Let’s be honest, folks: winter is not the best time of year. It’s cold, it’s dark, and it is, in general, demotivating. I am wholly convinced that winter sports were invented merely to combat this depressing season. The perks of winter lie mostly in snow, and snow is most fun when it can be played in.
Every year we hear about how great skiing is, but how often do we celebrate its cooler, younger brother: snowboarding? Some would even say that ski resorts can actually be defined by how good they are for snowboarders.
“A lot of places have good terrain, and terrain parks, and fun apres scenes,” Josh Sullivan, Snowboarder Magazine’s lead writer, tells TravelHost. “But a mountain is the most fun when things are designed with snowboarders in mind.”
USA Today 10Best recently called on their panel of experts to name the top snowboarding spots in America, then asked readers to weigh in. The result? Brighton Resort in scenic and stunning Brighton, Utah.
What makes Brighton the best for snowboarding?
Sitting atop Big Cottonwood Canyon in the Wasatch Mountains is a stunning resort that caters to all kinds of winter adventurers. The spacious terrain is full of groomed trails that satisfy both seasoned and beginner snowboarders, as well as natural terrain that more advanced riders will be eager to try.
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“There’s nothing worse than being a respectable tax-paying member of society and still being treated like some sort of hooligan that only existed back in the 80s,” says Sullivan. “It’s 2025, like half of my friends ski. We all coexist. Places like Brighton are shaped and run by snowboarders, and so they are inclusive spaces to us.”
Perhaps the biggest highlight for snowboarders is Brighton’s five different terrain parks.
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Majestic: This terrain park has an upper and lower section both geared toward more advanced riders. The Upper Majestic area has a ton of wall rides and some of the mountain’s largest rails, while Lower Majestic is ideal for “seamless flow” between features.
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Candyland: This section sees frequent changes, with features constantly swapped out to challenge snowboarders looking to level up to mid-sized features.
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My Oh My: For snowboarders looking to clock some serious airtime, this area offers a triple jump line worth traveling for.
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The Bone Zone: This area is free to ride and perfect for preseason shredders. The only catch? You need to bring a shovel to gather snow on your own.
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Pee Wee: Everyone has to start somewhere, so why not start at the best resort in the country? This area is perfect for beginners with gentle slopes, small jumps, and access to lessons.
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What else is going on at Brighton?
While there is of course skiing, the resort boasts a lot of other features that justify its new crown. There’s fun night riding in the winter, and the off-season brings activities like disc golf, mountain biking, and summer camps. The resort also has a well-rounded lodge with different room types for various needs, and guests can even host events on the property.
On-site, there are three retail locations and six eateries to fuel up between sessions. Options range from Milly Chalet, known for finer dining and stunning views, to Doyle’s Dawgs, which serves unique hot dog styles. It is aptly named after the family who established the resort 88 years ago.
The season has officially begun so be sure to snag your day pass soon for an epic experience.
This story was originally published by TravelHost on Dec 3, 2025, where it first appeared in the Attractions section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.