Family Ski Resort Guide | Sundance Mountain Resort

Steeped in legend and history, Sundance Mountain Resort got its start in 1944 thanks to the hard work of the Stewarts, a family of Scottish immigrants who homesteaded in the area. The small ski resort, dubbed Timp Haven, was run by the Stewart family until the land was purchased by a relatively unknown actor and aspiring producer/director, Robert Redford in 1969. Redford renamed the resort Sundance after the role he played in the 1969 film, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. For a historical deep dive on Sundance, check out our history article here.

Redford envisioned a community where artists would flock and nature could take center stage. Today, the mission to foster cultural arts is manifested in the spirit and atmosphere of the Sundance Resort. Revel in the beauty of the ski area, nestled among the foothills of Utah’s second tallest mountain, Mount Timpanogos. Ample terrain suiting any ability level can be found on the slopes of Sundance.

Families can plan a weekend retreat and take advantage of the many classes and workshops available through the Sundance Art Studio. With the philosophy “Food as Art”, fine dining options also abound at Sundance. After hours, adults will appreciate the character, tantalizing cocktails and live musical acts at the Sundance Owl Bar. Make time to schedule a treatment at the world-class Sundance Spa or enjoy a casual, yet gourmet meal at the Sundance Deli. 

Sundance is the perfect place to settle in and immerse your family in the most inspired aspects of mountain living. Indulge in luxurious meals and spa treatments, book a cabin and explore the whole mountain. A visit to Sundance allows families to connect in a stunning natural setting while relishing the spirit of the Old West and appreciating the fine arts.

Sundance Mountain is located off Highway 189 in Provo Canyon just east of Provo, Utah. Approximate driving times (in favorable driving conditions) and distances are listed below:
Provo: 15 miles – 25 minutes 
Salt Lake City: 50 miles – 1 hour
Ogden: 86 miles – 1.5 hours
Logan: 130 miles – 2 hours, 10 minutes
St. George: 280 miles – 4 hours


In a 5th Grader’s Words:
“Whether you’re on your 20th year or your first, whether you’re an expert or just beginning, Sundance has something for everyone.”
- Fisher, age 11

TERRAIN & MOUNTAIN STATS

Skiable Acres: 450 Acres
Vertical Drop: 2,150 Feet
Number of Runs: 44
Terrain: 35% Beginner, 45% Intermediate, 20% Advanced, Terrain Park, Nordic Center
Chairlifts: 5 and 1 Handle Tow
Night Skiing: Yes, 4:30-9:00 PM on Mon, Wed, Fri, and Sat—Click here for info
Deals for Kids: Children 5 and younger earn a free pass

New for 2021-2022!
Big changes are coming to Sundance for the future. The old Ray's lift faces retirement and Sundance spent the summer of 2021 constructing two new lifts, adding 125-150 parking spaces, renovating the Creekside Lodge and expanding snowmaking in hopes of extending the season. A new high-speed quad will transport guests from the base area to the Mandan Summit in just 7 minutes with a mid-station for intermediate guests to offload. A second fixed-grip quad was installed to transport guests from the backside of Mandan Summit. 

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Sundance resort lies in the foothills along the northeastern slopes of the awesome Mount Timpanogos. Sundance contains two base villages, the Lower Village and overflow parking in the Upper Village. The Lower Village is the best place to access ski school, beginner terrain, and the Handle Tow lift. The bulk of the mountain’s facilities are also located in the Lower Village. Each village is equipped with lift tickets, ski and snowboard rentals and bathroom facilities.

Sundance contains enough terrain options to keep all ability levels entertained. For those just getting started or taking lessons, start from the Lower Village and warm up on the Handle Tow. The lower, front side of the mountain is best for locating the gentlest terrain. Both blue and green runs can be accessed via the main lift, adjacent to the Handle Tow. Navajo Cat Track to the Outlaw Trail to Stampede encompasses the easier terrain off the high-speed quad. Note that there are two unloading stations on quad, it’s best to unload at the first station if you are just learning. Jake’s Lift, which can be accessed from the Upper Village, also offers great blue and green runs for beginners and intermediates.

Kids will most enjoy the Outlaw Trail featuring Wild West themed props for kids to ski through or around. For a peek at the Outlaw Trail and more from a kids perspective, watch Growing a Skier at Sundance.

Continuing on the high speed quad past the first unloading station, the lift deposit guests at the top of Mandan summit. Heading on to the terrain below, guests will discover Red’s Lift which accesses the bulk of Sundance’s seldom crowded expert terrain. You’ll find sweeping groomers, tree runs, and one of the best powder stashes in the state, Shauna’s Secret in the Far East area. From the top of Red’s Lift, you’ll find the Bearclaw Cabin and a handful of wide, steep bowls that collect excellent powder in addition to long, satisfying groomer and mogul runs. The Flathead Lift also provides a gateway to black diamond terrain and Grizzly Bowl.

Sundance maintains one freestyle terrain park with small jumps, kickers, wooden boxes, metal rails, and a quarter pipe. Locate the terrain park via the Outlaw run. A natural halfpipe can be found at the bottom of Bishop’s Bowl, a run called Pipeline.

The majority of the front side terrain is available for night skiing on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 4:30 to 9:00 PM. A wide variety of ticketing options are available to suit guests interested in night skiing—click here for more info.

If you have family members that prefer not to downhill ski or snowboard, you can still show them a fantastic time at Sundance. The mountain offers a Nordic Center with cross country skiing rentals, lessons and snowshoeing. The Sundance Winter Zip Tour provides a high-adrenaline experience with nearly two miles of zip line and a 2,100-foot vertical drop! There are art classes as well as winter fly fishing lessons. At Sundance, there is something for just about everyone.

Restrooms for skiers and snowboarders are located in the Upper Village, the Lower Village, and at the top of Red’s Lift in the Bearclaw Cabin.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

For current driving and road conditions, call: 801-223-4545

In winter months, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) runs a daily service along the 880 route with stops in Provo and Orem to and from Sundance. This useful service eliminates the need to drive up Provo Canyon and ensures a speedy and convenient drop off. Daily service begins in mid-December and winds down by March 1st. Throughout the month of March, bus service is offered on weekends and holidays through March 30th. For more information, please see our complete guide to riding the Ski Bus.

BASE AREA & MAIN LODGE

Most of the amenities at Sundance Resort are located in the Lower Village. This is the best place for families to park and enjoy the day at Sundance. Here you can purchase lift tickets, book a variety of activities, enjoy several dining options, visit the Ski & Snowboard School, luxuriate with a spa treatment, and locate the rental and gift shops.

In the Upper Village, you will find an additional rental shop, Sundance Mountain Outfitters 2.0 and ticketing.

A list of amenities at the Lower Village include:

• Winter Sundance Zip Line Tour
• Fly Fishing center
• Dining options include the Tree Room, Foundry Grill, Owl Bar, and the Sundance Deli/Grocery
• General Store
• Nordic Center
• Art Studio
• Movie Screening Room & Rehearsal Hall
• The Spa at Sundance
• Guest Reception & Lodging
• The Creekside Building: Sundance Mountain Outfitters (demo, rental, and ski shop), day lockers, complimentary ski storage for lodge guests, Activity Desk, Ski & Snowboard School, and Administration
• Ticketing Office
• High-speed quad lift & the Handle Tow
• 2 parking lots (additional overflow parking located at the Upper Village)
  
  

SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL

Sundance Ski and Snowboard School is based out of the Creekside Building in the Lower Village. Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available for ages four and up. Reservations must be made in advance to guarantee lesson availability. Lift tickets and equipment rental are not included in lesson pricing, however discounted tickets are available upon lesson check-in. Children 5 and under ski free and kids aged 3-4 are required to enroll in private lessons. Lessons are available in half-day or full-day blocks. Sundance also offers nordic skiing lessons.

Private Lessons
Private lessons for skiers and snowboarders are available in full-day (5-hour) and half-day (3-hour) blocks. Kids aged 3-4 are required to book private lessons.

Group Lessons for Children
Group Ski lessons for older children are offered for ages 8 to 12. Lessons are offered at 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM for either 2.5-hour or full-day lessons. Additional time slots will be added during peak periods.

Children's Outlaw Lessons
Outlaw Lessons are available in 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM sessions for children aged 6-7 in skiing and snowboarding. Additional time slots will be added during peak periods.

Adult Group Lessons
Group lessons for skiers and snowboarders 13 and older are offered daily at 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM in 2.5-hour or full-day sessions

Ladies' Day Clinics
Sundance offers a variety of clinics and sessions for women to help with lesson progression in a positive setting. Visit Sundance’s website to view current offerings—click here.

SKI SHOP & EQUIPMENT RENTALS

Sundance Mountain Outfitters
Located in the Creekside Building at the main Sundance Lower Village, Sundance Mountain Outfitters offers both rentals and demos for guests in addition to many items of gear and great gifts. High-end skis and snowboards are available for rent and a full-service repair shop can tune or repair equipment. An additional location, Sundance Mountain Outfitters 2.0, can be found near the Upper Village next to Jake’s Lift.

Rental packages are available and will include skis, boots, and poles or a snowboard with bindings and boots. Rental options are also available for those with their own boots.

The General Store
If you’re looking for Sundance logo gear, unusual gifts that reflect the Sundance spirit, jewelry, or beautiful art, look no further than The General Store in the Creekside Building. Much of the clothing features organic fabric and the store strives to feature upcycled arts and crafts from local and global artisans.

LODGING AND DINING OPTIONS

For easy access to the slopes, lodging options abound at Sundance. The exemplary lodging features cozy, western décor, luxurious and comfortable furnishings as well as eco-friendly touches that showcase Sundance’s commitment to preserving a bit of balance in mountain living. Lofts, standard rooms, and suites can be reserved for a weekend away. Entire mountain homes can also be rented, featuring options from 2 to 7 bedrooms. Be sure to investigate Sundance’s website, as they often run lodging specials and packages. All Sundance Resort Rooms and Suites can be booked directly by phone or through their website.

There are many private homes around Sundance resort that are often available as vacation rentals. Inexpensive lodging or motels can be located nearby in Provo.

For its size, Sundance offers a huge variety of casual and fine dining options suitable for a quick bite, family fun, romance, or a fancy night out.

Don’t miss the famous Sundance suckers; kids love the endless flavors and they are a Sundance staple. Purchase them at the Sundance Deli.

NEW for 2021-2022! The upper level of the Creekside building will be expanded for diners with added tables and chairs for patrons to dine.

Creekside Café
The easiest place to grab a bite, the Creekside Cafe is conveniently located near the base of the ski slope and offers a menu of sandwiches, soups, and beverages on the go. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.

Sundance Deli
Located in the heart of the Lower Village, the Deli fashions made-to-order sandwiches, salads, baked goods, and smoothies. Delicious espresso and coffee is available in addition to a handful of breakfast options. Limited indoor seating is situated near the counter.





Bearclaw Cabin
The best dining on the mountain can be discovered at the top of Red’s Lift in the mountaintop Bearclaw Cabin. Enjoy fast mountain food and stunning 360-degree views of Mount Timpanogos and Utah Valley below. The fare is Mexican themed, though salads are available. Note that there are few easy runs down from the Bearclaw Cabin, so this dining option is for intermediate to advanced skiers.

Foundry Grill
The Foundry Grill whips up breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a charming atmosphere that conjures images of the western frontier. The seasonal menu showcases regional flavor honed by the cooking techniques used in the open “Foundry” kitchen. Sunday brunch at the Foundry is not to be missed by anyone who appreciates a good meal. The Foundry Grill is a great option for a nice sit-down lunch or dinner.

Tree Room
If a weekend of romance is on the itinerary, then the Tree Room is the best place to celebrate love over dinner. This romantic restaurant features beautiful Native American art from Robert Redford’s private collection and has won many awards in excellence. The menu features fresh and seasonal mountain cuisine crafted by renowned chefs and acoustic acts that can often be enjoyed in the perfectly cultivated atmosphere. Reservations are recommended and children under the age of 12 are not permitted to dine at the Tree Room.

The Owl Bar
Opening in the afternoons, the Owl Bar is the heart of the après scene at Sundance. Patrons must be 21-years or older to enjoy the cozy atmosphere, tantalizing cocktail menu and live acts from local and national musicians. The Owl Bar has a limited but tempting menu of appetizers, salads, and larger entrees.

CHILDCARE

Childcare is available for Sundance lodging guests. Reputable childcare providers can be booked through the concierge to come and provide childcare in the family’s hotel or lodge room.

POINTS OF INTEREST

For a memorable visit, consider these unique points of interest when planning a trip to Sundance Mountain Resort.

Rockwell Old Fashioned Ice Cream Co.
If there is one thing Utah does well, it’s ice cream and Provo’s Rockwell Ice Cream Company is a must-taste. Inspired by the old-fashioned ice cream parlors of yore, Rockwell’s whips up their ice cream with less air and 16% butterfat. Swing by downtown Provo to satisfy the family with a lip-smacking good time and unique flavor selections.

Bridal Veil Falls
Near the mouth of Provo Canyon along Highway 180 lies the stunning double cataract Bridal Veil Falls, plunging 607 feet (185 meters) to the canyon’s floor. This waterfall is easily accessible via a trail adjacent to a large parking lot. The trail is open year-round, however, may be snow-covered in winter months. If it’s a particularly cold day, look for adventurous ice climbers scaling the frozen water formations.

Art Studio, Visiting Artists & Glassblowing Studio
When Robert Redford purchased the land that would become Sundance in 1969, he envisioned a community where artists would hone their creativity in the stunning mountain setting. Each Saturday, in the Art Studio, artists will give a live presentation of their work. Tour the gallery and meet the artists after you’re done exploring the slopes. If you’re craving fire, visit the Glassblowing Studio to watch artisans from Tlaquepaque, Mexico hand-blow gorgeous glass vessels from glass recycled onsite.


VISIT SUNDANCE'S WEBSITE & LEARN MORE - CLICK HERE


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