Sundance Resort Journal

Embrace the Season at the Sundance Harvest Market

As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisp, the Sundance Harvest Market emerges as a cherished tradition, celebrating the bounty of the season for over two decades. This year, on September 23-24, we invite you to join us in the heart of Utah's stunning landscape for a remarkable weekend filled with art, nature, and community. Experience the best of Utah fall activities, indulge in culinary delights, find unique treasures, and be serenaded by live music amidst the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds us. It's a celebration of art, nature, and community that you won't want to miss. See you at the Harvest Market!

Mountaintop Moments on Mandan Summit

For the visitor who wants a true mountaintop experience at Sundance, Mandan Summit stands as a testament to nature's grandeur and human ingenuity. Since the construction of the Outlaw chairlift in 2021, this accessible peak has become a sought-after destination at Sundance Resort, elevating the guest experience to new heights, both literally and figuratively. One of the standout features of Mandan Summit is its unrivaled views of two iconic natural wonders: Mount Timpanogos and Stewart Falls.  Sitting at an impressive elevation of over 7000 feet, Mandan Summit offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to bask in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape. Guests have referred to it as a place where you can almost feel like you're receiving a warm embrace from the mountain itself, as the views stretch out in all directions, providing an awe-inspiring panorama of the Sundance area, the canyon below, and the majestic Utah mountains that dominate the horizon.

A Mountain Biker’s Dream

If you're a fan of Utah mountain biking, we’ve got some thrilling news for you. After a hiatus of a couple of years due to the construction of the new lift, the much-awaited new mountain biking trails off the Wildwood Lift area are now open, offering an exciting opportunity for enthusiasts to reconnect with the beauty of the mountains and experience a fresh adrenaline rush. These trails, which have remained untouched and unutilized during the construction phase, are a welcome addition for both intermediate and experienced riders!

Sundance x Steven Nyman

Over the years, Sundance Mountain Resort has had the privilege of being a nurturing ground for many stories, passions, and dreams. Among these, the journey of Steven Nyman, who was recently named one of the 50 Most Interesting Athletes, may be one of our best testaments to the enduring partnership between mountain athletes and our beloved landscape. From his formative years spent exploring the woods and slopes to his illustrious skiing career and recent retirement, Steven Nyman's story is woven intricately with the fabric of Sundance's ethos.

Reinventing the Camping Experience

We’re unbelievably thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Snow Peak with a shared vision: to redefine camping and create an outdoor experience that blends hospitality with nature. Both Sundance and Snow Peak are passionate about showcasing the beauty of the great outdoors while ensuring comfort and accessibility for all. At the core of this collaboration is the belief that nature should take center stage, aligning seamlessly with Sundance's commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the mountains. Our goal is to design camping experiences that are not only comfortable but also deeply rooted in the wilderness, providing guests with an opportunity to reconnect with nature in an immersive yet controlled manner.

Host Your Next Corporate Event at Sundance

Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of Utah's Wasatch Mountains, Sundance offers a unique blend of nature, serenity, and world-class facilities, making it an ideal choice for hosting corporate gatherings. Inspire and stimulate creativity and growth in your company by providing your employees with an event package tailored to your group’s needs. From flexible meeting spaces, to world class catering, to team building activities on and off the mountain, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better corporate meeting space than Sundance Mountain Resort.

Introducing Bluebird Bands

Spurred on by the high demand for the Bluebird Cafe, we’re proud to introduce our new outdoor music experience: Bluebird Bands. We’ve partnered again with the Bluebird Cafe to bring some of Nashville’s best bands to the Sundance stage.  Our Bluebird Cafe series is traditionally an acoustic show, but Bluebird Bands will be a full band, plugged in concert experience. Some of the best musicians in Nashville will be coming to the resort to perform their own catalog of songs at the Sundance Theatre on Sundays, starting with the Stephen Kellogg Band on September 3rd. 

From Wild West Saloon to a Cozy Sundance Staple

The fascinating history of the Owl Bar dates back to the 1890s, when it was originally located in Thermopolis, Wyoming. The original Rosewood Bar served as a watering hole for cowboys and other travelers, including Butch Cassidy’s Hole in the Wall Gang. A century later, Robert Redford brought it to Sundance to restore it and turn it into the Owl Bar, where the bar and bar back are still originals from the 1890s. One of the things that sets the Owl Bar apart from other bars is its unique ambiance. The dimly lit interior, combined with the crackling of the fireplace and the soft sounds of live music, creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a drink or a meal with friends and family. The bar also features a number of unique touches, including photos of the original Butch Cassidy and his gang, as well as images of Robert Redford’s adaptation of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Experience Sundance’s Newest Treasure: Pahneekahvets Trail

One of the most breathtaking experiences guests can enjoy at Sundance during the summer months is to simply explore the untouched beauty of Provo canyon on foot. Within the pristine natural playground of our land lies our newest hidden gem, Pahneekahvets Trail — a hiker's paradise waiting to be discovered! Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a nature enthusiast seeking a peaceful escape, Pahneekahvets Trail promises to enchant you with its awe-inspiring scenery and invigorating outdoor experience.  The story of Provo valley begins with its earliest inhabitants, the Noochew Ute, and specifically the Toompahnahwach (Mouth of the Headwaters) band of the Ute Indian Tribe. The Sundance area was not a permanent home to the Ute, due to the extreme winter conditions. They would use this area in the summer months, however, to hunt and gather plant foods and medicinal herbs — some of which you can still see along the trail today. 

Fly Fishing at Sundance

Guests can choose from a variety of guided fishing trips, from half-day to full-day excursions, that are tailored to both beginners and experienced anglers. The guides are knowledgeable about the local waters and can help visitors select the best flies and techniques for catching fish. They also provide all the necessary gear, including rods, reels, and waders. With almost four thousand fish per mile, the Provo River should be on any experienced angler’s bucket list! Spend a day with a world-class guide who can take you to water that will test your ability and give you stories to tell for years to come. Utah’s waters are relatively unknown, and even the most seasoned anglers will be blown away by the adventures that await on the Provo River.

Celebrating a Sundance Hero

Jerry showed up to his first day at Sundance (Timp Haven at the time) in 1968 wearing skis that were too long and boots that were too small. Nothing could stop him from navigating (and eventually mastering) the slopes though. Once he got the hang of things (and the right size of boots and skis), he went on to become a professional ski instructor. Throughout his 50+ year career, Jerry served in several other capacities including Sundance’s Director of Mountain Operations, and was the first Assistant Director of Snowbird’s ski school when the resort opened in 1971. Today we honor the decades of impact he made not just on the Sundance community, but on the ski industry as a whole, as we wish him a happy (and very well earned) retirement.

Classes at the Sundance Art Studio

The arts have always been the cornerstone of Sundance, and our Art Studio is a unique offering at the resort that you won’t find in most other places. Nestled underneath Mount Timpanogos, the Art Studio offers a creative outlet for guests to design their own works of art. The gallery portion of the studio displays work of talented local artists — a new artist and medium is showcased every month. One of the standout features of the Art Studio, however, is the variety of art classes and workshops that are offered. Art Studio Classes are a 2 hour experience where guests learn a craft, then create a piece themselves, taking away a lasting memory of their Sundance visit. Our wide variety of single-session workshops include jewelry making, wheel-thrown pottery, journal making, soapmaking, watercolor, acrylic painting, printmaking and drawing. Each of our classes are taught by experienced instructors who provide guidance and support every step of the way.

Shopping at Sundance

After a long day of mountain adventure, a little bit of shopping can be a nice way to unwind. Whether you're looking for something special to remember your visit by, Sundance clothing, locally made products, or outdoor gear, we have a variety of shopping experiences to meet all your needs. The most popular shopping stop at Sundance is the General Store, the birthplace of the Sundance Catalog, located in the heart of the resort. The store features an extensive collection of Sundance-branded clothing and accessories, perfect for anyone who wants to take a little bit of mountain magic home with them! Additionally, visitors can purchase handmade jewelry, unique gifts, and various other locally made products.

Unforgettable Sundance Stays

Choosing the right accommodations is a key component of planning your mountain vacation. Whether you’re looking for an intimate couples retreat, a family-friendly cabin, or girls get-aways, Sundance lodging options are sure to exceed your expectations.  Indulge in luxurious accommodations and soak in the stunning views from your private cabin or suite. From cozy fireplaces to comfortable furnishings, our lodging is designed to make you feel right at home. One of the most unique and desirable aspects of visiting Sundance is the ability to feel secluded and immersed in nature, no matter where you stay.

Dining at Bearclaw Cabin

If you’re looking for a restaurant with a view during your visit to Sundance, you won’t find a better option than our famous Bearclaw Cabin. A true mountaintop dining experience, Bearclaw is the only mountaintop lodge in the state of Utah, giving you 360-degree views of Utah and Heber Valleys, as well as the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. Take a break from your ski day to enjoy tacos, burritos, nachos and drinks with your friends at the top of the mountain.

Treat Yourself to the Spa at Sundance

Experience healing and restoration during your Sundance visit with one of our many customizable spa services. Nestled in the Mandan Cabins above the main base, the Sundance Spa is another level of escape – a place for you to unplug, unwind, and restore balance and wellness in your mind and body. Our therapists are experienced, tenured, and trained in multiple modalities. Committed to the healing experience our spa offers guests, most of our therapists have been with us for many years. In fact, one of them has been at Sundance for over 25 years! Our customized massages are designed to maintain balance and wellness throughout the year, and can be tailored to your body’s specific needs.

Join Us for the Sundance Film Festival

Storytelling has always been the soul of Sundance, and visiting the resort during the Sundance Film Festival is one of the most unique experiences you can have here on the mountain. When Robert Redford bought the land we enjoy at Sundance today, the dream was always to build a community committed to the balance of art and nature. Every January, we get to celebrate that dream realized during the film festival.

Skiing Sundance Over the Years

Backed up against 12,000ft Mount Timpanogos, visitors will be hard pressed to find a more stunning natural setting than Sundance. Thoughtful design that keeps the natural scenery at the forefront of our guests' experience sets Sundance apart from other ski areas that are more geared towards development than nature.

New Terrain This Season

With 5 beginner runs, 4 intermediate runs, and 1 advanced run, there’s new Sundance Resort ski terrain for every level of experience this season. Access our 10 new runs via a 7 minute ride up our brand new Wildwood lift at the top of Jake’s. The new terrain sits on a south-facing portion of the mountain, so it’s a great place to ski in the mornings if you’re looking to stay warm!

Savor the Stay

Our philosophy is that food is art, and every culinary adventure on the mountain brims with beauty and passion. Fine dining is integrated with nature in a captivating and unforgettable way at each of our restaurants at the resort, and we’re particularly fond of our fireside options during the winter months!

Get Married on the Mountain

Begin your marriage surrounded by the magic of the Wasatch Mountains! With nearly 5000 acres of enchanting wilderness beneath Utah's Mount Timpanogos, Sundance is the perfect setting to take your vows.

Season Passes at Sundance

Ski all season long, any day, as many times as you want – the power is in your hands to write your Sundance story. Our RFID enabled passes get you on the slopes as efficiently and smoothly as possible, so you can worry less about fumbling through your pockets and more about that perfect moment of silence when you sit on the lift and are carried up the mountain to the blissful adventure that follows.

Mountain Biking at Sundance

Join us on the mountain for over 25 miles of lift-serviced trails! Mountain biking at Sundance has traditionally been best suited for intermediate or experienced riders, but we are pleased to announce that we’ve added novice trails to the Sundance mountain biking experience this year.

Introducing the Sundance S-Card

Winter is coming, and it’s time to start planning your adventures to Sundance for fresh powder, clean air, and stunning views. With 50 runs across 500 acres of mountain, there is exciting terrain for every level of experience at Sundance Mountain Resort.

Stories & Songs with Nashville’s Best

We’re honored to be celebrating 20 years of partnership with Nashville’s famous Bluebird Cafe this year at Sundance Mountain Resort. The Bluebird has long been a monument of country music, perhaps most famously known as the place where artists like Garth Brooks, Dierks Bentley, Keith Urban, and Taylor Swift got their start.

Music on the Mountain

Every summer, we love to bring the arts to the forefront with our free music events on the lawn, to celebrate and inspire our community. These family-friendly live music nights are a great way to get outside with your kids and loved ones for a memorable summer evening.

Sundance Summer Theatre Presents a Magical New Experience

If you’re planning a visit to our family resort in Utah this summer, don’t miss your opportunity to experience the Summer Theatre — a Sundance tradition since 1970! Set beneath the shadow of magnificent Mt. Timpanogos, a show in our outdoor theater is a family-friendly activity like no other.

Mountain Adventures for the Whole Family

When you’re looking for a family friendly resort in Utah, activities are everything. Shared experiences are the building blocks of childhood memories, and Sundance Mountain Resort is brimming with magic and adventure for families of all ages. The best way to experience the mountain? Get out and explore it!

Dinner With a View

Whether you’re staying with us on the mountain or you're a frequent local visitor with a craving for excellent barbecue in Utah county, don’t miss your chance to visit The Lookout! Reinvented from the original Creekside Cafe, this restaurant with a view serves up delectable mountain barbecue alongside sweeping views of the Wasatch. 

Robert Redford Tells the Story of Sundance

Robert Redford tells the story of Sundance in this beautiful video.

Sundance Ticket to Zen

Sundance earns a spot in the Daily Burn's list of top 10 wellness hotels!

Remembering “The Movie”

Robert Redford's film adaptation of a 1976 story is still stealing hearts.

Family Fun on Two Wheels

*Guest post by Susan Strayer, from Mountain Mom and Tots “They lied. This is isn’t the easiest way down!” My…

Romance at Sundance

*Guest post by Susan Strayer, from Mountain Mom and Tots In July, my husband and I celebrated our thirteenth wedding…

Red’s Lift

After more than 30 years of service on the back mountain, Arrowhead Lift was retired and replaced by Red’s Lift, named after the Redford family. This state-of-the-art chairlift opened for…

Mountain Tops, Forest Trails and Waterfalls

*Guest post by Susan Strayer, from Mountain Mom and Tots As a resident at Sundance Mountain Resort, I’m lucky to…

JanuBuried!

Snowfall this January was unprecedented, with more than 130 inches of fresh powder fell on our slopes. The near-constant storms pushed base totals over 100″ for the first time in…

Skis as Art!

The Art Studio brought in five local artists and turned them loose on blank wooden ski silhouettes. We saw beautiful painting, woodburning, ink techniques from these talented artists who showed…

Tree Room Summer Menu

At Sundance, everything is art, especially the food! The Tree Room has been a mainstay of the Resort since its inception, and the restaurant was recently awarded a Forbes…

Sundance Logo Merchandise

This winter we rolled out a brand-new line of Sundance logo merchandise, including custom T’s and Sweatshirts, beanies, hats and classic leather work-ski gloves! Retro designs, unique colors and durable…

Silversmithing

It’s all about the process here at the Sundance Art Studio. Learn one of the oldest forms of jewelry making by creating your own ring, bracelet or pendant in the silversmithing class.