Sundance, Utah, is the home of the famous Sundance Film Festival, but that’s not all it has to offer if you’re in the area. Winter, summer and everything in between offers a range of activities that are appropriate for the entire family. And since it's only an hour drive from Salt Lake City, Sundance can be a good day-trip spot whether you're vacationing in Utah or already live in the state.
Sundance Art Shack
- Whether you’re an aspiring artist or refining your skills, the Sundance Art Shack is the place to be. Located at the Sundance Resort, this two-hour all-inclusive workshop lets you play around with different techniques and watch expert artists -- and when it’s over, you’ll have plenty of self-made art to take home. Techniques include creating jewelry, painting with watercolors, oil painting, photography and making wheel-thrown pottery. Stop in the Glassblower Studio to watch resident glass blowers take a ball of glass and turn it into a hand-blown piece of art. You don’t have to be a guest at the Sundance Resort to visit, but you do have to book your class through the resort's guest services.
Scenic Lift Rides
- Lift rides run from May through October, and provide a unique panoramic view of the Sundance area and all the way up to Ray’s Summit. For a romantic, unique experience, take a Full Moon Lift Ride. This ride operates between 8:30 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. If you’re in town for Halloween, you can get the tour of the area, a view of themed scenes and have a lift operator decked out in costume. Senior and child discounts are available, as well as group reservations.
Horseback Riding
- This authentic, cowboy-led tour takes you from Sundance Stables up to one of four tour trails on horseback. You and your group enjoy a scenic, peaceful ride, plush landscape and a horse that will make you feel as though you’re an expert on the saddle. The four trails include the Elk Meadows, Stewart Falls, Sunset and Great Western. Elk Meadows is ideal if you’re new to horseback riding, and Sunset is a good ride for couples and wildlife lovers who want a quaint evening ride in the mountains. Great Western is the longest ride, therefore, it’s only recommended for riders with experience. Stewart Falls is the most popular, and offers two hours of the Wasatch Mountain and Mount Timpanogos views. No more than six people are allowed in a group at one time. You’ll get a short horseback-riding lesson, so there’s no worry if you’re unfamiliar with riding. Tours are available only by appointment.
Festivities
- The Sundance Film Festival comes for 10 days in January. With more than 100 independent films viewed and movie stars out to see what’s new in film, you’re bound to have a good time. Most of the festival is hosted in neighboring Park City on Main Street. The Harvest Market is hosted in October and has live entertainment and hand-crafted artwork, and celebrates heritage. There are fresh barbecue and baked treats while you enjoy this celebration of fall.
Ski and Snowboard
- When winter rolls around, skiers and snowboarders flock to the mountains of Utah. Enjoy multiple skiing and snowboarding trails through the Sundance area. With more than 41 runs and 500 acres of snow-covered terrain, beginners and experts alike have more than enough snow to go around. Ski and snowboard lessons are available for individuals, groups and parties through the Sundance Resort. On Monday, Wednesday and Friday, there is night skiing available. Passes are available through Sundance Resort.
