As I make that familiar turn into Big Cottonwood Canyon, my excitement begins to build. Utah’s Route 190 weaves its way up into the heart of the Wasatch as I leave the day behind me. The sun is setting, and it’s time for a night ride at Brighton.
Six nights a week throughout the winter months, no place comes alive after dark quite like Brighton does. With more than 360 lights, 32 open runs, 5 lifts and the addition of iconic Milly Express terrain for the 2024–25 season – the best night riding in Utah (and some of the best in the world) is getting even better. So whether you’re in pursuit of wide, winding turns on lengthy groomers, burly bump runs for your evening cardio, perfect progression terrain for learners, or endless park laps that will have you saying “Did you see that?” Brighton has what you’re looking for. In other words, because night riding is serviced by five lifts, there's plenty of terrain available under the stars for all abilities.
Being under the glow of those lights is about so much more than skiable acres. They shine brightly on the best things about the simple joys of sliding on snow: the stoke that’s waiting for you after work and school days, an unmatched community atmosphere where everyone on the lift is a friend you just haven’t met yet, and an unbeatable value that keeps riding unpretentious and affordable for families, students, and people from all walks of life.
On this particular night, I’m riding beneath a full moon – which hangs in a deep yellow in the clear night sky. It’s cold – but my efforts between each lift ride keep me warm. I chat with strangers on the Crest 6. I catch up with friends I’ve skied with here for years, and we carve down Pioneer off of the Snake Creek together each time finishing with a grin from ear to ear. “OK, let’s do that one again” we say, catching our breath. I chat with a dad and daughter whom he’s teaching to ski, college kids jibbing and jumping their way through the park under Majestic, and some folks on a first date. Night riding at Brighton is for everyone, and the only requirement is that you come as you are. It doesn’t get much closer to the soul of skiing than this.
.jpg)
If you need equipment, they have you covered. If you’d like to take a lesson, they’re offered on Thursday nights. And if you’re looking for something to warm you up between runs, there’s no shortage of places to fill your cup with hot chocolate or your libation of choice. Ski to the Alpine Rose or the legendary Molly Green’s for food, drink, and friendly mountain vibes.
As I glide across the snowy parking lot to my car, I can feel the glow of the lights fading away behind me. I hear the faint hum of the lifts turning, laughter from people in line, and the familiar carving swish of riders coming down the illuminated slopes. It’s a nice feeling to know that when most mountains are closing down for the day, Brighton is just getting started. It’s that feeling of refuge that keeps me coming back again and again.
Whether you’re in town for a ski trip or a longtime Utah resident, don’t miss out on night rides this season. Come for the new Milly terrain, and stay for the simple magic of this special place.
Content sposnroed by Brighton The Night 5-Pack contains 5, fully transferable Night Lift Tickets – NO BLACKOUTS. Tickets are valid Mon-Sat, 4pm to 9pm. Bring your go-to ski crew along for the ride or use all the tickets for yourself.
