Snowboarders and skiers are welcome at Sundown Mountain Resort west of Dubuque. Photo: Travel Dubuque
Writer: Beth Eslinger
Been craving a day or weekend in the snow but not ready to head to the mountains? Give Sundown Mountain Resort a try. Located just west of Dubuque, the scenic resort is an easy, convenient getaway to give your turns a tuneup.
This season, which runs through March 7, visitors can purchase passes and rentals in advance and also order food to-go for social distancing. The runs—which include a 475-foot drop—are suited for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, with a majority tagged beginner and intermediate. Lessons are also available.
Snowboarders can practice tricks at the two terrain parks. All 21 trails are open, and there’s a solid snow base (the resort also has snow-making). And unlike resorts in the west, there’s night skiing—Friday nights are open until midnight.
Find stay-and-ski packages at several area hotels, including Hotel Julian Dubuque (yes, there’s a spa, dining and the Riverboat Lounge for an apres-ski cocktail).