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Brian Head is the perfect place.

History of Brian Head Ski Resort

One of the largest ski resorts in the region.

Brian Head Ski Resort has a long and storied history. It began in 1964 when two adventurous individuals from Southern Utah, Burt Nicols and Homer Vasels, had the idea to develop a ski area on top of Brian Head Peak. At the time, it was a relatively unknown mountain range and there weren’t any other ski resorts in the entire state.

The two men began the long process of getting the necessary permits and approvals to develop a ski resort on top of Brian Head Peak. After years of hard work, they finally got all the paperwork done and construction began on the resort in 1965. The ski area opened for business later that year and quickly became a popular destination for skiers from all over the Southwest.

At first, the resort only had two lifts and four runs, but more were added as time went on. In 1972, the Giant Steps Ski Area merged with Brian Head and brought even more skiers to the resort. By 1976, Brian Head had fifteen total lifts and twenty-eight trails. This made it one of the largest ski resorts in the region.

Mining History

In the 1800s, Brian Head Peak was the site of several coal mining operations. The coal extracted from the area was primarily used to fuel steam trains running throughout Utah and surrounding states. It was also used in local smelting operations which produced pig iron for Salt Lake City’s steel industry.

The mining boom lasted until 1902 when it came to a halt due to increased competition from the Utah Fuel Company. The area, however, has not lost its mining history; remnants of an old ore chute and various other mining artifacts can still be seen throughout the resort.

Brian Head Town

In addition to the ski resort, there is also a small town of Brian Head, nestled at the base of the mountain. Established in 1975, it was initially created to provide housing and support for skiers and staff working at the resort. It quickly grew into an eclectic mix of vacationers and year-round residents alike who all share a love of the outdoors.

Today, Brian Head is home to over 150 permanent residents that enjoy the slower pace of life and easy access to stunning mountain views and outdoor activities year-round. The town itself offers a variety of services ranging from restaurants, lodging options, ski rentals, and even an outdoor ice skating rink for wintertime fun. Whether you're looking for a ski getaway or just a quiet mountain town to call home, Brian Head is the perfect place.

Alpine Rose at Brighton Resort

Alpine Rose at Brighton Resort on 8302 S Brighton Loop Rd . is a unique dining experience that can't be found anywhere else. This elegant restaurant offers upscale cuisine in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu features an array of locally sourced dishes as well as classic favorites like steak, fish, and pasta. Alpine Rose also has an extensive wine list to pair with any meal. The restaurant is open daily from 8 am to 9 pm and 8 am to 4 pm on Sundays, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner. With its stunning architecture and delicious food, Alpine Rose at Brighton Resort is the perfect place for those looking for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for a romantic evening out or just want to treat yourself to an exquisite meal, Alpine Rose at Brighton Resort is the ideal destination.

Brian Head Through The Years

Throughout the years, Brian Head Ski Resort has continued to grow and evolve. In 1991, the Eagle Express lift was installed, giving skiers and riders access to a wider variety of terrain. In 1998, a new lodge was built on top of Giant Steps Mountain. This increased the resort’s lodging capacity considerably and allowed it to become a destination resort.

In 2004, the area saw its first real expansion in years with the opening of Navajo Mountain and its chairlift. This new terrain increased the resort’s skiable acreage by almost one-third and gave it a much-needed boost in popularity. Since then, Brian Head has become increasingly popular with locals and travelers alike.

Brian Head Today

Today, Brian Head Ski Resort is a vibrant ski area with plenty of terrain for all levels of skiers and riders. Its long groomers provide an ideal setting for intermediate skiers to practice their skills while its challenging steep hills give expert skiers and snowboarders a place to hone their technique. With new lifts and runs opening up every year, the resort continues to grow and improve.

At the same time, Brian Head Ski Resort still retains its original vibe. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can come together to have fun in an authentic, small-town atmosphere. With friendly staff, great food, and plenty of activities for all ages, it’s no wonder why so many people love to spend their winter at Brian Head. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a place to learn or an expert searching for that perfect powder run, Brian Head Ski Resort has something for everyone. So come and experience the history, tradition and fun of one of Utah's oldest ski resorts - Brian Head Ski Resort.
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