explore a significant chunk of Sunday River’s terrain.

Sunday River is a great place to dig your edges in and get a grip as a beginner skier. There are several moving carpets and dedicated practice spots. You’ll be able to practice your turns without speed demons whizzing by and skewing your focus. South Ridge features a range of gentle, wide trails that are perfect to learn how to really link your turns. The terrain is forgiving, making it ideal for practicing turns and gaining confidence. A quieter area with fewer crowds, Sunny Spruce provides a chill and safe environment for beginners. The terrain is mild and perfect for skiers looking to practice their skills in a more secluded setting. Expert Skiing in Sunday River:

Known for its varied terrain, Barker Mountain offers intermediate trails like Ecstasy, which provide a mix of moderate steeps and gentle rollers. Aurora Peak is home to a range of intermediate runs such as Northern Lights and Paradigm. These trails offer long, scenic descents with plenty of space to enjoy the views. Featuring trails like Risky Business, Spruce Peak is ideal for intermediate skiers seeking a combination of steeper pitches and open cruisers. The terrain here offers a bit of everything, making it a fan favorite.

If you’re an expert and looking for a challenge, look no further than White Cap. Home to the legendary White Heat trail, White Cap provides some of the most challenging terrain at Sunday River. White Heat is a double black diamond run known for its steep and mogul-filled slopes, demanding expert skill and precision. Oz is a thrill seeker's paradise, featuring some of the toughest double diamond trails and glades. Trails like Lost Princess and Flying Monkey provide challenging descents through tight trees and steep pitches, perfect for advanced skiers. Known for its breathtaking views of Mt. Washington, Jordan Bowl offers expert terrain such as Rogue Angel and Blind Ambition. These trails are designed to test even the most seasoned skiers with their steep drops and varied snow conditions.

Family vacations in Sunday River

Sunday River is where kids rule on the East Coast. The resort meticulously organizes all activities with a focus on family-centric experiences. For a memorable family getaway, take your kids through the Enchanted forest and find the secret Yeti cabin. (You can pick up an enchanted trail map from the ski school.) Families can also enjoy fat biking on select trails, snowshoeing through well-marked trails, and renting Sno-Go Skibikes for a unique on-snow experience.

The resort also features twilight skiing, fireworks, and fire dancers for evening entertainment. Kids will love meeting Eddy & Betty the Yeti’s on the slopes and participating in activities like the Après Aglow winter trail and slopeside fireworks shows. Enjoy cozy apres-ski activities like hot cocoa and making s’mores over a fire in the village. Off the mountain, explore downtown Bethel with its cross-country ski trails, bowling alley, movie theater, and Maine Mineral Museum for even more family fun.