Killington’s apres-ski scene, strung out along the Killington Road, is often voted number one in the nation, with the atmosphere generally raucous and young, and festivities often driven by excellent bands, some nationally known.

KILLINGTON'S WEBSITE NIGHTLIFE PAGES

Apres-ski at the mountain includes the Mahogany Ridge at the Killington Base Lodge, the Long Trail Brew Pub at Snowshed and the Bear Mountain Lounge at the Bear Mountain Base Lodge.

Apres-ski action on the Killington Road can be found in the Lookout Bar & Grille or Charity’s. Outback Pizza is recommended for its happy hour. It’s a favorite locals’ hangout on weekdays, with $5 all-you-can-eat pizza on Monday nights; entertainment and dancing extend into the evening on weekends. Casey’s Caboose is a favorite locals’ haunt with killer spicy buffalo wings that are free during happy hour. An older, quieter set meets at the Summit for happy hour.

For rowdy apres-ski and then dancing to loud music, head to the Wobbly Barn Steakhouse. Big name bands often lead the line-up at The Pickle Barrel, which has a lively happy hour with dancing later in the evening. It’s a favorite among the young college crowd.

Those older than 30 may want to opt out of the mosh pits at Wobbly Barn and the Pickle Barrel, and head down the road to The Grist Mill. This restaurant/bar has earned a reputation in recent years as the place for slightly "more mature" skiers, but don't let that fool you: maturity at Killington is strictly relative. The place rocks on weekends, when live music and dancing are featured, and its circular bar and layout are perfect for checking out the action and general people-watching. Plus, for our money, the Grist Mill makes the area's most toe-curling Goombays, a local concoction of fruit juices and various flavors of rum. Two Goombays and you'll understand why this rates as the unofficial drink of the official apres-ski/nightlife capital of the East.

From Pico, head a few yards up Rte. 4 to The Inn at Long Trail, nestled right into the apex of Killington Pass. McGrath's Irish Pub here serves Guinness ale on tap. Live entertainment, performing on a stage built right into the cliff, keeps the bar full on weekends.