The Best Wine Bars in Ski Towns

Ridge Street Wine, Breckenridge, Colorado 

Part wine shop, part bar, Ridge Street Wine is tucked away off Breckenridge’s Main Street. Owners Kenny and Ann are longtime skiers, with Ann beginning her career as a U.S. Ski Team and World Champion Team athlete in the mid-90s. After retiring from ski racing, she moved to Colorado and started pursuing her passion for wine. Ridge Street Wine’s team members hand-pick their wines, which guests can purchase by the bottle downstairs in their shop or by the glass upstairs at their tasting bar. Pair a bottle of wine with a selection of artisanal cheeses, chocolates, and paninis. Ridge Street Wine is the perfect aprés-ski stop for wine lovers after a day of skiing at Breckenridge Ski Resort.

Continental Divide Winery, Breckenridge, Colorado 

Continental Divide Winery is another tasting room on Breckenridge’s Main Street. Dubbed the “world’s highest altitude winery,” Continental Divide Winery has been awarded several accolades including the “Best Colorado Winery Experience” by LUXLife Magazine. They produce all of their wines in a state-of-the-art winemaking facility in nearby Fairplay, where they also have a tasting room, at an elevation of more than 10,000 feet. Continental Divide Winery offers tasting flights and wines for purchase by the glass or bottle, while there are also a number of fun experiences, like a wine blending experience, which invites guests to create their own red wine blend to take home. 

Root & Flower, Vail, Colorado 

Root & Flower prides itself on an “approachable elegance” to welcome both seasoned wine drinkers and new wine lovers. They have more than 20 hand-picked wines and a varied, fun menu, which includes truffle popcorn and lobster-stuffed deviled eggs. The wine list is a showstopper, featuring rare, iconic wines like a 2008 Château Pavie Premier Grand Cru Classé Saint-Émilion and a 2005 Araujo Eisele Vineyard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Take in their bright and floral atmosphere while sipping your favorite varietal after a day of riding, or level up aprés-ski by enjoying a wine tasting or taking one of their cocktail making classes. 

Element 47, Aspen, Colorado 

Element 47, a Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant, led by Executive Chef Matt Zubrod, blends luxury dining with an Aspen-casual dress code to create a must-visit destination. The restaurant’s name pays homage to the element silver, number 47, on the periodic table. It’s a fitting homage since silver is what helped put Aspen on the map. Located inside Aspen’s 5-star hotel, The Little Nell, Element 47 has nearly 20,000 bottles of wine in its cellar, helping it earn a Grand Award every year since 1997. The Aspen wine bar is open for après-ski with a full list of wine by the glass that can be paired with the bar menu. Element 47 is the perfect way to round out a ski day, especially since it’s just steps from the Silver Queen Gondola. 

Old Town Cellars, Park City, Utah 

Old Town Cellars blends the rich history of winemaking with an authentic mountain town ambiance to create a Park City après-ski experience like none other. Located in the heart of Park City, this 19th-century silver mining lounge features a sommelier-crafted wine list, along with local craft beer. Old Town Cellars boasts a selection of uniquely crafted in-house blends, including an après series that features their Mountain Town Red, Mountain Town White, and the Townie Rosé. Enjoy wine tasting flights and thoughtfully paired wines with small bites. Old Town Cellars also hosts private events, tastings, and other unique experiences. 

Corner Office Natural Wine, Taos, New Mexico

Corner Office Natural Wine Bar is a casual Taos wine bar that features an expansive selection of wines from around the world. Their wine menu focuses on natural wine, which in short means that the grapes have been grown organically, no chemicals or preservatives have been added, and there’s minimal intervention during the fermentation phase. (Learn more about natural wines from their write-up about them here.)

Corner Office’s food menu is the headliner with items like escargot, steak tartar, and Japanese charcoal grilled branzino. Renowned publications have taken note, as Corner Office was featured on Esquire’s ‘Best New Restaurants of 2023’ list. Taos Ski Valley is 30 minutes from this wine bar, making it the perfect stop after a day on the hill. Note that Corner Office Natural Wine Bar is walk-in only except for groups of six or more.

The Idle Hour, South Lake Tahoe, California 

Lake Tahoe’s location in Northern California puts it close to many great wine regions like Sonoma and Napa, while even closer are more than 70 wineries in El Dorado County. Wine lovers will find a number of great places to enjoy a glass of local and regional wine near ski resorts, including The Idle Hour in South Lake Tahoe, which is just minutes from Heavenly Ski Resort. Owner and founder Karen Walsh spent years turning this old office with a view into a stunning, multi-floor, lakefront après-ski dream that feels like home. Pair the stunning lake view with wines from California and beyond. The Idle Hour serves small bites, fondue, pizza, charcuterie, and more that guests can enjoy while sipping any number of wines from their 200-bottle wine list. 

Glasses Wine Bar, North Lake Tahoe, California 

On the other side of Lake Tahoe, in Incline Village, guests can combine their love for sipping and reading for a one-of-a-kind après-ski experience at Glasses Wine Bar. This fun North Lake Tahoe wine bar was brought to life by owners, Kathleen and Rob, who after retiring, wanted to create the type of local wine bar that they’d want to hang out in. Glasses Wine Bar serves 26 wines by the glass, and has a small offering of snacks available for purchase. Guests can also bring in their own food.

Glasses Wine Bar has a variety of books and games for guests to enjoy, with everything from popular magazines to romance novels to fun games like Cards Against Humanity. You can even bring in your own games. Grab a seat on one of their cozy couches and curl up with a good book and a glass of vino. Glasses Wine Bar also hosts a Wine Club and has weekly literary-inspired events and happy hours.  

Sun Valley Wine Company, Ketchum, Idaho

At the center of Sun Valley Wine Company‘s tasting room is a roaring fireplace surrounded by cozy couches that invites skiers and non-skiers alike to relax, unwind, and connect. It’s a reflection of the family-owned company itself, which brought together their family’s love for Sun Valley skiing and wine to a community-oriented space. The Ketchum wine bar boasts an astonishing 1,000 different bottles of wine, and has a wide-range of food offerings for guests to pair it with, including meat and cheese boards, wings, ribs, and more. Sun Valley Wine Company is always adding new events for guests like live music, special tastings, conversations with winemakers, and paint and sip classes.

Stoller Wine Bar, Bend, Oregon

Stroller Wine Bar has made a name for itself in Oregon, and beyond, as it was recently named one of the 10 best tasting rooms by USA Today readers. While we’re highlighting their Box Factory location in Bend, their wine can also be enjoyed at the Stoller Family Estate in Dayton and the Chehalem Winery in Newberg Oregon. Stoller Wine Bar in Bend is described as a “blend of small-town hospitality and urban style.” They offer unique flights comprised of locally made wine, including the Stoller Single Acre Riesling, Stoller Estate Pinot Noir, and the Stoller Winemaker’s Series Heritage Clones Pinot Noir. Pair these with delicious items from their food menu like sashimi grade tuna tartare or a strawberry and feta flatbread.

Stoller hosts fun events like Trivia with Terrance on the first Tuesday of every month. The winning team receives a Box Factory Basket that’s filled with products from local establishments.

Seven Birches Winery, Lincoln, New Hampshire 

Seven Birches Winery shares that they embrace the “spirit of New Hampshire.” This is evident in many of its products, including wines using locally grown grapes, and their Rhythm Cider brand that uses New England apples. Located at the gorgeous RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain, their tasting room and winery adds a level of luxury and elegance to Lincoln. Established in 2010, and moving to Loon Mountain in 2016, Seven Birches Winery features a beautiful space for guests to sample wine. They also host fun events you won’t just find at any ski town wine bar, including winery tours and ‘Meet the Winemakers’ events on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The ciders from Seven Birches’ cider brand can be sampled in the tasting room and at RiverWalk’s Rhythm Tap & Grille. Join their Wine Club for extra perks and deals on events and new wine releases.

Cork Restaurant & Natural Wine Shop, Stowe, Vermont 

Founded by native Stowe sisters, Danielle & Katie Nichols, Cork is the first and only natural wine shop and restaurant in Vermont. Daniell and Katie hand-pick wines from organic or biodynamic vineyards that don’t use pesticides, chemicals, and fertilizers. Those who love their natural wines can join Cork’s wine club, which is particularly convenient for locals and those who visit Stowe frequently. Cork’s restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients for its dishes, which includes yummy apps, pastas, steak, seafood, and more. The Stowe wine shop often hosts free wine tastings and live music nights. Check Cork’s website for the latest events. 

Header image: ©Dan Campbell / Park City / Vail Resorts

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America’s Best Dive Bars in Ski Towns

The Last Dollar Saloon, Telluride, Colorado 

The Last Dollar Saloon, located in a historic building from the late-1800s, was named the no. 1 “Best Skier Dive Bar in the World” by SnowBrains. Right in the heart of downtown Telluride, this historic local favorite has been serving up dive bar classics since 1978, featuring a selection of beer on draft, pint-sized cocktails, and an atmosphere that’s unique to Telluride. The Last Dollar Saloon is an institution, and should be at the top of your list on a ski trip to Telluride. On a warm, sunny day, don’t miss The Last Dollar Saloon’s rooftop. 

The Motherloaded Tavern, Breckenridge, Colorado 

As The Motherloaded Tavern shares on its website, their guests are part of the family, which is something you won’t hear from just any dive bar. But this isn’t just any dive, especially with menu items like its variety of mac and cheese offerings, including the meatloaf mac and fried chicken mac. Save room for the Indoor S’mores, which comes with your own personal Hibachi for making s’mores at your table. The Motherloaded Tavern’s expansive drink menu is headlined by its house-infused spirits, including peach pecan pie bourbon, raspberry tequila, and dill pickle vodka. It also plays host to fun events throughout the week, including trivia, karaoke, and live music. 

Breckenridge is home to a number of other great dives, including HD Tavern, known for its specialty hot dogs and sausages, and The Gold Pan Saloon, which is one of Colorado’s oldest bars.

The Mangy Moose, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

No list of the top après-ski bars is complete without the iconic Mangy Moose in Teton Village. Opening in 1967, it’s been serving skiers, travelers, and locals alike with a fun alpine atmosphere ever since. The Mangy Moose is a bit more spacious and cozy than your token dive bar, yet it’s still worth highlighting, if for nothing else than its great live music scene, having welcomed such big names like Kris Kristopherson and Hozier. While it’s undergone multiple building and ownership transformations since opening, The Moose has remained true to its Wyoming spirit. Described as “America’s Most Unusual Steakhouse,” it’s a must-stop on a Jackson Hole trip. 

While you’re in Jackson, don’t miss the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, an ode to the West with horse saddles for bar seats and a lively music scene.

The Slot Bar, Palisades Tahoe, California

Small but mighty, The Slot Bar is a sneaky local bar located in The Village at Palisades Tahoe. Ski paraphernalia-covered walls, an affinity for PBR, and cramped seating characterize this Palisades Tahoe hole-in-the-wall. Grab a beer and admire the walls of old skis, catch a classic ski movie on the TV, or line up at the bar with your friends for a shot-ski. The Slot is truly a gem among a sea of great bars in North Lake Tahoe. Note that food isn’t served at The Slot Bar, making it a good aprés-ski option before grabbing dinner. Arrive early though if you want to grab a coveted bar seat.

Tourist Club, Truckee, California 

The Tourist Club, aka T-Club, has been operating as a dive bar saloon in downtown Truckee for nearly 80 years. Located just 10 minutes from Northstar California Resort, the Tourist Club attracts a mix of diehard locals and tourists looking for a place with character and cold, cheap beer. Unwind with a game of pool after a day on the slopes, or enjoy any number of their weekly events like themed parties, live music, and karaoke nights. Afterward, walk just a few steps down to the Pastime Club, which is Truckee’s oldest bar, and yet another great dive.

M&J Tavern, Bend, Oregon

M&J Tavern, located in the heart of downtown Bend, has been the “locals joint” since 1946. Originally serving loggers and railroaders, the tavern, which is known for cheap beer, live music, and good food, is full of skiers, tourists, and Oregon natives on any given night. M&J Tavern has a popular chili selection, more than 30 beers, 200-plus bottles of tequila, and much more. Don’t miss the roasted chicken, which is considered one of its signature dishes. M&J Tavern hosts tons of events every month, including industry nights, karaoke, open mic nights, all you can eat peanuts, and pool nights. Take a drive into Bend after a day of shredding Mt. Bachelor and experience this classic dive for yourself.

Grumpy’s, Ketchum, Idaho 

Grumpy’s is located just five minutes down the road from America’s first destination ski resort, Sun Valley. Ketchum’s iconic burger spot is known for its no-frills menu and atmosphere, where old license pates and beer cans line the walls. Grumpy’s menu features classic items like hot dogs, chili cheese fries, wings, and of course their famous burger. Yet those who are vegan or vegetarian have plenty of options too, with items like the Beyond Burger.

Grumpy’s has been boasting the best burgers in town for nearly 40 years, after opening its doors around Cinco de Mayo in 1978. While there are a lot of places called Grumpy’s across the U.S., the one in Ketchum is the original. This laid-back burger spot is the perfect après location for locals, tourists and everyone in between.

Great Northern Bar and Grill, Whitefish, Montana

Walls adorned with old business signs, red leather bar stools, and a polished old wood bar give the Great Northern Bar and Grill in Whitefish its classic western dive bar vibe. The bar gets its name from the Great Northern Railway. The construction of it was responsible for putting the town of Whitefish and the tavern on the map in the early 1900s. The signs that pepper the walls are all from shuttered local establishments, helping give the Great Northern Bar its “Foreclosure Museum” nickname. Great Northern has live music Thursday to Saturday, while sports fans can belly up to the bar any night of the week to watch their favorite team play.

If that’s not enough, there’s also pool, shuffleboard, ping pong, an array of classic arcade games, and a wide selection of craft beers on tap (29 taps all total). Great Northern is the perfect après-ski bar after a day of lapping Whitefish Mountain.

The Snorting Elk, Crystal Mountain, Washington 

The Snorting Elk, which we named one of the best aprés-ski bars in America, has been a Crystal Mountain staple and a pillar of the Pacific Northwest ski scene since 1965. Austrian-inspired, and featuring an extensive beer list, The Snorting Elk is the perfect place to wind down after a day on the mountain. It also hosts a number of unique, fun events throughout the ski season, including the Northwest Avalanche Center Benefit, a 70s-themed Polyesta Fiesta, Amateur Ski and Snowboard Film Night, and a weekly locals night on Wednesdays. It’s no wonder why The Snorting Elk is continuously recognized as one of the best ski bars in America. Grab a beer and cozy up by the fire at The Snorting Elk.

No Name Saloon, Park City, Utah

Affectionately known as “The Bar that made Park City famous,” No Name Saloon is conveniently located right on the main drag of Park City. Guests can hop from room to room as they take in the glory of this one-of-a-kind Park City dive bar. Hang out in the original Main Room for a taste of the saloon’s history, or head up to the year-round heated patio for some people-watching down on Main Street. Hang a right on your way up the stairs to The Loft, where you can grab a seat at the bar made of an upcycled basketball court. No Name Saloon even has a place where the entire family can gather, located next door at the Annex Burger. May we suggest pairing No Name Saloon’s famous buffalo burger with a Utah craft beer.

Becks Tavern, Gore Mountain, New York 

Some of the most unique aprés-ski experiences are in the most unlikely places, and Becks Tavern, at Gore Mountain, is no exception. The Gore Mountain dive bar serves up German-inspired food with a few American favorites. However, what’s most unique is the yurt bar that plays host to live music. Indulge in traditional German goulash, schnitzel, and sausages paired with local and German beer while taking in the sounds of local musicians. Bonus: Becks is located right next to Gore Mountain Lodge, making it easy to walk back to your accommodations after a night of great food, drinks, and live music. 

The Bag and Kettle, Sugarloaf, Maine 

We named The Bag and Kettle one of the best aprés-ski bars in America. And it’s for good reason. The Bag, located right at the base of Sugarloaf, is a 50-year-old East Coast institution, known for its famous bag burger, a huge burger that’ll make your eyes widen. Other faves include curly fries, locally-brewed beer, and wood-fired pizza. This sticky-floored, wood-paneled bar is the perfect end to a day of shredding above treeline in the Carabasset Valley powder. If it’s a classic dive with cheap bear and greasy burgers that you’re after, then look no further. Check The Bag and Kettle’s website for their live music schedule.

Tom’s Loft, Okemo, Vermont 

Tom’s Loft was long known for its owner, Tom Koch, the self-proclaimed “grumpy owner.” In fact there was even the type of sign that you’d except from a dive, located on the side of the building, which read, “Warm beer, lousy food, grumpy owner.” Tom sold it in 2022 to three employees and restaurant veterans who are carrying the tradition of this great dive bar on. Located right at the base of Okemo Resort, Tom’s Loft serves up traditional après-ski comfort food like its award-winning wings, poutine fries, and nachos. While Tom’s Loft doesn’t have a website, you won’t miss this iconic dive bar that’s mere steps from the lifts. Just follow the crowd and belly up alongside locals and visitors alike for a quintessential Vermont aprés-ski experience. The beer is cold, the food is great, and the vibes are all-time.

Rimrock’s Mountain Tavern, Stowe, Vermont 

Part sports bar, part dive, part pool hall, Rimrock’s Mountain Tavern has a little bit of everything. It’s a classic Vermont dive bar to unwind at after a day of ripping up the Front Four at Stowe. Rimrock’s Mountain Tavern serves up traditional bar food, including wings, nachos, and burgers, in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Post-dinner, challenge your family to a game of pool, or enjoy one of their arcade games. There’s often live music, which you can see the schedule of on their website. On a warm, sunny day, get there early to snag a table on their patio.

Discover more bars and aprés-ski options at our articles below.

More Reading

America’s Best Aprés-Ski Bars

The Best Aprés-Ski Bars in Canada

The Best Ski Town Distilleries

Great Ski Town Craft Breweries Around America

The Best Après-Ski Parties in America

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So we’ve put together a list of easy aprés-ski cocktails you can make from the comforts of your ski accommodations. Pick a spirit, stock up on a few ingredients, and use these simple cocktail recipes as inspiration for your next trip. For those who don’t drink, we also included non-alcoholic versions of some of these recipes.

Easy Aprés-Ski Cocktail Recipes

Hot Toddy

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz. whiskey or rum
• 1 cup boiling water 
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 2 tsp. lemon juice
• Garnish with a cinnamon stick, lemon twist, or star anise

This hot toddy recipe is inspired by Food & Wine. First, you’ll bring water to a boil. Add whiskey, honey, and lemon juice to a mug, and then pour the hot water over it. Stir and garnish with a cinnamon stick, lemon twist, and/or star anise. For a non-alcoholic hot toddy, replace the whiskey or rum with your favorite non-alcoholic spirit.

Irish Coffee

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Irish whiskey
• 5 oz. coffee
• 2 tsp. sugar
• Whipped cream or heavy cream

There aren’t many drinks that are as iconic as an Irish coffee on a ski day. While there are a lot of variations and slight differences in the way that people make an Irish coffee, this particular recipe is inspired by Esquire’s Irish coffee recipe. To make it, you’ll first brew your coffee. Then you’ll combine the whiskey, coffee, and sugar in a mug. Mix together well, and then top with whipped cream. You can purchase a container of whipped cream, or you can make your own by lightly whipping a cup of heavy cream with a dash of vanilla and one tablespoon of sugar or honey.

Mulled Wine

Ingredients:

• 2 bottles of a dry red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir (or non-alcoholic red wine)
• 2 oz. maple syrup
• 3 oz. honey
• Peel of one orange
• 3-4 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tbsp. cloves
• 2 star anise
• Splash of vanilla
• 4 oz. brandy, rum, or orange liqueur (or a NA orange liqueur)

The following recipe comes courtesy of yours truly, OnTheSnow’s Senior Editor and resident mixologist. It’s a very adaptable recipe, so you can use whatever ingredients and spices you have on hand. Additionally, non-alcoholic wine and spirits can be used to replace the wine and suggested alcoholic spirits. To make it, add everything to a pot, and heat it on medium-high heat. You want it to heat to just below a simmer (not a boil), and then lower the temperature. Heat on low for at least 30 minutes, and up to a couple hours. You can adjust sweetness to your preference. I’ll start with 1-2 oz. of maple syrup and 3 oz. of honey, and then add more if necessary. Discard the solids and ladle into a mug. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and/or orange wedge. 

Red Wine Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup red wine (or non-alcoholic wine)
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
• Dash of salt

This variation of a hot chocolate also comes from yours truly. Add everything but the red wine, to a saucepan, and heat on medium-low, stirring frequently. Do not let it come to a boil. After the chocolate has melted and everything has combined (usually a few minutes), add the red wine and heat for a couple minutes on low. Remove from heat and pour into a mug. Garnish with marshmallows or whipped cream. Some red wine hot chocolate recipes, like this one from Wine Enthusiast, call for cocoa powder. However, I think that this is just chocolatey and rich enough. Note that you may have to adjust your sweetener depending on the level of sweetness in your wine. I use a dry red wine, so 1-2 tablespoons of honey should be enough.

Aperol Spritz

Ingredients:

• 3 parts Prosecco
• 2 parts Aperol
• 1 part club soda
• Orange wedge

Few cocktails are as refreshing, especially following a sunny day of skiing, as an Aperol spritz. And few cocktails are as easy to make. Just remember 3-2-1. This Aperol spritz recipe comes directly from the Aperol website.  Fill a wine glass with ice. Add the Prosecco, followed by the Aperol, and then top with club soda. Garnish with an orange wedge. 

Moscow Mule

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Vodka
• 1/2 oz. lime juice
• 3 oz. ginger beer to taste
• Lime wedge and sprig of mint to garnish

File the Moscow Mule under the list of “most recognizable cocktails,” thanks to its iconic copper mug. The Moscow Mule is also one of the easiest drinks to make. To make it, you’ll fill a glass—or even better, a copper mug—with ice. Pour in the vodka and lime juice, and then top with ginger beer. Garnish with lime wedges and mint. You can trade out the vodka for your favorite spirit (or non-alcoholic spirit) and use the same ratios. Try mezcal, if you want a little smokiness, and gin for something more botanical. You also can’t go wrong with a whiskey mule, known as a Kentucky Mule.

Tender Knob

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz. bourbon
• 2 oz. apple cider
• 3/4 oz. agave nectar
• 1 slice of an apple
• Pinch of cinnamon

This cocktail recipe gives off all the fall and winter vibes. It was created by H. Joseph Ehrmann, owner of one of the oldest continually operating taverns in San Francisco, Elixir. To make it, you’ll first muddle the apple slice in a cocktail shaker. Then add the bourbon, apple cider, agave nectar, and cinnamon, along with ice, to your cocktail shaker, and shake. Strain it into a glass over ice. Liquor.com shares more details about it here,

Maple Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. bourbon
• 1/2 oz. maple syrup
• 2 dashes bitters
• Orange peel to garnish

The Maple Old Fashioned is a particularly fitting cocktail for a New England ski trip. This is a slight variation of a traditional Old Fashioned, which typically calls for granulated sugar or a sugar cube. To make this version of an Old Fashioned, you’ll add the bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice, and stir for about 10 seconds. Strain into a glass with ice and garnish with an orange peel.

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So we’ve put together a list of a few of the great breweries in ski towns around America.

10 great craft breweries in U.S. ski towns

Beech Mountain Brewing, North Carolina

Beech Mountain Brewing is located in the village of North Carolina’s Beech Mountain Resort, the highest elevation ski resort in eastern North America. Beers are ski- and mountain-inspired, including Beech Mountain Lager, Beech Blonde, Downhill IPA,  Mountain Town Amber, and 5506 Pale Ale, named after the peak elevation. Friday and Saturday nights are hopping here, as live music takes the stage at Beech Mountain Brewing.

The Alchemist, Vermont 

The Green Mountains of Vermont has its share of craft breweries. However, The Alchemist in Stowe, is located about equal distance from several Vermont ski areas including Stowe, Sugarbush, Bolton Valley, Smugglers’ Notch, and Mad River Glen. The Alchemist is renowned for its double IPA, Heady Topper, brewed from a blend of six different hops. People travel from hundreds of miles just for a taste of this beer that’s rated 100 on Beer Advocate. The Alchemist Beer Cafe, open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., is a great spot after a day of skiing.

Snake River Brewing, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is home to the award-winning Snake River Brewing, which is one of Wyoming’s oldest brewpubs. Snake River Brewing has won numerous World Beer Cup medals, Great American Beer Festival medals, and Small Brewery of the Year (twice!). This is the spot after a day of skiing, with a full kitchen and bakery, great bar games, and a wide selection of flagship and seasonal beers. You’ll find just about every type of beer here, from English porters to European- and American-style pilsners to New England IPAs and more.

Aspen Brewing Company, Colorado

Aspen Brewing Company brews what they call “traditional styles with a Colorado flair.” Root Shoot malt, and many other ingredients, are sourced locally. Ales, stouts, lagers, ciders and more are brewed here at 7,908 feet at the foot of the Colorado’s Elk Mountain Range. Aspen Brewing Company is the only licensed brewery in Aspen, and just steps from Aspen Mountain, making for the perfect après-ski spot for the craft beer lover.

Breckenridge Brewery, Colorado

Breckenridge Brewery first opened its doors in 1990, and has since expanded to Denver in Littleton. It features a wide selection of beer styles, ranging from traditional ales and lagers to sours, saisons, and barrel-aged beer. Specialties include Buddy Pass Whiskey Bar-aged Oatmeal Stout, the malty, full-bodied Christmas Ale, and Broncos Country, which is brewed with all Colorado ingredients. Breckenridge Brewery also has their own line of hard seltzers, called Good Company.

June Lake Brewing Company, California

Just a short drive from legendary Mammoth Mountain, at the foot of its sister ski area, June Mountain, this brewery is all about the hops. You’ll find no shortage of IPAs. Additionally, you’ll find hard seltzer, lagers, stouts, and pilsners in their cool taproom. Don’t miss Ohanas395, the Hawaiian food truck at June Lake Brewing’s beer garden, open Thursday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

Alibi Ale Works, California 

Alibi Ale Works has three locations around Lake Tahoe, including the Truckee Public House near Northstar Tahoe, and two in Incline Village. They offer 18-plus frequently rotating Alibi beers on draft, as well as cider, wine, nitro coffee, kombucha, and other non-alcoholic options. Naturally, Alibi uses Lake Tahoe water to make its well-loved beer.

Warfield Distillery & Brewery, Idaho

Warfield Distillery & Brewery, located in Ketchum, Idaho near Sun Valley Resort, is unique in that it’s both a brewery and distillery. Only organic ingredients – malt, botanicals and whole leaf hops – are used at Warfield to brew lagers, dark and light ales, and porter styles of beer. Warfield’s selection of distilled spirits include gin, vodka, apple brandy and whiskey. Warfield Whiskey Club, an annual membership for regulars, comes with tastings, early access and special offers.

Crux Fermentation Project, Oregon

Crux Fermentation Project is about a 20-minute drive from Mt. Bachelor, making for a great hang after a day on the mountain. Brewers use unique brewing techniques such as open fermentation, decoction mashing, and barrel aging to create one-of-a-kind beers at Crux. Many of their brews are IPAs, and have names you won’t forget like Toy Poodle, Pert Near and Tough Love. Come spring, grab a pint in the taproom, order food from one of the food trucks and bask in the sun on Crux’s big yard. Crux often also has live music.

51 State Brewing Co., Michigan

51 State Brewing, a family-run brewery in Kingsford, Michigan in the Upper Peninsula, gets its name from a 1970s movement by the U.P. denizens to secede from the state. That didn’t work, but the brewery does. Offered here are six flagship beers, including the locals’ favorite Ski Jump IPA, a hoppy bitter beer with slight malt flavor with balanced hops. Fittingly, the nearby ski area of Pine Mountain was founded by beer kingpin Frederick Pabst. Pabst was instrumental in creating several ski hills across the country, including Bromley in Southern Vermont.

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Below we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite ski resort patios around North America.

10 of the best ski resort patios in North America

Aspen, Colorado: The Sundeck

High atop Aspen Mountain, The Sundeck couldn’t be more aptly named. Operated by the Little Nell Hotel, one of the top ski resort hotels in the world, The Sundeck’s food, hospitality and views are unparalleled. Not to mention the scenic 15-minute gondola ride from the hotel. Once you arrive, The Sundeck’s spacious patio opens up to gorgeous views of 14,000-foot peaks. What’s more, The Sundeck’s building, located in a 23,000-square-foot day lodge perched on the edge of Forest Service boundaries, became the country’s first resort project awarded a LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy Efficient Design program.

Vail, Colorado: Pepi’s Covered Patio

Pepi’s outdoor deck at the iconic Gastof Gramshammer provides some of the best outdoor experiences you’ll find in the Vail Valley. Pepi’s, named for the Austrian ski racer who established the Gastof, is a legendary eatery close to the slopes near Gondola One. It’s hailed as “the sunniest deck in Vail Village.” Pepi’s is a great spot for lunch, après-ski and dinner, so we won’t judge if you go twice in a day. But it’s not only great for spring since the heated covered patio section is open year-round.

Breckenridge, Colorado: Quandry Tequila Bistro

While many people rave about Breckenridge’s TBar, don’t sleep on the Quandry Tequila Bistro. This off-the-beaten path bistro in Breckenridge is often voted one of the best après-ski hot spots anywhere. Discover 12 beers on tap, cornhole and happy hour specials from 3-5 p.m. daily. Quandry’s sunny deck, overlooking Peak 9, Peak 10, and Maggie Pond, is huge, and makes for an ideal lunch or après-ski spot. The restaurant with its sunny patio is located where Main Street meets the mountain on the corner of South Park Ave. and Main Street, inside the Hyatt Main Street Station Plaza.

Park City, Utah: Lookout Cabin

Lookout Cabin, located off the mid-station of the Orange Bubble Express lift, earns its name at Park City Mountain. Enjoy a nice lunch here while taking in the expansive views of the Wasatch. This is not your everyday ski resort food menu with menu items like pan seared diver scallops, braised short ribs and Bison Bolognese. Yet, you can still get classics like the chili and Wagyu Burger.

Mammoth Mountain, California: The Outpost

The Outpost, located at the base of chair 14 at Mammoth, is touted for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and nice outdoor deck. Pair your grilled cheese with one of their soup selections, and a craft beer, while taking in the views. Located on the backside of Mammoth, The Outpost is a good starting point to get back to Eagle Lodge when you want to get a little bit more skiing in before calling it a day.

Palisades Tahoe, California: KT-22 Base Bar

KT-22 Base Bar is a particularly lively outdoor après-ski scene at the base of the famed KT-22 lift at Palisades Tahoe. Longtime Palisades skiers and riders will likely tell you there’s no better place to soak up the sun than on the KT Deck. Enjoy a refreshing cold one while watching skiers make their way down the fabled KT-22 run. The steep 8,200-foot slope was named when Sandy Poulsen, wife of the resort’s founder, hiked it and was intimidated. So, she traversed back and forth to descend, making 22 kick turns.

Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont: Cliff House

Atop the gondola on Stowe Mountain Resort’s Mount Mansfield, the Cliff House brings panoramic-view seating with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the surrounding alpine peaks. While a popular spot in winter, spring means it’s time to grab a seat on Cliff House’s outdoor deck. Its chef serves regional American cuisine with a rustic Vermont flair. Needless to say, this is a step up from your typical après-ski meal.

Mt. Bachelor, Oregon: The Sun Bar

Few bars are so aptly named for our purposes here. The Sun Bar, located on the upper patio of Sunrise Lodge, is the place to be on those spring skiing afternoons at Mt. Bachelor. Bonus: Mt. Bachelor has one of the longest spring skiing seasons in North America. Kick back just steps from the slopes as skiers come down the mountain. The Sun Bar has a great selection of warm and cold craft cocktails, as well as a selection of beer and wine.

Blue Mountains, Ontario, Canada: Rusty’s

Blue Mountain is one of Ontario’s most popular ski resorts, and once it’s time for après-ski, Rusty’s is the place to be. Rusty’s is a cornerstone of Blue’s spring skiing experience come March when you can drink in the sun on the patio then move onto the dance floor after dark. Go for the fish tacos, smoked brisket and nacho chips. The draft beer and cider are perfect post-skiing bevvys.

Sunshine Village, Banff, Canada: Mad Trapper’s

Recently we named Mad Trapper’s, at Sunshine Village, one of the best après-ski bars in Canada, and it’s for good reason. They’ve been slinging drinks here since 1928, and while the bar itself is an experience, Mad Trapper’s patio is just as good. Located in the Old Sunshine Lodge, Mad Trapper’s gets busy on a beautiful spring day, so get here early. Chow down on its great selection of chili, like the bison chili, and wash it down with a beer or Caesar from their Caesar menu.

Photo Header Credit: TBar ©McGuire/Breckenridge Ski Resort/Vail Resorts

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Dry January actually originated in the United Kingdom about a decade ago, when a nonprofit group called Alcohol Change started the movement with the goal of raising money for alcohol abuse awareness and treatment. What started with a few thousand people has now grown into a movement, with many people around the world hitting the pause button on alcohol for the month of January. Taking even just a few weeks off of alcohol has many benefits, not to mention the benefits to your bank account, especially following the holiday season.

Many breweries, restaurants, and even ski resorts are getting involved. Alterra Mountain Company, which owns the Ikon Pass, announced a three-year partnership in 2022 with Athletic Brewing Company, featuring year-round events, sampling days, and other activations. More recently, U.S. Ski & Snowboard announced that Hedlum, a non-alcoholic beer maker in New York, would be the exclusive non-alcoholic beer of U.S. Ski & Snowboard through November 2025.

Below, we share a few recommendations of where you can go booze-free on a ski trip. While we focused on the beer world, many cocktail bars, restaurants, and other establishments are serving non-alcoholic spirits, mocktails, and even wine.

Meet Athletic Brewing Company

Athletic Brewing Company is one of the only dedicated non-alcoholic breweries in the U.S. According to Athletic, “Our lineup of styles lets you enjoy the taste and experience of refreshing craft beer without sacrificing your performance, passions, health, or good taste.” While Athletic Brewing doesn’t have any taprooms located in ski towns, their non-alcoholic beers are widely available in grocery stores and at many restaurants, bars, and even other breweries across North America.

Athletic began in 2017 when co-founder Bill Shufelt ordered what he describes as a flavorless, watery, metallic, non-alcoholic beer one evening. Working in finance, soon to be married, and getting serious about fitness, Bill was searching for good non-alcoholic beers without compromising his lifestyle. Bill teamed up with John Walker, now the head brewer, and together they created a platform of craft non-alcoholic beers that, in their words, “even the biggest beer lovers would enjoy anytime, anywhere.” Its products have caught on, and they just might get you through Dry January and beyond in the style you’ve become accustomed to if you’re a craft beer lover.

Among Athletic Brewing’s flagship beers is Run Wild, an IPA brewed with a blend of five Northwest hops that is only 70 calories. Others include Upside Down Golden, a balanced, light-bodied, non-alcoholic beer with floral and earthy notes, and All Out Stout, a smooth and “soul-warming” stout with a toasty finish. And don’t forget the NA version of a classic light beer, Athletic Lite. Athletic also has a number of seasonal releases.

Non-alcoholic beer has come a long way

Athletic Brewing is certainly one of the non-alcoholic beer headliners, but there are others as well that have added the non-alcoholic genre to their product lists. Kit NA Brewing launched in 2021 in Maine and shortly thereafter, the brewery’s flagship American Blonde beer was born. Another brew, On Your Mark, they say, “is the embodiment of Kit’s commitment to making true craft beer without the alcohol – to be enjoyed by anyone at any time.”

Vermont-based Zero Gravity has launched a line of non-alcoholic beers, starting with an IPA, under the name Rescue Club Brewing Company. Wellbeing Brewing in Missouri has been offering a selection of non-alcoholic beers since 2017, including a coffee cream stout, dark amber, and citrus wheat beer. Grab some for the Hidden Valley or Snow Creek weekend.

Non-alcoholic options at ski resorts

Many ski resorts across the U.S. are continuing to add to their lineup of non-alcoholic drink options beyond just non-alcoholic beer. Tommyknocker Brewery at Loveland Ski Area off I-17 in Colorado introduced one of the first craft soda collaborations between a ski area and a brewery. The beverage has a strong orange citrus taste with a hint of vanilla. Snake River Brewing of Jackson, Wyoming, in the shadow of Jackson Hole Resort, offers up Snake River Seltzer, which is a sparkling hop water. This seltzer is a non-alcoholic carbonated water “that boasts the subtle aroma and taste of a blend of Idaho hops with no bitterness.”

Many well-known U.S. breweries are making their own non-alcoholic beers, too. 10 Barrel Brewing has partnered with Eldora Ski Resort with a non-alcoholic India Pale Ale coined NA IPA, offering the flavor of 10 Barrel’s full-strength IPA without the alcohol. In Oregon, Black Butte Non-Alcoholic is a non-alcoholic version of Black Butte Porter from Deschutes Brewery, located near Mt. Bachelor in Bend. Deschutes claims, “It’s so similar to the iconic original you’ll be surprised it’s not.”

Dry January in Canada

Non-alcoholic beers are starting to get some traction in parts of Canada. In Eastern Canada, Stéphane Duchesne at his Magasin Général de Castelnau, in Montreal’s Villeray Borough, offers a wide selection of zero-alcohol beer in its old-school fridges. Quebec craft breweries, such as BockAle, are banging out a wide range of zero-alcohol beers, ranging from stouts to IPAs to blondes. Pick up some after landing in Montreal or Quebec City before heading out to ski at Tremblant, Le Massif, and Mont. Ste. Anne.

“What’s interesting nowadays is that you can purchase a non-alcoholic beer that has all the flavor and details of a craft beer and made only with four ingredients,” Sébastien Paradis, vice president of the Association des microbrasseries du Québec told CBC/Radio-Canada.

» » Check out lodging options in Quebec.

Finally, many breweries, bars, and restaurants are selling and, in some cases, making their own kombuchas. Additionally, kombucha taprooms have started to open in recent years, such as in the Pacific Northwest. In Bend, Oregon, Humm became one of the first kombucha taprooms to open when it opened in 2013. In Portland, just an hour and a half from Mt. Hood, Soma Kombucha has several kombucha taprooms. We expect more taprooms like this will continue to open.

Opt for a Mocktail

Increasingly, non-alcoholic spirits, wines, and mocktails are making their way into grocery stores and markets. A wide variety of brands now sell canned and bottled mocktails that are available at grocery stores and supermarkets around North America. Some come powered by added adaptogens for social engagement, like Kin Euphorics or Recess. Others mimic tonics, like the brand Hiyo, or sparkling aperitifs, like De Soi. No matter what kind of cocktail you’re looking to “mock,” you can find some sort of pre-made substitute or mocktail recipe online to satisfy your craving.

If you find yourself near Hood River, while skiing at Mt. Hood’s ski resorts, then check out Wilderton Botanical Spirits. Wilderton recently opened the first non-alcoholic tasting room & distillery in the nation.

Header Credit: Deer Valley Resort

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The Best Après-Ski Bars in New England

Vermont

Beginning in the Green Mountain State, look no further than Killington for both fantastic skiing and a bustling après-ski scene with options for everyone. If there’s more juice in your legs to dance after a day of skiing, then head to the Wobbly Barn, a post-ski nightclub with live music and an award-winning steakhouse. The steakhouse and bar was constructed from pieces of old barns from across New England, and true to its name, it’s known to wobble when the club music gets pumping. The live music theme continues at Pickle Barrel Nightclub. Located a half-mile from the Wobbly Barn, Pickle Barrel is huge, boasting four bars, three levels, and two stages. Over the years the venue has hosted big names such as Snoop Dogg, The Roots, and Wu-Tang Clan. 

For good après-ski eats in Killington, check out Baha Burrito, Mary Lou’s, and the Rivershed. Or, for something a little bit more upscale, head into town to check out The Red Rooster and Richardson’s Tavern at The Woodstock Inn. 

Near Stowe Mountain Resort, The Matterhorn Bar, consistently ranked as one of the top après-ski bars in North America, is a stellar bar for great food, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere. The Horn, as it’s often called, has pizza, pool, and a bustling late-night party scene. Elsewhere, craft beer lovers can’t miss The Alchemist, known worldwide for its popular Heady Topper IPA brewed from a blend of six different hops.

If distilleries are more your speed, check out Smugglers’ Notch Distillery. A quick 10-minute drive from Smugglers’ Notch Resort, this distillery is a father-and-son dream come to life. Since 2006 owner Jeremy Elliott has set out to make the world’s best vodka. In 2010 they released a vodka that earned one of the highest awards a distillery can receive, a gold medal from the Beverage Testing Institute. Give it a taste and judge for yourself.

Over at Mad River Glen, Stark’s Pub has been called one of the “World’s Top Après Bars” by Men’s Journal Magazine. Named after a general from the American Revolution, this pub serves Vermont craft beer and a traditional pub-style menu. Along the walls, you’ll find the “Wall of Fame,” where photos of Mad River Glen’s iconic “Ski It If You Can” bumper stickers are displayed from around the world. A 10-minute drive away is another iconic Mad River Valley spot, The Mad Taco. Three locations across Vermont serve up some of the state’s best tacos and craft beer.

Heading South in Vermont, Stratton Mountain has a lot of great après-ski options. Known as “The Bar at the Base,” Grizzly’s is a popular spot for live music, good food, and reminiscing on the day with amazing views of the slopes. Grizzly’s large patio and après-ski vibe has earned it recognition as one of New England’s top après-ski bars; it was even named “The Most Beautifully Designed Bar” by Architectural Digest in 2018. In Stratton Village, the Green Door Pub is the spot for anyone looking for a side of games with their drinks; stop by for pool, foosball, and much more. 

Maine

Don’t sleep on skiing and après-ski in Maine. At Sugarloaf, The Rack is not only considered one of the best après-ski bars in Maine, but one of the best in North America. The Rack, which lies just beyond the base of the mountain, is co-owned by professional snowboarder Seth Wescott, and serves up barbecue, beer, and a host of live music and events. It has been voted the num. 1 après-ski Bar in North America by Ski Magazine. Before it was a ski bar, the building was home to The Rack Ski Shop. Many original features, such as the boot fitting area, still remain.

Also at Sugarloaf, The Bag and Kettle has been at the base of Sugarloaf for 50 years. It has an expansive menu featuring stouts, German lagers, soups, burgers, pizza, and an impressive whiskey list. Be sure to check out their flight nights where they feature distilleries from around the world. 

New Hampshire

We wrap up our list of the best New England après-ski bars in New Hampshire. The Paul Bunyan Room, located on the upper level of the Octagon Lodge at Loon Mountain Resort, features a large deck and legendary beer lineup on-mountain. This makes it a convenient spot for a lunchtime beer or après sesh for skiers and riders. Down in Franconia Notch, Iron Furnace Brewing consistently rates high among après enthusiasts. After a day of skiing at Cannon Mountain, experience a barn brewery that has everything you need to unwind with good beer, good food, and good friends.

Header image: ©Stratton Mountain Resort

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Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast, craft cocktail connoisseur, or you simply love seeking out unique après-ski experiences, these distilleries offer a blend of adventure, delicious drinks, and chill après-ski vibes. Let’s embark on a spirited journey to discover the best ski town distilleries to visit on a ski vacation.

The Best Ski Town Distilleries

High West Distillery, Park City, Utah

We lead off with the world’s first and only ski-in, ski-out distillery, High West Saloon. Located just off Main Street in the heart of Old Town Park City, High West sits at the bottom of Park City Mountain’s aptly named run, ‘Quittin’ Time.’ Founded in 2006, High West began as a small saloon in a historic livery stable and garage with a 250-gallon still. Over the years, it’s grown into a globally recognized brand, most known for its award-winning whiskey.

Skiers and après enthusiasts can enjoy a bite and a craft cocktail, or taste through High West’s line of spirits; fan favorites include High West’s double rye and bourbon. Whiskey enthusiasts are invited to tour the distillery, which has expanded to Wanship, Utah. High West staff walk guests through the distillation process, from blending to aging to bottling operations. Tours start every hour on the hour and generally take about 45 minutes. Visitors looking for a more upscale experience can book a dinner reservation at The Nelson Cottage (just up the street from the Saloon) for fine dining with whiskey pairings to complement each course. Dinner starts at $95 per guest, with optional whiskey pairings starting at $50 per guest.

Jackson Hole Still Works, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Located on the edge of Jackson Town Square in downtown Jackson is the local staple, Jackson Hole Still Works. Known for its “grain to glass” distilling approach, Jackson Hole Still Works sources grains for its spirits from regional and local farms. Jackson Hole Still Works does the rest in-house, milling the grain, mashing, fermenting, distilling, aging, and bottling. No part of the distilling process is outsourced, which Jackson Hole Still Works argues yields an overall better product.

Even Jackson Hole Still Works’ bottles have a personal touch. Their signature vodka features different artwork annually by a local artist as part of a fundraiser for the Art Association of Jackson Hole. Artists are invited to submit their work from around the state of Wyoming for a chance to win $2,000, their art on the label for a year, and a six-bottle case of Jackson Hole Vodka.

Jackson Hole Still Works is well known for its vodka and gin. Each batch of vodka or gin is produced using a sustainable process that helps preserve the grain used to make the spirit. Water that comes through their cisterns is recycled, saving 2,000,000 gallons of fresh water per year. Visitors can tour the distillery to see the process up close and personal by using the Jackson Hole Still Works online booking system. Tours are $15 a person, and start times are available at 2 and 4 p.m. Arguably the most fun part about this local watering hole is that visitors can grab a world-famous sloshie, a true Wyoming staple, from the walk-up window every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Montanya Distillers, Crested Butte, Colorado

Located in the heart of the small town of Crested Butte, Montanya Distillers is a female-owned and female-founded distillery specializing in a spirit not typically native to mountainous regions – rum. Montanya Distillers specializes in premium aged rum, made without added sugar or additives, which keeps the distilling process clean and safe for those with gluten-related dietary restrictions, just like the company’s founder, Karen Hoskin.

Montanya Distillers started with humble beginnings in Silverton, Colorado, inside a 100-year-old, 800-square-foot stone building that was once a brothel. Since then, the company has grown to be recognized internationally and moved to Crested Butte, which it now calls home with its tasting room, warehouse, and distillery. The tasting room, located off Elk Avenue in downtown Crested Butte, offers cocktails, small bites, and tastings of Montanya’s award-winning rum for skiers and riders fresh off the mountain.

For enthusiasts hoping to get an inside look at the distilling process, tours are offered at the distillery in Riverland Industrial Park, about 10 minutes outside Crested Butte and 2 miles from the cocktail bar. Guests have two touring options: a regular tour/tasting and a connoisseur tour. Both offer an inside look at how “high mountain rum” is made, from the fermentation vessels to the custom copper pot still.

Woody Creek Distillers, Aspen, Colorado

Fifteen miles west of Aspen in Basalt, Colorado, you’ll find Woody Creek Distillery, a great après option for Aspen skiers looking to get out of the hustle and bustle that is downtown Aspen during peak winter months. Started by a trio of friends in 2012, Woody’s makes bourbon, gin, rye whiskey, and vodka, using produce and grains grown on their family and neighbors’ farms in the Woody Creek region of Colorado. All grains for their whiskeys are locally sourced in Colorado, and 100% of the potatoes that make up their vodka and base spirit of gin are grown on their farm in Basalt. For “true rye connoisseurs,” Woody’s recently released a limited edition, 10-year-old whiskey personally selected from barrels by William H. Macy (yes, that William Macy, the actor), a neighbor to the local farm.

Guests visiting Woody Creek Distillers can expect an array of delicious cocktails, a mix of classics, and seasonal selections that change as the seasons do. Individual bottles are available for purchase, or visitors can dabble in Woody’s line of single-barrel whiskey, which is only available in-house at the distillery. Tastings are available at 3 p.m. for $15.

Breckenridge Distillery, Breckenridge, Colorado

Founded in 2008, Breckenridge Distillery, the “World’s Highest Distillery,” is known for its blended bourbon whiskey, a 4x winner of Best American Blended at the World Whiskies Awards. Among other spirits, Breckenridge Distillery also produces rum, gin, vodka, absinthe, and aquavit. Visitors looking to wind down with a meal and a cocktail after a long day of skiing can utilize the distillery’s free shuttle, transporting visitors to and from Breckenridge to the distillery, which doubles as a tasting room and restaurant.

Inside, you’ll find a full menu, a shortened happy hour menu, a wide-range of craft cocktails notably crafted by Billie Keithley (Icons of Whisky America’s Bar Manager of the Year in 2021), and lots of local art. For frequent visitors, Breckenridge Distillery offers a members-only Whiskey Club, a lounge that invites patrons to hang out, get comfortable, and enjoy table service of spirits pulled directly from their personal “stash” or locker, plus items from the bar menu.

Distillery tours are available on weekends for $35 a person and offer guests a chance to walk through the original production facility, taste vodka, gin, and whiskey, and even take home a signature tasting glass. Upgraded experiences are available for those who really want to dig into the nitty gritty.

10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Co., Vail, Colorado

Located in the heart of Vail Village, the 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirit Company tasting room offers a lounge and pub-style experience that overlooks Gore Creek, accompanied by a full bar selection of spirits, flights, barrel-aged cocktails, full bottles for purchase, and even cigars. It’s named in honor of the 10th Mountain Division, a group of skiing soldiers who fought in World War II in Italy’s Apennines Mountains. The 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirit Company hopes to continue on the legacy of the veterans who returned home to the Colorado mountains after the war and went on to found and manage some of the U.S. ski areas we know and love today.

For those looking to visit the distillery itself, you’ll have to pop off your ski boots and take a drive down I-70 to Gypsum, Colorado, just a few miles west of the Eagle County Airport. There, you’ll be able to tour the facility with an existing reservation and experience a different kind of tasting room that serves spirits and cocktails. Be sure to plan ahead, as tours are only offered on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

New World Distillery, Eden, Utah

Just 15 minutes from Powder Mountain and 20 minutes from Snowbasin, New World Distillery in Eden, Utah, is a hidden gem, with a free invite to “tromp on in with hiking boots, ski boots or muddy sandals from Pineview, Powder Mountain Nordic Valley, and beyond.” Founder Chris Cross was once a backyard distiller who, in partnership with his wife, Ashley, developed his passion into a full-blown business. Today, the distillery offers a wide variety of spirits, including Rabbit and Grass Agave Spirits, Ogden Valley Vodka, Wasatch Blossom Utah Tart Cherry Liqueur, Oomaw Gin, Ogden Nine Rails Bourbon, and the Uncharted Series Apple Brandy.

Tours of the distillery are offered every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during the peak winter seasons and are $20 a person. New World Distillery currently offers tastings and full-bottle purchases, while you can find their spirits in cocktails at local restaurants and bars.

Shelter Distilling, Mammoth Lakes, California

Conveniently located at the Village at Mammoth, you’ll find Shelter Distilling, founded in 2017 by Matt Hammer, Karl Anderson, and Jason Senior. Shelter was born from a coffee/beer collaboration between the three when Hammer retired from professional snowboarding and turned to coffee roasting as a fresh start. Shelter spirits include whiskey, bourbon, gin, California agave, vodka, absinthe, and liqueurs. If you’re looking for a more “to-go” friendly option, canned cocktails are also available for purchase in flavors ranging from a spicy paloma to whiskey peach.

Shelter Distilling is open for lunch, après-ski, and dinner, with indoor and heated outdoor seating available. Its food menu is full of hearty après favorites, including tacos, artichoke dip, pizza, and burgers. If you like the spirits you try, you can buy bottles online and have them shipped to your house, with free shipping available for orders over $99.

Killington Distillery, Killington, Vermont

Home to what they call “Vermont’s finest craft spirits,” Killington Distillery is known for its Maple Cask, a bourbon with notes of Vermont’s famous maple syrup. This is Vermont after all, where the sugar maple is the state tree. The distillery also makes a tequila-inspired agave spirit, gin, vodka, and rum. Bonus: Killington Distillery is just minutes from the base of Killington Resort.

Come for the cocktails but stay for the food. Killington Distillery’s food menu is farm-to-table, meaning you can pair your cocktail with fresh, local offerings from farms around the area. Just ask your server for recommendations, as each menu item is meant to be paired with a particular signature cocktail. Sliced fig flatbread and pumpkin gnocchi, anyone?

After a thrilling day skiing, there’s nothing quite like unwinding with a well-crafted spirit in a charming ski town. The distilleries we’ve highlighted in this guide offer a chance to discover quality libations and connect with local culture. Whether you’re sipping a handcrafted cocktail, exploring the distillation process, or simply enjoying the après-ski ambiance, each distillery adds a unique dimension to your winter adventure. So, on your next skiing vacation, consider a detour to one of these ski town distilleries for a memorable experience that blends mountain thrills with exceptional spirits. Cheers to the perfect après-ski capstone!

Header image: ©Liam Doran / Breckenridge Distillery

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Canada’s top après-ski spots 

British Columbia

We start at the largest North American ski area, Whistler Blackcomb. At the base of the gondolas, The Longhorn Saloon advertises that “no one does après better than The Longhorn Saloon.” And they bring it with their patio party complete with fun DJs, champagne showers, dancing, and high-energy après-ski vibes. One of the most unique things about The Longhorn Saloon is its Après Pass Program, which offers 20% off all food and drinks and discounts at partner businesses.

At Revelstoke, the Village Idiot Bar & Grill, located in the heart of downtown, self-describes itself as “toque wearin’, beer drinkin’, pizza eatin’ skiers and snowboarders who love a great hangout with great food and, of course, great service.” It seems only natural that they’d have bar stools made from ski and snowboards. The drink menu is just as fun as their motto, with drinks like the Idiot Margarita and Moscow Villager (their take on a Moscow Mule). Fittingly, they have a selection of Caesars, which is Canada’s own tomato-based cocktail. Don’t miss the Village Idiot’s great selection of pizzas. Head a few blocks over to The Last Drop if you’re craving a game of pool and some late-night dancing. If you’re in town on a weekend, they frequently have live music.

Sun Peaks checks in for après-ski with a rather diverse display of comfort food and a casual, chill vibe at Morrisey’s Public House, a local favorite in the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel and Conference Center. This cozy Sun Peaks pub is usually filled with live music and an easy-going atmosphere, open Thursday-Sunday until 11 p.m. Comfort food is paired with mason jar cocktails and craft beer.

Snowshoe Sam’s at the top of Big White Village, located just outside of Kelowna, is the longest-operating pub on the mountain. It has been voted the num. one ski bar in North America by Ski Canada Magazine, so it’s clearly a winner when you’ve wrapped with skiing for the day. Sam’s is known for its welcoming atmosphere to locals and guests, with specials like 15% off local craft beer on Wednesdays.

Après-ski time at The Griz Bar at Fernie is a walk across the snowy slopes up to Fernie Village at The Griz Inn. The Griz is casual and rustic, with retro ski memorabilia and pool tables, while live music takes the stage on weekends. The Griz has been Fernie’s top choice for après-ski since 1962. Try the “Mogul Smoker” accompanied by nachos.

Banff

There are plenty of choices in the Banff après-ski scene, but why not just settle back in town after a long day of skiing on the mountain and go for what’s self-described “Mexico in the Mountains” at Magpie & Stump. Magpie & Stump is one of Banff’s oldest restaurants, serving up Mexican food favorites and more than 60 different tequilas. As the weather warms up, the party at Magpie & Stump goes upstairs to El Patio, its sun-drenched rooftop taco bar. Table and counter service gets you tacos fast. Open-air starlight fiestas are common, serving up margaritas and beer under the late afternoon sky.

Banff’s first brewpub, Banff Ave. Brewing Co., is well-liked for its in-house craft beers. Here, the best quality hops and malts are combined with the company’s proprietary cultured yeast strains. All this and pure, mineral-laden glacial water from the Canadian Rockies. The Brewing Company also features an extensive wine list and a variety of cocktails.

If those options don’t satisfy you’re hankering for a local après scene, Banff is riddled with taverns and pubs where you can pull up a seat at the bar, grab a brew, watch a game, and maybe catch some live music. Rose and Crown, The Elk & Oarsman, or Tommy’s Neighborhood Pub are all solid options.

When winter turns to spring at Banff’s SkiBig3 resorts, après-ski time turns into sunshine patio time. Mad Trapper’s Saloon Patio at Banff Sunshine Village takes on a life of its own once spring arrives. Mad Trapper’s is the epicenter of the action, with its outdoor patio filled with people enjoying brews, and the party often sprawling out onto the snow.

“Social shredding” is what they call après-ski at Mt. Norquay, where at Lone Pine Pub, the locals and visitors mingle together. Kick back on the Lone Pine balcony patio and cheer on riders still kicking out laps off the North American chair. Lone Pine Pub’s second-floor patio, known for its view and vibe, is the perfect lookout while enjoying a few craft brews and dipping into fresh cuisine with portion sizes perfect for crowd sharing.

Located 50 miles west of Banff is Canmore, home to the Canmore Nordic Center, if cross-country skiing is your jam. Don’t miss The Wood’s outdoor patio, which weather-permitting, features a south-facing patio that soaks up the sun all afternoon. The sports bar inside is complete with six big-screen TVs. Monday night wing night is a favorite among locals.

Eastern Canada

Tremblant, an hour out of Montreal, offers up Le P’tit Caribou, an après-ski hot spot known as one of the best of its kind internationally, with Ski Canada calling it one of the best in the world. With two floors and 5,000 square feet of space, Le P’tit Caribou is a full-on après-ski party once the lifts stop turning and the music turns up.

Jozo’s Original Après, located in the Blue Mountain Inn, at the base of Happy Valley, is a long-time après favorite hangout of visitors and locals alike. Watch games on the big screens while downing a beer or a glass of wine, and don’t miss one of their signature burgers. Jozo’s event nights includes open mic night, industry night, trivia night, and live entertainment.

It’s always après-ski season at Bar Le Tucker. Located at the base of the Mont Sutton trails, the bar is featured as one of the best après-ski spots in Canada by SBC Skier Magazine for its “European-style ambiance and wide selection of cocktails and beers. “

The Slalom Pub, inside Mont-Orford’s ski chalet, has an extensive list of craft beer and a special après-ski menu with meals to share. Do you feel like a change of pace? Just head out to the Burger Pub, a couple of minutes from the ski hill near Mont-Giroux. It’s a favorite among locals.

Finally, skiers and riders at Bromont head to La Débarque in the Summit ski chalet. Here, between beer, spirits, cocktails, and food, you’ll find a uniquely Quebec bar serving poutine, regional craft beer, and French wine. The ski area offers several night skiing events, named “Nuits Blanches,” throughout the season, which may just keep you partying through the night.

» Check out lodging options in Quebec and in Ontario.

Header image: ©Tourism Whistler/Justa Jeskova

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9 ski resort restaurants with great views

The Roundhouse, Sun Valley Resort, Idaho

The Roundhouse was the first on-mountain restaurant in the United States, opening in 1939. Today, it remains a lunch and dinner favorite among guests as much for the food as for the panorama of the Wood River Valley and the peaks that surround it. The Roundhouse is located halfway up Bald Mountain at some 7,700 feet, which means that the only way to get to it is to take the Roundhouse Express Gondola. Enjoy a cocktail before dinner in Averill’s Bar downstairs, named for Averill Harriman, the railroad man who established Sun Valley as the nation’s first destination ski resort.

The Roundhouse wraps up its winter service when the ski season ends, but reopens when summer operations begin at Sun Valley in June. Reservations are required for dinner and recommended for lunch.

Seven Glaciers, Alyeska Resort, Alaska

Seven Glaciers earns its name, with stunning views of the seven glaciers that can be seen from the restaurant. You might even see a moose or bear depending on the season. Start with a scenic tram ride 2,223 feet up Mt. Alyeska to an elevator lift. Then, follow the gold carpet, lined with walls of wine bottles, to the dining room. Headliners include the Scallop Bisque, served with a seared jumbo scallop, a dab of smoked salmon mousse, chive oil and a brioche crouton. Seven Glaciers is the recipient of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence, as well as a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award.

Glitretind, Deer Valley, Utah

Glitrerind’s views of the mountains and Deer Valley Resort pair with four-star cuisine for a wonderful evening. Chef Zane Holmquist focuses on rotating seasonal menus and fresh, local, sustainable ingredients for truly mouthwatering dishes. You won’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but you’ll find some unique entrees that may include things like the Utah Lamb Chop and Rocky Mountain Elk. Glitretind also has an extensive wine menu.

Sunday brunch at Glitrerind is a showstopper, served from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. You may want to do your skiing and outdoor adventures before you fill up though.

Beano’s Cabin, Beaver Creek, Colorado

The scenery surrounding the rustic elegance of longtime favorite Beano’s Cabin, located at the base of Larkspur Bowl at Beaver Creek Resort, combined with AAA four-star cuisine, is a must-experience when visiting Beaver Creek or nearby Vail. Grouse Mountain and Larkspur Bowl provide the stunning views and backdrop. During the winter, sleigh rides (pulled by a snow cat) glide up the mountain for 20 minutes through Colorado’s iconic aspen trees to the restaurant. Guests meet at the CBar in front of the Centennial Express Lift at the base to catch the sleigh.

Once at Beano’s Cabin, the indoor view is of an open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs prepare their 5-course meal. For each of the main courses, guests will have options to choose from. Make sure you save room for dessert.

Eagle’s Eye, Kicking Horse Resort, British Columbia

Eagle’s Eye, residing at 7,700 feet above sea level in Golden at Kicking Horse Resort, is truly an elevated experience. It starts with the scenery, as diners at Eagle’s Eye enjoy a view that includes three mountain ranges and five national parks. Guests take a gondola up the mountain, where award-winning chefs treat them with classic French technique and dishes that often include salmon, buffalo, elk and other cuisine that celebrates the region’s distinctive character.

Eagle’s Eye is only open on Friday, Saturday and holiday nights during the ski season for dinner, and for lunch during the summer on weekends (Thursday-Monday from late June until the end of September). Reservations are a must.

Alpino Vino, Telluride, Colorado

Welcome to the highest elevation fine dining restaurant in America at Alpino Vino’s 11,966-foot Telluride location. Your experience begins with transportation via an enclosed, heated snow coach to the top of the gondola. Alpino Vino offers majestic views of the Wilson Range for an elegant Northern Italian alpine-themed à la carte lunch or a five-course dinner that can be paired with wine.

Note that Alpino Vino is only open during the winter.

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, Aspen Highlands, Colorado

Cloud Nine has gone through several evolutions but has always had a charming alpine atmosphere to it. It features a European-style cabin vibe to the backdrop of Aspen’s iconic Maroon Bells peaks. Ride the snow cat here in the evenings and nosh on warm fondue, flaky strudel and thick European stew. If you skied at the Highlands in the “olden days” of Whip Smith’s ownership, you may not think to make lunch reservations, but you’d better. Standard lunch reservations are at 11:30 and 11:45, while après reservations are at 1:30 and 1:45.

Cliff House, Stowe, Vermont

High atop Stowe Mountain Resort, the Cliff House offers panoramic-view seating with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the surrounding alpine peaks. Cliff House’s chef specializes in regional American cuisine with a Vermont flair, while the menu highlights the restaurant’s commitment to using the freshest seasonal and artisan ingredients. The Cliff House is open when the gondola is in operation, weather permitting. Outdoor deck seating is available in good weather.

Altitude Restaurant, Tremblant, Quebec

Enchanting, magic and stunning are some of the words to describe the view and atmosphere at Altitude Restaurant in the Casino Mont Tremblant. While the menu is simple, it features unique flavors of the region, plus an impressive wine list. Make sure you ask about the catch of the day, and save room for dessert. Often you can enjoy your meal with music from pianists and other musicians, as Friday and Saturday brings live music. Note that Altitude is for guests 18+.

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