Blog Post Updated September 30, 2024
Nestled amidst the picturesque Rocky Mountains in Frisco, Colorado is Outer Range Brewing Company. Since its inception, it has carved a niche for itself in the world of craft beer. However, they are more than just a brewery. Outer Range Brewery has become a vibrant hub for après-ski revelry, thanks to its innovative approach and unique atmosphere.
Imagine sipping on a freshly brewed craft beer while cozying up in a yurt, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. This is the Outer Range experience. Their commitment to creativity and quality has not only elevated the local craft beer scene but has also added a distinctive touch to the ski culture that we cherish.
Outer Range Brewing Only Brews Two Styles of Beer
Outer Range Brewing owners Emily and Lee Cleghorn are truly living the dream. Both, former members of the army, they began their love affair with beer as home brewers. However, it was Lee's upbringing that shaped his brewing choices. As a youngster living in Belgium where his father was stationed, he drank many high alcohol content Belgian beers. As a result, Lee continues to have a palate for them to this day.
Beyond that, when both Emily and Lee decided to leave the army and live out their dream of starting a brewery, Lee interned at that rather popular Other Half Brewing while in brewing school at the American Brewers Guild. Other Half has made quite a name for themselves in recent years for their wildly sought after IPA's.
Given Lee's background in Belgium and at Other Half, it should come as no surprise that they predominantly brew only two styles of beer at Outer Range Brewing Company: Belgians and IPA's.
Outer Range Brewery's Convenient Après-Ski Location
Just a stone's throw away from the slopes of Copper Mountain, Outer Range Brewing in Frisco, Colorado, has become a beloved après-ski destination. Its convenient location draws in a steady stream of thirsty adventurers, but it's the inviting atmosphere that keeps them coming back for more.
Step inside the brewery's cozy yurt, adorned with rustic charm and warm lighting. The air is filled with the intoxicating aroma of freshly brewed beer, mingling with the laughter and camaraderie of the crowd. It's a place where you can unwind, relax, and savor the moment. Beyond its prime location, Outer Range Brewing offers a unique experience that transcends the typical après-ski scene.
"Our busiest time is the après-ski time frame (around 3-6pm). People love it and I notice that a big chunk of the pics people post about Outer Range are in the yurt." Like the one above from their friend and craft beer Instagram influencer, Kevin Boyd took of their popular and appropriately named Yurt Life IPA.
In the past, Outer Range Brewery has partnered with Weston Backcountry and REI to do classes and other cool outdoor-related events in the yurt. One such example included an event on the best places to backcountry ski and splitboard in Summit County.
And, of course there is nothing like a few frosty beverages to enhance the learning experience.
Outer Range Brewery is Very Much About the Craft Beer
Better to focus on a few things and do them well rather, than offer a variety of beers that are mediocre. It is one of the primary reasons why the quality of Outer Range Brewery's beers are so next level.
Outer Range Brewing's In the Steep New England IPA is an excellent example. Leave it to the East coast skier to pick a New England IPA from a Colorado based brewery as one of his favorites.
What can I say? I'm a sucker for consistency. The cloudy hoppiness produces a juicy citrus flavor that is highly palatable and at 6.7% ABV it is right in my wheelhouse for being strong but still oh so drinkable.
Encouraging You to "Leave Life Below"
Innovation like what they’re doing at Outer Range Brewing has set them apart. It’s a bold move to focus solely on Belgian and IPA styles. While IPAs have been popular for quite some time now, Belgian beers are not as widely recognized here in the State. However, Outer Range Brewing’s passion and dedication shine through in every sip.
You’d expect nothing less from a brewery that prioritizes quality and simplicity, especially considering their high-altitude location. Serving their exceptional craft beer to a crowd of skiers and snowboarders in a unique structure like their yurt further enhances their status within the community.
Outer Range Brewing is the place to escape the ordinary. Enjoy their craft beer, connect with others, learn something new, and leave life below for a while. That’s the mantra at Outer Range Brewing in Frisco, Colorado, and it’s a winning formula for their craft beer and après-ski scene alike.
Leave Life Below But Not Your Après Ski Clothes
Great après ski and great craft beer deserves equally great après ski clothing. With Outer Range Brewing right down the road from Copper Mountain, there is no better choice than our Raised on Après ski hoodie. Inspired by Copper Mountain posters of old and a tribute to beer in the mountains it is the perfect fit for hanging out in the yurt at ORB or inside the brewery itself.
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