Sundance Mountain Resort Launches Early Morning Uphill Skiing Program

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Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah has announced a new early morning uphill skiing program, allowing skiers to climb the mountain before the lifts start running from 6 to 8:45 a.m. daily. Skiers must register in advance, pay a one-time $25 seasonal fee, and follow safety protocols like wearing reflective gear. The designated uphill route begins in the magic carpet area west of the Outlaw Express Lift, and skiers can take a groomer ride back down once they reach the top.

Why it matters

Uphill skiing, also known as 'skinning,' has grown in popularity at ski resorts across the Western U.S. in recent years as backcountry-style skiing gains traction. Sundance's new program joins a growing number of Utah ski areas offering designated uphill access during limited hours.

The details

Skiers must register in advance at the resort's Activity Center, sign a waiver, and receive a high-visibility reflective armband that must be worn during uphill travel. Same-day registration is not permitted. Uphill skiers can park in the Resort Village lot (Lot A) free of charge until 9 a.m. The designated uphill route begins in the magic carpet area west of the Outlaw Express Lift, and once reaching the top, skiers can look forward to a groomer ride back down the mountain. Skiers must check the uphill status flag before starting their climb - a Red Flag means uphill travel is closed while a Green Flag means skiers are good to go. Participants are required to use a headlamp, a red tail light, and wear reflective clothing for safety.

• The new uphill skiing program is available daily from 6 to 8:45 a.m.

What’s next

The resort notes that hiking, snowshoeing, sleds, motorized equipment and other non-ski travel are not allowed during the uphill hours.