Everything You Need Before You Hit the Mountain
Planning a winter trip to Brian Head Resort? We want your day on the mountain to be smooth, fun, and stress-free from the moment you leave home. To help you get settled as quickly as possible, we’ve put together a simple, step-by-step checklist you can follow before you arrive and once you reach the resort. Whether you are a first-timer or a longtime visitor, this guide makes it easy to get ready for your day on the snow.
1. Before You Leave Home
Get the essentials taken care of early so your day starts off right.
Check Your Tickets and Reservations
- Purchase your lift tickets in advance to lock in the lowest price, buy online before you arrive to save big if you need any additional days.
- Confirm all reservation emails for lodging, lessons, and rentals
- Screenshot everything in case cell service is limited
Check the Weather
- Be sure to check our daily conditions page for morning snow totals, weather, & trail from our snow reporters, available every day at 6 AM.
- Check road conditions and the weather forecast. On our Getting Here page, you can check out more specific arrival details.
Pack Smart Layers
Being at Utah’s highest ski resort in elevation means the weather changes very quickly at 10,000’. Bring layers to prepare for warm sunshine and possible snowfall bringing cold temperatures.
- Base layers, mid layers, waterproof outerwear
- Helmet, goggles, gloves, neck gaiter
- Sunscreen, lip balm, water bottle
- Extra socks and a warm change of clothes for the drive home
2. Getting Here and Parking
Once you are on your way, a little planning goes a long way:
Know Your Route
- Follow posted signage as you approach the resort
- Keep an eye on weather changes as you climb in elevation – view our Getting Here page view live road conditions and other details
Parking Tips
- Arrive early for the easiest parking and quickest access to the lifts
- Park at Navajo Base if you are a beginner or enrolled in winter sports school lesson
- Park at Giant Steps base area if you want immediate access to intermediate to advanced terrain.
- Parking is free, no need to reserve a spot or pay ahead of time.
- Follow staff direction when parking in our main lots
- Have your gear ready so you can unload quickly and safely
3. Upon Arrival
Here’s what to expect once you arrive:
Lift Tickets and Pass Pickup
- If you purchased online, head directly to the pickup kiosk or ticket window located either at Navajo Lodge or Giant Steps Lodge
- If purchasing in person, head to one of our ticket windows located either at Navajo Lodge or Giant Steps Lodge
- Tip: depending on the terrain you want to ride or if you have a lesson, make sure you park at the right location
Rentals
- If you reserved rentals, head straight to the rental shop to grab your gear. Pre-reserved rental reservations can pick-up at either base rental shop. Whichever you park at.
- Double-check your rental setup for comfort and fit
Lessons
- If you’ve booked a lesson, you’ll want to park at the Navajo Lodge parking area, or plan on using the town shuttle to get to Navajo
- Full-day and morning half-day lessons begins at 10 am
- Afternoon half-day lessons begins at 1:30 pm
- If renting equipment, please plan on an extra 30 minutes to 1 hour to get fitted and to get to the meeting place on time
- Arrive 15 min early to check in and meet your instructor
Stay Informed
- Visit the Mountain Conditions page for weather, grooming reports, and webcams
- Check lift status and terrain updates throughout the day
- Keep our trail map handy for quick navigation
4. Safety and Comfort Tips
A few smart choices help you stay safe and enjoy your day:
- Drink plenty of water — higher elevation means faster dehydration
- Take breaks when you need them
- Watch changing weather, especially in the afternoon
- Wear sunscreen on all exposed skin
- Keep kids and new skiers in sight
5. Lodging and Off-Slope Planning
Make the most of your full Brian Head experience:
- Confirm lodging check-in times before you arrive
- Explore dining options around the resort for après-ski and dinner
- Plan for evening activities like tubing, village strolls, or relaxing back at your rental
- Charge your devices before bed so you are ready for another day on the mountain
6. Your FINAL Pre-Arrival Checklist
Before you walk out the door, make sure you have:
- Lift tickets confirmed
- Lodging, lesson and rental reservations saved
- Weather and road conditions checked
- All ski/snowboard gear packed
- Snacks, water, and warm layers ready
- A plan for parking and arrival time
- Pick up tickets or season passes
- Hit the slopes!