BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
Robert Redford had now incorporated sustainability into the DNA of Sundance Mountain Resort long before it became a hot topic in the hospitality industry.
In the late 1960s, the actor, filmmaker, and climate advocate who first discovered the alpine terrain beneath Utah’s Mount Timpanogos saw more than just a possible ski resort. He observed a landscape that was important to preserve. In 1969, he purchased the property with the intention of not expanding but rather preserving it so that the mountain could remain both wild and inviting for generations to come.
Sundance also adheres to that philosophy more than five decades later. 3, 343 acres of the resort are currently completely protected by conservation easements, protecting Provo Canyon’s forests, wildlife habitat, and viewsheds. The resort has been intentionally limited in its scale, allowing it to maintain its personal quality while also offering the kind of refined mountain experience that travelers look for from a luxurious destination.
Sundance stands out as something softer, more thoughtful, and deeply rooted in the land itself in a time when some mountain resorts have grown into sprawling villages.
SUSTAINABILITY AS A WAY OF LIFE
The resort uses solar energy to offset 100 % of its energy use, and water conservation is just as important to operations. The resort has invested in improved snowmaking techniques to improve efficiency and lower water usage. Bathrooms and kitchens on the property have low-flow fixtures, and waterproof urinals are being installed to further reduce water usage.
Also irrigation systems have been redesigned to be environmentally friendly. Drip irrigation is being gradually replaced in place of conventional sprinkler systems, reducing water waste and maintaining good landscapes.
The climate commitment also covers transportation. Guests who arrive with four or more passengers receive free parking as an incentive to carpool, and there are electronic vehicle charging stations throughout the property. The resort even works with the Utah Transit Authority and the local transportation provider The Ryde to provide both visitors and employees with alternate transportation options.
Another pillar of Sundance’s philosophy is the reduction of waste. A resort’s no-plastic-bag policy is in place, composting initiatives help to reduce healthy waste from landfills, and a glass-blowing studio on-site turn used bottles into artwork, plates, and drinking glasses that are reused throughout the property. The wine bottle from yesterday is transformed into the water glass from tomorrow using a round system.
Often put LAND FIRST
The one that guests may not instantly notice is perhaps the most notable sustainability achievement at Sundance.
More than 70 % of the resort’s land has been entirely cleared of development, with portions preserved through partnerships with organizations like the Sundance Nature Alliance. The property also works with Great Basin Wildlife Rescue and the Wild Utah Project to promote wildlife research, and to rehabilitate injured birds and bring them back to their normal habitat.
THE INN AT Beautiful IS A NEW CHAPTER
Sundance has often prioritized nature over development, but the resort opened a new chapter with the Inn at Sundance Mountain Resort in the spring of 2026.
The resort’s 63-room, ski-in, ski-out property is the most important lodging addition in resort history. The inn combines modern comfort with organic materials and intelligent design in order to enhance the guest experience without compromising the resort’s climate values.
The property has two wings connected by a covered bridge spanning a mountain stream, and is located in the Resort Village only steps from the Outlaw Express lift. Mount Timpanogos is framed by large, elaborate woodwork and a carefully selected selection of local and international art, which reflect Sundance’s long-standing relationship with creativity.
Before skipping to the warm air of the Life Room lounge, guests can ski straight to a designated valet and boot room. The Inn Gallery features rotating works that demonstrate Sundance’s strong connection to the arts, while a wellness and fitness center offers yoga and movement classes.
Access to the Springs at Sundance, an special relaxation experience reserved for overnight guests, is included with every stay. The springs have two hot tubs, a plunge pool, and a barrel sauna, and overlook Mount Timpanogos.
ARIZONA TRANSFERS WAY QUICKER THAN EVER.
The resort is now within easy reach thanks to American Airlines ‘ lately launched daily flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to Provo Airport. The drive to Sundance from the airport takes about 30 minutes, driving through Provo Canyon, in a picturesque manner.
The Provo Scenic Skiway, which is frequently referred to as the Provo Scenic Skiway, winds earlier mountainous forests, limestone cliffs, and the Provo River before coming to the base of Mount Timpanos. It is the sort of arrival that feels like you’re in a different world.
WINTER ON THE MOUNTAIN
Sundance offers 540 skiable acres set within more than 4, 000 acres of protected land in the winter. The terrain features beginner-friendly groomers, powder-filled bowls, and tree-lined glades that reward experienced skiers with calm runs and stunning views. Northern skiing trails weave through aspen stands for travelers who prefer a slower pace, and snowshoe trails provide tranquil access to the surrounding wilderness.
Night skiing adds another dimension to the winter experience by enhancing certain areas of the mountain over some evenings each week.
SUMMER IN SUNDANCE
The mountain transforms into a summer playground when the snow melts. The trails that lead to alpine groves and pine forests offer views of Mount Timpanogos and the nearby Wasatch Mountains. Zipline tours deliver a dose of adrenaline above the treetops, while tandem lift rides give you easy access to spectacular views. With cool mountain waters known for healthy trout populations, fly fishing along the Provo River is another popular summer pastime. Horseback riding excursions take place through woodland and snowy meadows, which give visitors a more contemplative pace of seeing the landscape.
The Sundance experience is still centered on art and culture year-round. Visitors to the on-site glass-blowing studio can view or purchase efficient works of art by participating in creative workshops and wander through artisan stores featuring items made from natural and recycled materials.
A RULE THAT SURRENCES
Robert Redford previously said that what blossoms will inspire others if a root is planted deeply enough. These roots are heavy at Sundance Mountain Resort.
Many visitors arrive for skiing, hiking, art, or relaxation, but some leave with something more profound: a renewed appreciation for the natural world and the realization that traveling, when done deliberately, can preserve the very places that inspire it.
