Brian Head Resort

Perched at over 2,900 metres in the high country of southern Utah, Brian Head Resort is a year-round alpine playground that surprises first-time visitors with its uncrowded slopes, wildflower-strewn meadows, and laid-back, family-friendly vibe. The resort sits on the edge of the vast Dixie National Forest, offering sweeping views of red-rock mesas and pine-clad ridges. While its name might suggest a quick stop, Brian Head rewards those who linger with genuine small-town charm and easy access to some of the West’s most dramatic scenery.

Highlights & What to See

• Skiing & Snowboarding: With over 650 acres of terrain and a 600-metre vertical drop, the resort is known for its light, dry powder and uncrowded runs. Beginners have plenty of green trails, while intermediates can cruise long groomers like Giant Steps.
• Mountain Biking & Hiking: In summer, the lifts open for downhill mountain biking on flowy singletrack trails. Hikers should tackle the short but steep climb to Brian Head Peak (3,448 m) for panoramic views of Cedar Breaks and the Markagunt Plateau.
• Cedar Breaks National Monument: Just 5 km away, this stunning natural amphitheatre of hoodoos and colourful cliffs rivals Bryce Canyon but sees a fraction of the crowds. The scenic drive along Highway 148 is a must.
• Bristlecone Pine Trail: An easy 1.6 km loop near the visitor centre that winds through ancient, gnarled bristlecone pines – some over 1,600 years old.
• Dark Sky Stargazing: At this elevation, far from city lights, the night sky is spectacular. The resort sometimes hosts stargazing events, or you can simply step outside your lodge for a view of the Milky Way.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a long weekend (three to four days), which gives you time to ski or bike the resort thoroughly and explore Cedar Breaks. If you’re self-driving a Southern Utah road trip, a single overnight stay allows you to hit the highlights: ride the lift up for a hike, drive the scenic byway, and watch sunset from Brian Head Peak. For a deeper experience, extend to five days and combine with Bryce Canyon (an hour’s drive) or Zion (two hours).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Cedar City – 45 minutes northwest; a historic railroad town with the Utah Shakespeare Festival and a good base for supplies.
• Bryce Canyon National Park – 1 hour east; otherworldly hoodoo landscapes and excellent hiking.
• Zion National Park – 2 hours southwest; towering sandstone cliffs and the famous Narrows.
• Dixie National Forest – surrounds the resort; offers countless trails, fishing spots, and scenic drives like the Markagunt High Plateau.
• Parowan Gap – 30 minutes northwest; a narrow pass with ancient petroglyphs and a dinosaur track site.

Please check official sources for current details.