While winter scenes of fresh snow, sparkling sun, and blanketed trees are iconic for a ski trip, spring in Colorado may be better for one reason.
The alpen glow is the time of year when the sun sets later in the spring. It places a magical glow from the skies down to the runs. It dramatically boosts your energy on the hill. Skiing until 7 p.m. or later completes the cycle of a good season with a recharged view of next year. Ideal conditions, theme park lighting, and the mountain to yourself. Copper Mountain is the Athlete’s Mountain in Colorado. That might not be enough to convey the total alpine experience of the resort.
After Copper opened the spiffy Aerie, mid-mountain lodge, they added the alpen glow ski experience with late spring dates for this special event. For 2026, the Aerie Sunset Series gets flowing March 15 and March 21. The best of late-winter snow with that alpen glow ambiance.
Imagine top-to-bottom skiing with limited skiers. How about upscale dining, bar drinks, and entertainment at the same time? All while based at 10,000 feet with an incredible view of the continental divide. Private access and skiing on the American Eagle and Excelerator lifts max out the late day sliding fun. Terrain and lifts may change due to snow conditions; all terrain is blue, intermediate in ability.
It is best to arrive at Aerie at 3:30 p.m., head to the bar for signature drinks with altitude. The libation station is open from 3:31 to 6:44 p.m. This is one event where you want to get an early start.
Then on to the curated food options. Stations include roasted peach salad, braised short rib, shrimp gnocchi, and even desserts from the renowned Copper Bakeshop. Alpen glow meets Michelin dining.
Then, a run or two, come back in and get lively with the entertainment from a live band. There is no set agenda; blend and match as you like.
Because you take the gondola up to Aerie, this is also a great party time for the non-skier. At the end of the event, just ride the gondola back down.
Not skiing Copper Mountain and still want to get the alpen glow experience and stay the night? Then arrive earlier in the afternoon, and stay at the Cambria Hotel that night at the Copper base. This lodging recently underwent a total room upgrade; each room is very comfy and a short walk to the starting lift. A well-laid-out breakfast buffet for the morning after your alpen glow experience. And after the alpen glow, a long, hot tub with a view of the ski area.
No matter where you are skiing along the I-70 corridor or anywhere close, this is simply an event unlike any other.
There may not be a better way to end the ski season in Colorado.
