Best Après Ski Bars Ikon Pass: Ultimate Ski Trip Itinerary Guide
If you're like me, you chase powder turns all day and cold après brews by night. The Ikon Pass makes it easier than ever to ski legendary terrain across North America. However, want to know the real secret behind the Ikon Pass? It's also your golden ticket to some of the best après ski bars in the world.
From iconic watering holes with live music to slope-side pubs pouring local craft beers, I’ve road-tripped my way through many Ikon Pass destinations. Thanks to my travels, I'm able to bring you the ultimate après ski itinerary for Ikon Pass holders. So grab your gear (and your drinking gloves), and let's dive into the best après ski bars on the Ikon Pass that I’ve personally visited.
1. Jackson Hole, WY — The Mangy Moose Saloon
Après Vibes: Wild West meets high-octane energy.
Ski-In Access: Located not too far from the base of the Jackson Hole Tram.
Don’t Miss: The live music and their famous spicy margaritas.
The Mangy Moose isn’t just a bar—it’s an institution. You’ll feel the energy as soon as you click out of your skis. With bands playing almost nightly and a rowdy crowd of locals and visitors, it’s a must-stop after a day tackling some of North America's gnarliest terrain
Where to Stay: Snake River Lodge & Spa - Located in Teton Village it is a mere steps from the tram and of course The Mangy Moose. If town is more your jam, then I highly recommend The Wort. It's central location gives you easy access to all this is Jackson Hole. It also happens to be connected to the Silver Dollar Bar, famous for it's live music and fun nightlife.
Travel Tip: Fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), just 20 minutes from the slopes.
2. Palisades Tahoe, CA — Le Chamois (a.k.a. The Chammy)
Après Vibes: Laid-back legends and ski-bum royalty.
Ski-In Access: Steps from the lifts at Olympic Valley.
Don’t Miss: A pitcher of beer and the ski boot-stomping patio scene.
The Chammy is an après rite of passage. Whether you’re rubbing elbows with ski pros or kicking back with friends, the energy here is always buzzing. On sunny days, the outdoor deck turns into a full-on party.
Where to Stay: The Village at Palisades Tahoe – walkable access to the lifts and great dining.
Travel Tip: Consider flying into Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Only a short drive away, it is one of the easier airports to get in and out of.
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3. Mammoth Mountain, CA — Canyon Lodge Après Party
Après Vibes: DJ sets, outdoor bars, fire pits—California cool.
Ski-In Access: Directly outside Canyon Lodge.
Don’t Miss: Sunset sessions with DJs and dancing in ski boots.
On Saturdays, Mammoth’s Canyon Lodge transforms into a full-on après celebration. With pop-up bars, music and the California sun dipping below the Sierra. There is no doubt that this is one of the best party scenes on the Ikon Pass.
Where to Stay: The Lodges at Snow Creek – luxury condos just minutes from the Village Gondola. They offer stunning views and are a good size to fit a larger family or even two into one.
Travel Tip: Winter flights to Bishop (BIH) are the most convenient, but be aware, this airport closes for the season in late March. In that case the ride down from Reno through the Sierras is rather majestic.
Book Your Flight Today on: Cheap O Air
4. Alta, UT — The Sitzmark Bar
Après Vibes: Old-school charm with killer views.
Ski-In Access: Nestled in the Alta Lodge.
Don’t Miss: Boomerangs by the fireplace with mountain legend, pro skier and legendary bartender Dan Withey.
The Sitzmark is what après dreams are made of—rustic, intimate,and full of ski history. If you're lucky, you'll catch live jazz or acoustic sets as you sip something warm post-powder laps.
Where to Stay: Alta Lodge – A rustic ski-in/ski-out Lodge with the best breakfast on the mountain. An added bonus is that breakfast, dinner and even morning yoga are included in your stay.
Travel Tip: No snowboards allowed at Alta, so plan accordingly.
👉 Check out my All About Après: Travel Essentials for Skiers & Snowboarders Guide
5. Solitude, UT — The Thirsty Squirrel
Après Vibes: Cozy, low-key, and perfect for locals and powder hounds.
Ski-In Access: Just below the slopes at Solitude Village.
Don’t Miss: Utah craft brews and pub snacks.
This hidden gem feels like your buddy’s basement bar—if your buddy lived at 10,000 feet. The Thirsty Squirrel is a great spot to wind down and catch up with fellow Ikon Pass riders.
Where to Stay: The Inn at Solitude – ski-in/ski-out luxury with spa amenities.
Travel Tip: Rent a car if you're hopping between Brighton and Solitude.
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6. Stratton, VT — Grizzly's
Après Vibes: Lively East Coast energy with great live music.
Ski-In Access: Right at the base of the main lifts.
Don’t Miss: Vermont craft beers, the famous nachos and deck views.
Grizzly's is the life of the Stratton après scene. When the band gets going and the crowd fills up the mezzanine, you’ll see why it’s a local favorite.
Where to Stay: Stratton Mountain Resort Lodging – slopeside convenience with walkable access to bars and shops.
Travel Tip: A short ride from both Boston and New York make this an East Coast favorite.
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7. Sugarbush, VT — Castle Rock Pub
Après Vibes: Chill and classy with top-notch local brews.
Ski-In Access: Inside Lincoln Peak Lodge.
Don’t Miss: Lawson’s Finest Liquids on draft and hearty Vermont comfort food.
Whether you’re recovering from a hike to Castlerock Peak or sipping while watching the snow fall outside, Castle Rock Pub offers the perfect après setting to refuel.
Where to Stay: Clay Brook Hotel – luxurious slopeside condos with hot tubs and fireplaces.
Travel Tip: Add Sugarbush to a Vermont road trip with Killington or Stowe. All are just a short drive from each other and could make for a fun road trip on winter break.
8. Blue Mountain, PA — Slopeside Pub & Grill
Après Vibes: Elevated dining meets laid-back beers with a view.
Ski-In Access: Right off the main trail system.
Don’t Miss: Heated deck dining and their signature cocktails.
Blue Mountain might fly under the radar, but it punches way above its weight in the après department. The Slopeside Pub & Grill has stunning views of the Pocono foothills and a killer après menu.
Where to Stay: Blue Mountain Resort Lodging or Airbnbs nearby in Palmerton.
Travel Tip: Perfect for a quick weekend trip from NYC, Philly or central NJ.
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Plan Your Own Ikon Pass Après Tour
Ready to hit the road (and the bars)? Whether you're chasing powder or patio pitchers, this itinerary is your go-to guide for unforgettable ski days and legendary après nights.
Before you head out, make sure you’re set up with my favorite travel essentials and ski gear recommendations—plus exclusive discounts on hotels, ski passes, and more.
