Top Ikon Pass Après Ski Scenes

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.

If you enjoyed reading this story, pin it!

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.