The 5 Best Places to Après Ski

Après ski, a French term meaning “after skiing,” originated as a post-skiing ritual in the snowy wonderland of the Alps where enthusiasts would gather to share (tall) tales of their downhill adventures and toast to the day’s most treacherous runs. As the decades have passed, it has evolved into a lively celebration and is now synonymous with good company, hot beverages, and the joyous challenge of trying to unclip your ski boots while still looking chic.

Aspen, Colorado

It’s tough to choose favorites in a place like Aspen, a favored destination for everyone from elite athletes to glamorous skiers, so we chose thress. The newly open Austin-based, Sway just opened in town and is sure to be the next best place to hang after a day on the slopes. On an alternate day, head to The Wine Bar at the Little Nell to enjoy their expertly curated wine list while listening to a DJ spin vintage vinyl in a very cozy setting. If you’re looking for something more lively, opt for J Bar at Hotel Jerome with their expansive bar and deep leather seating. This après hang has a long and storied history in Aspen life, including being the former stomping ground of Hunter S. Thompson.

Park City, Utah

Park City sees some 300 inches of snow a year. It has more than 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, but what really sets this place apart is its après culture. Don’t miss having a drink at the High West Distillery, which maintains a full saloon at the base of the mountain. You can ski right off the slope and gather around its outdoor fire pit while warming up with a Hot Toddy. Stay at the Deer Valley Resort, St. Regis Deer Valley or the Montage, all of which have wonderful après options of their own.

Chamonix, France

The après scene in this storied French city is as varied as its terrain: a magnet for avid skiers led by guides on epic backcountry adventures. Enthusiastic skiers, invigorated after a day on the slopes, gather on the terrace of Marmottons, located at the base of Argentiere's home run. Just across the way, ski guides and mountaineers debrief the day at brasserie-style Elevation 1904, while L’Alibi in the town center is the place to be for laid-back tapas, wine, and whisky until two in the morning.

Jackson, Wyoming

The most happening place to be in Teton Village after a long day on the slopes is The Mangy Moose, a cavernous, packed, two-level, two-bar building hung with license plates and a huge taxidermied moose. For something more charming, try the swiss-style The Bistro at The Alpenhof or the upscale The Handle Bar at The Four Seasons Resort. If you’re heading into downtown Jackson, choose your own adventure between the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar which features saddles in lieu of stools or The Rose, the natural choice for cocktail enthusiasts who love moody lighting and a full dinner menu.

Stowe, Vermont

Fewer than 1,000 people live in Stowe full time, but that number swells by a multiple in the winter months when the snow begins to fall on the famed ski resort, whose inaugural ski season dates back to 1936, meaning tradition here reigns supreme. For an old school favorite, head to the Matterhorn. The bar has been serving frosty beers since the ‘50s. If your in the mood to elevate your après, head to Doc Ponds for a delicious menu and endless, beer, cider, wine, and cocktail options.