CEDAR CITY – The Utah tagline “Greatest Snow on Earth” isn’t news to winter enthusiasts. Skiers and snowboarders come in droves to Southern Utah to float on amazing dry champagne powder. However, what about those who don’t appreciate the blanket of white that beckons snowboarders and skiers to get out and be in the fluffy white stuff? Well, we’ve got eight great reasons to become a “fan” of winter in Southern Utah.
1. Warren Miller Ski Movie – Enjoy a taste of winter on the big screen. Warren Miller has been making ski movies, old school style, since 1946. His iconic films mark the beginning of winter for many diehard winter lovers. For those who want to enjoy a view of extreme skiing from the comfort of a seat firmly planted on the ground, come watch the latest Warren Miller film on Nov. 15, at 7 p.m. at Southern Utah University’s Sharwan Smith Ballroom. Tickets are $20 and include a lift ticket for Brian Head Resort.
2. Christmas in the Country – Parowan, Utah’s “Mother Town,” hosts a unique event Nov. 25-26 at 10 a.m. at the Iron County Fairgrounds (Parowan). This event includes bazaar, Santa parade, Christmas concerts, candle light parade, home tours, lighting ceremony and much more. For more information call (435) 477-9022.
3. Craft Fair – Local high school drill team hosts the Talon’s Annual Craft Fair on Nov. 19 (5-9 p.m.) and Nov. 20 (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.) at Canyon View High School (166 W 1925 N, Cedar City). Local crafters and vendors will be selling holiday gifts. Enjoy fun, food, drawings, and entertainment for only $1.
4. Tubing at Brian Head Resort –Remember the days of trudging up the hill toting a tube? Those days are long gone, Brian Head Resort’s Tubing Hill has a pulley system that whisks you up to the top hill and offers lanes to keep you in your track. Race a friend for king of the hill bragging rights or take it slow, which ever you choose – you’ll have fun on the snow. The opening of the tubing hill depends heavily on snowfall, so watch the Brian Head website
for the official opening.
5. Snowmobile Treks to Cedar Breaks – The red rocks of Cedar Breaks National Monument contrasted with white snow tucked between the crevasses is a spectacular sight that sometimes goes unseen. Highway 148, the road that leads a car to Cedar Breaks, may be closed in winter, but Cedar Breaks National Monument is always open. Snowmobiles provide a memorable mode of transportation to view a seldom seen white blanket on red hoodoos and fins. Depart from Brian Head’s Thunder Mountain Motorsports, telephone (435) 677-2288, to the “High Mountain” trail for vistas overlooking Cedar Breaks.
6. Nordic Skiing and Snowshoeing – Hear the crunch of snow underfoot and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you begin an adventurous outing off the beaten path. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and tromp through fields of white. Or venture out to the vistas as you glide effortlessly around cross-country trails. For Nordic ski rentals or guided tours call (435) 586-2183.
7. Friday Night Improv – A talented group of comedians present “Off the Cuff” Improvisation comedy every Friday night in Cedar City. Off the Cuff is a premier Improv Comedy Theatre Company performing short and long form improv at 10 p.m. Visit the new Improv Training Center (913 S Main St, Cedar City, next to Staples and IFA). Admission is $7. For information call 1-210-4-IMPROV or visit the Off the Cuff website.
8. Mountain Spa Retreat and Restaurants – Looking for the ahhhhh- factor? Treat yourself to a luxurious spa treatment at a mountain resort. Located in Brain Head, Cedar Breaks Lodge and Spa and the Red Leaf Spa of the Grand Lodge at Brian Head both offer signature treatments. Stay awhile longer, grab a drink or a bite to eat at Leany’s Steak House, the Double Black Diamond Restaurant or the Lift Bar and Patio.
There you have it – eight great reasons to change your status and become a “fan” of winter.
For more information and trip planning hints, visit the Cedar City / Brian Head tourism website or call (800) 354-4849.