Brighton Resort recently posted some new signs.
But they weren’t shiny new welcome signs or a new trail map. The signs banned preseason riders from jibbing on Brighton’s rails and boxes.
They read, “Due to vandalism and total disrespect, Brighton’s property is closed to preseason jibbing. Anyone caught touching any of Brighton’s stuff will be issued a trespassing ticket.”
Brighton’s park director, Jared Winkler, posted the signs after some preseason riders vandalized and broke some of the rails. The area above the Snake Creek lift, where the rails are stored over the summer, was also covered in litter.
Winkler was not available to comment and no other staff members at Brighton knew any of the exact details or information.
There are reports that the Canyon Unit of the Salt Lake City Sheriff’s Office came up to the area with some of the Brighton staff and issued more than 20 trespassing tickets after the signs had been posted.
The ban has caused confusion to some riders. In years past, the Brighton rails were a mecca of sorts to preseason riders and there never seemed to be a problem.
Jordan Monk, 20, has ridden during the preseason at Brighton for the past five years.
“There have never been any problems before, other than people getting hurt and not having ski patrol around,” Monk said.
John Ware, a freshman in civil engineering, rode during the preseason this year at Brighton when the first snow allowed riders to do so.
“It gives us a chance to progress before other riders get the chance,” Ware said. “In a way, it’s like a head start on the season.”
Since the ban, Ware has been going elsewhere to get his preseason fix. Alta and Guardsman Pass are two alternatives he’s used instead of Brighton.
As for the people responsible for the vandalism, they were “immature and inconsiderate of others,” Ware said. “This event will most likely change preseason at Brighton forever.”
Although there is no jibbing on Brighton’s rails, the snow can still be enjoyed at the resort. Families were sledding Sunday and there were lots of riders enjoying the new powder.
Instead of using Brighton’s rails, boarders can bring their own rail to jib on or even build a kicker. Guests can also do some plain old hiking and riding. Either way, you can still enjoy the preseason.
Jessica Dunn
Jessica Dunn
Jessica Dunn