Top 6 Spots to Kick Off Après Season

The start of ski season carries a particular kind of energy. The gear comes back out, legs remember what they’re supposed to do, and suddenly the rhythm of winter returns—early mornings, cold air, and days shaped by weather and snow reports. Après isn’t about excess; it’s about marking the moment when a good ski day becomes a shared and lasting experience.

Whether you’re stepping off the tram at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, wrapping up laps on Snow King, or crossing the pass after a day at Grand Targhee, these five spots offer the perfect setting to kick off the season with intention and style—places where conversation flows easily, boots are still on, and winter officially feels underway.

After a Day at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort...

Tram Dock 

If you want to start the season the right way, start at the base of the tram at this ski-in establishment. Tram Dock is unapologetically iconic—a collision of powder-stoked energy, ski boots on concrete, and the collective hum of people who just scored. It’s loud, lively, and exactly where you go to mark the moment when après officially begins.

What will we be ordering? Jumbo wings (of course) and spicy margaritas. 

Piste Mountain Bistro

For a kickoff that leans more refined but still very much ski-forward, Piste delivers atmosphere in spades. Sitting at 10,450 feet on the mid-mountain, it pairs alpine views with craft cocktails and elevated bites, creating an après experience that feels celebratory rather than chaotic. Ride the tram up, toast the season, and take a moment to appreciate just how lucky we are to ski here.

You'll likely catch us tucking into oh-so-creamy beer cheese fondue and sipping on a local craft beer.

Teton Thai

Every great ski season needs a little heat, and Teton Thai brings it. Warm, flavorful, and reliably satisfying, it’s the perfect place to refuel after a cold day on the mountain. This is après that trades standing-room-only crowds for comfort, spice, and and the kind of atmosphere that warms you to your soul — a strong move early in the season.

We'll probably be nibbling on fried wontons and dumplings, a signature Mai Thai in the other hand. 

Ending a Day on the Iconic Town Hill...

Aurora

Perched at the summit of Snow King, Aurora offers one of the most scenic ways to kick off après in town. With sweeping views over Jackson Hole and a relaxed, elevated atmosphere, it’s an ideal stop after a few Snow King laps—whether you’re settling in for a drink, sharing small plates, or watching the light fade over the valley while enjoying an unforgettable dinner.

The menu at Aurora is in constant evolution, but you're likely to find us savoring fondue or grazing on a tantalizing charcuterie spread.

Snake River Brewing

When the season starts close to home, Snake River Brewing is where it naturally continues. After Snow King laps—uphill or lift-served—this longtime local favorite offers cold beer, hearty food, and an atmosphere that is known as "Jackson's Living Room" for good reason. It’s where ski days turn into ski stories, and where one drink casually becomes dinner.

We'll be digging into wood-fired nachos and sipping on a crisp house-crafted Snake River Lager.

Wrapping up a Targhee Experience...

GuidePost Brewing

On the west side of the Tetons, GuidePost Brewing is the kind of place that makes you linger. After a day at Grand Targhee (or some backcountry laps on Teton Pass), it’s the ideal Teton Valley stop to toast the season ahead. Thoughtfully crafted beers, a relaxed vibe, and a strong sense of community make it the perfect final chapter to a very good ski day.

You'll find us devouring a house-made Bavarian pretzel dipped into IPA beer cheese, washing it down with a freshly-poured signature beer. 

A memorable ski season doesn’t just happen—it’s built, one first chair, one last run, and one well-timed après at a time. These five spots are where to set that intention early and let the rest of winter unfold from there.