Brian Head, United States Guide
Brian Head, Utah, isn't your typical bustling city escape; it's a high-altitude haven nestled in the heart of the stunning Dixie National Forest. This charming mountain town is renowned for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, boasting the highest base elevation in Utah. But Brian Head offers more than just snow-covered slopes. In the summer, the landscape transforms into a vibrant playground for hikers, mountain bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking views and crisp mountain air. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping activities, Brian Head provides a tranquil escape from the everyday. The town itself is small and welcoming, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind and reconnect with nature. Whether you're seeking adventure on the slopes or serenity amidst the pines, Brian Head promises an unforgettable experience.
Food & Cuisine
Brian Head's culinary scene is focused on hearty, comforting fare perfect for refueling after a day of outdoor activities. You'll find a variety of restaurants offering American cuisine, including burgers, pizzas, and steaks. For a casual bite, try the Last Chair Grill & Brews at the Brian Head Resort, known for its pub-style food and local beers. For a more upscale dining experience, consider the Cedar Breaks Lodge Restaurant, which offers stunning views and a diverse menu. While Brian Head doesn't have large markets, there are small grocery stores where you can pick up essentials for preparing your own meals.
Nightlife
Brian Head's nightlife is generally low-key and revolves around après-ski activities during the winter season. Many restaurants and bars offer live music or entertainment on weekends. The Last Chair Grill & Brews is a popular spot for enjoying drinks and socializing after a day on the slopes. For a more relaxed evening, consider enjoying a cozy fire at your lodging or stargazing under the clear mountain skies.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Brian Head depends on your interests. For skiing and snowboarding, the winter months (December to March) are ideal, offering plenty of snow and excellent conditions. For hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities, the summer months (June to September) are perfect, with warm temperatures and clear skies. The shoulder seasons (April-May and October-November) can be unpredictable, with potential for snow or rain, but they can also offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
Transportation
Brian Head is a small mountain town, and public transportation options are limited. The best way to get around is by car. During the ski season, shuttle services may be available to transport visitors between lodging, the ski resort, and other key locations within the town. Check with your hotel or the Brian Head Resort for specific shuttle schedules and routes.
Airport
The closest major airport to Brian Head is Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC), which is approximately 30 miles away. Rental cars are available at the airport, and driving is the most convenient way to reach Brian Head. Alternatively, you could fly into McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, which is about a 3-hour drive to Brian Head. Rental cars are also readily available at McCarran International Airport.
Attractions
Ranger Programs
Participate in ranger-led talks and guided walks to learn about the geology, ecology, and history of Cedar Breaks. These programs offer valuable insights and enhance your understanding of the park's natural wonders. Check the park's schedule for program times and topics.
Sunset View Overlook
As the name suggests, this overlook is ideal for watching the sunset paint the amphitheater in vibrant colors. It's a popular spot, so arrive early to secure a good viewing point. The golden hour here is truly magical, creating unforgettable memories.
Cedar Breaks Amphitheater
The heart of Cedar Breaks, this massive natural amphitheater plunges 2,000 feet. Hike along the rim, gaze at the colorful formations, and feel dwarfed by the scale of nature. Don't miss sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light. It's a photographer's dream and a must-see for any visitor.
Cedar Breaks Amphitheater
The heart of Cedar Breaks, this massive natural amphitheater plunges 2,000 feet. Hike along the rim, gaze at the colorful formations, and feel dwarfed by the scale of nature. Don't miss sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic light. It's a photographer's dream and a must-see for any visitor.
Bristlecone Pine Overlook
Home to ancient bristlecone pine trees, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth. This overlook provides a chance to admire these resilient trees and learn about their remarkable adaptations to the harsh alpine environment. It's a humbling experience to stand in the presence of such ancient life.
Alpine Pond Nature Trail
A short, accessible loop trail around a serene alpine pond. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The pond reflects the surrounding trees and sky, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Spectra Point Trail
A relatively easy hiking trail that leads to stunning viewpoints. The trail meanders through meadows and forests, offering diverse scenery along the way. It's a great option for families and those looking for a moderate outdoor adventure with rewarding vistas.
Dark Night Sky Viewing
Cedar Breaks is an International Dark Sky Park, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities. Escape the city lights and marvel at the Milky Way stretching across the night sky. Bring a telescope or binoculars for an even closer look at the celestial wonders above.
Point Supreme Overlook
Offers panoramic views of the Cedar Breaks Amphitheater and the surrounding landscape. It's an easily accessible spot right off the main road, making it perfect for a quick stop and photo opportunity. The views stretch for miles, showcasing the beauty of southern Utah.
Day Trips
Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its unique geology, featuring crimson-colored hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. Hiking trails wind through the amphitheaters, offering stunning views and opportunities for exploration. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular times to visit, as the light dramatically changes the colors of the landscape.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes driving Cedar City is a larger town with a wider range of amenities and attractions. It's home to Southern Utah University and hosts the Utah Shakespeare Festival during the summer months. You can also find museums, parks, and shopping opportunities.
Approximately 1 hour driving During the summer months, Brian Head Resort transforms into a destination for outdoor recreation. Enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and scenic lift rides. The resort also hosts events and activities throughout the summer season.
Approximately 30 minutes driving Kanab is a town known as "Little Hollywood" due to its history as a filming location for Western movies. It's also a great base for exploring nearby attractions like the Wave and Buckskin Gulch (permits required for some). The town itself has a charming atmosphere and several interesting shops and restaurants.
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes driving While reaching the main canyon of Zion from Cedar Breaks is a bit longer, accessing the east side of Zion National Park is feasible for a day trip. The east side offers unique hiking opportunities and stunning views of the park's iconic sandstone formations. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway itself is a scenic drive.
Approximately 2 hours driving Panguitch is a charming historic town known for its well-preserved Main Street and pioneer heritage. Explore the historic buildings, browse the local shops, and learn about the area's history at the Garfield County Historical Museum.
Approximately 45 minutes driving The Parowan Gap is a natural wind gap through a mountain ridge, featuring a significant collection of Native American petroglyphs. These ancient rock carvings offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the people who once inhabited the area. It's a quick and easy stop for those interested in archaeology and history.
45 minutes by car Cedar Breaks National Monument is a natural amphitheater eroded into the Pink Cliffs of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. It offers stunning views, hiking trails, and dark night skies perfect for stargazing. The vibrant colors of the rock formations and the alpine meadows create a breathtaking landscape.
30 minutes by car Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its unique geology, featuring crimson-colored hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. The park offers numerous viewpoints, hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous, and opportunities for stargazing. The amphitheater of hoodoos is a truly unforgettable sight.
2 hours by car Old Iron Town State Park preserves the remnants of an early iron-producing community. Visitors can explore the historic ironworks, including the old blast furnace, and learn about the challenges and successes of this early industrial endeavor in southern Utah.
45 minutes by car The Frontier Homestead State Park Museum in Cedar City showcases the history of early settlement in the area. It features historic buildings, artifacts, and exhibits that depict the lives of pioneers and their industries, including iron production and agriculture.
1 hour by car Kanarraville Falls is a unique hiking experience that involves wading through a slot canyon with waterfalls. The hike is relatively short but requires some physical ability as you'll be walking in water and climbing ladders. It's a refreshing and beautiful adventure, especially during warmer months. Permits are required.
1 hour by car While a full exploration of Zion National Park might be more than a day trip allows, accessing the park through the East Entrance provides stunning views along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. You can enjoy short hikes, scenic overlooks, and experience the grandeur of Zion's towering sandstone cliffs.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Known as "Little Hollywood," Kanab has a rich history as a filming location for Western movies. Explore the town's charming Main Street, visit the Little Hollywood Museum, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Kanab is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.
1 hour 30 minutes by car Step back in time and explore the Parowan Gap Petroglyphs, a significant archaeological site featuring hundreds of ancient rock carvings. The gap itself is a natural wind tunnel, adding to the unique atmosphere of the location. It's a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the early inhabitants of the region.
1 hour by car Witness the otherworldly beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its unique geological formations called hoodoos. Hike along the rim, descend into the canyon on one of the many trails, and marvel at the vibrant colors of the rock. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular times to visit.
2 hours by car A charming historic town with well-preserved Victorian architecture, Panguitch offers a glimpse into Utah's past. Stroll along Main Street, browse the antique shops, and enjoy the small-town atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.
1 hour 15 minutes by car While exploring the entire Zion Canyon from Brian Head in a single day might be a stretch, accessing the park via the East Entrance is very doable. The drive itself is stunning, winding through the iconic red rock formations. Once inside, you can enjoy shorter hikes, scenic drives, and marvel at the scale of the canyon. Consider the Canyon Overlook Trail for incredible views.
1 hour 45 minutes by car Just a short drive from Brian Head, Cedar Breaks is a natural amphitheater carved into the Markagunt Plateau. The vibrant colors of the eroded cliffs, combined with the high-altitude setting, create breathtaking views. It's a fantastic place for hiking, stargazing, and simply soaking in the beauty of the landscape. The visitor center offers information and ranger-led programs.
30 minutes by car Bryce Canyon National Park
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Cedar City
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Brian Head Resort (Summer Activities)
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Kanab
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Zion National Park (East Entrance)
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Panguitch
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Parowan Gap Petroglyphs
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Cedar Breaks National Monument
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Bryce Canyon National Park
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Old Iron Town State Park
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Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
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Kanarraville Falls
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Zion National Park (East Entrance)
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Kanab
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Parowan Gap Petroglyphs
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Bryce Canyon National Park
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Panguitch
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Zion National Park (East Entrance)
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Cedar Breaks National Monument
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