Sunrise Park | Show Low

Sunrise Park Resort is Arizona’s largest ski and outdoor recreation resort, situated in the picturesque White Mountains near the small town of Greer. Owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe, the resort offers a broad spectrum of activities that make it a year-round destination for visitors seeking both winter sports and summer outdoor adventures.

Geography and Setting:
The resort is set across three major peaks-Sunrise Peak, Apache Peak, and Cyclone Circle-at elevations ranging from about 9,600 feet at the base to 11,100 feet at the summit. This high elevation provides reliable snow in winter and cool mountain air throughout the year. The surrounding forested landscape, dominated by mixed conifer and aspen trees, adds to the scenic appeal and natural beauty of the area.

Winter Activities:
Sunrise Park Resort is primarily known for its extensive skiing and snowboarding offerings. The resort features 65 trails spanning approximately 800 acres, making it the largest ski area in Arizona. Trails are well balanced to accommodate all levels of expertise: around 40% are beginner-friendly, 40% intermediate, and 20% designed for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders. The longest run, named “Lonestar,” stretches nearly 2.75 miles on Cyclone Circle, allowing for long, enjoyable descents. A vertical drop of 1,800 feet provides varied terrain and exciting downhill opportunities.

The resort is equipped with multiple ski lifts, including chairlifts and surface lifts, which efficiently transport visitors to the top of the runs. Night skiing is offered on select trails during certain days of the season, extending the skiing experience into the evening hours.

In addition to downhill skiing and snowboarding, Sunrise Park Resort provides groomed Nordic trails covering over 13 miles for cross-country skiing enthusiasts. This network allows guests to explore peaceful forest trails and enjoy the quieter side of winter recreation.

For family-friendly winter fun, the resort features snow tubing and sledding areas designed for all ages. These zones offer a less technical and highly entertaining alternative to skiing, making the resort accessible to everyone, including non-skiers.

Summer Activities:
When the snow melts, Sunrise Park Resort transforms into a hub for summer mountain activities. One of its signature offerings is downhill mountain biking, making it Arizona’s only lift-served mountain biking destination. There are 22 lift-served trails tailored to varying skill levels, from beginner to expert, giving riders the chance to enjoy adrenaline-pumping descents through forested mountain terrain.

Visitors can also enjoy scenic chairlift rides, providing stunning panoramic views of the White Mountains and the surrounding wilderness. These rides are popular for photography, sightseeing, and a relaxed way to experience the mountain environment.

Other summer amenities include a zip line tour that offers thrilling aerial views combined with an airbag jump attraction for safe, high-flying fun. The resort also hosts a 3D archery course and a disc golf course, appealing to guests looking for precision sports in a natural setting. Additionally, a tubing slide provides an exciting and family-friendly recreational option.

Accommodations and Facilities:
Sunrise Park Lodge serves as the central accommodation for visitors. The recently remodeled lodge offers a variety of rooms, including standard king and queen rooms, suites, and spacious cabins that can accommodate families or groups of up to ten guests. The lodge features modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, and a hot tub.

Dining options within the resort include several restaurants and bars. The Bigfoot Pub offers a casual atmosphere with a menu catering to both locals and visitors. The Rise n’ Shine Café provides breakfast and lunch with fresh, hearty meals, while the Black Diamond Steakhouse and Spirits offers a more upscale dining experience with steaks, seafood, and a full bar.

For visitors who prefer camping, the resort operates the Sunrise Campground, which accommodates both tents and RVs. The campground is equipped with basic facilities, and permits can be obtained online or at the nearby general store. Additional nearby camping spots managed by the White Mountain Apache Tribe include Hawley Lake, Big Bear Lake, Little Bear Lake, and Horseshoe Lake, all offering scenic spots surrounded by nature.

Access and Location:
Sunrise Park Resort is located on Highway 273 in Greer, Arizona, approximately 216 miles northeast of Phoenix. It’s accessible by car via scenic mountain roads, with the closest airports located in the nearby towns of Show Low, Springerville, and Whiteriver. The resort’s location deep in the White Mountains offers a tranquil retreat far from urban centers, with abundant opportunities to explore the surrounding national forest lands and tribal areas.

Summary:
Sunrise Park Resort is a comprehensive mountain destination, providing Arizona’s premier skiing and snowboarding terrain along with extensive summer outdoor activities. Its combination of well-maintained facilities, diverse terrain, and cultural significance as a tribal enterprise makes it unique. Whether visiting for winter sports, mountain biking, family recreation, or simply to relax in a stunning mountain setting, Sunrise Park Resort delivers a memorable experience in the heart of Arizona’s White Mountains.