Local lore has it that the bookshelves at the Alta Peruvian have been voted the best nightlife in Alta (films and slideshows are shown here too). It's not far from the truth. People cook up their own nightlife here or crawl under the covers to rest up for more skiing tomorrow. That said, the best nighttime gatherings we found were at the Alta Peruvian Lodge bar, where guests and locals gather (with a cover charge on weekends) for drinks at the lively bistro or around the fire. The dog curled on the carpet is the local mascot. The Sitzmark Bar at the Alta Lodge is also good for apres-ski story-swapping. Goldminer's Daughter Alpine Lounge hops after the lifts close and has a good selection of beers. The Eagle's Nest Lounge at Alta's Rustler Lodge is the most upscale lodge bar and has killer views of the sunset over the mountains.

Remember: The nightspots are "private clubs" that charge a $4 three-week membership fee. If you are staying at an Alta lodge, the membership is included with your accommodations. If your ski vacation is not complete without a vigorous night of dancing, stay in Salt Lake City and take the ski bus here during the day.