Utah’s two most iconic landscapes meld into a scene unlike any other at Brian Head Resort. Stark blue desert skies contrast with distant red rocks and the white snow below your feet; this is a special place...
As Utah’s southernmost ski area, Brian Head is located in the Dixie National Forest near Cedar City, just four hours from Salt Lake and three hours from Las Vegas. A weekend trip to Brian Head is ideal for families who want to pair their adventure with any of the three National Parks nearby. With fewer crowds visiting parks in the winter and the southern location of Brian Head, the feeling of escaping the masses can easily be accomplished. Brian Head’s reasonable lodging rates and affordable lessons make this family affair all the more irresistible.
PRO TIP: Brian Head is a high elevation resort, don't miss our Altitude Guide to prepare for your visit.
The novelty of skiing while spying red rocks in the distance is reason enough to visit Brain Head Resort. On clear days, it’s feasible to see all the way into Great Basin National Park in Nevada. Brian Head Resort has 2 distinct base areas connected by a free shuttle bus and is surrounded by a small village offering everything you need to comfortably spend a few days enjoying the scenery.
Perched at 9,800 feet, Brian Head encompasses Utah’s highest elevation base area and the peaks in the area trap storms tracking in from the south. The laid-back atmosphere at this resort complements the sprawling terrain best suited for beginners to strong intermediates. In addition, the affordable rates make this an unbeatable destination for families. Many hotels, vacation rentals and condos near the slopes can be booked in the town of Brian Head or near either of the two base areas.
BRIAN HEAD'S LOCATION
Brian Head Resort is located in Southern Utah near Cedar City and three of Utah’s National Parks. Approximate driving times (in favorable driving conditions) and distances are listed below:
Cedar City: 33 miles – 40 minutes
St. George: 84 miles – 1 hour, 30 minutes
Provo: 200 miles – 3 hours
Salt Lake City: 245 miles – 3 hours, 30 minutes
Ogden: 280 miles – 4 hours
Logan: 325 miles – 4 hours, 50 minutes
In a 5th Grader’s Words:
“The runs are good and they have the best park. They have the best powder. Oh yeah, they have the best grooming, too. It’s the best ski resort I have ever been to.” - Klay, Age 10
Brian Head's Terrain & Mountain Stats
Skiable Acres: 650+ Acres
Vertical Drop: 1,320 Feet
Number of Runs: 71
Average Snowfall: 350"
Terrain: 30% Beginner, 35% Intermediate, 35% Advanced, 3 Terrain Parks
Chairlifts: 8 Lifts and 3 Surface Lifts
Night Skiing: Yes, Schedule Varies. Night skiing is offered 7 days a week during peak holiday periods and on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the season. Affordable rates and deals are often offered, reserve tickets in advance for the best price, info here.
Vertical Drop: 1,320 Feet
Number of Runs: 71
Average Snowfall: 350"
Terrain: 30% Beginner, 35% Intermediate, 35% Advanced, 3 Terrain Parks
Chairlifts: 8 Lifts and 3 Surface Lifts
Night Skiing: Yes, Schedule Varies. Night skiing is offered 7 days a week during peak holiday periods and on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the season. Affordable rates and deals are often offered, reserve tickets in advance for the best price, info here.
Deals at Brian Head
Brian Head and its portfolio of partner resorts offer the fantastic POWER KIDS pass. Any child 12 and under can obtain a FREE Power Kids season pass valid at all Power Pass Mountains for unlimited skiing. The Power Kids pass also provides FREE mountain biking at all Power Pass mountains with a bike park. Click here for pass info. The Power Kids pass provides access to the following mountains:
Brian Head Resort (Brian Head, UT)*
Nordic Valley Ski Resort (Eden, UT)
Arizona Snowbowl (Flagstaff, AZ)
Lee Canyon (Las Vegas, NV)*
Purgatory Resort (Durango, CO)*
Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort (Taos, NM)
Pajarito Mountain Ski Area (Los Alamos, NM)*
Sandia Peak (Albuquerque, NM)
Willamette Pass Resort (Crescent Lake, OR)
Valle Nevado (Santiago, Chile)
La Parva (Santiago, Chile)
Spider Mountain Bike Park (Burnet, TX)*
* Indicates mountains with mountain bike parks where kids can ride summer lifts for FREE
Brian Head and its portfolio of partner resorts offer the fantastic POWER KIDS pass. Any child 12 and under can obtain a FREE Power Kids season pass valid at all Power Pass Mountains for unlimited skiing. The Power Kids pass also provides FREE mountain biking at all Power Pass mountains with a bike park. Click here for pass info. The Power Kids pass provides access to the following mountains:
Brian Head Resort (Brian Head, UT)*
Nordic Valley Ski Resort (Eden, UT)
Arizona Snowbowl (Flagstaff, AZ)
Lee Canyon (Las Vegas, NV)*
Purgatory Resort (Durango, CO)*
Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort (Taos, NM)
Pajarito Mountain Ski Area (Los Alamos, NM)*
Sandia Peak (Albuquerque, NM)
Willamette Pass Resort (Crescent Lake, OR)
Valle Nevado (Santiago, Chile)
La Parva (Santiago, Chile)
Spider Mountain Bike Park (Burnet, TX)*
* Indicates mountains with mountain bike parks where kids can ride summer lifts for FREE
Brian Head's Terrain
Brian Head Resort is composed of two main peaks, Brian Head Peak and Navajo Peak. You can ski between these two zones or catch a free resort shuttle between base areas.
NAVAJO PEAK
Navajo Peak is primarily devoted to terrain for beginners and intermediates with gentler pitches and many well-groomed and undulating trails. The views here are unparalleled. Those enrolled in lessons or just getting started with skiing or snowboarding will want to start here on the Pioneer chairlift or on one of the surface lifts located adjacent to the Navajo Lodge. Warm up on First Time and take a few laps on You’re Ready before moving over to the Navajo lift for longer pitches and equally fun terrain for learners. If you’re up to the challenge, try Brave beneath the lift line.
To explore additional blue or green trails, drop onto the other side of Navajo Peak and sample the trails off the Wildflower lift. The trails over here are a bit steeper than what you’ll find off the Navajo lift. Sugarloaf or Sun Dog are nicely groomed trails with excellent views of Brian Head Peak. This is a great place to gain confidence off-piste alongside the wide groomers.
NAVAJO PEAK
Navajo Peak is primarily devoted to terrain for beginners and intermediates with gentler pitches and many well-groomed and undulating trails. The views here are unparalleled. Those enrolled in lessons or just getting started with skiing or snowboarding will want to start here on the Pioneer chairlift or on one of the surface lifts located adjacent to the Navajo Lodge. Warm up on First Time and take a few laps on You’re Ready before moving over to the Navajo lift for longer pitches and equally fun terrain for learners. If you’re up to the challenge, try Brave beneath the lift line.
To explore additional blue or green trails, drop onto the other side of Navajo Peak and sample the trails off the Wildflower lift. The trails over here are a bit steeper than what you’ll find off the Navajo lift. Sugarloaf or Sun Dog are nicely groomed trails with excellent views of Brian Head Peak. This is a great place to gain confidence off-piste alongside the wide groomers.
BRIAN HEAD PEAK
To access the terrain on Brian Head Peak, you can either park in the lot adjacent to the Giant Steps Lodge or ski over from Navajo Peak using the ski bridge to the Alpen Glow lift. Brian Head Peak offers the most intermediate and expert black diamond terrain at the resort.
From the Giant Steps Lodge, learners or intermediates will want to begin on the Blackfoot lift, cruising down Heavenly Daze or Desbah. The freestyle terrain park is also situated here. The longest intermediate runs are located off Giant Steps Express. Check out Hunter’s Run, Sunburst and Bear Paw.
Experts and confident intermediates will enjoy exploring the terrain off The Dunes and Roulette chairlifts. The Straight Up black diamond run beneath the Roulette lift or the Wild Ride run along the resort boundary provide space to roam and stunning views. Many black diamond tree runs and short shots can be located to the right of The Dunes lift and strong skiers or riders won’t want to miss Engens either.
There are backcountry gates at Brian Head; as always do not venture beyond the boundary without proper backcountry equipment, knowledge or a current avalanche forecast. It’s best to chat with ski patrol first to get further insight on snow conditions and terrain.
Brian Head does offer night skiing on Fridays and Saturdays in addition to peak periods from 4:00 to 9:00 PM on Chair #3, Blackfoot. Check the Brian Head website for info and further details.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Snow Tube Park at night. Kids love the fast, wide lanes and the sensation of night tubing guarantees a unique experience.
Parking & Public Transportation
There are three parking areas at Brian Head Resort. Families with beginners will most likely want to start from the Navajo Lodge Learning Center where the easiest runs and the Winter Sports School is located.
The main base area with a large parking lot is located at the Giant Steps Lodge. The greatest amount of terrain is located here. There is another small parking lot at the base of the Wildflower lift and a lot to grab gear at Georg’s Ski Shop. A ski bridge over the road connects the Wildflower lift to the Alpen Glow lift (a little scooting or walking is required).
Brian Head Resort provides a complimentary village shuttle between base areas, simplifying travel for families between the area’s shops, ski lodges and stops in town. For more information, visit the town’s website.
As far as transit to the resort goes, the Brian Head Express Shuttle is an independently owned shuttle service that offers a daily round-trip shuttle from Cedar City for $30-$25. Click here for info.
The main base area with a large parking lot is located at the Giant Steps Lodge. The greatest amount of terrain is located here. There is another small parking lot at the base of the Wildflower lift and a lot to grab gear at Georg’s Ski Shop. A ski bridge over the road connects the Wildflower lift to the Alpen Glow lift (a little scooting or walking is required).
Brian Head Resort provides a complimentary village shuttle between base areas, simplifying travel for families between the area’s shops, ski lodges and stops in town. For more information, visit the town’s website.
As far as transit to the resort goes, the Brian Head Express Shuttle is an independently owned shuttle service that offers a daily round-trip shuttle from Cedar City for $30-$25. Click here for info.
During times of heavy snowfall, Route 143 may require traction devices (proper tires, chains, etc.). Please consult UDOT or this page for more information and current conditions.
Base Area & Main Lodge
Driving up UT State Route 143 from Parowan, guests will first reach the Navajo Lodge and Learning Center. This is where you’ll want to stop if you’ve booked lessons with the Winter Sports School. Equipment and rentals can be found at High Mountain Outfitters and food is available at the Navajo Lodge Grill. This side of the mountain is best for beginners and intermediates. The highest concentration of green-rated trails and beginner terrain can be found here.
Several minutes up Route 143 lies Brian Head’s main hub and the Giant Steps Lodge. This lodge provides lift ticketing, equipment rentals and repair, the Giant Steps Grill and the Last Chair Saloon. Two of the terrain parks and the majority of intermediate and expert terrain are located here in addition to the Snow Tube Park.
Finally, there is a small parking lot adjacent to the Wildflower chairlift and a small cluster of condos near Georg’s ski and snowboard rental shop. It is possible to ski between the two distinct mountains of Brian Head Peak and Navajo Peak using the Wildflower chairlift and the ski bridge above the roadway.
Lodging is available near all the base areas in addition to options in the town of Brian Head and in the subdivisions on Navajo Peak.
Several minutes up Route 143 lies Brian Head’s main hub and the Giant Steps Lodge. This lodge provides lift ticketing, equipment rentals and repair, the Giant Steps Grill and the Last Chair Saloon. Two of the terrain parks and the majority of intermediate and expert terrain are located here in addition to the Snow Tube Park.
Finally, there is a small parking lot adjacent to the Wildflower chairlift and a small cluster of condos near Georg’s ski and snowboard rental shop. It is possible to ski between the two distinct mountains of Brian Head Peak and Navajo Peak using the Wildflower chairlift and the ski bridge above the roadway.
Lodging is available near all the base areas in addition to options in the town of Brian Head and in the subdivisions on Navajo Peak.
Brian Head's Winter Sports School
The Brian Head Winter Sports School and Kids’ Camps are located in the Navajo Lodge and Learning Center adjacent to great beginner terrain. In contrast to bigger and busier resorts, Brian Head charges very reasonable rates for their lessons and equipment and it’s a fantastic place to learn the sport or brush up on a few fundamentals or specific techniques.
Pro Tip: It’s best to book lessons early at Brian Head!
In all cases, Brian Head recommends making reservations for the Winter Sports School with a minimum of five days in advance. Availability is not guaranteed during peak periods. Reservations made less than five days in advance are subject to a 20% increase in cost and reservations made less than 24 hours in advance are subject to a 40% increase in cost.
Private Lessons (Ages 13+)
Brian Head offers private lessons for ages 13 and up in 2.5-hour or 6-hour blocks for beginning through advanced skiers and riders. Adaptive lessons are also on offer in 2.5 hour blocks. Night skiing private lessons are available for 2.5 hours.
Adult Group Lessons (Ages 13+)
If you are new to the sport or a seasoned skier or rider, Brian Head offers lessons for 2.5 hours for adults and teens (ages 13-19). Morning or afternoon lesson blocks are available with the option to upgrade for more time in the afternoon.
Mountain Explorers (Kids Group Lessons for Ages 7-12)
Brian Head extends lessons in four different ability levels for skiers and snowboarders. Note that advanced snowboarding lessons are only offered in a private lesson format. Lessons are offered in AM or PM lessons, full-day blocks or the option of an afternoon upgrade. Note that the advanced skiing lesson is only offered in a full-day format.
Brian Head First Tracks (Kid’s Private Lessons for Ages 3-6)
First Tracks is a 2.5-hour private lesson option for children who are too young for the Mountain Explorer's group lessons. Youngsters will receive private, individual attention to foster child's enjoyment and excitement about skiing or snowboarding. Availability is limited and lessons should be booked well in advance.
Pro Tip: It’s best to book lessons early at Brian Head!
In all cases, Brian Head recommends making reservations for the Winter Sports School with a minimum of five days in advance. Availability is not guaranteed during peak periods. Reservations made less than five days in advance are subject to a 20% increase in cost and reservations made less than 24 hours in advance are subject to a 40% increase in cost.
Private Lessons (Ages 13+)
Brian Head offers private lessons for ages 13 and up in 2.5-hour or 6-hour blocks for beginning through advanced skiers and riders. Adaptive lessons are also on offer in 2.5 hour blocks. Night skiing private lessons are available for 2.5 hours.
Adult Group Lessons (Ages 13+)
If you are new to the sport or a seasoned skier or rider, Brian Head offers lessons for 2.5 hours for adults and teens (ages 13-19). Morning or afternoon lesson blocks are available with the option to upgrade for more time in the afternoon.
Mountain Explorers (Kids Group Lessons for Ages 7-12)
Brian Head extends lessons in four different ability levels for skiers and snowboarders. Note that advanced snowboarding lessons are only offered in a private lesson format. Lessons are offered in AM or PM lessons, full-day blocks or the option of an afternoon upgrade. Note that the advanced skiing lesson is only offered in a full-day format.
Brian Head First Tracks (Kid’s Private Lessons for Ages 3-6)
First Tracks is a 2.5-hour private lesson option for children who are too young for the Mountain Explorer's group lessons. Youngsters will receive private, individual attention to foster child's enjoyment and excitement about skiing or snowboarding. Availability is limited and lessons should be booked well in advance.
Ski Shops & Rental Equipment
Equipment rentals and full service ski shops at Brian Head can be found at both Giant Steps and Navajo Lodges. The two convenient locations ensure quick and easy access to the slopes once your rental process is complete. The rental shops at both base areas also have logo gear and provide professional ski and snowboard tuning and repair services. Complimentary overnight ski and board storage is offered at both shops.
Pro Tip: Brian Head requires that guests enrolled in lessons arrive at least 45 minutes early if they need to complete the equipment rental process.
All rental ski packages include skis, boots and poles. All snowboard rental packages include boots and a board. Half-day or full-day rentals are available. In addition, helmets and wrist guards can be rented. Packages range from $35-$60 with discounted rates available for night skiing.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Georg’s ski shop at the base of the Wildflower chairlift. In the back of the shop, you’ll find an eclectic collection of ski memorabilia and maybe you’ll find one of the family members to spin yarns about the days of yore. Georg’s Ski Shop has ski and snowboard rentals and a huge selection of gear in addition to gifts, logo wear and cool souvenirs.
Pro Tip: Brian Head requires that guests enrolled in lessons arrive at least 45 minutes early if they need to complete the equipment rental process.
All rental ski packages include skis, boots and poles. All snowboard rental packages include boots and a board. Half-day or full-day rentals are available. In addition, helmets and wrist guards can be rented. Packages range from $35-$60 with discounted rates available for night skiing.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Georg’s ski shop at the base of the Wildflower chairlift. In the back of the shop, you’ll find an eclectic collection of ski memorabilia and maybe you’ll find one of the family members to spin yarns about the days of yore. Georg’s Ski Shop has ski and snowboard rentals and a huge selection of gear in addition to gifts, logo wear and cool souvenirs.
Lodging & Dining
To view current lodging deals and availability it is best to check directly on Brian Head’s website. The small town of Brian Head also has a handful of hotels, lodges, cabins and many condominiums. The Brian Head Lodge is the resort's official lodging property located just a half mile from the Navajo base area. The lodge has a great indoor pool and outdoor hot tub to keep kiddos smiling. There is a complimentary shuttle bus to the resort, a spa, dining and a family friendly outdoor patio with a fire pit.
PRO TIP: Brian Head often offers discounted or free nights at the Brian Head Lodge with the purchase of lift ticket packages. Book in advance to secure a discount.
Another great option for families are the rental units near Georg’s Ski Shop. These vacation condos can accommodate up to two families and most provide ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes. All guests will be provided with a 20% discount on equipment rentals at Georg’s Ski Shop (holidays excluded).
Click here for additional lodging options.
Dining at the ski hill can be found at either of the big lodges. Giant Steps Lodge harbors the Giant Steps Eatery on the second floor. Expect casual, sit-down dining with menu options such as burgers, grilled chicken, pizza, salads and soups.
In the Navajo Lodge, the Navajo Eatery provides a place to kick up your feet and a menu of ski resort fare including burgers, sandwiches, chili, and salads. The Navajo Café & Deli is located on the main floor of the lodge with hot cocoa, specialty coffee, sandwiches and pastries.
For après, or pub fare, head into the Last Chair Grill and Brews on the third floor of the Giant Steps Lodge. On Saturday nights, there will often be live music, home-cooked BBQ, and a festive atmosphere. Grab a meal or a pint with a great view of the slopes.
For après, or pub fare, head into the Last Chair Grill and Brews on the third floor of the Giant Steps Lodge. On Saturday nights, there will often be live music, home-cooked BBQ, and a festive atmosphere. Grab a meal or a pint with a great view of the slopes.
Just down the road from the Navajo Express Lift is the Lift Bar & Patio at Brian Head Lodge with a full bar available after 5PM. The family friendly restaurant features a large patio, great views and multiple fire pits. Dinner is served daily in the Lift Bar until 9PM and there is a 21+ bar and lounge.
There are additionally some casual options for dine-in or takeout in the town of Brian Head. Fine dining options include the Double Black Diamond Steakhouse and the Cedar Breaks Bar & Grill
There are additionally some casual options for dine-in or takeout in the town of Brian Head. Fine dining options include the Double Black Diamond Steakhouse and the Cedar Breaks Bar & Grill
Childcare
Brian Head does not offer childcare, but kids as young as 3 may be placed in a private ski lesson. For children 6 and under it is required to book a private lesson.
Medical Facilities
Brian Head's team of Ski Patrollers is always ready and willing to assist in the event of injury or an emergency. The closest medical facilities and emergency rooms are approx. 30 miles away in Cedar City.
Points of Interest
For a memorable visit, consider these unique points of interest when planning a trip to Brian Head Resort.
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Brian Head’s Monthly Star Parties
Check the calendar and book a trip to Brian Head during one of their monthly Star Parties held at the Navajo Base Lodge. Thanks to its remote location and dark skies, clear nights at Brian Head guarantee amazing stargazing. During Star Parties, a ‘Dark Ranger’ from the nearby Cedar Breaks National Monument will lead a short talk and point out constellations like the Orion Nebula, star clusters, galaxies and the winter Milky Way. Star Parties last about 2 hours and telescopes, fire pits, and hot chocolate are provided. Dress warmly!
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Visit a National Park
Brian Head Resort is located in the epicenter of some of America’s finest National Parks. The parks are less crowded in the winter and the sight of snowy red rocks, a short hike, a scenic drive or a geology lesson is a welcome distraction for families. Bryce Canyon and Zion are each about 1.5 hours away and Capitol Reef is around 3 hours to the northeast.
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Brian Head Tubing
Brian Head Resort’s robust snow tubing lanes guarantee endless winter fun. Be sure to book tubing ahead of time as it often sells out. Six groomed lanes allow patrons to experience high flying fun in a safe environment. A surface lift returns tubers back to the top of the hill ensuring enough energy for lots of laps. Night sessions are available.
VISIT BRIAN HEAD'S WEBSITE & LEARN MORE
CLICK HERE
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