Best Family Ski Area Sunlight Mountain Resort Only 10 miles from Glenwood Springs, Sunlight Mountain Resort appeals to families in need of mostly mellow slopes and affordable lift ticket prices.

With few lifts and a map that an 8-year-old can read, you can all go skiing or snowboarding on 2,010 vertical feet of mostly beginner and intermediate trails. You won't find high-speed, detachable quad chairlifts, but you will find an unpretentious, friendly environment.

And the lift ticket prices have held for years ($32 for adults, $20 for children 13 and under).

Sunlight provides all the necessary amenities despite its small size. There are even some ski-in, ski-out accommodations — Brettelberg Condominiums, (800) 634-0481.

After a chilly day on the slopes, you can't miss a chance to go swimming in the hot springs pool in downtown Glenwood. After a chilly day on the slopes, nothing feels better than slipping through a veil of steam into the 104-degree hydrotherapy pool, especially on a snowy night. However, tiptoeing across the frozen concrete from the lockers can be a shock to one's system! Children absolutely love the mystical experience of swimming outdoors in winter and will beg you to come back every night you stay in town. Fees are $8.75 for adults and teens, $5.75 for children 3-12. Information: (970) 945-7131.

For more information on Sunlight Mountain Resort, call (800) 445-7931 or visit www.sunlightmtn.com.

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