Sure, we’re all about getting away from the crowds, and living that #nochairlifts lifestyle. Heli skiing is a life changing experience and a special way to experience the mountains, but every experienced heli skier has spent his or her time bombing around the resort as well. One of the best parts of skiing the resort is the social scene. Whether you’re stopping in for a mid day beer, or ending the day with a few cocktails, there’s nothing more rewarding than kicking back with friends after playing around on the hill. Here are the seven best ski bars in the U.S:
The VC (Jackson Hole)
The location is new, but the legend lives on. Home to an epic slice of the day and some of the frostiest beers in Teton County, this bar is known as a favorite hang out of the Jackson Hole Air Force, and home to the original Gelande Quaffing World Championship.
Wunderbar (Sugarbush)
The pride and joy of the Mad River Valley, at least for some. This legendary aprés spot has been operating at the base of Mt. Lincoln for quite some time, and routinely gets so packed on Saturday afternoons that the windows fog up.
Cloud9 (Aspen Highlands)
The absolute mecca of on mountain partying, Cloud9 might as well be on another planet. Hit this mid-mountain spot at Aspen Highlands on the right day and you’ll think you’re having a confusing dream that somehow combines a 90’s Puff Daddy music video with the Yacht Week.
Le Chamois (Squaw)
The Chamois is Squaw Valley’s staple aprés bar. After a day of checking off lines from Dr. Bob Gaffney’s Squallywood, post up out front, have a few cold beverages and enjoy the California sun.
The Bavarian (Taos)
The Bavarian may be one of the lesser known spots on this list, but it does not disappoint. Taos is known for its steep skiing and funky vibes. Ski techy lines on Kachina Peak and the ridge all day, and then end it at the Bavarian with a pretzel and a massive stein.
The Matterhorn (Stowe)
“You can only be young once, but you can be immature forever.” USA Today readers voted the Matterhorn the #1 aprés bar in North America, and for good reason. Live music, great beers on tap, pizza, and sushi, what else could a skier ask for after a day on the hill?
The Stagecoach (Teton Pass)
The stagecoach is a bit of a hybrid, sitting at the base of Teton Pass, a few miles down the road from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort; this bar serves backcountry skiers and Thursday night disco-ers alike. Whether you’ve been skiing Pass laps all day and are in need of a cold Rainier, or you’ve been skiing the resort all week and need to let loose on Thursday night, the ‘coach is the place to be.
Obviously this is a very subjective topic, and we know that almost every ski area in the world has a watering hole that locals and tourists alike hold dear to their hearts. We want to hear about your local hill and the bar you hang out at, so let us know in the comments below or on Facebook.
When you’re ready to venture away from the resort, be sure to use our platform to book your next off-the-grid adventure.
