What happens after you finish your day of skiing is just as important as starting it. In Aspen Snowmass, “to après” is a verb and locals and visitors have perfected the art of it. Whether it’s lingering a little longer at mid-mountain establishments like the Lynn Britt Cabin or ditching the boots for sneakers at the Sky Hotel, here’s your guide to mastering the after-ski.
It's All Downhill
You can après before you even finish riding. Really.
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro on Aspen Highlands gets all the glory when it comes to spirited mid-mountain affairs, and has become notorious for its raclette-and-champagne dance parties. But, on Snowmass the Lynn Britt Cabin is stepping up its game. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays starting at 2 p.m. guests can enjoy $6 cocktails and $5 food specials while sunbathing in Adirondack chairs listening to beats played by local DJs.
Not Just For Kids
Buttermilk Mountain may be where beginners earn their chops, but it has some adult fun, too.
The Inn at Aspen recently renovated its property at the base of this hill, and the lounge is now part swank, part traditional ski lodge. After a day learning to make turns, stop by the bar, McKenney’s, to sample sounds from local musicians, enjoy drink specials and try the wood-fired pizza.
All About Aspen
Skiers and snowboarders on Aspen Mountain can literally ride into a party. Steps from the Silver Queen Gondola sits Ajax Tavern, a sun-drenched patio perfectly designed for sipping rose, pilsners and noshing on small plates. On the weekends, DJs turn the subdued atmosphere into a sometimes riotous affair.
And next door, the popular Sky Hotel celebrates its last season before being completely razed for renovation which begins this spring. Expect the outside pool area to be a constant party as locals and visitors getting ready to say goodbye to an era.
3 Tips to Après Like a Local
1. Ski boots are notoriously uncomfortable
Stash a pair of shoes (or flip flops!) at the base of the mountain so you can slide them on for after-skiing beers. Your feet will thank you once you start to boogie.
2. Goggles are great for the slopes, not so great so sipping suds
Throw a pair of sunglasses in your coat pocket so you’re prepared for the 300-plus days of sunshine Colorado gets each year.
3. Let RFTA be your Designated Driver
If you tend to over-imbibe during a good après session, the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers free bus service between each of the four mountains so you can get home safely.
About the Author
Christine Benedetti is the special sections editor for the Aspen Daily News and the marketing director for the Aspen Historical Society. She writes for a number of publications and puts out the popular "Peaks and Valleys" blog through Aspen 82. She has a BA in journalism from the University of Washington, and still loves the rain. She also serves on the boards for the Wheeler Opera House, Jazz Aspen Snowmass’ The Band, and the Next Generation Advisory Commission. And even though she loves living here, one of her favorite things to do is hop on a plane to explore other parts of this planet.
