Skiers and snowboarders can agree that half the fun of hitting the slopes is the après-ski experience that follows.
Today, après means more than Hot Toddies consumed by a roaring fire: mountainside resorts across the country are stepping up their offerings for post-skiing fun.
From a ski-in, ski-out whiskey distillery to warm your bones in Utah to a spacious New Hampshire spa specifically devoted to working out ski-induced strains, these 10 stellar après-ski experiences are worth the trek this winter.
SEE ALSO: 10 Of The Best Apres-Ski Parties In The World
Sun Valley Lodge
Where: Sun Valley, Idaho
So famous for its celebrity clientele that its suites are named after stars who have stayed (and skied) there, the Sun Valley Lodge remains Idaho’s premiere après-ski destination. Following a major renovation, the Lodge reopened in 2015, and posh powder hounds can now enjoy a variety of classic drinks (like hot buttered rum) in the sleek Duchin Lounge. But more laid-back types will enjoy the Lodge’s revamped bowling alley; one of the oldest in the Northwest, it has six 1950’s-style lanes, video games and a new bar with snacks, including Idaho’s own famous spuds (in the form of crispy, loaded potato skins).
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Sun Valley Guide
Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge
Where: Telluride, Colorado
With a prime location in the heart of Telluride’s Victorian-esque Mountain Village, the Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge attracts well-heeled skiers with luxurious accommodations and indulgent spa treatments. In addition to après-ski food and drink options that show a flair for local products, snow enthusiasts can recover in high style at the property’s own Oxygen Bar, which assists guests in acclimating to the mountainous altitude (the hotel is situated at 10,000 feet). If heights pose no problem, opt for the F-Scape to Telluride Winter Package (it includes a personalized helicopter tour of the breathtaking San Juan Mountains, plus liquid courage in the form of Champagne).
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Telluride Guide
Heavenly Mountain Resort
Where: Lake Tahoe, California
It’s hard to beat this Lake Tahoe resort if you’re looking to party hard after putting down your poles: Heavenly Mountain Resort offers a virtual club on the mountain with its DJ Cat, a customized slope groomer with a cutting-edge sound system, helping skiers and snowboarders loosen up. But the festivities don’t stop on the snow: the resort’s buzzy Tamarack Lodge—located at 9,150 feet—offers the Unbuckle Après Party, where guests can dance, enjoy discounted drinks and food, and watch the club’s scantily clad “heavenly angels” heat up the crowd.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Lake Tahoe Guide
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