Brian Head Resort survival guide

Brian Head Resort will officially open for its 2025-2026 season this Friday, Nov 7. Being only a 30-minute drive from Cedar City, Utah, Brian Head can be a great weekend getaway for students attending Southern Utah University. 

Despite its close location, Brian Head can be costly for students on a budget, and it can be difficult to make plans for those who have never attended. Here are some easy tips for students looking to take a trip to the slopes this winter season. 

Photo Courtesy of Cedar Sports

Gear
Day passes to the resort can be as low as $20 during the week, but the necessary gear can be expensive. Equipment rentals are available in Brian Head, but there are also local options for a more convenient and affordable experience. 

“Brian Head Ski Rentals can be stressful, uncomfortable and expensive. At Cedar Sports, we do it better,” said the Cedar Sports Shop. 

Cedar Sports is just down the road from SUU’s campus, and they offer student rental packages for only $20 a day. They can be picked up the day before a trip, and returned the day after, making for an easy and stress-free morning before leaving town. 

To book equipment with Cedar Sports, visit their website

SUU Outdoors also offers equipment rentals at The Garage, but they can be difficult to obtain during the ski season. Rental packages through SUU Outdoors start at $30 per day. 

Photo Courtesy of Pizanos Pizzeria

 

Food
For a relaxing lunch, Brian Head features a variety of eateries throughout the resort. Both the Giant Steps and Navajo lodges serve burgers, soup and more, but the price for a meal can add up quickly. 

Pizanos Pizzeria, a gem in Brian Head, offers cheap lunch specials and a cozy atmosphere for a break in between runs. Within the same complex, Mountain Peak Coffee can fuel any skier with a warm beverage or pastry. 

Plan lunchtime either before or after noon to avoid larger crowds. 

 

Plan Ahead

Like any trip, it is important to plan ahead for a Brian Head getaway. 

Brian Head Resort advises visitors to “please be aware of the weather and road conditions. Refer to the UDOT website for updates including conditions, weather alerts, live webcams, plow status, traffic and more.”

Those traveling by vehicle should be sure to have a full tank of gas and safe driving conditions. Shuttles are also available for transportation, but tickets must be purchased in advance, and shuttles may be delayed due to weather conditions. 

Brian Head Resort is a can’t-miss opportunity for students and Cedar City residents. With the proper planning and knowledge of the resort, it can be an enjoyable trip to a local winter wonderland. 

To purchase tickets or to learn more about what the resort has to offer, visit the Brian Head website. 

Author: Briar Adams
Photo: Courtesy of Visit Cedar City
Editor: Brooklyn Beard
outdoors@suunews.net