Après 101

“Do they even have normal strength beer in Utah?” Though it’s a common misconception muddled by old state liquor laws, the answer is, in fact, yes. Today, many first-time ski vacationers to Salt Lake City have yet to lift the preconception. And on a trip to Solitude, you can study up and learn how to navigate the après scene. After all, a cocktail or microbrew post-skiing is synonymous with the sport.

A visit to the Library Bar at Solitude should be first on your list during your stay. Cozy chairs amidst a library-inspired room invite guests to relax and enjoy a post-ski or pre-dinner cocktail. The full bar and atmosphere is reminiscent of a study in an old mansion, and features a full bar along with tasty snacks. The true specialty at the Library is the handmade signature cocktails. These wonderful libatious concoctions are an amazing way to end any ski day.

While the Library Bar offers a different experience than a traditional après scene, the Thirsty Squirrel is often the place to be after a classic Wasatch powder day, or any late afternoon during your ski trip. It’s also located in the Solitude Village. The Thirsty Squirrel is the most popular spot to grab a beer and link up with friends. (Local’s tip: bottled beer is full strength and draught beer is 3.2%. The Thirsty Squirrel has a large selection of all types.) The scene is a mix of vacationers, locals, and resort employees all catching up and sharing stories about their day on the slopes. TVs adorn the wall with football games, and live music typically fills the room as the mustaches of Solitude patrollers drip dry and their avalanche search and rescue dogs scurry around. It’s a lively scene despite the namesake of the resort, and it’s the ideal spot to gather local beta on the snow and terrain openings while grabbing a frosty brew and a plate of nachos.

Located upstairs in Solitude’s Moonbeam Center, near the lower entry and adjacent to the Moonbeam Express chairlift, is the Argenta Pub. The Argenta Pub rounds out the top three spots to visit during your Solitude stay, and it’s a classic après pub to relax and enjoy the late afternoon while taking in views of the mountain.

Perhaps it’s the notion of sliding down a mountain that parches one’s thirst, or maybe it’s the camaraderie that exists when spending time in the mountains with like-minded folks. No matter what the reason, make sure to stop by each of Solitude’s watering holes for the perfect blend of mountain culture and company, without the overcrowded bar scene.

Originally written by Erme Catino with Catapult Creative Labs for Solitude Mountain Resort.