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| Danny Koker and Count’s 77 |
Story and photo gallery by George Scott
With many ready to celebrate the Pioneer Day holiday weekend, Brian Head offered an array of opportunities to play, and I was pleased to be able to take my girlfriend and our kids to be a part of the recreational activities, fun, and celebration. The drive to Brian Head was filled with gorgeous scenery as sage turned to towering pines and quaking aspen. The remarkable drop in temperature offered an invitation to “beat the heat at 10,000 feet.” A clean, crisp, refreshing smell filled the air as we twisted our way up the winding road.
As we approached Brian Head Resort, we could see we were not the only ones that were there to celebrate; the quaint resort town was filled with cars lining the streets. In addition, the parking lot was nearly filled to capacity with vintage cars and trucks, rat rods, street rods, and classic cars for the inaugural Brian Head Car Show. With 245 vehicles from all over the region, it was a spectacular showing. These were not just run-of-the-mill cars; they were top-notch cars and trucks owned by serious enthusiasts eager to share the story of their vehicle.
We spent a significant amount of time in nostalgic amazement looking at the meticulous detail and care poured into each vehicle. With our quest for beauty satisfied through the curves of vintage cars, we sought to appeal to our inner adrenalin junkie (or maybe that was just me). We did not have to look long nor go far; the summertime activities in Brian Head are plentiful.
First, we navigated the varying levels of the Cliff Hanger Climbing Wall. This was followed by acrobatic acts on the Peak Shot Bungee Trampoline with the most spectacular accomplishment in our group being the double back flip! The Ridge Runner Zipline offered the thrill of height and speed as we flew through the air. The 50’X50′ airbag allowed us the safety and confidence to enjoy the base jumping of the Alpine Plunge. The Avalanche Tubing down the ski slope offered racing and an adrenaline rush as we held on with thrilling excitement, wondering if we would remain on the course or go spinning out of control. The chair lift ride, although more tranquil experience, was also a group favorite. We left the base at approximately 10,000 feet of elevation and ascended until we reached the top at 11,000 feet where we found even cooler temperatures and breathtaking panoramic views.
Breaks from the activities allowed us to catch Steven Swift as he played his brilliantly delivered wide range of music with his band Full Tilt Boogie. Moving comfortably between love, sorrow, anger, pain, regret, and upbeat optimism, Swift has a sound that captures your attention. His music feels familiar but at the same time sounds like nothing heard before. Swift plays with a keen observation and natural sense of rhythm and balance. He always delivers in making music what it is meant to be: a live experience!
Danny “The Count” Koker from History Channel’s “Counting Cars” and his band, Count’s 77, were the headliners for the event. With a town filled with car enthusiasts, they were the perfect fit for the event. Playing with enthusiasm, energy, and a tight sound, it was easy to see why this band was booked, and it was obvious the band was having fun. Their interaction with the crowd provided a great time for those in attendance. Smiles, dancing, and singing permeated the crowd as they held cell phones, cameras, and recorders to capture the memories. Following the concert, we were invited to a VIP meet-and-greet. Photos and introductions were made. Each of the band members were just as personable one-on-one as they were on the stage as they took time to pose for pictures, sign autographs, and interact with those in attendance. We all agreed—a great bunch of guys!
Worn out from an amazing day of playing, we headed south. However, we could not resist the opportunity to catch Dick Earl playing at another favorite venue, The Grand Lodge at Brian Head. The atmosphere is a combination of warm, comfortable, and majestic. Earl’s deep bluesy-infused rockin’ music is magical. His skills on the harmonica are spellbinding. The sounds he is able to conjure out of the guitar are spectacular and gripping. His voice matches the sounds of the instruments he plays, putting listeners in funky, soul-jiving trance that elicits an undeniable desire to groove along.
Without a doubt, we all got an “altitude adjustment” at the resort that is fast becoming southern Utah’s premier “hot spot for cool.” This coming weekend offers a continuation in Brian Head Resort events. From July 31 to Aug 1, ‘Festival of Flavors’ returns. This is a family-friendly event filled with live music, local artists, and tastings from local breweries, vineyards, and distilleries. Adults will be able to wine and dine their way to a great time while the kids mix flavored sodas. Of course all of the base activities will be open for those seeking thrills of adventure. In addition, Brian Head Resort will be teaming up with Cedar Breaks National Monument to bring you the ‘Arts Afire-Plein Air Event.’
For more information and pricing of events and activities, go to www.brianhead.com and for those wanting to stay the night check out www.grandlodgebrianhead.com.
