Frequently Asked Questions About Brian Head Activities

Brian Head offers more affordable lift tickets and typically shorter lift lines than many other Utah resorts. While it may not have the extensive terrain of larger resorts, its 650+ acres of skiable terrain, 71 runs, and 1,320-foot vertical drop provide plenty of variety. The resort is particularly known for its excellent beginner and intermediate terrain, making it ideal for families and those learning to ski or snowboard.

Brian Head offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. Brian Head Resort features two mountains with eight chairlifts and terrain suitable for all skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced skiers and riders.

The Cedar Mountain Snowmobile Complex provides extensive trails through Southern Utah’s color country. Tours are available through Thunder Mountain Sports, while rentals can be secured at Brian Head Powersports. The complex offers ample snow on high mountain trails and winter access to unique scenery, making it one of Utah’s premier snowmobile destinations.

Yes! Non-skiers can enjoy snow tubing at Brian Head Resort’s dedicated tubing hill, ice skating at Brian Head Ice, snowshoeing on various trails, or simply relaxing in the lodge. Cedar Breaks National Monument offers ranger-led snowshoe tours during winter months, providing a peaceful way to experience the snow-covered landscape.

No, you don’t need to bring your own equipment. Brian Head Resort offers rental services for skiing and snowboarding gear. Local outfitters like Brianhead Sports and Georg’s provide rentals for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing equipment. For snowmobiling, companies like Thunder Mountain Motorsports offer machine rentals along with their guided tours.

Mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and water activities at Bristlecone Pond top the list of summer favorites. Brian Head Resort’s Adventure Zone offers additional attractions including a zip line, climbing wall, and bungee trampoline. ATV riding on nearby trails and scenic chairlift rides at the resort are also popular summer activities.

Brian Head offers over 100 miles of diverse mountain biking trails for all skill levels. The resort features lift-served downhill trails for thrill-seekers, while cross-country routes cater to those who prefer a more measured pace. Bike rentals and lessons are available at the resort and local outfitters. The area is known for its unique combination of alpine and desert riding experiences.

For beginners, the Family Adventure Trail at Brian Head Resort and the Alpine Pond Trail at Cedar Breaks are excellent choices. Intermediate hikers enjoy the Sydney Peak Trail and Rattlesnake Creek Trail. For more advanced hikers, Dark Hollow and Bunker Creek offer challenging terrain. The hike to Brian Head Peak (11,307 feet) rewards with panoramic views extending into neighboring states.

Bristlecone Pond offers fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming during summer months. The area features a large pavilion (which can be reserved through Town Hall), picnic areas with fire rings, a playground, and sports courts for volleyball, basketball, and pickleball. It’s a perfect spot for families to spend a day enjoying mountain sunshine.

Brian Head’s central location makes it perfect for exploring Southern Utah. Cedar Breaks National Monument is just 5 minutes away. Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are approximately 1.5 hours away. The north rim of the Grand Canyon is about 3 hours away. The nearby towns of Cedar City and Parowan offer cultural attractions and shopping opportunities within 30-45 minutes.

Cedar Breaks National Monument features a half-mile deep gorge filled with colorful hoodoos, spires, and cliffs similar to Bryce Canyon but less crowded. During wildflower season (usually July), the meadows burst with color. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. The monument is also designated as an International Dark Sky Park, making it perfect for stargazing.