After an enjoyable, full day on the slopes most skiers are looking for some form of entertainment or social activity to unwind, not to mention some drinks and a snack! This is typically known as Après-ski, a French term first used in 1951. Generally, mountain goers will go in full ski attire directly after their last run for the day. Listed below are a few great options to get a great deal on some tasty food and beverages after a day on the slopes at Keystone Resort.
The Kickapoo Tavern is a great Après-ski option located at the base of River Run Village, just a short walk across the bridge from the Gondola. This restaurant has a large outdoor deck with plenty of seating that some consider the best patio in Keystone, perfect for a sunny afternoon in March. This restaurant has an array of delicious food options such as their River Run Burger, the Montezuma salad, a delicious Chicken Caprese sandwich, Rocky Mountain Mac and Cheese, Wild West Wings, and a HUGE nacho plate that could serve an army, and the list goes on. Their full service bar provides happy hour specials at reasonable pricing and they have a decent selection of Colorado beers on tap. A full kids menu is also available. Open 11 am - 11 pm daily.
Celebrating 40 years serving the Keystone community, the Snake River Saloon is legendary for Après-ski. The doors open at 4 pm daily providing happy hour until 6 pm. In the bar, they serve up American cuisine like wings, burgers, salads, pizza and pasta. Keep entertained by playing foosball or pool or watching sports on their multiple TVs. Thursday - Saturday starting at 9:30 pm expect to have an unforgettable experience with live music and a great crowd. This is definitely a locals favorite. Doors open at 6 pm for the upscale dining restaurant which is attached to the bar and serves wonderful steaks, seafood and other items, reservations are required. Check the Summit Daily newspaper or Key to Keystone Coupon book for discounts.
If you are looking for authentic mexican food with a tasty margarita Dos Locos Mexican Restaurant and Cantina will satisfy those cravings. They have the longest happy hour option in Keystone, Monday - Friday 2:30 pm - 6 pm and Saturday and Sunday 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm. Customers are able to self serve chips and salsa during happy hour. They have a small selection of arcade games along with a full sized pool table. The restaurant is fully equipped with numerous TVs to watch your favorite sporting events. Karaoke night is every Thursday starting at 9:45 pm. Thursday is also Ladies night including unbeatable drink specials.
The Goat Soup and Whiskey has happy hour daily 3 pm - 6 pm. Specials include BBQ sliders grouped with a beer for under $5. This bargain is the best you are going to get in Keystone. They serve food until midnight which is the latest you can find in the area. Every Tuesday night they host a local pool and foosball tournament starting at 9 pm. There is live entertainment every weekend during ski season from a variety of national, regional, and local bands. Don't miss Friday night funk with the Funky Johnson a local funk band that puts on a great show.
Looking for something for the kids? Every Wednesday and Saturday at 3:30 pm meet Riperoo at the Mountain House base area for a delicious & fun ice cream social. Kids will be able to create their own Riperoo T-shirt as memorabilia from their great trip to Keystone, as well as enjoy ice cream and socialize with other kids! No reservation necessary and just a $5 entry fee.
If you are wanting a full ski experience and want to hang out with locals attending an Après-ski favorite should be top on your list. Before heading to any location check the happy hour times and ask about the specials. This can help narrow your options to finding the best Après-ski establishment.
Written By: Kelly Broussard