Steamboat: The Aprés Scene

Enjoy a hot aprés drink after a day of Steamboat Skiing!

[a·près (ä′prā) Origin: fr - after ski shenanigans]

For most it’s true that a ski vacation is not complete until you’ve tried the aprés scene.  A hard day of skiing (okay, it doesn’t even need to be a hard one), warrants a round of refreshments, socializing, and appetizers to follow. Whether you want ski-in access or prefer to freshen up before hitting the aprés scene, Steamboat has a lot to offer:

The Truffle Pig:   Steps from the gondola, the Truffle Pig features a more upscale aprés scene, featuring appetizers such as Oysters of the Day and Truffle Pig Fondue.  Be sure to enjoy one of their signature drinks as you sit around the outdoor fire pit.

Gondola Pub & Grill:  A local’s favorite, the GPG offers a relaxed atmosphere with three levels of seating, an outdoor fire pit, and roof-top deck.  You will often find aprés live music to accompany pub-style appetizers and drink specials.

The Slopeside aprés scene.

Slopeside Grill: Probably one of Steamboat’s favorite aprés spots, Slopeside offers easy access, hot appetizers, drink specials, and outdoor seating.  On your way to the base, you can simply ski right over to an outdoor chair and order a drink or appetizer.  You’ll thus often see boot- and gear-laden groups into the evening hours, enjoying company and refreshments after the slopes.

Bear River Bar & Grill:  Located at the base, directly across from the gondola, Bear River Bar & Grill offers another ski-in aprés scene.  You can enjoy drinks and appetizers on their large deck, which also provides a great spot to enjoy a ski area free concert or the frequent in-house live music.

Downtown Steamboat Options
If you’d rather freshen up and head downtown for some post-ski refreshments, try one of the following:   Mahagony Ridge, on 5th and Lincoln, is a favorite happy hour spot, with $1 tapas and half-price drinks.  You can also enjoy views of Howelsen Hill while sipping hot drinks at Carl’s Tavern on 7th and Yampa Avenue.  If you’re craving a margarita, stop by the Cantina or Rio Grande.