Brian Head Resort Ski Resort

Brian Head Resort is located in southern Utah’s alpine highlands, just north of Cedar City and surrounded by the Dixie National Forest. With a base elevation of 9,600 feet and a summit reaching 10,970 feet, it’s the highest ski resort in Utah and receives an average annual snowfall of 222 inches. The resort spans 650 acres of skiable terrain, with 61 trails served by 8 lifts including high-speed quads, triple chairs, and surface lifts. The trail breakdown includes 21% beginner, 41% intermediate, 28% advanced, and 10% expert runs.

Families are well supported with a dedicated learning area at Navajo Peak, ski school programs, and 12 tubing lanes located near the Navajo Lodge. The resort also features two terrain parks with 40 rails and progressive features for freestyle riders. Brian Head’s compact layout and dual-mountain design make it easy to navigate between terrain zones, dining, and lodging without long transfers or congestion.

Visitors choose Brian Head Resort for its high elevation, reliable snow, and relaxed mountain atmosphere. Whether you're cruising down Roulette, catching views from the top of Giant Steps Express, or enjoying après-ski at Last Chair Grill & Brews, the resort offers a well-rounded alpine experience with a distinctly Southern Utah flavor.

Brian Head Resort is easily accessible from several regional hubs. The nearest major airport is Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC), located about 35 minutes away, with daily connections from Salt Lake City. Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is another popular gateway, approximately 3 hours south by car. Drivers from Salt Lake City can reach the resort in under 4 hours via I-15 south to Parowan, followed by a scenic 13-mile climb up Highway 143. The road is well-maintained and plowed regularly during winter.

Free parking is available at both the Navajo and Giant Steps base areas, with designated lots for day visitors and overnight guests. The resort offers a complimentary inter-mountain shuttle between Navajo and Giant Steps lodges, making it easy to move between terrain zones. Ride-sharing services are available in Cedar City, and private transfers can be arranged through local providers. While there is no gondola or snowcat transport, ski-in/ski-out access is available from select lodging units near the base.

Brian Head Resort’s terrain is split between two interconnected mountains—Navajo and Giant Steps—offering 650 acres of skiable terrain and a vertical drop of 1,548 feet. The resort’s elevation ensures excellent snow quality throughout the season, with snowmaking covering key areas for consistency. With 61 trails and 8 lifts, the mountain caters to a wide range of abilities and riding styles.

Beginners will find Navajo Peak ideal, with wide, gentle runs like Easy Street and Bear Paw served by surface lifts and the Navajo Express. The terrain here is designed for learning and progression, with ski school programs and a dedicated beginner zone near the base lodge.

Intermediate skiers can explore Giant Steps, where trails like Roulette and Blackfoot offer long, flowing descents with moderate pitch. These runs are groomed daily and provide scenic views of the surrounding forest and red rock formations. The Giant Steps Express lift offers fast access to mid- and upper-mountain terrain.

Advanced terrain includes steeper runs like Dunes and Wild Ride, which feature natural rollers and tighter turns. These trails are popular with experienced skiers looking for speed and variety. Tree skiing is available in designated areas, and the snow tends to hold well in shaded zones.

Expert skiers can test their skills on double-black runs like The Edge and Freefall, which offer narrow chutes and variable conditions. These trails are best tackled in fresh snow and good visibility. While only 10% of the terrain is rated expert, it provides a technical challenge for those seeking it.

Freestyle riders will enjoy three terrain parks: Foundation Park for beginners, Detour Park for intermediate progression, and Bypass Park for advanced features. Located near Giant Steps Lodge, Bypass Park includes jump lines, rails, boxes, and creative setups. All parks are maintained regularly and offer safe, progressive environments for freestyle development.

If you're chasing powder, start your day on Freefall. This double-black run off Giant Steps Express faces north and holds snow longer than most. It’s steep, direct, and often overlooked early in the morning—ideal for first tracks after a storm or overnight snowmaking.

For a scenic warm-up, take Navajo Express to Bear Paw. This beginner run offers wide, gentle turns and sweeping views of alpine meadows. It’s a favorite for families and those easing into the day, with easy access to the base lodge and nearby rentals.

Weekdays—especially Tuesday through Thursday—are the best time to ski without crowds. Lift lines are minimal, and you’ll have more room to explore intermediate staples like Roulette and Blackfoot. These runs are groomed daily and offer consistent pitch for carving.

Freestyle riders should head to Bypass Terrain Park near Giant Steps Lodge. It features medium-to-advanced jump lines, rails, and boxes, with a layout designed for flow and progression. The park crew rotates features regularly, and the setup is maintained for safety and creativity.

Looking for a quieter zone? Drop into Dunes from the top of Giant Steps. This intermediate run sees less traffic and offers a smooth descent with natural rollers and tree-lined edges. It’s a great choice for carving and catching late-day sun.

Après-ski is best enjoyed at Last Chair Grill & Brews inside Giant Steps Lodge. The menu includes hearty fare and local brews, and the slope-side windows offer views of the tubing lanes and terrain park. It’s relaxed, warm, and ideal for winding down.

Families should carve out time for the tubing park at Navajo Lodge. With 12 lanes and a surface lift, it’s one of the largest setups in the region. Open daily, it’s a fun break from skiing and a hit with kids and non-skiers alike.

Advanced skiers should make time for The Edge. This double-black run delivers steep pitches and variable snow, best tackled mid-morning when visibility improves. It’s short but intense, rewarding precision and control.

If you're staying slopeside, take advantage of early lift access available to lodging guests. You’ll be among the first to load Navajo Express or Giant Steps Express, giving you a head start on untouched powder or freshly groomed terrain.

Finally, don’t miss the sunset from the top of Giant Steps. Ride up late in the day and pause before your final descent—on clear evenings, the view stretches across Cedar Breaks National Monument and lights up the valley in deep orange and gold.