Robert Redford Sells Sundance Ski Resort in Utah

13th December 2020

Last modified on May 13th, 2021

The actor founded Sundance Mountain Resort more than 50 years ago. It offers a unique mix of skiing balanced with art and nature and is a firm favourite of PlanetSKI. UPDATED

He is selling it to Broadreach Capital Partners and Cedar Capital Partners.

“As stewards of this unique place, it has always been my vision that the Sundance Mountain Resort would be a place where art, nature, and recreation come together to make the world a better place – now and in the future,” said Redford in a statement.

Redford founded the resort in 1969, which he named after the film character that made him famous in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

The Owl Bar in the resort has an oak bar that had been commissioned by the real Butch Cassidy. Redford discovered it in Wyoming, had it restored and transported to Utah.

The cost of the sale of the resort has not been released.

Here at PlanetSKI it is one of our favourite small resorts and we skied there back in January last season.

PlanetSKI in Sundance. Image © PlanetSKI.

See here for why it is so special:

PlanetSKI heads to Sundance from the Utah resort complex of Zermatt

The new owners are committed to maintaining its ethos of balancing nature with art and outdoor recreation.

Broadreach and Cedar say that their intention is to work closely with the Sundance community to build upon the attributes that have made the resort a one-of-a-kind place.

It is expected there will be a new high-speed lift, plus a day lodge and an inn.

Sundance, Utah

Redford discovered the area when he was riding his motorcycle from his home in California to college at the University of Colorado in the 1950s.

He later married a girl from nearby Provo and raised his family at Sundance.

He bought two acres for $500 in 1961 and then expanded the area over time.

Redford built a cabin and lived the mountain lifestyle with his young family between his early films.

Sundance, Utah. Image © PlanetSKI.

Here at PlanetSKI we were fortunate enough to meet the man himself back in 2002 when we were in Utah for the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics.

PlanetSKI & friends with the Sundance Kid. Image © PlanetSKI.

“Change is inevitable, and for several years, my family and I have been thinking about a transition to new ownership for the resort,” said Redford.

“We knew that at the right time, and with the right people, we could make the transition. Broadreach and Cedar share our values and interest in maintaining the resort’s unique character while honoring its history, community, and natural beauty.

“This makes them well-suited to ensure that future generations can continue to find solace and inspiration here.”

The resort is as well know for its art scene, as its ski scene.

There has already been social media reaction from local skiers and those that like the resort:

Annie Reeder Hawker: It sounds like he found new owners that will honor the legacy and keep it rustic and elegant like it is. Only time will tell, but I hope it won’t change too much!

Maxine Jenson:I couldnt sleep when I heard the news. I think my heart broke a little bit. But I agree and hope they keep it with the same values.

Christina Murray: Awh…. well all good things do come to an end. I suppose he is getting older and probably just sorting out his estate. Thank goodness he bought it when he did and preserved this beautiful area. Hope the new owners do the same.