Nestled in the high desert mountains of southern Utah, Brian Head Resort stands as Utah’s southernmost ski destination and an unexpected gem for families and budget-conscious skiers.
Despite its location in what many consider desert country, this ski resort boasts the highest base elevation of any Utah resorts at 9,600 feet, creating reliable snow conditions that often surprise first-time visitors.
The summit elevation of Brian Head is 10,970 feet, providing stunning views. Brian Head is located in southern Utah in the Dixie National Forest within the southern Wasatch Range, adding to its unique appeal.
With 360 inches of annual snowfall and a unique position just three hours from Las Vegas, Brian Head offers something distinctly different from the crowded slopes of many other Utah resorts.
However, the snow at Brian Head can be soft and fun when fresh, but is sometimes unskiable due to wind and flat terrain. But what do real skiers actually think about this high-elevation destination?
After analyzing dozens of Brian Head Resort reviews and guest experiences, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you decide if Brian Head deserves a spot on your ski itinerary.
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Brian Head Resort Overview
Brian Head Resort operates on 650 acres of skiable terrain across 71 runs, serviced by 10 lifts including a high-speed quad that whisks skiers up 1,320 vertical feet.
Located at Brian Head Peak in southern Utah’s Dixie National Forest, this family-friendly resort sits at an impressive elevation that ensures quality snow conditions throughout the season.
The relatively small size of the resort, combined with its efficient lift system, makes it an accessible and manageable destination for visitors.
The resort’s unique positioning makes it incredibly accessible for visitors from multiple regions. While many Utah resorts require navigating mountain passes from Salt Lake City, Brian Head welcomes skiers from Las Vegas (202 miles), Phoenix (350 miles), and even Southern California.
The drive from Cedar City takes just 30 minutes on Highway 143, though the winding mountain road requires caution during winter conditions.
However, the higher altitude can pose challenges for those susceptible to elevation sickness, especially when staying overnight.
Conditions at Brian Head can also get very cold, with highs in the single digits during winter.
What sets Brian Head apart from other ski resorts in Utah is its desert mountain setting. Skiers enjoy panoramic views of red rock canyons while carving turns through light, dry powder.
The runs at Brian Head are predominantly wide and straight, especially on the eastern mountain.
The contrast between snow-covered slopes and the distinctive southern Utah landscape creates a skiing experience unlike anywhere else in North America.
The resort operates two distinct base areas: the Navajo side, perfect for beginners and families, and the Giant Steps area, offering more challenging intermediate terrain.
A ski bridge connects these areas, allowing skiers to explore the resort’s full terrain offering in a single day.
The Navajo area caters mostly to beginners and features a confined area that feels like an entirety to explore, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out.
The Giant Steps area at Brian Head provides some un-groomed black chutes and gladed areas for advanced skiers.
What Skiers Are Saying: Real Brian Head Reviews
After analyzing 81 recent Brian Head Resort reviews from multiple platforms, a clear picture emerges of what guests appreciate most—and what leaves them wanting more.
The overall rating distribution shows 31 five-star reviews, 29 four-star ratings, 12 three-star experiences, 6 two-star reviews, and just 3 one-star ratings, indicating generally positive guest experiences.
Visitors also report that during non-holiday periods, lift lines are typically very short, allowing for more time on the slopes. With its high elevation, Brian Head ensures that the snow stays soft and light on most days after a storm.
The most consistently praised aspects center on Brian Head’s family friendly atmosphere and uncrowded slopes.
Sarah M. from Phoenix writes: “Finally, a ski resort where my kids could learn without dodging aggressive skiers! The Navajo side is perfect for beginners, and the lift lines were practically non-existent even during spring break.”
Value consistently ranks among the top positives in reviews.
Mike T. from Las Vegas notes: “Lift tickets at half the price of Park City or Deer Valley, but the snow quality was just as good. My family of four saved over $400 compared to our usual Utah ski trips.”
However, the average cost for ski school at Brian Head has increased significantly, with prices now around $330, excluding equipment rental.
However, advanced skiers frequently express disappointment with the limited challenging terrain.
Expert skier Jennifer K. explains: “The black diamond runs felt more like difficult blues compared to other Utah resorts.
After two days, I’d skied every challenging run multiple times. Great for families, but experienced skiers will find it repetitive.”
Military families particularly appreciate Brian Head’s military friendly policies, though recent pricing changes have created some confusion.
Veteran Tom R. shares: “Brian Head has always been completely military friendly with solid discounts, but new management seems inconsistent with honoring military veterans deserve pricing transparency.”
Pros and Cons of Brian Head Resort
The Pros
- Highest base elevation ensures reliable snow conditions At 9,600 feet, Brian Head Resort maintains the highest base elevation of any Utah ski destination. This elevation advantage means powder stays fresh longer, and the season typically extends from December through early April. The dry, desert air creates light, fluffy snow that rivals the legendary powder of many other Utah resorts. The longest run at Brian Head is about 0.6 miles.
- Exceptional value for families Lift tickets price significantly lower than major ski resorts north of Salt Lake City. A family of four can often ski for an entire day at roughly half the price of other Utah resorts, making Brian Head accessible to budget-conscious families seeking quality Utah skiing experiences.
Lift tickets range from the mid $50s on weekdays to the $120s on holiday weekends, offering flexibility for different budgets.
- Uncrowded slopes perfect for learning Unlike busy weekend scenes at popular Utah resorts, Brian Head’s slopes remain refreshingly uncrowded except during peak holiday periods. This creates an ideal learning environment for beginners and a relaxed atmosphere for intermediate terrain exploration.
- Strategic location for multi-destination trips The resort’s proximity to Bryce canyon National Park (45 minutes) and Zion National Park (1 hour) makes it perfect for combining skiing with national park visits—a unique advantage over ski resorts in northern Utah.
- Well-maintained facilities and grooming Guests consistently praise the resort’s grooming quality and facility maintenance. The Navajo lodge and giant steps lodge provide comfortable base amenities, while the ski school receives high marks for patient, professional instruction.
The Cons
- Limited advanced and expert terrain Advanced skiers frequently note that Brian Head’s black diamond runs feel moderate compared to other Utah resorts. The small size means limited terrain variety, and expert skiers often exhaust challenging options within a day or two.
- Minimal après-ski and nightlife options The town of Brian Head offers not many restaurants and limited evening entertainment. Skiers seeking vibrant après-ski scenes or diverse dining will find options lacking compared to larger resort destinations.
- Repetitive terrain for extended stays With only 650 acres of skiable terrain, multi-day visitors often report feeling they’ve “skied it all” by the third day. The resort works best for weekend trips or as part of larger Southern Utah vacations.
- Challenging access road conditions The winding canyon road to the resort can be treacherous in snow conditions. The single-lane sections and steep grades require confident winter driving skills and proper tire equipment.
- Limited terrain park features Freestyle skiers and snowboarders seeking extensive terrain park features will find Brian Head’s offerings basic compared to larger Utah resorts.
The terrain park has notably decreased in quality, with fewer jumps and repeated use of the same rails year after year. The focus remains primarily on traditional groomed runs rather than progressive terrain features.
Terrain Breakdown by Skill Level
Beginner Terrain (30% Green Runs)
The Navajo side of Brian Head Resort serves as an ideal learning environment for new skiers and snowboarders.
Wide, gentle slopes allow beginners to build confidence without the intimidation factor common at larger resorts. Magic carpet lifts eliminate the challenge of loading chairs while learning basic techniques.
The beginner side features several long, rolling runs that help new skiers practice linking turns and controlling speed. Night skiing on select green runs extends learning opportunities for families staying multiple days.
The ski school operates from the Navajo lodge, providing convenient access to lessons and equipment rental.
A unique feature is the ski bridge connecting the beginner side to more challenging terrain.
This allows families to ski together as skills progress, with beginners staying on the Navajo side while more confident family members explore blue runs on the giant steps side.
Intermediate Terrain (35% Blue Runs)
Intermediate terrain dominates Brian Head’s offerings, making it particularly attractive for developing skiers.
The blue runs provide excellent progression from beginner slopes, with well-groomed surfaces and moderate pitches that build confidence.
The majority of runs available at Brian Head are not steep and cater to lower skill levels, including many green and blue runs for beginners.
Giant steps lodge serves as the base for most intermediate terrain, offering longer runs with sustained vertical drops.
Popular intermediate trails like “The Dunes” showcase Brian Head’s unique desert mountain setting, with stunning views of red rock formations visible between trees.
The intermediate terrain allows for comfortable cruise skiing while still providing enough challenge to improve technique.
Many runs feature wide-open groomed sections perfect for practicing parallel turns and building speed control skills.
Advanced Terrain (35% Black Runs)
While labeled as advanced terrain, brian head’s black diamond runs rate as moderate by Utah skiing standards.
Advanced skiers should adjust expectations accordingly, viewing these runs as challenging intermediate terrain rather than true expert slopes.
The steepest terrain accessible via the Roulette chair offers 750 feet of vertical drop with the resort’s most challenging pitches.
Some backcountry access exists near Brian Head Peak at 11,307 feet elevation, though this requires proper equipment and avalanche knowledge.
The majority of the black runs at Brian Head are not very steep and consist of short mogul fields, making them approachable for advanced beginners and intermediate skiers.
Tree skiing opportunities remain limited compared to many other Utah resorts, though some gladed areas provide variety for advanced skiers seeking off-piste experiences.
The terrain works well for upper-intermediate skiers looking to progress to advanced abilities.
Snow Conditions and Weather
Despite its desert location, Brian Head resort receives an average of 360 inches of annual snowfall, rivaling many ski resorts in more traditionally snowy regions.
The high elevation creates ideal conditions for snow preservation, with the dry desert air producing the light, fluffy powder that Utah is famous for.
The ski season typically runs from mid-December through March, with occasional extensions into April during heavy snow years.
Snowmaking supplements natural snowfall on key runs, ensuring consistent coverage throughout the season.
The resort’s elevation advantage means snow quality often remains superior to lower-elevation destinations even during warm spells.
Wind can be a significant factor due to the high altitude and exposed terrain. Brian Head’s location on exposed ridges means wind holds and lift closures occur more frequently than at protected valley resorts.
Skiers should plan for variable conditions and dress in layers to handle changing mountain weather. Snow is often blown away by high winds at Brian Head, leading to icy conditions and snow accumulation in unintended areas.
Temperature swings can be dramatic in the high desert environment. Sunny days might feel warm despite cold temperatures, while overnight lows can drop dramatically.
The thin air at elevation also intensifies sun exposure, making sunscreen essential even on cloudy days.
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Resort Facilities and Amenities
Brian head resort operates two main base lodge facilities that serve different areas of the mountain. The Navajo lodge serves as the learning center, housing the ski school, equipment rental, and beginner lift access.
This facility caters specifically to families and new skiers with patient staff and beginner-friendly amenities.
Giant steps lodge provides the main resort services including ticket sales, ski patrol, and access to intermediate and advanced terrain.
The lodge houses Last Chair Saloon for après-ski dining and Starbucks for quick coffee and snacks. While not extensive, these dining options cover basic needs without the premium pricing found at larger resorts.
The ski school at Brian Head receives consistently positive reviews for instruction quality and patience with beginners. Programs start at age 4 for skiing and age 6 for snowboarding.
Adult lessons cater to various skill levels, though recent pricing increases have raised concerns about value among some guests.
Two tubing parks provide family fun beyond traditional skiing and snowboarding. These facilities require advance reservations and operate separately from lift ticket purchases.
The tubing hills offer a safe, controlled environment for younger children or non-skiers to enjoy snow activities.
Equipment rental services cover both alpine and Nordic skiing, plus snowboarding. Retail shops provide basic supplies and apparel, though selection remains limited compared to larger resort destinations.
The repair shop handles minor equipment issues and basic tuning services.
Lodging Options and Accommodations
Accommodation options in Brian Head range from budget-friendly condos to full-service lodge rooms, though choices remain more limited than at major resort destinations.
The Brian Head Lodge offers the most convenient ski-in/ski-out access with packages that include lift tickets, making it popular with families seeking simplified planning.
Cedar Breaks Lodge provides three-star accommodations near the Navajo area with standard hotel amenities and competitive pricing.
The location offers easy access to beginner terrain while maintaining reasonable rates during peak seasons.
The Grand Lodge at Brian Head represents the area’s premium accommodation option with 100 rooms, a pool, spa facilities, and fitness center.
This property appeals to guests seeking resort amenities beyond basic lodging, though it comes at a higher price point.
Numerous condo rentals throughout the town offer kitchen facilities and space for larger groups. These properties work well for extended stays or families preferring to prepare their own meals.
Many condos provide shuttle access to the slopes or short walking distances to lifts.
Alternative lodging in cedar city, located 45 minutes down the mountain, offers major hotel chains at lower rates.
This option works for budget-conscious visitors willing to commute daily, particularly those combining skiing with visits to nearby national parks.
Activities Beyond Skiing
Brian head resort offers year-round recreation extending far beyond traditional winter sports. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails wind through the surrounding Dixie National Forest, providing peaceful alternatives to downhill skiing.
These activities require no lift tickets and offer excellent exercise options for non-skiers.
Snowmobiling tours and rentals operate from the resort area, providing access to backcountry exploration and scenic viewpoints.
Guided tours accommodate various experience levels while rental options serve confident riders seeking independent exploration.
Two day spas in the Brian Head area provide relaxation and recovery services after active days on the mountain.
These facilities offer massage therapy, body treatments, and wellness services that appeal particularly to adult guests seeking resort-style amenities.
The resort’s proximity to Utah’s “Big Five” national parks creates unique multi-destination vacation opportunities.
Zion National Park sits just one hour away, while Bryce Canyon requires only 45 minutes of driving time.
This accessibility allows visitors to combine world-class skiing with iconic southwestern scenery. Brian Head’s unique scenery, marked by its proximity to these parks, adds a distinct charm to the overall experience.
Summer activities transform Brian Head into a mountain biking and hiking destination. Lift-accessed mountain biking provides downhill thrills, while extensive trail networks serve hikers of all abilities.
The cooler high-elevation climate offers pleasant summer conditions compared to the intense heat of lower desert areas.
Getting to Brian Head Resort
Driving to Brian Head resort requires navigating scenic but sometimes challenging mountain roads. From Las Vegas, the 202-mile journey takes approximately three hours via Interstate 15 north to Highway 143.
This route passes through cedar city and climbs steadily through Parowan Canyon to reach the resort’s 9,600-foot base elevation.
Salt Lake City visitors face a longer 245-mile drive taking 3.5 to 4 hours. The route follows Interstate 15 south through Utah Valley and continues to the Highway 143 junction.
This drive offers spectacular scenery but requires more time commitment than reaching northern Utah resorts.
The final 30-mile stretch on Highway 143 from cedar city includes single-lane sections and steep grades that demand careful winter driving.
Snow tires or chains may be required during storms, and drivers should check road conditions before departing. The winding canyon road provides dramatic views but requires attention and appropriate vehicle preparation.
Parking at both base lodges remains ample even during busy periods, a significant advantage over crowded parking situations at major Utah resorts.
Free shuttle service connects town lodging with the slopes, though service frequency varies by season and demand.
The nearest major airports in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City require significant drive times but offer rental car access and flight connections from throughout the country.
Cedar City’s regional airport provides limited service but sits much closer to the resort for private aircraft access.
Pricing and Value
Brian Head resort consistently ranks among the most affordable ski destinations in Utah, with lift tickets pricing significantly below major northern Utah resorts.
Daily lift tickets typically cost roughly half the price of Park City or Deer Valley, making Brian Head accessible to budget-conscious families and casual skiers.
Season pass options provide exceptional value for frequent visitors, particularly those within reasonable driving distance. Multi-day ticket packages offer additional savings for vacation visitors planning extended stays.
The resort also provides various discount programs, though recent management changes have created some inconsistency in military and group pricing policies.
Equipment rental rates align with the resort’s overall value positioning, costing less than comparable services at major destinations.
Lesson packages, while recently increased in price, still provide good value for quality instruction, particularly for beginners and children’s programs.
Food and beverage pricing remains reasonable compared to resort dining at major destinations. The limited restaurant options keep choices simple but affordable, allowing families to dine on-mountain without premium pricing shock.
Grocery stores in cedar city provide options for those preferring to prepare meals in condo accommodations.
Accommodation costs vary significantly by property type and season. Budget condo rentals offer the most economical lodging, while full-service lodge properties command higher rates but include more amenities and convenience.
Overall, total vacation costs at Brian Head typically run substantially lower than comparable trips to major ski resorts in Colorado or northern Utah.
| Expense Category | Brian Head Resort | Major Utah Resorts | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Lift Ticket | $65-85 | $130-170 | 40-50% |
| Equipment Rental | $35-45 | $50-65 | 30% |
| Ski Lesson | $80-120 | $120-180 | 35% |
| Base Lodge Lunch | $12-18 | $18-28 | 35% |
Who Should Ski Brian Head Resort
Brian head resort serves specific skier demographics exceptionally well while disappointing others seeking different experiences.
The resort excels as a destination for beginner skiers and families with young children who value uncrowded slopes, patient instruction, and affordable pricing over extensive terrain variety.
Budget-conscious skiers seeking quality Utah snow without premium resort pricing find excellent value at Brian Head.
The combination of reliable snow conditions, well-maintained facilities, and reasonable costs appeals to families prioritizing affordability without sacrificing experience quality.
Las Vegas visitors planning ski getaways benefit from Brian Head’s proximity and accessibility.
The three-hour drive makes weekend ski trips feasible, while the unique desert mountain setting provides a distinctly different experience from traditional alpine environments.
Travelers combining skiing with national park visits find Brian Head’s location ideal for multi-destination vacations. The proximity to Bryce Canyon and Zion enables unique vacation combinations impossible at other Utah ski destinations.
Conversely, advanced skiers and terrain seekers typically find Brian Head limiting due to its small size and moderate difficulty.
Expert skiers accustomed to challenging terrain at major Utah resorts may exhaust Brian Head’s offerings quickly. Similarly, visitors seeking vibrant après-ski scenes or extensive dining options should consider other destinations.
Groups prioritizing extensive terrain variety, terrain parks, or backcountry access will find better options at larger Utah resorts.
Brian Head works best for visitors whose priorities align with its strengths: affordability, family friendliness, and unique high-desert mountain scenery.
Final Verdict: Is Brian Head Worth Visiting?
Brian head resort delivers exceptional value as a family friendly, affordable ski destination that offers a distinctly different Utah skiing experience.
The combination of highest base elevation snow reliability, uncrowded slopes, and reasonable pricing creates an attractive package for its target demographic of beginners, families, and budget-conscious skiers.
The resort’s limitations—small size, limited advanced terrain, and minimal après-ski options—are significant but shouldn’t overshadow its strengths for appropriate visitors.
Guests who understand and accept these constraints while valuing Brian Head’s advantages typically report highly satisfactory experiences.
For families with beginning or intermediate skiers, Brian Head provides an ideal introduction to utah skiing without the intimidation and expense of major destinations.
The relaxed atmosphere, patient ski instruction, and proximity to national parks create vacation experiences that extend beyond just skiing.
Las Vegas area residents and visitors gain access to quality Utah snow conditions within reasonable driving distance.
The unique high desert mountain setting provides scenery and experiences unavailable at other ski resorts, making Brian Head a worthy addition to any Utah ski exploration.
Advanced skiers should consider Brian Head only as part of larger Utah ski tours or when prioritizing budget over terrain variety.
The resort works well for one or two days as an interesting contrast to larger destinations, particularly when combined with national park visits.
Overall, Brian Head resort succeeds as a specialized destination serving specific needs exceptionally well.
Visitors whose priorities match the resort’s strengths consistently report positive experiences and good value, while those seeking extensive terrain or resort amenities may find better fits elsewhere in Utah.
Ready to experience Southern Utah’s unique ski gem? Brian Head Resort offers the perfect combination of affordable pricing, family-friendly atmosphere, and reliable snow conditions just three hours from Las Vegas.
Whether you’re learning to ski, seeking uncrowded slopes, or planning a multi-destination Utah adventure, Brian Head delivers exceptional value in a stunning high-desert mountain setting.
