Arizona is known for its Wild West persona, and rightfully so. Many Zonis are fans of
cowboy culture and quite familiar with famed outlaws such as Butch Cassidy. Well, if
you want to experience the birthchild of Cassidy’s legacy, head next-door to the state of
Utah, where you’ll find the perfect spot to escape and experience the rustic charm of
Sundance Mountain Resort, rich in activities, eclectic dining and a breathtaking
ambiance.
In 1963, Robert Redford bought two acres of land in Provo Canyon. The price: $500.
Redford then morphed the resort to span over 500 spectacular acres, and the first-class
destination soon became one of the top-rated ski spots in the United States.
However, fall, spring and summers at Sundance are just as magical.
Named after Redford’s role in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” sits the secluded,
welcoming, simplistic retreat. Should the mountains call your name, the charming
destination will fill your mind, body, and soul.
Here’s how to experience the non-snowy months of Utah’s crown jewel.
Accommodations
Fit for a family, the Mountain Loft is a spacious set-up flaunting a full kitchen, living room
with sleeper sofa, and loft with double beds. Dressed in western flare, kids will love
climbing the loft ladder to their “private upper level,” and parents will appreciate the
private master bedroom. With all the amenities of home- washer/dryer included- enjoy a
cozy fireplace and hang-worthy balcony set among towering trees.
Activities
Known for an abundance of trout amidst a stunning, scenic backdrop, Sundance offers
a world-class fly-fishing experience for newbies-to-pros. Brian, the resort’s fishing guru
and buddies with Bob (aka, Mr. Redford), will suit you up in full wading gear and you’ll
learn to cast, mend, and catch. It’s a lesson of patience and perseverance, and the
feeling of reeling one in is of utter fulfillment. The Provo River is one of the best in the
country due to easy access and 4,000 fish per mile.
The Sundance ZipTour is dubbed one of the most exciting and scenic ziplines in the
United States, boasting over 2,100 feet of vertical drop - the most of any zip tour in the
country. Riders can zip side-by-side on the double cables and control their speed,
cruising up to 65 miles per hour. Embrace your fearless, adventurous side and savor
the most magnificent views via a bird’s eye.
Foster your creative spirit and partake in a class at the property’s esteemed art studio
offering workshops in jewelry making, wheel-thrown pottery, soapmaking, watercolor,
and more. Curated classes are available for kids through adults.
Located in the wonderous Wasatch Range, the Sundance Stables are ideal for cruising
the terrain via horseback. Enjoy breathtaking scenery as you traverse through pristine
terrain while your cowboy guide leads your four-legged transport through aspen groves
and alpine meadows.
Arguably one of the coolest hikes you’ll ever do is Stewart Falls. Family friendly and
totally surreal, you’ll hike through dense forests and flowery meadows until reaching the
falls where you can immerse yourself in the cool mist of the water. Refreshing and
revitalizing, prep to get wet and indulge in an experience you’ll never forget. The
property is also known for over 10 miles of alpine trails with terrain options for both
beginners and experienced hikers.
In winter, the chairlifts are packed with skiers... but when the snow melts, you can
experience panoramic views of the mountain as you glide to the top of Mandan Summit
on Outlaw Express. The scenic lifts provide views of black diamond runs sometimes
utilized by Olympic athletes. Along the ride, search for wildlife, and if you make it to the
top of Red’s Lift, enjoy lunch at Bearclaw Cabin, an eatery known for brew and nachos.
If you’re lucky, you might spot Sundance staff training their avalanche dogs, the search
and rescue pups bred with hunting roots and a knack for heroism. They often frequent
the lifts to prep for their winter duties working along ski patrollers to keep the mountains
safe.
The resort offers a dreamy summer theatre tradition dating 1970. Set beneath the
shadow of Mount Timpanogos, you’ll endure an enchanting experience atop the lawns
of Sundance’s grandiose amphitheater once home to 10,000+ people watching Willie
Nelson. There, you’ll catch impressive live performances of shows like “Sound of
Music,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” “Mama Mia,” and more.
Dining
The Tree Room is Sundance’s most acclaimed restaurant, serving some of the best
cuisine in state. Tables are surrounded by kachina dolls, pottery, and photos from
Redford’s private collection and films. The comfortable yet exclusive dining experience
overlooks large windows to facilitate natural lighting nature views. The dining philosophy
incorporates modern French techniques with American comfort in a comfortable setting.
Serving three meals daily, The Foundry Grill offers farm to fresh dishes flaunting
seasonal flare. With a rotating menu of curated dishes, diners will leave with overly
pleased pallets and full bellies. It’s a great spot for family gatherings.
Finally, for nighttime sipping and listening to live music, find yourself a seat at the Owl
Bar, once frequented by Butch Cassidy. The restored 1890s hot spot was moved from
Wyoming to Utah and is now a favorite staple of Sundance.
