Utah is a stunning destination for a weekend getaway or a winter vacation for the family. The scenery is spectacular and there are plenty of must-do outdoor activities.
Robert Redford's Rustic Resort
Although there are several ski resorts in the Provo area, one of the top destinations in Utah for winter vacations and weekend getaways is the Sundance Resort, only 13 miles to the northeast of Provo. The 5,000-acre resort on Mount Timpanogos in the Wasatch Mountains is the property of Robert Redford who founded the resort and developed it into a community for people who love nature, the arts and want to preserve the natural environment. The actor shunned the concept of condos and hotels dotting the mountains and canyon. Instead, he chose to develop Sundance into a recreational and arts community.
Sundance is a small resort in comparison with many of the ski resorts in the northern part of Utah and is the only one in the Provo area that offers downhill skiing. Among the attractions of the resort are the charming, rustic atmosphere and fewer people than many of the larger ski resorts.
Amenities For Skiers And Snowboarders
One way to get an insider's look at Sundance is to book a mountain tour. Trained hosts offer guests tips on the best trails based on your ability. The lift takes visitors to the summit for panoramic views of the mountains suggestions on which trails to ski. The resort offers a Ski and Snowboard School with group lessons for novice skiers and children, based on ability and age.
The Sundance Ski and Snowboard Team are designed for athletes who love competition, skiing with a team, and improving technical skills. On select nights during the winter season, Sundance has most of the trails on Mount Timpanogos open for evening skiing. The Nordic Center at Sundance offers cross-country skiing through the backcountry on more than 10 kilometers of trails while enjoying views of Stewart Falls and the mountains.
Special Winter Events For The Family
When the full moon rises over Sundance, guests can explore the trails that wind through the forest on a self-guided Full Moon Cross Country Skiing Tour. Participants wear headlamps to guide them through the woods. If you want to go in search of owls and wildlife that make this habitat their home, Sundance offers night snowshoeing tours called Night Owling.
One of the most exciting activities at the resort is the Sundance Zip tour, a zip lining tour that travels nearly 4,000 feet over scenic Mount Timpanogos. Dress in your warmest clothes and be prepared for the experience of a lifetime in one of the world's most scenic zip lines. Fly over the mountain at an incredible 65 miles-per-hour or slow down and take the time to drink in the breathtaking scenery. You control the speed and your experience.
Another to plan on a winter holiday is the renowned Sundance Film Festival takes place every year in January, so if you and your family or friends want to see the newest, independent films, this is the ideal time to book your trip.
Accommodations for Groups Large And Small
One of the best things about winter vacations at Sundance is that it's great for couples, groups of friends on a ski vacation, or families who make holidays in Utah an annual event. The resort has small suites with kitchenettes so you can dine in and relax after a day on the slopes. The lofts are the largest rooms and feature a living area and full kitchen. Extra beds for more guests are in sleeping lofts. For large groups, private, mountain homes offer luxurious accommodations with fireplaces in the living areas and incredible views from the balconies and decks.
Whether you come for the weekend or winter vacation, you'll love the relaxing atmosphere, the community spirit, and the diverse recreation, and the easy access from Provo and Salt Lake City.
About The Author
stash member Vincent Stokes
Vincent Stokes is an outdoor enthusiast and an experienced world traveler. He also writes writes for the National Parks and works to promote pride in homegrown travel destinations. (@TravelingGlobal)