Where The Locals Go When Day Is Done

Can't help but smile at Peruvian Bar after another massive powder day at Alta. (Alta Peruvian Bar/Facebook)

Most resorts have a bunch of bars to choose from when it comes to apres-ski, but if you want to find the down-home, braggin' rights kind of bar, just follow a local.

They may not be fancy, and they probably don't have umbrella drinks. But the renowned “locals bar” at any resort will give visitors a taste of the local culture – and local beverage. Here are a few that SnoCountry found:

It's a very short walk from the bottom of Magic Mountain to the Black Line Tavern, renowned for its live music, vast deck with grills, and selection of craft beers. Locals like Cheese and Ale Fondue, made with Vermont-brewed ale.

Locals with a gourmet jones finish their day at Smuggler's Notch or Stowe with a short drive into Stowe proper and a stop at Sushi Yoshi Stowe. The sushi appetizers and Asian Beginnings get the evening going in this northern Vermont town.

If you hear music after a day on Lutsen Mountains, it's likely coming from Papa Charlies. A top music venue in Minnesota, Charlie's draws in a very local crowd. The menu features Midwest favs like cheese curds and pulled pork.

Taos Ski Valley has been a locals' hill for 60 years. Despite new high-end ownership, Tim's Stray Dog Cantina stays true to its roots: Blue-corn Green chiles fresh daily, killer margaritas and array of New Mexican brews. Sit at the bar and hear all the local gossip.

At the head of Little Cottonwood Canyon, there's nowhere better to end an Alta powder day than the Peruvian Bar in the Alta Peruvian Lodge. “P-Dog” is where the hot-skiing locals head to drink and carouse amongst each other – and the one-up each other with massive powder runs.

A short jaunt from the gondola base at Mammoth Mountain, the Clocktower Cellar beckons. With more than 160 whiskeys and 26 beer taps, the shot-and-a-beer crowd loves the place. Not on a diet? Try a Tot-Cho: Tater Tots, cheese Sauce, bacon, sour cream, pico de gallo, green onion and jalapenos.

Not far from Mt. Hood Ski Bowl, Timberline Lodge and Mt. Hood Meadows, the Rathskeller dominates the apres-ski scene in tiny Government Camp. Lots of pizza and rows of Oregon- and Northwest-brewed tap beers await. Don't bother trying to avoid a local: They get there early and stay late.