Too many people put off those family vacations until summer. They wish away the winter months waiting for sunshine and free time while those snow-filled months are primed for an amazing snow-filled vacation.
While most popular and well-known winter destinations tend to be packed for the season, there are plenty of lesser-known destinations to choose from that will provide just as much fun.
One of our favorites is Brian Head, Utah. Perfect for experienced ski bums and those new to shredding powder alike, Brian Head provides all the action without all the crowds. That’s a total win in my book!
Where To Stay
Cedar Breaks Lodge and Spa is designed with décor drawn on the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. They have accommodations from studio rooms if you plan on spending every spare moment chasing adventure.
If you are bringing the whole family and then some, check out the 2 bedroom villas to house everyone in your brood. Its amenities are exactly what you will need after a day on the slopes.
Grab a cookie and coffee at the café and kick back. If you need a good soak, there is an world class indoor pool with two hot tubs, as well as dry and steam saunas.
When you need a day off while on vacation, opt for a day at the spa. They offer up a variety of packages to help you completely relax. From Swedish massage to sugar scrubs, you can indulge in a little “me” time.
What To Do
The Brian Head region has a long history of varied cultures and people have flocked to its peaks for decades. As home to the Brian Head Ski Resort, this breathtaking vacation spot is just hours from Southern California, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake City.
As a family owned business, their dedicated customer service has made them a highly sought after ski location. However, one of their most famous attractions is the Greatest Snow on Earth®, with over 360 inches of annual snowfall!
In Utah’s highest base elevation, there are over 650 acres with two connected mountains, Giant Steps and Navajo. There are 71 runs and 8 chair lifts, and the most affordable full-service skiing in Utah with adult lift tickets at $38 mid-week.
We love that slopes open at 10 am so you can go out for some freshies without having to wake up at the crack of dawn.
Besides the incredible skiing and snowboarding (there are also lessons for newbies!), guests can enjoy tubing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
If you grow weary of those slopes, the location of Brian Head Ski Resort is central to a variety of attractions just a day trip away.
Hop in the car to explore the Parowan Gap Petroglyphs, Grand Staircase, Kolob Canyons, and even Cedar Breaks National Monument.
It is also close enough to take a drive to Zion National Park, the Grand Canyon as well as Mammoth Caves for some amazing views and memorable hikes in Utah.
Locals tip: Be sure to check out Apple Annie’s Country Store for unique country gifts and sundries and maybe a glimpse at local celebrity, Thunder!
Where To Eat
On the third floor of the Giant Steps Lodge you will find the Last Chair Saloon. With delicious BBQ, plenty of beer and live music on Saturdays it is the prime spot for family and friends to gather for a meal.
The owner is a Kansas City native that hand prepares authentic Kansas City BBQ dishes (check out the menu!) rubbed with spices and slow smoked over a variety of woods.
These dishes go hand in hand with beer which is perfect because it houses southern Utah’s widest selection of beer!
If BBQ isn’t your favorite dish, check out the Cedar Breaks Lodge for a little bit of everything. They offer up burgers, pizzas, flatbreads, and even tapioca crusted tofu. It will hit the spot after a long day on the slopes.
Enjoy Utah Year ‘Round
If you don’t make it to Brian Head during the prime ski season, there is still plenty to do in the summer months too. They offer guided tours, hiking, ATV Rentals, and fishing.
Bunker Creek Trail is also a nearby location that is the perfect spot for mountain biking with two amazing downhills. Its close proximity to Utah’s marquee National Parks offers up an incredible variety of sightseeing and adventure.
Cedar Ridge Golf Course is also there for an enjoyable day on the green.