Brighton Ski Resort is one of the many world-class ski areas in the Salt Lake City Area. It offers visitors a variety of skiing options in beautiful terrain. It also has opportunities for night skiing and access to backcountry riding.
Getting There
Drive southwest of Salt Lake City into the Big Cottonwood Canyon. The Canyon offers views of mountains where backcountry travelers enjoy skiing and snowboarding off the beaten path. The drive takes one past a snow shoeing/cross country skiing area, as well as another resort. Be aware that Brighton is at the very back of the Big Cottonwood Canyon, and driving time may take longer if there are a lot of drivers or if weather conditions are poor. Sometimes the road may be closed by local law enforcement if the avalanche danger is high.
Arriving There
Once at the parking area, find a parking spot at the base area. On busy days, such as weekends, traffic can be congested, so arriving earlier means a better chance at getting a parking space. Parking is not permitted outside of designated parking lots, and local law enforcement does issue tickets.
Lift Tickets
An all-day adult pass will cost $53, and a half-day pass runs $46. Night passes cost $30, and there are discounted rates for children and seniors. For a full listing of ticket prices, visit the resort’s ticket page.
Ski Runs
From the Brighton Center, which is 8, 755 feet, you may take four chairlifts to two mountains that are both over 10, 000 feet above sea level. The Crest Express lift provides access to fun intermediate runs such as Thunder Road and Wintergreen. These wide blue runs connect to easier blue and green runs below. The Thunder Road run connects to Deer Park, which takes skiers past the Snake Creek Express. This chairlift reaches to the top of Preston Peak, at 10, 315 feet, has fantastic views of surrounding mountains and valleys, and makes a great photo opportunity.
Brighton Resorts also has opened more terrain this year with the Milly Express lift. The lift begins across the parking lot from the Brighton Center, taking visitors over double-black diamond terrain. At one point near the top of the chairlift an avalanche gun, used to clear slopes of snow, is clearly visible from the lift. From the top of the lift there is access to green, blue, black and double black diamond terrain, as well as backcountry terrain. Taking Backdoor to Main Street and the Perris or Christy Bowl offers a fun run for intermediate skiers, just make sure not to go over rock outcrops.
Backcountry Access
From the tops of Brighton’s chairlifts skiers have access to backcountry terrain, which is beyond the designated ski area boundary. Those who decide to venture into these areas should be equipped with a beacon and shovel, and know how to use them. Also, follow posted signs, which may indicate that some areas are closed to visitors because of high avalanche danger.
Fight Cancer This MarchOn March 22 there will be a fundraising benefit for Krista Moroge, a former resort employee diagnosed with cancer. Along with Slug Magazine, Brighton will host a rail jam. The registration begins at 8 AM, and the competition at 10 AM. Tickets to participate cost $25. There will also be a raffle for gear and clothing. All money raised will benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation in Krista Moroge's name.
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