If you’ve never been snowing skiing at Sunrise Ski Resort, then you might not know what you’re missing. A lot of people erroneously believe that the entire state of Arizona is desert and have no idea that the peaks of the White Mountains reach well over 11,000 feet above sea level. The beauty and majesty of our mountains and the ski area are breathtakingly beautiful and until you experience it for yourself, you really have no idea what an incredible experience it is to ski Sunrise.

About Sunrise Park Resort

Arizona has two ski resorts; Sunrise is located in the northeastern area of the state, near Greer and just a few miles from Springerville (the closest small airport), in the White Mountains. The White Mountains are part of the Mogollon Rim, a jagged range of high mountains running horizontally across Arizona. Sunrise is situated atop the Colorado Plateau and consists of Sunrise, Cyclone and Apache Peaks, which start with a base height of 9,200 feet above sea level and soar up to 11,100 feet.

One thing many people don’t realize about Sunrise Ski Resort is that it is owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache tribe. When you ski at Sunrise, you are accessing the Fort Apache Indian Reservation and supporting the tribe and its members.

Snow Skiing At Sunrise

The snow skiing at Sunrise is considered alpine skiing. The vertical drop from the summit of Apache Peak is 1,800 feet – enough to challenge even experienced skiers. Out of all 65 trails at the ski park, 20 percent of them are considered expert. Novices and intermediate skiers have access to the remaining 80 percent of trails with 31 “easy” runs. The longest trail is just over a mile long. A total of 10 chairlifts will whisk you to the top of the runs at a total capacity of 16,000 skiers per hour.

The ski season at Sunrise is short, running from mid-December to March during a normal year. Don’t wait if you want to hit the slopes because before you know it, the opportunity will be lost. If you enjoy night skiing, look for the slopes to be open after dark in January and/or February, weather permitting.

If downhill skiing isn’t your thing, Sunrise Ski Park also offers cross-country trails and a snowboard terrain park. Non-skiers can enjoy a beverage at the Black Diamond Bar, located at the Sunrise Lodge, while waiting for their friends to get off the slopes. Of course, après ski, there are plenty of places to enjoy a good meal and beverage in Greer, Pinetop, Springerville or Show Low.

If you’re ready to head out to the slopes, don’t forget to stop in to Krissie’s first and get your lift tickets as well as rent the equipment you need. Don’t wait until you get to Hon Dah or Sunrise; our service, prices and selection are far better than what you’ll find on the reservation. Now get out there and have some fun snow skiing in Arizona!