Grab your Bike and Climb
Just because the snow has melted doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your favorite mountain vacation. In fact, the weeks between the ski resorts closing days and the start of summer operations are prime time to visit the mountains with special offers to lure you in. What’s even better, you’ll have the entire place practically to yourself. This year’s temps and early snow melt have an upside. It means hiking and biking trails will be clear and ready to explore earlier than usual; waterfalls and rivers will have plenty of spring runoff and the golf courses will be ever so green. So pack up the car and head to the hills for a discounted long weekend.
Trade out your ski rack for the bike rack when you come to visit us at Stewart Mountain Lodging. Sundance, Utah is located on the Alpine Loop connecting Provo Canyon and American Fork Canyon which is some of the more senic and challenging stages of the Tour of Utah bike race. Tour of Utah is one of only four UCI-sanctioned, multi-stage, American pro cycling events in 2013. Showcasing some of the world’s most prestigious teams and cyclists for six days in August, this event now attracts worldwide attention as the top international cycling event that follows the Tour de France. Renowned riders such as Johann Schopp and Levi Leipheimer participate in some of the steepest climbs and fastest descents in pro cycling.
A new bike race this year worth checking out is the Timpanogos Gran Fondo. This event takes place June 29, 2013 and will run 41.6 miles with an elevation gain for 4500 feet. It is an event that allows you to enjoy riding the Alpine Loop on a beautiful summer day with family, friends, and a large community of bikers. The climb is challenging, the descent is exhilarating, and the views are unforgettable. If you want to bring your family and friends to support and cheer you on, we have several of our cabin rentals within just a few minutes walk of the Alpine Loop where the riders will be passing by.
For more information visit their website.
www.timpgranfondo.com
Pro athlets and novices alike are discovering the beauty and challenge of the Alpine Loop in Sundance, UT.
Sundance Bike Events
Sundance Resort sponsors several great events and series over the summer that have become an annual tradition for some and a weekly hobby for many. Weekly Race Series, R.A.N.A.T.A.D., Super-D, Single Speed and the 12 Hour and the Sundance Hill Climb. Click HERE for more details.
R.A.N.A.T.A.D. is a noteworthy race and a huge accomplishment for anyone with it already under their belt. It is 165 miles, 11,000 feet of climbing and hurts so good. The ride starts at Sundance and takes you through Utah Valley and over the Nebo Loop in Payson and Nephi. From there, you ride back up through the valley and over the Alpine Loop finishing back at Sundance. Many riders will spend more than 10 hours on their bikes. If that sounds like more than you would like to take on they are now offering a shorter 100 mile variation.
The Sundance Resort offers great mountain biking for all levels and provides bike rentals right at the resort. Even though the majority of bikers ride the chairlift up with their bikes in tow behind, your muscles and mind will get the workout you were hoping for. Come bike with us in the mountains!
The Alpine Loop provides great scenery, shade and cooler temperatures than the valley and many other neighboring canyons. Do your best to keep your eyes on the road and not the lofty peaks.
