An improved lighted rail system is provided in the present invention. In one embodiment, the lighted rail system includes a rail member having a plurality of spindle-receiving holes formed in a first side, at least one wire routed through the rail member; and a plurality of light elements coupled to the wire. In another embodiment, a rail member utilized in a lighted rail system includes an upper portion of a rail member having a conduit formed therein, a spindle-receiving portion configured to receive a spindle, a spindle stop formed in the rail member separating the conduit from the spindle-receiving portion, and a lighting system disposed in the rail member.