Beer and skiing go together like bacon and eggs; for some reason it’s hard to imagine one without the other. While we encourage enjoyers of the frosty beverage to indulge after their day on the slopes, we are aware that sometimes a cold pint at lunch is just what the body needs to get back out for a few more runs. While most ski areas at this point tend to have a relatively robust craft beer scene nearby, Girdwood, Alaska, and the world-famous Alyeska Ski Resort could make a case for one of the very best.
The Pacific Northwest has a lot going for it in the way of beer making. Washington, Alaska’s closest U.S. neighbor, produces more hops than the rest of the states combined. Those hops are just a short jump away to Anchorage, the heart of Alaska’s mature and thriving brewing scene. Alaska is home to between 40 and 50 active taprooms, putting it within the top 10 states with the most breweries per capita owing to its small population.
Girdwood (where Alyeska Ski Resort is located) is a part of the Anchorage metropolitan area. The town is actually considered a part of Anchorage itself, though it sits about 40 miles from the city center. This unique classification makes it a premier beer destination, as at least 20 of the state’s breweries are located within the Anchorage Municipality limits. In Girdwood, one is guaranteed to be treated to nearly any style of beer from many critically acclaimed local breweries.
All breweries are not created equal, however. Some of the massive standouts in the thriving Anchorage brewing scene include 49th State Brewing Company, Glacier Brewhouse, Midnight Sun Brewing, and Broken Tooth Brewing Company. 49th is famous for its massive patio where guests are frequently treated to views of Denali, while Glacier Brewhouse and Midnight Sun Brewing have been creating new and interesting beers since before local brewing was cool. Girdwood is also home to its own hyperlocal brewery, Girdwood Brewing Company.
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Broken Tooth Brewing brews for Alaska’s likely most famous restaurant, Moose’s Tooth Pub and Pizzeria. Moose’s Tooth is so popular that it actually is the highest-grossing single pizzeria in the entire country, and their locally made beers such as their Fairweather IPA and Northern Lights Amber keep both tourists and locals alike coming back.
After a day skiing and riding the slopes of Alyeska, a few stand-out tap handles to keep an eye out for are Glacier Brewhouse’s Raspberry Wheat for an easy drinker, Midnight Suns Panty Peeler Belgian Triple for a beer that packs a punch, or 49th State’s classic West Coast Solstice IPA. Kick back and enjoy one at Sitzmark Bar & Grill right at the base of the slopes, or head over to Jack Sprat to enjoy a pint paired with some amazing local fare. If your night takes you back into Anchorage proper, be sure to pop into Chilkoot Charlies, a mall of themed bars all under one roof.
If you’re craving the taste of Alaska outside of the last frontier, Alaskan Brewing Company’s Amber is pretty easy to find at your local liquor store. But for a true Alaskan experience, you will want to experience the flavors and views of one of America’s coolest ski towns, Girdwood.
