Alta’s Aprés Scene this Winter
Alta, a metropolis for powder hounds young and old. The dramatic terrain of Little Cottonwood Canyon has drawn skiers to our town since 1938 and before, for those who were fiercely adventurous. The days are filled with turns, but there is no denying that many of those turns are often aided by some liquid courage and it is a known fact that our aprés scene is second to none.
Anyone who has spent a day at Alta has certainly seen, or imbibed in, their fair share of Alta Bomb’s, brews, and sophisticated cocktails. Some might even say that the biggest sport in the canyon, second the skiing and snowboarding, is aprés-skiing. The iconic bars of Alta each offer a unique location, atmosphere, crowd, and selection of beverages. No matter where you might choose to finish up your day in the mountains, you are certain to encounter a great drink and an even better time.
Last season, many of Alta’s drinking establishments had to alter their operations to ensure that our community remained safe and healthy. We saw limited offerings from some of our favorite watering holes and many lodges kept their bars open only to their guests. These actions broke the hearts of locals and visitors alike, but were necessary to keep people safe. So perhaps you are wondering, what will be the state of Alta’s drinking establishments this season and where can you drink? Here are the answers you are looking for...
Alta Peruvian Lodge
Alta Peruvian Bar
Perhaps the most iconic bar of all, the Alta Peruvian Bar, is affectionately known as the P-Dog. On any given afternoon, the window sills of this unique venue are packed with skiers enjoying drinks, popcorn, local musicians, and the company of their friends. The Alta Peruvian Bar specializes in creating a place for everyone to come and enjoy; locals, employees, and tourists are all welcome.
Operating Plan: Beginning November 17th, the Alta Peruvian Bar will be open daily from 3:30PM until 10PM. The bar will be open to the public, but will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test from the day before to enter. There will be live music every Wednesday.
Local’s Order: Margherita, made with fresh squeezed lime, lemon, and orange.
Goldminer’s Daughter Lodge
Slopeside Café
Located conveniently across from the Collin’s Lift, the Slopeside Cafe offers all you could need to get through a day of skiing and a patio that puts all other patios to shame. Fan favorites include the pizzas and of course, the Alta Bomb. Guests can also enjoy burgers, coffee, snacks, and a nice selection of beers and seltzers.
Hours: Open to the public daily from 7AM-6PM
Local’s Order: Alta Bomb (an unusual combination of a PBR and a shot of espresso)
Goldminer's Daughter Saloon
Located in the Goldminer’s Daughter Lodge, this bar provides a warm, cozy atmosphere with sweeping views of Alta Ski Area. This establishment is family friendly and has something for everyone who passes through its swinging doors.
Hours: Open to lodge guests ONLY from 11AM-11PM and GMD employees from 6PM-11PM.
Local’s Order: Pitcher & Pizza
Alta Lodge
Sitzmark Club
An illusive staple in the Town of Alta, the Sitzmark Club hosts an eclectic vibe, accompanied by plenty of wood architecture, fireplaces, history, and acclaimed Sitz Party Margs!
Operating Plan: The Sitzmark will be open to guests, employees, and members only. Memberships will be by invitation, which will soon be sent out. Locals and Alta skiers who have held house accounts at Alta Lodge in the past should expect invites.
Local’s Order: Sitz Party Marg
The Rustler Lodge
Eagle's Nest Lounge
Nestled into the corner of The Rustler Lodge, the Eagle’s Nest Lounge is an intimate bar with a wide offering of beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails.
Operating Plan: The Rustler Lodge has not yet informed us of their operating plan. In years past, the Eagle’s Nest Lounge has remained open to those staying at the Rustler Lodge and their guests.
Local’s Order: Local Beer on Tap
Snowpine Lodge
The Gulch Pub
Unparalleled views, curated art, live music, rustic-chic decor, and artfully crafted cocktails are just a few of the features that make the Gulch Pub a prime location for aprés ski. Enjoy gourmet food, alongside your beverage of choice with panoramic views of Alta Ski Area.
Operating Plan: This Winter the Gulch Pub will be open seven days a week from 11AM until 9PM, with happy hour lasting from 3PM-6PM. The Gulch Pub will be open to the public and live music can be expected on a regular basis.
Local’s Order: High Boy Hot Toddy - made with High West Whiskey, limoncello, a blend of spices, and served warm for our cold winter days.
So as you begin to retrieve your dusty skis from the ethers of your basement, rest assured knowing that aprés ski at Alta is just a few short weeks away. Whether you opt for a swanky cocktail from the Snowpine Lodge’s Gulch Pub, are lucky enough to enjoy a Party Marg at the Sitz, or choose to spend your afternoons on the window sill of the Alta Peruvian Bar; enjoy yourselves. Be sure to be kind to your bartenders and fellow patrons, follow the rules, and tip well. Thank you for supporting our community and we will see you on the patio for Alta Bomb!
AUTHOR: Milan Norling
Originally from the Southern Coast of California, Milan Norling has been living and recreating in Utah for 5 years now. As the daughter of a Snowbird ski instructor and avid Alta skier, her Little Cottonwood Canyon roots run as deeply as her love for the place. Milan has devoted her passion for marketing to the ski and outdoor industry, and enjoys using her expertise to create unforgettable experiences in nature for others. On any given day, you can expect to find her skiing, hiking, biking, practicing yoga, and enjoying time outside with others. She holds the Little Cottonwood community dear to her heart and is thrilled to join ACE in their mission of creating opportunities for the people of this community to connect and thrive
