Sundance Mountain Resort launches early morning uphill skiing program

View of Mount Timpanogos at Sundance Resort. Photo: Katryna Vecella

SUNDANCE, Utah — Early morning uphill skiing is now available for the first time at Sundance Mountain Resort, resort officials announced Monday.

The new offering allows skiers to climb the mountain before lifts begin running, with uphill travel permitted daily from 6 to 8:45 a.m.

Skiers must register in advance at the resort’s Activity Center during regular business hours. The program requires a one-time $25 seasonal fee, and participants must sign a waiver and receive a high-visibility reflective armband that must be worn while uphill skiing. 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. 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. Traveling uphill during a red flag closure will result in loss of skiing privileges for the season and revocation of passes, according to the resort.

Because uphill travel occurs while resort crews may be working on the mountain, participants are required to wear several visibility items. In addition to the reflective armband, skiers must use a headlamp and a red tail light. Resort officials also recommend wearing reflective clothing, such as a reflective vest, for additional safety.

Ski patrol is not available during uphill travel hours, and participants assume responsibility for their own safety and preparedness.

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

Uphill skiing, also called “skinning,” has grown in popularity in recent years as backcountry-style skiing gains traction at resorts across the West. Sundance joins a growing number of Utah ski areas offering designated uphill access during limited hours.