Après ski means different things to different skiers. For some it’s a slopeside bar with live music and cold drinks. For others it’s a parking lot gathering, a hot tub, or simply wherever friends end up after a long day on the mountain.
We recently asked Unofficial Networks Facebook users which ski resort has the best après scene in the United States. The responses showed a pretty big divide between skiers on what makes a great après experience.
Vail, Jackson Hole and Aspen Get Plenty of Votes
Several major destination resorts appeared repeatedly in the responses. Vail received multiple mentions, including the George and the Red Lion. Jackson Hole also generated several recommendations with the Mangy Moose standing out as a frequently mentioned spot. Aspen was another popular answer, including a recommendation for the Ajax Tavern. Palisades Tahoe, Breckenridge, Mammoth Mountain and Sugarbush also earned support.
The comments were not limited to the biggest names in skiing. Skiers pointed to places including Boyne Mountain, Loon Mountain, Killington, Sugarloaf, Stowe and Seven Springs.
The Best Après Might Be in the Parking Lot
Some of the most enthusiastic answers had little to do with traditional ski bars. A-Basin’s parking lot and Brighton’s parking lot both received shoutouts. Another skier said their truck camper was the best après location, while one respondent simply nominated their hot tub.
A-Basin Gaper Day also received a mention, showing how wild events and traditions can play a very important role in creating a great après culture.
Classic Bars Still Matter
Several commenters focused on specific establishments with a history of their own. One skier nominated the Owl Bar at Sundance, pointing to its rustic atmosphere and historic bar with connections to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The Foggy Goggle at Seven Springs received multiple mentions, while others named the Powder Keg at Powder Mountain, the Kickapoo Tavern at Keystone and the Trap Bar at Grand Targhee.
Europe Still Sets the Benchmark for Some Skiers
Of course there were plenty of people who wanted to mention how the United States does not have the best après skiing. Several commenters stated that European resorts remain in another category, with St. Anton specifically mentioned as a benchmark.
If you personally know what the après scene is like in Europe, you probably wouldn’t disagree with those commenters. But not everyone can make a yearly trip to the Alps to party and shred, so we’ll just have to settle for the best options in the United States.
Of course the best après bar will always be where you happen to end up at the end of the day.
