Brian Head, Utah — Work on the first portion of a massive expansion to a Utah ski resort has commenced.
Today, Aspen Meadows announced that work is underway on its first lift. Initially announced on the first day of the National Ski Areas Association Conference, consturction on the project has since begun.
Aspen Meadows is a new real estate development that’s situated near Brian Head Resort. Called the Stefani’s chairlift, it’s named in honor of Stefanie Hartlmaier, who, with her husband Georg, were Brian Head’s first residents. Georg was the ski resort’s first mountain manager and ski school director. They later created Gerog’s Ski Shop in Brian Head.
This first lift will be a SkyTrac fixed-grip quad. This 2,500-foot lift will service beginner and intermediate terrain. With its proximity to the future base village, it’s a critical first step for the buildout of this community. Some residences are also under construction and could be completed later this summer.
“Stefanie’s Ski Lift represents far more than a new lift,” said A. Flint Decker, President of Aspen Meadows Club. “It reflects the long-term vision for Aspen Meadows, our commitment to Brian Head, and the peoplewho helped shape this mountain community. Naming our first lift after Stefanie Hartlmaier is a tribute to someone whose life and legacy have been connected to Brian Head for more than sixty years.”
Also announced today, Christmas Tree Ridge is a new real estate community with 26 alpine homesites. These homesites will deliver ski in/out access and great views. The construction of Stefani’s lift will coincide with initial development of Christmas Tree Ridge, along with completing an extension of Aspen Meadows Drive.
“We are truly excited and deeply appreciative of Aspen Meadows’ continued investment in and commitment to the Brian Head community,” said Brian Head Mayor Clayton Calloway. “This milestone represents a meaningful moment for our town, and we look forward to celebrating the opening of Stefanie’s Ski Lift and the opportunities it brings for residents and visitors alike.”
The next phase of construction after this will include expanding the Alpine Christmas Tree terrain, building the Christmas Tree chairlift, opening a new community park and dog park, and building a new Alpine/Nordic Center.
Is This A New Ski Resort or Part of Brian Head?
This plan is a joint venture between Aspen Meadows and Brian Head Resort, with the goal of making this part of Brian Head Resort. These terrain zones were part of the original vision for Brian Head Resort.
The future runs are similar to Brian Head, but about 1/3 bigger. The snowfall also does better, with them benefiting from the Southwest storms.
For the first year of operations (2026-27), the plan is to keep the lift operational for just residents of Aspen Meadows. However, the plan is to make the Aspen Meadows area accessible for Brian Head skiers and riders. Originally, it appears they wouldn’t be connected because of their distance, although a connector lift between the two areas is planned eventually.
Part of the expansion is awaiting the U.S. Forest Service’s review, which is required to add lifts such as the Summit and Sid’s Peak lifts. The plan is set to be conducted over the next few decades. Because of its elevation, long seasons, and planned growth, Brian Head Resort is expected to become a major destination in the years ahead.
Image/Video Credits: Aspen Meadows/Brian Head, Utah, Life of Brian Head, Utah, Ski Utah
