These Are the Absolute Best Spots for Après in the West (Even If You Aren’t Hitting the Slopes)

Though this season hasn’t yet delivered endless powder days across the West, the Winter Games have us thinking all things snow—and après ski style for that matter. (Have you seen the swoon-worthy Ralph Lauren Olympic uniforms? So much yes!) And regardless of the historically low snow conditions at most resorts, après culture is thriving. Champagne-spraying mountain bistros, slopeside whiskey saloons, and luxe alpine lounges are offering a slide into the winter sports lifestyle. These eight spots prove the party is still worth showing up to, snow or no. 

The Blake at Taos Ski Valley

At the heart of Taos Ski Valley sits this chic, ski-in/ski-out lodge with a lively bar and lounge that’s perfect for toasting after a day on the mountain. Guests and locals gather here for craft cocktails and local brews for good reason. The stylish setting, warm hospitality, and prime base-area location make it a great place to unwind after tackling Taos’s famously steep terrain, which is decidedly not beginner-friendly. 

Mangy Moose Saloon

This old time-y country bar is a Jackson Hole legend, where live music, strong drinks, and buzzing crowds roll straight off the tram. It’s loud, lively, and always a good time—a taste of old country Wyoming in the middle of one of the most exclusive resorts for snow sports.

Courtesy of Cloud 9

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro

TikTok culture has helped Cloud Nine evolve into the gold standard of wild après partying. By mid-afternoon, this high-altitude hotspot erupts into a champagne-drenched dance party where skiers celebrate on tables—a full European ski fantasy given an American twist in Aspen Snowmass, Colorado. Sitting at nearly 10,000 feet in elevation, you’ll want to make sure you’re doubling down on hydration packets and soaking up the fun with a side of their famous chocolate fondue.

Apex Club at Palisades Tahoe

Palisades Tahoe’s newest après experience brings private club polish to the mountain. With craft cocktails, cozy fire pits, gear storage, concierge service, and lounge seating, Apex Club is the kind of place that makes your day on the hill truly seamless. If you’re a member, keep an eye out for text alerts from the hospitality team for complimentary warm cookies or Aperol spritzes in the lobby at happy hour. Non-members should pivot to the tried-and-true Le Chamois across the way, serving up tasty pizza, ice-cold beer, and liquor via shot-ski. 

High West Saloon

Peter Morning

This Park City icon pairs rye flights and smoked old fashioneds with rustic mountain charm and is equal parts distillery and après institution. Utah is set to get some much-needed coverage with the storm incoming this weekend, and this iconic Western whiskey purveyor is the perfect spot to celebrate. 

Lincoln Bar at Canyon Lodge

At Mammoth’s true après party hub, DJs spin on the sundeck and skiers dance in their boots as the sun dips behind the Sierra. Think alpine day club energy—spirited, social, and pure California cool. And even if you’re not coming straight from the mountain, you can still join the fun by taking advantage of the complimentary Village Gondola up to Canyon Lodge.

Montage Big Sky

Montage Big Sky

The après atmosphere here is giving more chic Montana mountain retreat than techno rager, and we are here for it. Slide into the slopeside Alpenglow Bar at this European inspired luxe ski-in ski-out resort for craft cocktails and alpine favorites like Bavarian-style meatballs while warming up by the fire. If you’re lucky enough to be a guest of the property, slip into the heated outdoor pools and watch the sweeping Montana sky become alight with stars as the night wears on. C’est parfait.

10 Barrel Brewing

This place proves that Western après doesn’t always have to be close to the slopes. After you’ve wrapped up the mountain and head toward town, this Boise brewpub is the perfect spot to extend your après afternoon into a laid-back craft beer session. Known for its house-brewed IPAs and hearty pub fare, including wood fired pizza and smoked wings, 10 Barrel is a go-to for locals and visitors alike.