Although this area is known for its dry, hot climate, it is still possible to enjoy great snow skiing Southern Utah.
With most years offering two main skiing Southern Utah locations, residents throughout Washington County don’t have to travel far to hit the slopes.
Two resorts | Skiing southern Utah
Sure, most people know there are plenty of place to ski in Utah — after all, it’s emblazoned on many of the license plates. But typically when people outside the state think of skiing Utah, they think of places like Park City, Snowbird, Powder Mountain and Solitude. When it comes to skiing Southern Utah, there are two more.
Brian Head Resort
Located just 85 miles from St. George, Utah, Brian Head Resort offers fantastic skiing Southern Utah options in the winter — as well as a place to enjoy cooler summer temps for mountain biking and hiking.
With the highest base elevation in the state — 9,600 feet — and a summit of 10,970 at the top of Giant Steps, it’s little wonder the conditions are generally great for skiing southern Utah across all of Brian Head’s 650 acres of terrain. Plus, the runs are equally divided between easiest, more difficult and most difficult. So no matter your skill level, there is something for you to try.
Then, there’s the views.
As professional skier Rachael Burks says, “You think of the desert and I don’t think people have any idea how many different shades of red are possible.”
She continues, “You see the spectrum of red in contrast with beautiful green trees… and then you sit there at sunset… its poetic. Its beautiful.”
It’s those kinds of views that surround the peaks of Brian Head Resort. As skiers enjoying the skiing southern Utah and the smooth lift rides to the top, having a view just enhances the pleasant experience.
A number of lift ticket options are available. Prices range from $27 to $59 for a full day, depending on weekday vs. weekend, adult vs. child/senior. Holiday prices are $47-$79.
Other options include night skiing for $20.
Tubing is also available, if you’re not interested in skiing southern Utah. The cost is $20 for a 90-minute session.
Eagle Point Resort
Located in Beaver, Utah, this skiing southern Utah option is a little more than two hours from St. George. Although farther to drive than Brian Head Resort, most years, Eagle Point Resort has a lot to offer.
This year, lack of snowfall has made it so Eagle Point is not open for the season yet.
In other years, this resort offers 650 lift-served skiable acres, 40 named runs and five lifts, plus a terrain park. Its base elevation of 9,100 and summit of 10,600 give those skiing southern Utah a 1,500 vertical change as they tackle the slopes.
A variety of lodging accommodations, lesson and rental packages are available to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible.
Plus, Eagle Point is often less congested than other skiing Southern Utah resorts.
Purchasing tickets in advance can save up to 46% off the window price. Day-of window prices range from $25 to $70, depending on weekday vs. weekend vs. holiday and senior/child vs. adult.
There are discounts available for active military. Children under 6 always ride and ski free.
Tips for your ski trip
Especially if you are planning a ski trip with the family, a few tips will save a lot of time and mental anguish.
* Find a resort that is family friendly
* Remember patience is key
* Sign children up for lessons. Even if you are an excellent skier, it may be best to employ a ski instructor for the beginners in your family.
* Get the right gear. Comfort is important, especially for little ones.
* Watch the weather. Recognize if it is bitter cold or snowing, you may permanently taint the child’s view of skiing. Take it easy so they’ll continue to enjoy it.
* Dress in layers. The temperature at the top of the hill vs. the bottom can vary quite a bit.
* Pack a lunch. Then you don’t have to take time to haul everyone into the resort for a meal.
Think you’d like to live somewhere warm enough to enjoy but close enough for skiing southern Utah? Check out these great listings here.
