Imagine carving fresh powder while gazing out at red rock canyons and desert vistas – a sight you’ll only find at Utah Brian Head Ski Resort. Perched at the highest base elevation of any ski resort in Utah at 9,600 feet, this southern Utah gem offers something truly unique: affordable family skiing with spectacular scenery that combines snow-capped peaks with the iconic landscapes of the American Southwest. Brian Head Resort is located in Southern Utah inside the Dixie National Forest, adding to its breathtaking natural surroundings.
While northern utah ski resorts like Park City and Alta command premium prices, brian head ski resort provides an accessible alternative that doesn’t compromise on quality. Located just three hours from las vegas and 35 minutes from cedar city, this resort has been welcoming families since 1964, building a reputation as one of utah’s resorts that prioritizes affordability, beginner-friendly terrain, and genuine mountain hospitality.
Whether you’re a first-time skier, a family seeking budget-friendly winter fun, or an experienced rider looking for uncrowded slopes, this complete guide covers everything you need to know about planning your visit to brian head resort.
Brian Head Ski Resort Overview
Brian Head Ski Resort stands as southern Utah’s flagship winter destination, offering 650 skiable acres across two connected mountains: giant steps and navajo. The resort features 71 runs served by 8 chairlifts, including the Giant Step Express High-Speed Detachable Quad, and 2 surface lifts, providing a 1,320-foot vertical drop that caters to every skill level.
What sets this utah ski resort apart is its location within the dixie national forest, creating a unique high-altitude desert mountain environment. The resort’s base elevation of 9,600 feet ensures excellent snow conditions throughout the winter season, while the summit reaches 11,307 feet – higher than many Colorado ski areas.
The resort operates with a distinctly family friendly atmosphere, featuring two central base lodges that serve as hubs for activities, dining, and equipment rentals. Unlike the crowded conditions often found at utah’s resorts near Salt Lake City, brian head maintains a relaxed pace that allows families to enjoy skiing without the pressure of navigating massive crowds or premium pricing.
Key resort statistics include:
- Base elevation: 9,600 feet (highest in Utah)
- Summit elevation: 11,307 feet
- Vertical drop: 1,707 feet
- Skiable acres: 650+
- Total runs: 71
- Chairlifts: 8 (including high speed quads)
- Annual snowfall: 360+ inches
Book Your Stay Now to take advantage of early season packages that include lift tickets, lodging, and equipment rentals at significant savings compared to peak periods.
Terrain and Snow Conditions
The terrain at Brian Head Ski Resort is thoughtfully designed across two distinct mountain areas, each offering unique characteristics that serve different skill levels and preferences. The Brian Head peak side refers to the larger, more advanced skiing area, primarily featuring blue and black diamond runs.
Mountain Areas and Run Distribution
Giant Steps serves as the resort’s primary mountain, featuring steeper intermediate terrain and most of the resort’s advanced runs. This side typically attracts more experienced skiers and snowboarders seeking challenging descents and varied terrain features.
Navajo Peak caters primarily to beginners and families, with gentler slopes perfect for learning and confidence building. The navajo side also houses one of the resort’s tubing parks and provides easier access for those new to winter sports. Most of the runs on the Navajo side consist of green and blue trails that terminate near the Navajo Lodge, making it an ideal area for novice skiers.
The resort’s terrain breaks down as follows:
- 30% Beginner runs: Wide, groomed slopes perfect for first-time skiers
- 35% Intermediate terrain: Varied challenges for developing skills
- 35% Advanced runs: Steeper pitches and black diamond challenges
Snow Quality and Conditions
Brian head receives an average of 360+ inches of Utah’s famous powder snow annually. The high elevation location ensures quality snow conditions from mid-November through mid April, often extending the season beyond many lower-elevation resorts. This consistent snowfall makes it a reliable destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
The resort’s snowmaking capabilities cover over 30% of the terrain, providing consistent conditions during peak periods and helping maintain groomed runs throughout the season. This technology proves especially valuable during dry spells, ensuring reliable conditions for visitors who have planned ski trips in advance.
Terrain Parks and Special Features
Brian head offers three distinct terrain parks designed for different skill levels:
- The Training Grounds: Features 20+ beginner-friendly elements
- Intermediate Park: Progressive features for developing freestyle skills
- Advanced Park: Challenging jumps and rails for experienced riders
The resort also features Terrain Based Learning™ areas – specially shaped snow zones that help beginners develop fundamental skiing skills in a controlled environment.
Pros and Cons of Brian Head Terrain
Pros:
- Wide, well-groomed runs ideal for families and beginners
- Minimal crowds compared to major utah ski resorts
- Affordable lift tickets and season pass options
- Unique desert mountain scenery unlike anywhere else
- High elevation ensures reliable snow conditions
- Two separate base areas reduce congestion
Cons:
- Limited advanced terrain compared to Snowbird or Alta
- Smaller resort size means fewer total run options
- Fewer luxury amenities than premium resorts
- Remote location requires longer drive times for some visitors
- Limited nightlife and après-ski scene
Brian head ski resort is best suited for families, beginners, and intermediate skiers seeking a relaxed mountain experience without the crowds and premium pricing of larger resorts. Advanced skiers can still find challenges, particularly in the sidecountry areas accessible from the resort boundaries.
Lift Tickets and Operating Hours
Brian head operates on a schedule designed to maximize family convenience while maintaining affordable pricing that sets it apart from expensive northern utah ski resorts.
Operating Schedule
Winter Season: Mid-November through mid april (weather dependent)
Daily Operations:
- Monday-Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Night Skiing at Giant Steps:
- Friday-Saturday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Available on selected slopes with lighting
Tubing Operations:
- Sunday-Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Lift Ticket Pricing
Brian head maintains significantly lower ticket prices compared to resorts like Park City, Deer Valley, and Alta. Current pricing structure includes:
| Ticket Type | Adult | Youth (7-12) | Senior (65+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Day | $79 | $59 | $69 |
| Half Day | $69 | $49 | $59 |
| Night Skiing | $39 | $29 | $34 |
| Tubing (2 hours) | $25 | $20 | $22 |
Season Passes and Multi-Day Packages
The resort offers exceptional value through various pass options:
- Season Pass: Unlimited skiing for the entire season
- Power Pass: Mid-week unlimited with weekend restrictions
- Family Packages: Discounts for families of 4+ purchasing together
- Multi-Day Passes: 3, 5, and 7-day options with increasing savings
Multi-day packages often include lodging discounts, equipment rental deals, and dining credits at the central base lodges.
Lodging and Accommodations
Brian head offers over 3,000 lodging units ranging from budget-friendly hotel rooms to luxury ski-in ski-out vacation rentals. Condos are also a popular lodging option at Brian Head Resort, offering convenient ski-in/ski-out access and close proximity to the slopes. The variety ensures options for every budget while maintaining the family friendly atmosphere that defines this utah ski resort.
Premium Lodging Options
Cedar Breaks Lodge & Spa represents the resort’s luxury accommodation tier, featuring spacious villas with full kitchens, fireplaces, and private whirlpool tubs. The property includes a full-service day spa offering massage therapy, facials, and other relaxation services perfect for après-ski recovery. The lodge features 118 comfortable villas, making it a top choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and convenience.
Brian Head Lodge provides 100 guest rooms with resort-style amenities including an indoor pool, multiple hot tubs, sauna, and steam room. The lodge’s central location offers easy access to both base areas and the resort’s dining options. Additionally, the lodge features a day spa, providing guests with opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation after a day on the slopes.
Ski-In Ski-Out Options
Multiple condominium complexes (condos) provide direct slope access from both the navajo side and giant steps areas. These vacation rentals typically feature: * Full kitchens for family meal preparation * Multiple bedrooms accommodating large groups * Fireplace and living areas for evening relaxation * Private hot tubs or access to shared facilities * Equipment storage and boot drying areas. Various ski-in ski-out vacation rentals and private condos are available on the Navajo side, offering unparalleled convenience for guests.
- Full kitchens for family meal preparation
- Multiple bedrooms accommodating large groups
- Fireplace and living areas for evening relaxation
- Private hot tubs or access to shared facilities
- Equipment storage and boot drying areas
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
The resort area includes numerous hotels, motels, and cabin rentals that provide comfortable lodging without premium pricing. Many of these options are located within walking distance of the base areas or offer shuttle services during peak periods.
Book Your Stay Now through our preferred partners to access exclusive packages that combine lodging, lift tickets, and equipment rentals at substantial savings.
Lodging Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Significantly lower rates than Park City or Deer Valley area lodging
- Wide variety of accommodation types for different budgets
- Many properties offer convenient slope access
- Day spa services available for relaxation and recovery
- Family-oriented properties with amenities like pools and game rooms
Cons:
- Limited ultra-luxury options compared to high-end resort destinations
- Smaller village atmosphere means fewer lodging choices during peak periods
- Some properties may require short drives to base areas
- Booking early is essential for best selection and rates
The lodging at Brian Head Resort provides excellent value for families seeking comfortable accommodations without the premium pricing associated with more famous utah ski resorts.
Dining and Amenities
The resort’s dining and amenity offerings center around two central base lodges that serve as focal points for guest services, equipment needs, and mountain dining experiences.
Base Lodge Facilities
Navajo Lodge Learning Center serves the family friendly navajo side of the resort, housing the main ski school operations, beginner equipment rentals, and cafeteria-style dining. The lodge features outdoor seating areas with spectacular mountain views and easy access to the gentler learning slopes.
Giant Steps Lodge caters to the more advanced terrain side, offering full-service equipment rentals, ski and snowboard repair shops, and dining options that range from quick grab-and-go items to sit-down meals.
Dining Options
Last Chair Saloon provides the resort’s primary après-ski destination, featuring local beers, cocktails, and hearty mountain fare. The saloon’s atmosphere captures the relaxed, community feel that distinguishes brian head from more commercialized resorts.
Starbucks Coffee locations in both base lodges ensure caffeine needs are met, while outdoor mountain seating allows guests to enjoy their beverages while taking in the unique desert mountain scenery.
The resort’s cafeterias focus on family friendly menu options with reasonable pricing, including:
- Fresh soups and chili perfect for cold mountain days
- Grilled items and sandwiches for quick refueling
- Kids’ menu options designed for young skiers
- Vegetarian and dietary-conscious choices
Equipment and Services
Both base areas feature comprehensive ski and snowboard equipment rental shops stocked with current-model skis, snowboard equipment, boots, and helmets. Professional fitting services ensure proper equipment setup for safety and performance.
Full-service repair shops handle everything from basic edge tuning to major equipment repairs, staffed by experienced technicians who understand the demands of varied terrain and snow conditions.
Retail shops offer resort merchandise, winter apparel, accessories, and last-minute gear needs. The shops also stock sunscreen and other essentials that visitors frequently forget when packing for mountain conditions.
Ski Lessons and Kids Programs
Brian head ski resort has built its reputation as a family friendly destination largely through comprehensive learning programs designed for all ages and skill levels. Lessons for skiing and snowboarding are available for all ages at Brian Head Resort, ensuring that everyone from young children to adults can enjoy learning in a supportive environment. The resort’s ski school operates from both base areas, ensuring convenient access regardless of where guests are staying.
Kids Camp Programs
The resort’s Kids Camp serves children ages 5-12 with supervised instruction that combines skiing lessons with fun mountain activities. The program includes:
- Age-appropriate ski and snowboard instruction
- Indoor activities during weather breaks
- Lunch and snacks provided in supervised environment
- Equipment rentals included in program fees
- Small group sizes ensuring individual attention
Adult Learning Programs
Brian Head University offers beginner programs for ages 7 and up, including adults who are new to winter sports. The structured curriculum progresses students through fundamental skills using the resort’s designated learning areas on the navajo side.
Programs include:
- Half-day and full-day lesson packages
- Multi-day progression programs for vacation visitors
- Private lessons for personalized instruction
- Group lessons that build social connections while learning
Professional Instruction
All instructors maintain certification through PSIA (Professional Ski Instructors of America) and AASI (American Association of Snowboard Instructors), ensuring professional-quality instruction that prioritizes safety and skill development.
The ski school emphasizes Terrain Based Learning™ principles, using specially designed snow features and gentle slopes to help students develop confidence and fundamental skills before progressing to steeper terrain.
Equipment and Packages
Lesson packages include equipment rentals, eliminating the hassle of separate transactions and ensuring properly fitted gear. The ski school maintains dedicated equipment specifically sized and tuned for learning, including shorter skis and softer boots that make the learning process easier.
Book Your Stay Now and add lesson packages to your reservation for guaranteed instruction slots and package pricing that combines lodging, lessons, and lift access.
Additional Winter Activities
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, brian head resort offers diverse winter activities that make it a complete mountain destination for the whole family. The resort features a snow tubing hill, a family-friendly attraction with gentle slopes perfect for all ages. These activities expand the resort’s appeal beyond traditional ski areas, providing entertainment for non-skiers and adding variety to multi-day visits.
Snow Tubing
Two dedicated tubing parks operate at both giant steps and navajo mountains, featuring multiple lanes with varying lengths and pitches. Each park includes a snow tubing hill with a generous vertical drop, making it a family-friendly attraction for all ages. The tubing experience includes:
- Conveyor lifts that eliminate the climb back up
- Multiple tube runs designed for different thrill levels
- Family lanes suitable for young children
- Night tubing available during weekend peak periods
- Rental tubes and safety equipment provided
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
The surrounding dixie national forest provides extensive trail networks for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These activities offer opportunities to explore the unique high-altitude desert landscape surrounding the resort.
Guided snowshoe tours are available for those wanting to learn about the area’s ecology and history while enjoying winter exercise. The tours often highlight the contrast between the snowy mountain environment and the red rock desert visible in the distance.
Snowmobiling
Licensed outfitters operate snowmobile tours through backcountry areas, providing access to powder-filled valleys and spectacular viewpoints. These tours range from beginner-friendly rides to more adventurous backcountry exploration for experienced riders.
Day Trip Opportunities
Brian head’s location in southern utah creates unique opportunities for winter day trips to world-famous national parks:
- Zion National Park: 90 minutes away, offering winter hiking and stunning red rock scenery
- Bryce Canyon National Park: 2 hours away, featuring snow-covered hoodoos and winter photography opportunities
- Cedar Breaks National Monument: 30 minutes away, providing spectacular winter vistas
These proximity advantages allow visitors to combine winter sports with some of the most iconic natural attractions in the American Southwest.
Events and Festivals at Brian Head
Brian Head Resort is more than just a top-tier destination for skiing and snowboarding—it’s also a lively hub for events and festivals that bring the mountain community together all year long. During the winter season, the resort comes alive with a variety of celebrations, including ski and snowboard competitions that showcase local talent and friendly rivalry. One of the highlights is the annual Winter Carnival, where families can enjoy snow sculpture contests, sled pulls, and dazzling fireworks displays set against the spectacular scenery of southern Utah.
As the snow melts and summer arrives, Brian Head Resort shifts gears with its popular Summer Concert Series. Visitors can relax on the mountain, take in live music performances, and soak up the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The resort also participates in statewide events like the Ski Utah Festival, which celebrates Utah’s ski resorts and often features special discounts on lift tickets and ski and snowboard equipment rentals.
No matter the season, there’s always something happening at Brian Head. From festive gatherings to live entertainment, these events add an extra layer of fun to your mountain getaway. Be sure to check the Brian Head Resort website before your visit for the latest event calendar and plan your trip around your favorite activities.
Getting to Brian Head Resort
Brian head resort’s location in southern utah makes it accessible from multiple major metropolitan areas, with particularly convenient access from las vegas and the Salt Lake City corridor.
Driving Directions
From Las Vegas (202 miles, approximately 3 hours):
- Take I-15 North to Exit 40 (Parowan/Brian Head)
- Follow Highway UT-143 East for 29 miles to brian head
- The route climbs from desert elevation to over 9,000 feet
From Salt Lake City (245 miles, approximately 3.5-4 hours):
- Take I-15 South to Exit 40 (Parowan/Brian Head)
- Follow Highway UT-143 East for 29 miles to the resort
From Cedar City (29 miles, approximately 35 minutes):
- Take Highway UT-143 East directly to brian head peak
- Most convenient access point for regional visitors
Transportation Services
Several shuttle services operate between cedar city regional airport and brian head resort, providing convenient transfers for visitors flying into the area. Las vegas shuttle services are also available, typically requiring advance reservations during peak periods.
The resort provides free parking at both base areas, eliminating the parking fees common at many other utah ski resorts.
Winter Driving Considerations
Highway UT-143 climbs over 4,000 feet in elevation from the desert floor to brian head, requiring attention to winter driving conditions:
- Snow tires or chains may be required during storms
- Weather conditions can change rapidly with elevation gain
- Check road conditions before departure, especially during peak periods
- Vehicle preparation should include emergency supplies and warm clothing
The utah Department of Transportation maintains the access road well, but winter storms can create temporary closures or require chain/traction device usage.
Safety and Precautions
At Brian Head Resort, guest safety is a top priority, ensuring that every visit is both fun and secure for the whole family. The resort’s experienced ski patrol team is always on hand to provide assistance, respond to emergencies, and help maintain a safe environment across all ski and snowboard terrain. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, it’s important to wear properly fitted ski and snowboard equipment—including helmets—and to stay within your skill level while exploring the mountain.
For those looking to build confidence or tackle more challenging runs, Brian Head’s ski school offers private lessons and guided tours tailored to your abilities. The central base lodges serve as convenient hubs for information on safety guidelines, equipment rentals, and up-to-date snow conditions. The resort’s commitment to safety also includes regular snowmaking and grooming, ensuring optimal conditions throughout the season.
Before hitting the slopes, take a moment to review the resort’s safety policies—available online or at the ski school—and talk with staff if you have any questions. By following these precautions and making use of the resort’s resources, you’ll help create a safe, enjoyable experience for yourself and your family at Brian Head Resort.
Summer Activities at Brian Head
Brian head transforms into a premier mountain biking and outdoor recreation destination during summer months, operating from mid-June through mid-October on weekends. This seasonal transformation demonstrates the resort’s commitment to year-round mountain recreation.
Mountain Biking
The resort features over 200 miles of mountain biking trails that range from gentle fire roads to challenging singletrack descents. The trail system includes: Chairlift-Accessed Trails: Riders can use chairlift rides to access higher elevation trails, eliminating the climb and allowing more time for downhill riding. These trails feature jumps, bank turns, and freestyle elements that challenge riders of all skill levels. Brian Head Resort provides access to over 200 miles of backcountry and downhill trails, making it a premier destination for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Chairlift-Accessed Trails: Riders can use chairlift rides to access higher elevation trails, eliminating the climb and allowing more time for downhill riding. These trails feature jumps, bank turns, and freestyle elements that challenge riders of all skill levels.
Cross-Country Networks: Extensive trail systems wind through the dixie national forest, offering everything from beginner-friendly routes to expert-level technical challenges.
Downhill Courses: Purpose-built downhill trails provide adrenaline-pumping descents for advanced riders seeking gravity-fed thrills.
Family Summer Activities
Mini Zip Line: Offers aerial adventure suitable for children and adults seeking a different perspective on the mountain environment.
Climbing Wall: Outdoor rock climbing wall provides introductory climbing experiences with safety equipment and basic instruction available. Bungee Trampoline: High-bouncing trampoline system provides aerial fun for kids and adventurous adults. These activities, along with others, make Brian Head a versatile summer destination for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Disc Golf: 18-hole course winds through mountain terrain, combining the sport with spectacular mountain scenery.
Bungee Trampoline: High-bouncing trampoline system provides aerial fun for kids and adventurous adults.
Scenic Activities
Summer Chairlift Rides: Non-biking visitors can enjoy chairlift access to high-elevation viewpoints, offering spectacular scenery photography and mountain vista appreciation.
Hiking Trails: Numerous hiking trails branch from the resort area into the surrounding national forest, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing, wildflower photography, and high-altitude exercise.
Avalanche Tubing: Year-round tubing operation uses a specialized surface that allows tubing without snow, extending the popular winter activity into summer months.
The summer season showcases brian head’s unique high-altitude environment, where mountain recreation occurs against the backdrop of southern utah’s distinctive red rock landscape visible in the distance.
Brian head ski resort stands as southern utah’s premier four-season mountain destination, offering unique value that combines affordable winter sports with spectacular desert mountain scenery. From its record-setting base elevation to its family friendly atmosphere, this utah ski resort provides an authentic mountain experience without the crowds and premium pricing of more commercialized destinations.
Whether you’re planning your first ski trip, seeking a budget-friendly family vacation, or looking to explore a different side of utah’s winter recreation, Brian Head delivers exceptional value. The resort’s location just three hours from las vegas and its proximity to iconic national parks create opportunities for adventure that extend far beyond the slopes.
The combination of reliable snow conditions, uncrowded terrain, professional ski school programs, and comfortable lodging makes Brian Head an ideal choice for families and value-conscious skiers. The resort’s commitment to maintaining its community atmosphere while continuously improving facilities ensures that visitors experience authentic mountain hospitality.
Book Your Stay Now to secure your spot at southern Utah’s highest resort and discover why Brian Head has been creating mountain memories for families since 1964. Take advantage of early booking discounts and package deals that combine lodging, lift tickets, lessons, and equipment rentals for the ultimate mountain vacation value.
Insider Tips and Recommendations
To make the most of your adventure at Brian Head Resort, consider these insider tips that will help you enjoy everything this southern Utah gem has to offer. Start by taking advantage of the resort’s affordable ticket prices and rent your ski and snowboard equipment at one of the two central base lodges for convenience and expert fitting. If you’re an intermediate skier or rider, don’t miss the Giant Steps side of the mountain—its intermediate terrain offers some of the best views and a perfect balance of challenge and fun.
For a memorable twist, try night skiing on Friday or Saturday, when the slopes take on a magical atmosphere under the lights. If you’re visiting during peak periods, arrive early to enjoy the lively energy and maximize your time on the mountain. Looking for something different? Explore the resort’s winter activities beyond skiing, such as snowshoeing or hiking along scenic trails in the Dixie National Forest.
When summer rolls around, Brian Head transforms into an outdoor playground. Test your skills on the mountain biking trails, play a round of disc golf, or soar on the mini zip line for a family-friendly thrill. Don’t forget to check the resort’s website for special deals and discounts, including the Power Pass, which unlocks unlimited access to Brian Head Resort and other top Utah ski resorts.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy the best of Brian Head—whether you’re carving fresh powder, exploring the mountain in summer, or simply soaking in the spectacular scenery.
