When it comes to skiing, most people focus on the slopes, the snow conditions and the overall mountain experience. I get it. That's really what we're there for...to shred pow. However, in the age of the multipass, ski resorts are becoming known equally as much for their apres ski food as they are for their skiing and snowboarding.
Resorts such as Vail, Deer Valley and more have worked to grow their food and beverage offerings over the last two decades. Consequently, this has made ski town dining even better. Restaurants in surrounding ski towns have upped the ante on their f & b just to compete and draw patrons away from the mountain. This ultimately has made for a more desirable food scene that attracts not only those looking to enjoy the slopes but also others just looking to hang out and have a good time.
When visiting ski towns and resorts such as these there is no shortage of tasty ski food to choose from. Above all, there is, however, one item that always stands out and that is the burger. A good juicy burger is the ultimate apres ski food. Hearty and warming, it is very tough to pass up after a day of hard shredding. That said, in today's ever-growing food scene, who makes the best ski town burger?
Apres Ski Food: Best Burgers Near Ski Resorts
Throughout my 30-plus years of apres ski food experience, I have eaten my fair share of burgers from across North America. However, my travels have only taken me so far. There are still so many great places that I have not been to and therefore not had the opportunity to sample their delicious eats. That said, to do this post properly, I decided to poll my colleagues at Basecamp Outdoors to find some of these hidden gems. The first couple juicy burgers are some of my personal favorites. After that, I dive into an extensive list courtesy of all the other great ski foodies who commented on my Facebook post.
1. Basecamp Burger, Snow Republic Brewery, West Dover, Vermont
The Base Camp Burger at Snow Republic Brewery in West Dover takes burger indulgence to new heights. This mouthwatering creation features not one, but two 4oz beef patties, perfectly grilled to juicy perfection. Topped with flavorful VT cheddar cheese that melts into a creamy delight, and complemented by a delectable Maple Porter Bacon Jam, this burger is a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.
The addition of the signature Basecamp Sauce adds a tangy and savory element, while the crisp lettuce and pickles provide a refreshing crunch. All of this goodness is served on a soft and buttery brioche bun, elevating the burger experience to a whole new level. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with the Base Camp Burger at Snow Republic Brewery, where every bite is a celebration of bold flavors and pure satisfaction.
2. Troll Hallen Lounge, The Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley, Park City, Utah
The Stein's Burger at the Troll Hallen Lounge is a tantalizing creation showcasing an 8 oz. Angus burger, topped with aged white cheddar cheese that melts into a creamy delight. Nestled within a fluffy sheepherder roll, this burger is elevated to new heights with the addition of crispy onions that provide a satisfying crunch with every bite.
The combination of the juicy Angus beef, rich cheese, and crispy onions creates a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to a realm of pure satisfaction. Served with golden seasoned fries or a refreshing side salad, the Stein's Burger is a true culinary masterpiece.
3. The Burger, Grumpy's, Ketchum, Idaho
Grumpy's in Ketchum, Idaho, serves up a burger that is nothing short of legendary. From the first bite to the last, this burger is a mouthwatering delight that will leave you craving more. The generous portion of perfectly seasoned beef patty is cooked to juicy perfection, offering a satisfying meaty flavor that is hard to resist. Topped with a slice of melted cheese that adds a creamy richness to each bite, and complemented by crispy bacon that provides a delightful crunch, this burger is a symphony of textures.
The fresh lettuce and juicy tomatoes bring a refreshing element, while the tangy pickles add a zesty kick. The bun, toasted to perfection, holds everything together and adds a delightful touch of warmth. With each bite, the flavors harmonize, creating a burger experience that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Grumpy's burger is a must-try culinary experience in Ketchum, Idaho.
Experts Speak Out: The Ski Town Burgers
Here are many of the great burger joints sourced from my Facebook post. I had so many responses, that I may have to make another post. In the meantime, enjoy these best burgers in ski town suggestions.
Old Saloon - Emigrant, Montana - Closest resort: Big Sky and Bridger Bowl
Shooting Star Saloon - Huntsville, Utah - Closest resort: Snowbasin & Powder Mountain
Oscar's Cafe (Murder Burger) - Springdale, Utah - Closest Resort: Brian Head
Backyard - Stowe, Vermont - Closest Resort: Stowe Mountain Resort
The Powerstop - Gunnison, Co - Closest Resort: Crested Butte
Inclined Burgers - North Lake Tahoe, Ca - Palisades Tahoe, Northstar
The Bird - Jackson Hole, Wy - Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Mackenzie Outpost - Top of the Gondola, Revelsoke, BC - Closest Resort: Revelstoke
Yaks on the 5 - Dunsmuir, Ca - Closest Resort: Mt. Shasta
The Barn - Bridgeport, Ca. - Closest Resort: June Mountain Resort
Backcountry Burger Bar - Bozeman, Mt - Closest Resort: Big Sky & Bridger Bowl
Hi-Mountain - Kamas, Ut - Park City Ski Resort & Deer Valley
Get the Burger - Big Bear Lake, Ca - Closest Resort: Big Bear Mountain Resort
Blake's Lotaburger - Taos, NM - Closest Resort: Taos
The Barn - Sisters, Oregon - Closest Resort: Hoodoo Ski Area
K's Dairy Delight - Buena Vista, Co - Closest Resort: Buena Vista Ski Area
Walker Burger - Coleville, Ca - Closest Resort: Sierra at Tahoe
Mama Burger - Flagstaff, Az - Closest Resort: Arizona Snowbowl
Eddie Burger - Banff, Canada - Closest Resort: Ski Big 3
Eddyline Brewery - Buena Vista, Co - Closest Resort: Buena Vista Ski Area
Mammoth Brewing - Mammoth, Ca - Closest Resort: Mammoth
James Bar - Missoula, Mt - Closest Resort: Montana Snowbowl
Backdoor Grill - Steamboat, Co - Closest Resort: Steamboat
Leftie's Bar and Grill - Ketchum, Id - Closest Resort: Sun Valley
Carlos and Harley's - Eden, Ut - Closest Resort: Snowbasin, Powder Mountain, Nordic Valley
O'Shucks - Park City, Ut - Closest Resort: Park City & Deer Valley
Finish Your Day With the Best Ski Town Burgers
Next time you hit the slopes, don't forget to indulge in a delicious burger at one of these ski resorts. The combination of high-quality ingredients, unique flavors, and the après-ski atmosphere will make your dining experience truly unforgettable.
