Skiers and snowboarders may have their differences on the mountain, but there’s one thing that everyone can agree on: nothing beats après. While each Ikon Pass destination has its own take on après—be it monster nachos, killer wings, or signature brews—here’s a list of some of the most unique and legendary après ski scenes on the planet.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro
Aspen Highlands
Pop some bottles and treat yourself to lavish après at Aspen Snowmass’s Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro. This party-fueled, mid-mountain bistro s known for its boisterous après ski scene. Score one of its twice-daily lunch seatings, and you may even spot a celebrity or two.
Ajax Tavern
Aspen Mountain
Look no further than Ajax Tavern, based out of The Little Nell, for quintessential Aspen Snowmass après. Post up on its sun-splashed patio, and treat yourself to their legendary truffle fries, Ajax Double Cheeseburger, and bubbly while you take in some of the mountain’s best people watching.
Mangy Moose
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Unstrap and unwind in the heart of Teton Village at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s most famous après establishment—the Mangy Moose. With its heaping portions, famed spicy margaritas, and legendary live music, it’s no wonder Forbes Traveler named this two-story saloon one of the “10 Hottest Après Ski Bars in the World.”
The Bag & Kettle
Sugarloaf
No trip to the Loaf is complete without trying The Bag & Kettle’s famous Bag Burger—a beef patty served with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and secret “Bag Sauce.” This English-style pub at the Sugarloaf base has been an après favorite for almost 50 years thanks to its iconic burger and tap beer selection, including the popular Potato Ale.
The Clocktower Cellar
Mammoth Mountain
Whiskey connoisseur? Then you’ll love après at The Clocktower Cellar—famous for its selection of 160-plus whiskeys, 26 tap beers, and 50 bottled brews. With its booze and comfort foods, Mammoth Mountain’s only underground pub is sure to help you forget about a hard day on the mountain.
The Wobbly Barn
Killington Resort
Come for the famed steakhouse with legendary soup, salad, and bread bar—and stay for the ski boot dance party that rocks into the night. Constructed with salvaged New England barn wood, The Wobbly Barn has been a Killington après icon for more than 50 years.
TBar and Timber & Torch
Steamboat
Affectionately known as Ski Town USA®’s “Five-Star Dive Bar,” the ski-in-ski-out après gem TBar is one of Steamboat’s best-kept secrets. Housed in a former ski patrol trailer, the TBar is a local favorite for its stiff drinks and mouthwatering menu—don’t miss the legendary chorizo mac and cheese or the peanut butter-and-bacon panini. And don’t miss the chance to grab a drink at Timber and Torch. Après goers can get their goggle tan on while sipping a signature smoked cocktail, prepared table-side, on the expansive patio.
The Peruvian Lodge
Alta Ski Area
Wood paneling, shotskis, and taxidermy could very well be the three universal signs of a legit après ski scene. At Alta’s Peruvian Lodge—or, P-Dog, as the locals call it—you get them all. After making your turns, pop on by for some free appetizers, popcorn, and amazing mountain views while you listen to live music and mingle with fellow ski bums.
The Snorting Elk Cellar
Crystal Mountain
Head downstairs at Crystal Mountain’s Alpine Inn to find the cozy Bavarian ratskeller-style (read: basement) bar and Pacific Northwest ski scene staple, The Snorting Elk Cellar. With its roaring fire, old-world charm, and 18 locally brewed tap beers, this iconic après bar was voted one of the “Top 7 Sweetest Ski Bars in the US” by Outside Magazine two years in a row.
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Hit the Road
Destinations featured in this story are included in the following road trips:
- Colorado Winter Road Trip
- California Winter Road Trip
- East Coast Winter Road Trip
- Utah Road Trip
- Pacific Northwest Winter Road Trip
Check out these itineraries to help you plan your next Ikon Pass adventure.
