Park City said a final goodbye to the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, but the spirit of Sundance and founder Robert Redford’s legacy live on locally at Sundance Mountain Resort. In 1969, Redford purchased the land in Provo Canyon, at the base of Mount Timpanogos, that would ultimately become the storied sanctuary known as Sundance Resort.

At the time, the area was home to a small, family-run ski resort named Timp Haven, but Redford had plans for the area beyond just a ski resort. He envisioned a place where artists and creatives could commune in nature. As a dedicated environmentalist, he committed to “develop a little and preserve a lot” of the land. In 1981, it was here that Redford founded the nonprofit Sundance Institute, which ultimately led to the creation of the Sundance Film Festival.

Redford sold the resort in 2020 to a private equity firm, but his vision remains intact. Despite recent additions, including the new Inn, a new chairlift, and expanded ski terrain, the two-time Michelin Key-awarded property maintains its artsy, Western charm and low-key vibe. 

STAY

In January 2026, the Inn at Sundance Resort officially opened its doors, expanding the resort’s capacity and lodging options (before the Inn, only Sundance cottages or private rental homes were available for guests). The rustic-luxe hotel features 63 ski-in/ski-out rooms—it’s perched mere steps from the resort’s Outlaw Express chairlift—and a literal river (er, creek) runs through it, flowing between two buildings connected by a bridge, a nod to Redford and the iconic 1992 film he directed. 

Highlights of the inn include a ski valet and boot room, commissioned artwork and curiosities throughout, a fitness and wellness center with a stretch room and daily yoga classes, and a cozy living room-like gathering space where guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, read a book by the fire, or enjoy après eats and drinks. 

EAT

Elsewhere on the property, the resort’s signature fine dining restaurant, the Tree Room, unveiled a fresh look earlier this year. Originally built in 1970, the Tree Room was Redford’s first structure at Sundance, constructed around a living tree that remains today. Alongside original decor elements, such as pieces from Redford’s Native American art collection and Kachina dolls, modern refinements include new live-edge wood tables sourced from a single tree and updated chairs, banquette seating, china, glassware, and silver. The space still feels warm and intimate, but with a renewed energy. While the menu changes seasonally, the Tree Room Pepper Steak is a perennial favorite.

A former private dining room in the restaurant has been reimagined as the Library Lounge, which debuted this winter. The cozy space features a fireplace and a small-bites menu with pommes frites, Wagyu sliders, lentil croquettes, blood orange beets with goat cheese, and decadent desserts. For a sweet finish, order the affogato, starring a local brew from Millcreek Coffee Roasters. If your idea of a nightcap entails a different kind of brew, belly up to the bar at the resort’s small but lively Western-inspired Owl Bar. Down a pint of Cutthroat Pale Ale or sip a Fireside Sour—made with Yellowstone bourbon, house sour mix, Amaretto, a Luxardo cherry, and a red wine float—while listening to live music.

For a quick lunch or snack, stop by the resort’s deli. Enjoy fresh salads, pizza by the slice, and large made-to-order sandwiches outside in the courtyard, or pack your grub to go for a day of mountain adventures. On Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., fuel up at the Foundry Grill’s brunch buffet, a bountiful spread of traditional breakfast items, build-your-own omelets, carving stations, and more.  

PLAY

While winter at Sundance offers skiing and snowboarding on 540 acres, plus three terrain parks, as well as Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, there’s no shortage of activities come summer. From hiking and mountain biking to horseback riding and fly fishing, Sundance has something for everyone. For thrill-seekers, check out the resort’s ZipTour zipline adventure, which boasts more than 2,100 feet of vertical drop—the most vertical descent of any zipline tour in the United States. For foodies and sunset aficionados, check out the Bear

Claw Supper Club, held at Bear Claw Cabin at the tippy top of the resort, with panoramic views of both Provo and Heber Valleys. And for night owls, hop on a full moon lift ride, a 30- to 45-minute ride on the resort’s Outlaw Express ski lift illuminated by la luna (offered throughout the summer and early fall).

Last year marked the end of the resort’s popular Summer Theatre program, but in its wake are an array of events and musical performances at the outdoor amphitheater. The band Midland will perform on July 25, and the inaugural Hoot & Holler Festival on August 8 will feature music from Michelle Moonshine and Co, James Hardy and the Fire, and Bad Frances.

The beloved Bluebird Cafe Summer Concert Series continues to welcome Nashville’s finest to Sundance under the stars, in partnership with the renowned Bluebird Cafe. This summer’s featured artists include Terry McBride, Lydia Vaughan, and Marv Green (June 26 & 27); Chase McGill, Parker Welling, and Chase DeStefano (July 10 & 11); Mike Reid, Sarah Buxton, and Marc Beeson (July 17 & 18); Tim Nichols, Nicolle Galyon, and Rodney Clawson (August 21 & 22); Jason Reeves, Alyssa Bonagura, and Fraser Churchill (August 28 & 29). 
    

RELAX and CREATE

If you’re seeking rest and relaxation, book a mountain stone massage at the resort’s spa or a soak at The Springs, a trio of outdoor relaxation pools, plus a sauna and a cold-plunge shower. And if you find yourself inspired by Redford and craving a creative project, sign up for a painting, poetry, pottery, or silversmithing class at the resort’s art studio. Be sure to stop by the glassblowing studio to take home a hand-blown, recycled glass treasure. Or pop into the resort’s gift shop and grab an iconic Sundance tee or sweatshirt in your favorite color—even actor Paul Mescal has been spotted sporting one. Proof that when you’re at Sundance, you’re in good hands and in good company.