On a recent trip to Utah’s Heber Valley, I carved out two nights at the brand-new Inn at Sundance Mountain Resort
On a recent trip to Utah’s Heber Valley, I carved out two nights at the brand-new Inn at Sundance Mountain Resort—the kind of stay that feels equal parts reset and reminder of why this place has inspired such loyalty for decades.
Ever since Robert Redford sold the resort in 2020, longtime fans have quietly wondered what would come next. Would Sundance turn into a sea of slopeside condos? Would “progress” mean high-speed lifts and a bigger-is-better vibe? Would the art studio and creative soul get pushed aside?
Happily: no.
The resort’s evolution has been measured and intentional—more “thoughtful edit” than total makeover. The renewed investment in the legendary Tree Room (still the reservation to chase) is a perfect example: it honors Sundance’s past while polishing the experience for what’s next. And now, the biggest new chapter is here: a 63-room inn tucked into the base area. It’s officially open as of January 30, 2026—and yes, the locals and longtime devotees were watching closely.
Spoiler alert: they nailed it.
First Impression: A Lobby That Feels Like a Film Set (in the Best Way)
If you’ve only ever day-tripped to Sundance, you might not notice a dramatic change at first. But if you’re staying on-property, a quick turn past the original parking area reveals the new Inn—designed as two wings connected by a footbridge over the North Fork Provo River. Every time you cross, you get the soundtrack of rushing water—simple, serene, and so Sundance.
Inside, the lobby feels like it could have been staged for one of Redford’s films (and yes, the emotional resonance is real—Redford passed away in September 2025).
Think: landscape art, beautiful film artifacts, cozy seating that invites you to linger, and a roaring fire that makes you instantly slow down.
The reclaimed timber floors help the space feel “lived in”—not worn, but warmly established. And don’t rush through: there’s a complimentary beverage station for refilling water bottles or grabbing tea/espresso before heading out.
The Rooms: Quiet Luxury, With the Mountains Doing the Most
The guestrooms carry the same design language as the lobby—alpine textures, reclaimed wood, Swiss-inspired details, and Native American textiles and artwork that feel curated rather than themed.
The décor doesn’t compete with the views. It frames them.
A few details that moms (and anyone who appreciates smart design) will love:
- Automated blackout shades (morning light is gorgeous… until you want to sleep in)
- A generous number of hooks, plus an open closet and real drawer space
- A bed that feels like it was made for post-ski recovery
- A humidifier in the room—an underrated gift in dry mountain air
The bathroom is equally elevated: marble finishes, great lighting, and truly fluffy towels and robes. The Sundance-branded toiletries are woodsy and earthy—in a “bring it home with me” kind of way.
The Art: Sundance’s Soul Is Still Front and Center
One of the biggest fears with any new build at a beloved resort is that the place loses its “why.” That doesn’t happen here.
The Inn continues Sundance’s long-standing commitment to art and sense of place, including a gallery space with rotating exhibitions. The opening show, “Watercolour Diaries from the Green River,” features work by British artist Tony Foster.
More than anything, the Inn feels integrated—architecturally and emotionally—into the base area. It’s hard to think of another ski resort that has added lodging so seamlessly without disrupting the landscape.
Dining: Breakfast Is the Unexpected Star
Yes, the Tree Room is still the iconic dinner destination (read more on that renovation here):
But at the Inn, breakfast is the hot ticket—and it’s included with your stay.
Breakfast is served in the Living Room, a guest-forward lounge space with a fire, handsome furniture, and enough cozy corners that you never feel crowded. Expect a beautiful spread of:
- Yogurt + toppings
- Cured meats and cheeses
- Fresh baked goods
- A rotating hot dish (worth saying yes to)
- DIY espresso from a high-end machine (airport lounge energy, but prettier)
After breakfast, the Living Room transitions into an apres hang with complimentary snacks (fruit, nuts, chips) and a bar menu of “alpine tapas.” We ordered the nachos—zero regrets.
Other resort dining notes:
- The Deli is your grab-and-go friend
- The Foundry is a great sit-down option when you want casual—and their Brussels sprouts are the kind you talk about later
The Boot Room: The Luxury Detail You Didn’t Know You Needed
This is one of those small-big things that instantly makes a ski trip feel easier.
Skis are handled via slopeside valet, and each room gets an assigned locker in the boot room—bright, clean-lined, and beautifully designed. The standout feature: boot lockers with built-in dryers. Warm, dry boots every morning is the definition of mountain luxury.
There are also thoughtful extras like complimentary sunscreen and lip balm—because Sundance understands the little stuff.
And the layout is smart: from the boot room you’re steps from the activity center (tickets, adventures), and then right onto the snow near the Outlaw Express lift.
One practical note for families: if your kids are in group lessons at Mountain Camp, you’ll need the shuttle to the other base area. It’s quick, but it’s a factor—especially with never-ever skiers.
Skiing at Sundance: Intentional, Scenic, and About to Grow
Sundance has always appealed to skiers who value rhythm over rush. The terrain isn’t about conquering miles—it’s about savoring tree-lined cruisers, discovering hidden pockets of powder, and skiing through scenery that feels cinematic. For a deeper look at why this mountain works so well for a women’s ski weekend, read our full guide here.
The mountain’s manageable footprint makes it especially appealing for couples and groups who want to ski together without constantly coordinating meetups across sprawling base areas. Runs like Red Canyon offer long, rolling descents that are approachable yet satisfying, and the overall pace feels refreshingly human.
That said, Sundance is preparing for a meaningful next chapter. For the 2026–27 season, the resort is undergoing a major expansion that will add 165 acres of new skiable terrain—a 32% increase in total acreage. The project focuses on the “back mountain,” introducing a new bowl, 1,850 vertical feet of additional terrain, and enhanced access to upper-mountain skiing via a new high-speed quad lift named Electric Horseman.
Importantly, the expansion aligns with Sundance’s philosophy. This isn’t about transforming the mountain into a high-speed mega-resort. It’s about thoughtfully expanding opportunity—more terrain, more flow, and faster access where it makes sense—while preserving the intimacy that defines the experience.
For returning guests, it means more to explore. For first-timers, it makes the timing especially compelling.
Amenities: Fitness, Soaking, and a Very Sundance Kind of Calm
The Inn brings an overdue upgrade: a modern fitness center with natural light, updated cardio, Peloton bikes, a full weight rack, and a dedicated stretch/yoga space.
For sauna + soak time, head to The Springs pool pavilion (about a 5-minute walk or easy shuttle). You’ll find:
- Two hot tubs
- A larger heated pool
- Outdoor sauna + outdoor shower
- Lounge seating
- And yes, a nearby stream if you want the cold-plunge moment
A Meaningful Partnership: Mountain Veterans Program
One of the most compelling parts of this new Inn is what it supports.
The Inn opened alongside the Mountain Veterans Program, created to serve wounded and injured veterans through mountain experiences—covering costs for veterans and families (lodging, meals, activities, transportation) and offering adaptive ski opportunities. Sundance has partnered with Utah’s Military Installation Development Authority (MIDA) as part of this effort.
It’s a powerful way to expand the resort’s legacy of purpose—not just prestige.
Who This Hotel Is For
The Inn has a “hushed tones” feel—more restorative than rowdy. Pricing will vary by season, but this is undeniably a splurge stay.
Best for
- Couples’ ski weekends
- Girls’ getaways
- Parents of older kids who ski independently
Consider carefully if…
- You’re traveling with toddlers (you may want more space and flexibility)
- You need true ski-in/ski-out to lessons
- You prefer condo-style living (in that case, a cottage can be a better fit—especially for high-energy kids)
The Momtrends Takeaway
The highest compliment I can give the Inn at Sundance is this: it feels inevitable—as if it was always meant to be here.
Sundance has never been about speed or scale. It’s about intention: wandering trails, quiet fires, art in unexpected corners, and mountain luxury that doesn’t shout.
This new chapter honors the past while fully embracing the future—and it does it with restraint, beauty, and deep respect for place.
I’m already planning my next trip—this time as a girls’ ski weekend.
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