Your Guide to the best Vermont Craft Breweries that Double as Après Ski Spots
Vermont is arguably the Northeast’s premier winter destination. While skiers and snowboarders flock there in search of snow and slopes, there is one thing that Vermont does just as well as its terrain. That’s craft beer. As far as quintessential Vermont ski experiences go, lift-served laps and glades packed with soft snow are hard to beat. Add a cold local brew waiting at the bottom, and you’re at the top of the list.
Whether you’re carving up Killington, cruising blues at Mount Snow, or chasing powder at Stowe, these 7 Vermont craft breweries deliver big flavor and great après ski vibes. They’re the perfect cap to your day on the mountain.
1. Snow Republic Brewing Co. — Mount Snow / West Dover
Snow Republic has the distinction of being the first craft brewery in the Deerfield Valley. In six years it has manifested itself as the go-to après spot in the area. If you’re skiing Mount Snow, you’re practically required to stop at Snow Republic. This place nails that post-powder-day energy like no other. Laid back, welcoming, and full of character their Saturday afternoon après ski parties often feature a DJ making for quite a scene.
Snow Republic’s lineup of beers leans toward hop-forward IPAs and clean lagers, and the food is some of the best in the West Dover area.
Plus, it’s minutes from the mountain, which makes it an easy swing on your way back from the lifts. Grab an All Day Après (my signature beer), kick back, and relive the day’s best turns.
2. The Alchemist — Stowe
No Vermont beer trip is complete without a pilgrimage to The Alchemist. It has long been the beacon of hazy IPAs and home of the iconic Heady Topper. This isn’t a traditional sit-down brewery. However, the tasting room and retail shop in Stowe make it an easy ride from Stowe Mountain Resort and therefore a must after shredding laps there
Expect bold, aromatic IPAs and some of the best craft beer stories in all of New England.
3. von Trapp Brewing — Stowe
Photo Sourced from @vontrappbrewing Instagram
Also not too far from Stowe Mountain Resort sits von Trapp Brewing. Here Austrian-style lagers meet mountain views that make for Insta-worthy sunsets. Their Golden Helles and Bohemian Pilsner are clean, crisp, and perfect if you’re craving something lighter after a leg-burner of a day.
To top it off, the Bierhall is something to behold. A beautiful structure with exposed wood beams, its atmosphere is as hearty as the alpine food they serve making the perfect setting to end your day.
4. Foam Brewers — Burlington (Close to Bolton & Smuggs)
Photo Sourced from @foambrewers Instagram
If you’re skiing Bolton Valley, Smugglers’ Notch, or even Stowe and want to keep the night rolling, Foam Brewers on the Burlington waterfront is worth the detour. Although not as well known as some of the others on this list, their beer is creative and consistently excellent. Think juicy IPAs, sours, and small-batch specialties all of which will tantalize your tastebuds.
The vibe is artsy and relaxed, making it a perfect counterpart to a full day on snow.
5. Lawson’s Finest Liquids — Waitsfield (Sugarbush)
Sugarbush skiers know: when the lifts stop spinning, Lawson’s Finest Liquids is the place to be. Sip of Sunshine might be the belle of the ball, but their taproom pours a multitude of styles from crisp pilsners to big stouts in a space that is as nice as you are going to find for a craft brewery.
This massive post and beam farmhouse style building is family-friendly, welcoming, and one of the best tasting experiences in the state.
6. Long Trail Brewing — Bridgewater (Killington/Pico)
Photo Sourced from @longtrailbeer Instagram
Few breweries define Vermont craft culture the way Long Trail does. They are, in fact, one of the OGs of the Vermont craft beer world. Their riverside pub also happens to be an après institution for those who ski The Beast (Killington) and its close neighbor, Pico.
Stop by for a legendary Double Bag, a hearty burger, and that classic ski-town camaraderie that feels like coming home after a long day outside.
7. North Chair Brewing — Brattleboro (Taproom Coming to the Old Maple Valley Ski Area)
Photo Sourced from @northchairbrewing Instagram
For Southern Vermont skiers, North Chair is one of the most exciting craft beer names to watch right now. Based in Brattleboro, the brewery already has a strong local following. However, what really has the ski community buzzing is their plan to open a taproom at the old Maple Valley Ski Area.
This spot has serious nostalgic energy for anyone who spent time skiing in Southern Vermont, and North Chair is breathing new life into the property with a community-focused après vibe. Their beers lean crisp, clean, and highly drinkable, exactly what you want after crushing laps at Mount Snow, Stratton, or even the Brattleboro Ski Hill.
Vermont Craft Breweries: Après Ski = World-Class Craft Beer
Vermont’s ski scene and craft beer culture go hand-in-hand. You simply cannot have one without the other. Whether you’re seeking a crisp lager, a big hazy IPA, or a tasty Stout, there’s a brewery on this list that pairs perfectly with your mountain day. Adding to their aura, each brewery also happens to be top-notch après ski spots for the respective mountains they are near. So next time you are shredding the slopes of Vermont be sure to stop by any of these fine establishments for the perfect ending to your day.
About the Author
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Après All Day Podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, travel, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres