Nestled high in the mountains of southwestern Utah, Brian Head Ski Resort offers an exceptional winter playground that combines Utah’s famous powder snow with stunning red rock landscapes.
Located just three hours from Las Vegas and 35 minutes from Cedar City, this hidden gem provides an accessible escape for families seeking quality skiing without the crowds and high ticket prices of Utah’s more famous ski areas.
Brian Head Resort stands out for its affordable ticket prices, making it Southern Utah’s #1 family-friendly winter destination.
What sets Brian Head apart is its unique position as Utah’s highest base elevation resort at 9,600 feet, situated within the pristine Dixie National Forest.
With 650 acres of skiable terrain spread across two connected mountains and an average annual snowfall exceeding 360 inches, Brian Head delivers consistent conditions throughout its extended season while maintaining an atmosphere that welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
Overview of Brian Head Ski Resort
Brian Head Resort stands as southern Utah’s premier ski destination, strategically positioned to serve visitors from Las Vegas, Southern California, and Arizona.
The resort’s location at 9,600 feet gives it the distinction of having Utah’s highest base elevation, ensuring reliable snow conditions and extended skiing from mid-November through mid-April. Established in 1964, Brian Head originally operated as a one-chairlift resort, growing over the decades into the expansive destination it is today.
Mountain Capital Partners acquired Brian Head in 2019, further enhancing its offerings and operations.
The resort spans 650 acres across two connected mountains: Giant Steps and Navajo Peak. These twin peaks are linked by a unique ski bridge that spans Utah Highway UT-143, allowing seamless travel between both sides of the mountain.
With 71 designated runs serviced by 8 chairlifts, including the Giant Steps Express high-speed detachable quad, Brian Head provides ample variety for the whole family.
The largest lift at Brian Head is the Giant Steps Express, which is a high-speed detachable quad.
The resort’s commitment to family-friendly skiing is evident in its affordable lift tickets, beginner-focused terrain, and comprehensive ski school programs.
Group lesson options are available, offering personalized instruction in a small-group setting with skilled instructors, making it easier for visitors to learn or improve their skills together.
Unlike some of Utah’s larger resorts where lift lines can stretch for 30 minutes or more during peak periods, Brian Head maintains shorter wait times and a more relaxed atmosphere that allows families to maximize their time on the slopes.
Brian Head’s location within the Dixie National Forest provides breathtaking scenery, with views extending to Zion National Park and Cedar Breaks National Monument.
This positioning makes it an ideal base for a road trip that combines skiing with visits to some of Utah’s most spectacular national parks. The resort is conveniently located just a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas, NV, and a 3.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City, UT.
The resort receives over 360 inches of Utah’s legendary powder snow annually, with the high elevation helping to preserve snow quality throughout the season.
The combination of natural snowfall and snowmaking capabilities across 90% of the terrain ensures consistent conditions from opening day in mid-November through closing in mid-April.
Terrain and Mountain Layout
Brian Head’s terrain distribution is carefully designed to accommodate skiers and snowboarders across all skill levels. The resort breaks down its 650 acres as follows: 30% beginner terrain, 35% intermediate terrain, and 35% advanced terrain.
This balanced approach makes it particularly appealing to families with mixed skill levels and those looking to progress their abilities.
Giant Steps Mountain forms the resort’s main skiing area and features a mix of intermediate and advanced terrain. The mountain’s steeper pitches and longer runs challenge more experienced skiers, while still offering groomed intermediate slopes for those developing their skills.
Advanced skiers especially seek out the black diamond run Alpen Glow, known for its steepness, skiable trees, and deep powder, making it a favorite on powder days.
The Giant Steps Express high-speed quad provides access to a vertical drop of 1,320 feet, making it one of the resort’s signature lifts.
Navajo Peak serves as the family-friendly side of the resort, with primarily beginner and intermediate terrain featuring gentler slopes perfect for learning and progression.
The mountain’s wide-open runs and forgiving gradients make it ideal for first-time skiers and families with young children. The Navajo Express high-speed quad ensures quick access to this area’s diverse terrain.
The resort features two terrain parks that cater to freestyle enthusiasts. Detour and Bypass terrain parks offer more than 20 progressive features, including rails, boxes, and jumps designed for various skill levels.
These parks are maintained regularly and provide a safe environment for riders to develop their freestyle skills. Brian Head Resort features three terrain parks for freestylers.
One of Brian Head’s most unique features is the ski bridge that connects Giant Steps and Navajo Peak over Utah Highway UT-143.
This engineering marvel allows skiers to seamlessly travel between both mountains without removing their skis, effectively doubling the available terrain and creating diverse skiing experiences within a single day.
The resort’s terrain is enhanced by its Terrain Based Learning™ approach, which uses shaped snow features and gentle progression zones to help beginners build confidence.
These learning areas are strategically placed near the base lodges and utilize surface lifts to minimize intimidation factors for new skiers.
Lifts and Infrastructure
Brian Head’s lift system consists of 8 chairlifts strategically positioned to provide efficient access to all areas of the mountain.
The infrastructure includes 1 double chair, 5 triple chairs, and 2 high-speed quads, along with 2 surface lifts dedicated to beginner areas.
The Giant Steps Express serves as the resort’s flagship lift, a high-speed detachable quad that provides access to the mountain’s highest elevation and most challenging terrain.
With a vertical rise of 1,320 feet, this lift serves advanced and expert runs while offering spectacular views of the surrounding red rock country.
The Navajo Express represents the second high-speed quad, specifically designed to serve the family-friendly terrain on Navajo Peak.
This lift provides efficient access to beginner and intermediate runs, making it perfect for ski school programs and families spending the day together.
The resort’s infrastructure includes two well-appointed base lodges: Giant Steps Lodge and Navajo Lodge. Both facilities offer complete services including ticket sales, equipment rentals, dining options, and restroom facilities.
In addition, each base area features a lift bar located near the lifts, where guests can enjoy food, drinks, and a social atmosphere during their ski day.
The lodges are positioned to provide convenient access to their respective mountain areas while serving as natural gathering points for families and groups.
Surface lifts at both base areas serve dedicated learning zones where beginners can practice basic skills without the intimidation of riding chairlifts.
These areas are equipped with gentle slopes and patient instructors who help new skiers build confidence before progressing to the main mountain.
The total lift-served vertical at Brian Head is approximately 1,200 feet, providing ample terrain variation while maintaining manageable run lengths that don’t overwhelm beginners or exhaust intermediate skiers.
The lift system is designed for efficiency, with most rides taking 8-12 minutes and providing access to multiple run options from each unloading area.
Operating Hours and Season Information
Brian Head Resort operates one of Utah’s longest ski seasons, typically running from mid-November through mid-April.
For the 2025-2026 season, the resort opens November 7, 2025, and closes May 10, 2026, weather and snow conditions permitting.
| Day | Skiing Hours | Night Skiing | Tubing Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday-Friday | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | No | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM | No | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Peak Periods | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM | Fri-Sat 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Extended Hours |
Night skiing is available on the Giant Steps area Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as during peak periods such as holiday weeks and Presidents’ Day weekend.
The night skiing operation runs from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM and includes lighting on several intermediate and advanced runs accessible via the Giant Steps Express lift.
Snow tubing operates on both Navajo Tube Hill and Giant Steps Tube Hill, with different hours than the ski area. During weekdays, tubing runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, while weekend hours extend to 7:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.
The tubing hills feature different vertical drops – Navajo offers a 75-foot drop while Giant Steps provides a 100-foot drop for more adventurous participants.
Peak periods at Brian Head include Christmas week, New Year’s week, Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend, and Presidents’ Day weekend. During these times, the resort may extend operating hours and all lifts typically run at full capacity.
Advance ticket purchases are recommended during peak periods to ensure availability and secure the best pricing.
Lodging and Accommodations
Brian Head offers more than 3,000 lodging units ranging from budget-friendly condos to luxury accommodations, ensuring options for every family size and budget.
The variety of on-mountain and nearby lodging makes it easy to find ski-in/ski-out convenience or affordable alternatives within a short drive of the slopes.
Cedar Breaks Lodge & Spa represents the resort’s premier accommodation option, featuring 118 remodeled villas with fireplaces and full kitchens. The lodge provides true ski-in/ski-out access and includes amenities such as an indoor pool, multiple hot tubs, sauna, restaurants, full-service bar, and day spa.
These villas accommodate families of various sizes and provide the convenience of preparing meals while maintaining resort-style comfort. Cedar Breaks Lodge & Spa offers 118 spacious villas equipped with fireplaces and full kitchens or kitchenettes.
The resort area includes numerous condo complexes offering everything from studio units to four-bedroom accommodations. Many of these properties feature full kitchens, living areas with fireplaces, and private balconies or patios with mountain views.
Popular complexes include Brian Head Lodge, which offers affordable family accommodations within walking distance of the lifts.
For those seeking a more secluded experience, luxury cabins are available throughout the Brian Head area. These properties often feature multiple bedrooms, gourmet kitchens, hot tubs, and expansive decks with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and red rock formations.
Shuttle service is available from Cedar City for those who prefer not to drive mountain roads, particularly during winter weather conditions.
This service connects to various lodging options and provides convenient transportation to the resort, making it accessible even for families without four-wheel-drive vehicles. Brian Head Drivers offers round-trip rides from Cedar City to the resort.
The range of accommodations extends from budget-friendly options starting around $100 per night during non-peak periods to luxury properties that can accommodate large groups and families seeking premium amenities.
Many properties offer ski equipment storage, boot drying areas, and other ski-specific conveniences.
Family Activities and Amenities
Brian Head Resort has built its reputation on providing exceptional family experiences, with programs and facilities specifically designed to help children and beginners enjoy their introduction to winter sports.
The resort’s approach focuses on creating positive first experiences that build confidence and encourage long-term participation in skiing and snowboarding.
The Kids Camp program serves children ages 5-12 and combines ski instruction with childcare in a fun, supportive environment. This program includes equipment rentals, lift tickets, lessons, and supervised activities, allowing parents to enjoy their own skiing while knowing their children are learning in a safe, age-appropriate setting.
Kids Camp lessons are taught in three age-specific programs, ensuring tailored instruction for every child. The program runs during peak periods and select weekends throughout the season. The Kids Camp at Brian Head Resort is a fully supervised snow sport teaching facility.
Taking a break during your ski day is easy at Brian Head Resort, thanks to convenient family-friendly facilities and a variety of dining options that make it simple for everyone to relax and recharge between activities.
Brian Head University represents the resort’s comprehensive beginner program for ages 7 and up. This program utilizes Terrain Based Learning™ methodology, which incorporates shaped snow features and progressive terrain to help students develop skills naturally.
The university approach breaks down skiing into manageable components and allows students to progress at their own pace.
Two tubing hills provide alternative winter fun for families. The Navajo Tube Hill features a 75-foot vertical drop and is perfect for younger children and families seeking gentler thrills.
The Giant Steps Tube Hill offers a 100-foot vertical drop and provides more excitement for older children and adults. Both hills include dedicated surface lifts for easy access to the top. There are two tube parks located at the Giant Steps and Navajo Mountains.
On-mountain ski and snowboard equipment rentals are available at both base lodges, featuring modern equipment from leading manufacturers. The rental shops offer packages that include skis or snowboards, boots, and poles, with sizing and fitting services provided by experienced staff.
Equipment can be reserved online in advance to ensure availability and streamline the rental process.
Private lessons are available for families who prefer one-on-one instruction or want to progress as a group.
These lessons can be customized to focus on specific skills or techniques and provide the flexibility to explore different areas of the mountain based on the family’s interests and abilities.
The resort’s commitment to family-friendly skiing extends to its pricing structure, with season passes and multi-day tickets offering significant savings for families planning extended visits.
Kids under 6 ski free when accompanied by a paying adult, and various family packages provide additional value for groups.
Summer Activities
While Brian Head is renowned for its winter sports, the resort transforms into an outdoor adventure destination during the summer months, operating from mid-June through mid-October.
The same mountains that provide excellent skiing offer 200+ miles of mountain biking trails, scenic chairlift rides, and various adventure activities that appeal to visitors seeking year-round outdoor recreation.
Brian Head Resort offers a wide range of summer activities, including mountain biking, climbing wall, ziplining, disc golfing, archery, and chairlift rides.
Mountain biking represents the resort’s primary summer attraction, with an extensive trail network that caters to all skill levels. The trails wind through the Dixie National Forest, offering riders spectacular views of red rock formations, aspen groves, and distant national parks.
The chairlift system provides convenient access to higher elevation trails, allowing riders to enjoy sustained downhill riding without the effort of climbing.
Scenic chairlift rides operate during summer weekends, providing non-riders with access to mountain views and hiking opportunities. These rides are particularly popular with families who want to experience the mountain environment without the physical demands of hiking to higher elevations.
The chairlifts access viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of Zion National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and the surrounding red rock country.
Adventure activities at the resort include a mini zip line, alpine slide, rock climbing wall, and disc golf course. These attractions provide entertainment for visitors of all ages and create a comprehensive adventure experience that extends beyond traditional mountain activities.
The Family Adventure course on the Vista hiking trail combines multiple elements into a progressive challenge suitable for families.
Additional summer amenities include bungee trampoline, batting cage, and avalanche tubing (a summer version of snow tubing using synthetic materials).
These activities operate on weekends during the summer season and provide entertainment options for families staying in the area.
The resort’s summer operations focus on weekend activities, with most facilities and chairlift rides available Saturday and Sunday from mid-June through mid-October.
This schedule aligns with the resort’s primary market of weekend visitors from Las Vegas and Southern California who use Brian Head as a base for exploring southern Utah’s outdoor attractions.
Scenic Views and Landscapes
Brian Head Resort delivers exceptional skiing and snowboarding, but here’s what really sets it apart – those incredible scenic views that’ll blow you away! Perched at Utah’s highest base elevation of 9,600 feet, this mountain paradise offers panoramic vistas that stretch across southern Utah’s dramatic landscape.
You’ll love the sweeping views from the top of the two connected mountains—Giant Steps and Navajo. We’re talking snow-capped peaks, vibrant red rock formations that define the region, and dense pine forests of the Dixie National Forest. It’s absolutely stunning!
Whether you’re carving down the slopes, taking a break at the base lodges, or enjoying a chairlift ride up the mountain, the scenery is always front and center. On clear days, you can spot the distant cliffs of Zion National Park and the rugged beauty surrounding Cedar City.
Every run becomes a visual adventure! The unique combination of high alpine terrain and colorful desert vistas creates a one-of-a-kind backdrop for winter sports and outdoor exploration that you won’t find anywhere else.
Brian Head’s location in southern Utah means you’re never far from some of the state’s most iconic natural wonders.
We’ve got you covered with proximity to Zion National Park and the expansive Dixie National Forest, making this an ideal base for combining your love of skiing and snowboarding with sightseeing and road trips through Utah’s spectacular landscapes.
Whether you’re visiting from Las Vegas or planning that perfect family getaway, the stunning views at Brian Head Resort will leave a lasting impression that’ll have you planning your return trip before you even leave!
Events and Activities
At Brian Head Resort, you’ll find the fun goes way beyond just hitting the slopes! We’ve got a packed calendar of events and activities that’ll keep the whole family entertained.
Our ski school is where the magic happens during winter, with private lessons, group lessons, and kids’ camps that help skiers and snowboarders of every skill level build confidence and learn awesome new techniques.
Whether you’re hitting the mountain for the first time or looking to polish up your skills, our experienced instructors make learning super fun and easy for everyone!
Looking for some excitement off the regular runs? Brian Head Resort has tons of winter activities that’ll get your heart pumping. Snow tubing is always a family favorite – we’ve got dedicated hills that provide thrills for all ages!
Adventurous guests can take on our climbing wall or try disc golf, even when there’s snow everywhere. During peak periods and holiday weekends, the resort really comes alive with live music events, creating this amazing festive atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing after your day on the mountain.
Night skiing is another highlight you won’t want to miss at Brian Head! You can extend your mountain adventure under the stars and bright lights.
The Giant Steps area transforms into this incredible winter playground after dark, giving you a totally unique way to experience the slopes.
When the snow melts away, Brian Head Resort shifts into summer fun mode! Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore miles and miles of trails winding through these beautiful mountains, while families can enjoy scenic chairlift rides, hiking, and tons of adventure activities like our mini zip line and climbing wall.
Our commitment to providing year-round entertainment means there’s always something new and exciting to discover, making us a top choice for family-friendly getaways no matter what season you visit!
Stats and Facts
Discover what makes Brian Head Resort a perfect mountain paradise among Utah’s premier ski destinations!
This exceptional resort offers impressive statistics and remarkable features that create an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers from Las Vegas, Cedar City, and beyond.
Explore what makes Brian Head the ideal choice for your next beautiful mountain getaway:
- Skiable Terrain: Discover 650 magnificent acres spread across two connected mountain peaks—Giant Steps and Navajo—offering the perfect balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs for every skill level.
- Runs and Lifts: Explore 71 exceptional runs serviced by 8 chairlifts, including 2 high speed quads that provide quick and easy access to these beautiful slopes.
- Elevation: Find yourself at Utah’s highest base elevation at an impressive 9,600 feet, ensuring perfect light, powdery snow conditions and absolutely breathtaking mountain views.
- Snowfall: Experience an exceptional average of 360 inches of pristine snow each season, providing reliable and perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding from mid-November through mid-April.
- Accessibility: Perfectly located just 3 hours from Las Vegas and 35 minutes from Cedar City, with beautiful and easy access to Zion National Park and other stunning southern Utah attractions.
- Family Focus: Discover comprehensive ski school programs, exceptional kids’ camps, and a perfect variety of winter and summer activities that make Brian Head Resort the ideal destination for families and groups of all skill levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned skiing enthusiast, a first-time snowboarding adventurer, or simply looking for a perfect scenic mountain escape, Brian Head Resort’s impressive statistics and exceptionally welcoming atmosphere ensure an absolutely unforgettable experience in the heart of beautiful southern Utah’s mountain paradise.
Pros and Cons of Brian Head Ski Resort
Understanding both the advantages and limitations of Brian Head Ski Resort helps families make informed decisions about their ski vacation plans.
Like any destination, the resort offers distinct benefits while having certain characteristics that may not appeal to every type of skier.
Pros
Highest base elevation in Utah ensures excellent snow quality and a longer season compared to many other southwestern ski areas. The 9,600-foot base elevation helps preserve snow throughout the winter and often provides powder conditions when lower elevation resorts are dealing with rain or marginal snow quality.
Family-friendly atmosphere with affordable lift tickets makes skiing accessible to families on various budgets. Unlike some of Utah’s premium destinations like Deer Valley, Brian Head maintains reasonable pricing while still providing quality facilities and services that meet family needs.
Short lift lines and uncrowded slopes allow families to maximize their skiing time without spending significant periods waiting in lines. This efficiency is particularly valuable for families with young children who have limited attention spans and energy levels.
Convenient location for Las Vegas and Southern California visitors provides an accessible mountain destination without requiring flights or extremely long drives. The three-hour drive from Las Vegas makes it feasible for weekend trips and allows families to combine skiing with other southern Utah attractions.
Well-maintained groomed runs and facilities ensure consistent skiing conditions and comfortable amenities. The resort’s commitment to grooming and facility maintenance creates a professional skiing experience that builds confidence, especially for beginners and intermediate skiers.
Beautiful scenery near Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks creates opportunities for extended vacations that combine skiing with sightseeing. This unique positioning allows families to experience both winter sports and some of America’s most spectacular national parks in a single trip.
Cons
Limited advanced terrain may not challenge expert skiers who are seeking steep, ungroomed, or technical runs. While the resort offers some advanced terrain, skiers accustomed to destinations like Alta or Snowbird may find the selection insufficient for their skill level.
Smaller resort with less variety compared to major Utah destinations means fewer dining options, entertainment venues, and overall amenities. Families seeking extensive après-ski activities or diverse dining experiences may find the options limited.
Some operational inefficiencies at lift loading areas can create minor delays, particularly during peak periods when less experienced skiers are learning chairlift procedures. While wait times remain shorter than major resorts, these inefficiencies can be noticeable.
Weather can be unpredictable due to the southern location, with occasional warm spells that can affect snow conditions. While the high elevation helps, the resort’s southern position makes it more susceptible to weather patterns that can temporarily impact skiing conditions.
Limited nightlife and après-ski options may disappoint visitors seeking extensive entertainment and dining choices. The resort area is relatively quiet in the evenings, which appeals to families but may not satisfy visitors looking for vibrant nightlife scenes.
Getting There and Practical Information
Brian Head Ski Resort is located at 329 S Hwy 143, Brian Head, UT 84719, positioned strategically for easy access from major southwestern cities while maintaining its mountain environment.
The resort’s accessibility makes it an attractive option for families planning road trips or weekend getaways from urban areas.
The drive from Las Vegas takes approximately 3 hours via Interstate 15 north to Cedar City, then Highway 14 west to Highway 143 north directly to Brian Head.
This route provides the most reliable access year-round and offers scenic views as it climbs from the desert floor to the mountain environment.
The final 35 minutes from Cedar City involve mountain driving, so visitors should be prepared for winter driving conditions during ski season.
Shuttle services are available from both Cedar City and St. George for visitors who prefer not to drive mountain roads or don’t have appropriate vehicles for winter conditions. These services operate on scheduled routes during peak periods and can be arranged for groups through advance reservations.
Free parking is available at both Giant Steps and Navajo base areas, with spaces typically filling during peak periods by mid-morning on weekends. The parking areas are maintained and plowed regularly, but visitors should allow extra time during heavy snow conditions for parking and walking to base facilities.
Equipment rentals, repairs, and ski school reservations can be made online in advance at the resort’s website, which helps streamline arrival and ensures availability during busy periods.
Online booking also provides access to package deals that combine lift tickets, equipment rentals, and lessons at discounted rates. Reservations for ski and snowboard lessons are highly recommended and required during holiday periods.
For visitor services, restaurant reservations, and general information, contact the resort at (435) 677-2810.
The resort’s customer service team can provide current snow conditions, weather updates, and assistance with planning visits during various seasons.
The resort accepts all major credit cards and offers season passes, multi-day tickets, and group rates for families and larger parties.
Tickets can be purchased online, at the base lodges, or through authorized retailers in Las Vegas and Southern California markets.
Brian Head Ski Resort represents an exceptional value in family skiing, combining Utah’s famous snow conditions with affordable pricing and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages skiers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape from Las Vegas, a week-long ski vacation, or a comprehensive southern Utah adventure that includes national parks, Brian Head provides the perfect mountain base for creating lasting family memories on the slopes.
