Brian Head Resort Webcams. Brian Head Resort, nestled in the majestic southern Utah mountains, boasts some of the best skiing in the region. But its journey from a remote peak to a thriving winter wonderland is a fascinating story itself.

Early Days: Monument Peak and “Little Ireland”

The land now known as Brian Head wasn’t always associated with winter sports. Originally called Monument Peak, it served as a landmark for surveyors and explorers. Legend has it that John Wesley Powell, a famous explorer, named the peak after a surveying official.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area transformed into “Little Ireland.” The Adams family, of Irish descent, established a dairy farm and used the land for grazing sheep and horses. Logging and a cheese factory also operated in the area, showcasing its diverse past. The 1920s saw a brief tourist boom with “Minnie’s Mansion,” a hotel, restaurant, and dance hall offering entertainment and hearty meals.

Birth of a Ski Resort: Vision and Determination

Fast forward to the 1960s, when real estate developer Burt Nichols envisioned a ski resort nestled in the mountains. Impressed by Brian Head Peak’s elevation and proximity to major highways, he set his sights on transforming the area. Milt Jolley, a resident of Cedar City, played a crucial role in convincing the Holyoak brothers, who owned the land, to sell their property.

Construction began in 1964, with the first season kicking off in 1965. The resort debuted with a single chairlift, a T-bar, and a basic warming hut. Committed to fostering local interest, Brian Head offered a budget-friendly ski program for Iron County youth, sparking a love for the sport in a new generation.

From One Chairlift to a Thriving Resort

Brian Head’s growth has been impressive. The initial struggles were overcome by Dr. Ray Cloward, who led the Brian Head Corporation in the late 1960s. He successfully managed finances and secured the resort’s future. Today, Brian Head boasts multiple chairlifts, a vast skiable terrain, and a variety of activities beyond winter sports. From mountain biking and hiking in the summer to night skiing and tubing in the winter, Brian Head offers a year-round escape for adventure seekers.

For more information, visit the official Brian Head Resort website.