Packing bags, loading the cooler with snacks and meals that I’ve prepped through the week, throwing skis or bikes (or both, depending on the season) into the car, then whistling to my dog to jump into the car and load up, we are heading south! One of my favorite things about living in Salt Lake City is how easy it is to hop in the car on a Friday evening and head south for the weekend. Every drive out of Salt Lake feels like a sweet escape from city life into the landscapes that make Utah so incredible. Jagged Wasatch peaks give way to rolling hills and red-rock hoodoos. I’ve lived here the majority of my life, and somehow the contrast never gets old. Whether it’s a mountain bike mission to Moab or a ski trip to Brian Head, my favorite travel companion is and will always be my dog, Ziggy.
Ziggy lives for adventuring with me. The second the car door opens, she patiently waits for the command to load up, hind legs squatted and ready to jump. She is the perfect road-trip companion. Happy napping in the car, hiking, curling up at our feet during morning coffee, or even barking excitedly at trees on a new trail. Traveling with her adds a layer of joy to every adventure, and Brian Head Ski Resort is one of the most dog-friendly mountains we’ve visited.
We’ve brought Ziggy to Brian Head Ski Resort in both summer and winter, and every visit feels easy and welcoming. A place where we feel like we can do everything that’s important to us while still providing Ziggy with the walks and attention that she deserves.
How to Make The Most of a Dog-Friendly Summer Trip to Brian Head
Summers in Brian Head Mountain Biking are pretty special. Green alpine meadows stretch across the top of the ski area, anchored by red rock cliffs in the valley. Daytime temperatures stay comfortable, and evenings cool off perfectly for patio dinners and sunset strolls. Ziggy, a German Shepherd, loves escaping the heat of Salt Lake just as much as we do.
We usually stay at Brian Head Lodge. It’s close to the bike trails and surrounded by walkable paths that make morning and evening walks easy. We like to wake up early and take Ziggy for a mellow stroll along the bike paths toward Mountain Peak Cafe and Bakery. Their outdoor seating is ideal for dogs. Ziggy sits patiently on the porch while we grab breakfast, then inevitably ends up stretched across our feet, lips spread on the wooden planks of the patio, while we sip coffee and plan our day.
During the day, we keep her comfortable in the camper at the base area. Temperatures hover around a high of 70°F on most summer days. Every couple of laps, we swing by to let her out, check in, or take her for a quick walk around the pond. The base parking is so close to the chairlift that it’s easy to make sure she’s enjoying the day right along with us.
When evening rolls around, we head to Last Chair Grill & Brews for an early dinner on the patio. Ziggy settles in, tired and happy, while we unwind from the day. It’s the perfect end to a mountain summer day, proof that with a little planning, Brian Head is a place where everyone in the family gets to come along. Doggies included.
How to Do a Dog-Friendly Winter Trip to Brian Head
Winter in Brian Head Ski Resort has a different energy, and it’s just as dog-friendly. While the ski area fills with weekend warriors, there’s still plenty of space to make it work with a four-legged adventure buddy.
During the winter, we tend to camp in the camper right in the parking lot. While we’re out skiing, Ziggy lounges in the camper, happily watching the world go by through the window and napping. The convenience of staying in the parking lot makes it easy to check on her throughout the day, run her a little bit to get some energy out, and make sure she’s comfortable while we ski.
After the lifts stop spinning, we head out for snowy walks and rounds of fetch. It’s the perfect way for Ziggy to burn off energy after a mellow day of lounging and for us to get our active recovery after skiing. There’s something about throwing a ball in an open parking lot, under a brisk winter sunset, that brings back all of the nostalgia of mom-and-pop ski resorts that we love about Brian Head Ski Resort.
Brian Head Ski Resort has mastered the art of being a true mountain town, one where adventure doesn’t stop when you bring your dog along. With easy access, cooler temperatures, walkable base areas, and a laid-back vibe in every season, it’s a place where dogs aren’t just allowed; they’re welcomed. Whether you’re chasing summer trails or winter turns, traveling with Ziggy here always feels effortless, and that’s what keeps us coming back.
