Utah, being a ski paradise, has a great culture for the slopes, both on and off the mountain. Après-ski, a French term meaning “after ski” or “after skiing,” gained popularity in the Alps during the commercial skiing boom of the 1950s. This is your go-to guide for all things Après in Northern Utah, no matter your taste.
When one thinks of Après, one may conjure up images of fancy French couples clinking champagne flutes. Just like the resorts that dot the Wasatch Front, options for how to enjoy your time post-skiing or boarding are varied, meaning there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a lover of fine dining and fancy bites, or into a more slopeside or tailgate feel, there’s always a way to wind down after a day on the slopes.
Not Dinner, Not Happy Hour, but In Between
The timing of après-ski typically starts in the late afternoon, around 4 p.m., after the last run of the day, but can extend well into the evening, with some nightclubs in Europe partying until 6 a.m. It’s often compared to a happy hour that can last late into the night. In different regions, such as North America, Japan, Europe, Canada, and South America, après-ski experiences vary widely, reflecting the unique local cultures and traditions. From table-top dancing to hot soaks in thermal springs, skiers can find a wide range of après-ski scenes around resorts once they’ve removed their ski boots.
Unique Après Options
For those seeking an ultra-fancy après-ski experience, Park City stands out with its luxurious offerings. The Montage Deer Valley, a high-end resort in Park City, epitomizes luxury après-ski. Here, guests can indulge in the Veuve Clicquot Champagne yurt, a chic and cozy spot offering a range of fine champagnes paired with exquisite caviar. The ambiance is refined yet relaxed, with plush seating and warm fires, making it a perfect place to unwind in style after a day on the slopes. A visit to High West Distillery and The Viking Yurt will have you exploring Park City like a true post-powder master.
Meanwhile, down in Salt Lake City, there’s a vibrant après-ski nightlife scene. Head downtown after a ski day and sip a cocktail at any one of the number of new watering holes in the area. Bar Nohm, Finca, The Copper Commons and Level Crossing Brewing are solid new options that just came online. In the downtown SLC area ski attire and dancewear blend seamlessly, offering a high-energy environment for those who want to dance the night away.
For a cozy, mountain-side experience near SLC’s resorts, the Tram Club at Snowbird is a must-visit. Known for its legendary spicy cheese fries and the classic “shot + beer” combo, it offers a captivating view of Snowbird’s Aerial Tram in action. If you’re looking for a spot that combines great food with a welcoming atmosphere, Molly Greens at Brighton is the perfect choice. This full-service bar and grill serves up local beers and pub favorites, making it an ideal spot for skiers and non-skiers alike.
“Whether you’re skiing, riding, hiking or biking Salt Lake’s Cottonwood Canyons, the beauty lies within its urban meets mountain proximity and access to metropolitan amenities,” says Ryan Mack, Director of Media & Communications for Visit Salt Lake.
For those up North skiing in the Ogden-area après can be a blast from the past. Snowbasin’s Cinnabar, nestled within Earl’s Lodge, exudes a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere with its rock fireplace and Murano glass chandeliers. For a more rustic and lively experience, head to the Powder Keg at Powder Mountain, set inside Timberline Lodge. Shared tables and spontaneous dance parties on the tabletops are the norm as the evening progresses. Each location in the Ogden area brings its own unique flair to the après-ski scene, making it a memorable part of any ski adventure.
Shane Osgulthorpe, a member of the band The Proper Way, plays music at après events throughout the state. He says there is something special about the vibe at certain places.
“We play at virtually all of the resorts in the Wasatch Mountains every winter. While everyone has great après ski venues, The Powder Keg at Powder Mountain brings the coolest vibe,” Osgulthorpe said. “Forget having your own table. You’re going to make new friends and share the steamy space and a pitcher of beer with locals and visitors alike. Tabletops clear off as patrons jump up to dance in ski and snowboard boots. There’s honestly no other place like it in the Wasatch.”
Bring the Bar to You! DIY Après and Parking Lot Partying
DIY Après-ski and parking lot parties are a quintessential part of the Utah skiing experience. These gatherings, often held in the parking lots of popular ski resorts, have become a cherished tradition among local skiers and visitors alike. Ski Utah highlights a few favorite parking lots for these post-ski gatherings, including the Grizzly lot at Snowbasin and the Gad Valley lot at Snowbird. These locations are prime spots for setting up a tailgate party, complete with portable grills, coolers, and folding chairs.
To elevate your DIY après-ski experience, consider creating a ski board – a winter twist on the classic charcuterie board. Start with a selection of local Utah cheeses, which you can find at places like Beehive Cheese in Uintah or Heber Valley Artisan Cheese in Midway. Don’t forget to include some Utah-grown fruit from local grocers for a sweet touch. Accompany your ski board with a thermos of hot cocoa or cider, and you’ve got a delightful après-ski feast that celebrates local Utah flavors and the joy of skiing. This DIY approach not only adds a personal touch to your après-ski but also allows you to savor the local culinary delights of Utah in a laid-back, social setting.
No matter your taste, or skiing style, there is sure to be a way to upgrade your apres in Utah. Happy powder hunting!
