Already makers of highly-rated skis (Powder magazine just named the Valhallas and the North Shores as skis of the year), Rocky Mountain Underground has further upped its cool factor by opening a bar and showroom on Breckenridge’s Main Street. The month-old dual-purpose location opened on November 23, and it’s a brilliant ode to ski culture. “RMU is a medium—it’s not just a ski company, it’s not just bar, it’s a place where we do all the wild ideas,” says bar manager Becca Paiz.

Walk through the shop and ogle the outdoor gear and RMU’s line of sleekly designed skis and backpacks. Then, wander through the doorway (a sliding barn door, of course) into the tavern. The bar—the whole space, actually—was built by RMU’s seven employees. With rough-hewn brick under foot, staves from Breckenridge Distillery lining the bar, and a cobblestone-like back wall, the cozy space feels as if it’s been there a long while. Order a beer from the dozen on tap or choose a cocktail (we recommend the Innamorato with rye, amaro, and anise bitters syrup) and cheers to the beauty of après-ski. Whether you’ve been skiing or not is beside the point.

The tavern opens at 11 a.m., ready to fuel skiers with Bloody Marys, beer, and coffee and Jameson, and stays open until 2 a.m. Nourishment comes in the form of meat and cheese plates from the Cheese Shop of Breckenridge.

Bonus: Look for upcoming classes where participants will learn to make their own skis on RMU founder Mike Waesche’s original ski press. To understand just how far RMU’s skis have come, ask to see the first prototype. It’s rough-edged and looks more like a water ski than something you’d want to take on the mountain.

114 S. Main St., Breckenridge, 855-548-8020

Amanda M. Faison
Amanda M. Faison
Freelance writer Amanda M. Faison spent 20 years at 5280 Magazine, 12 of those as Food Editor.