By Brianne Shelley for Mountain Reservations
What better way to end a long day of skiing and snowboarding than a moonlit gondola ride to an award-winning mountain-top dinner? Take in breathtaking, night-time scenery and enjoy delicious cuisine at these seven resort restaurants.
1. Game Creek Restaurant – Vail
Photo: Vail Resorts
Hop on the gondola from Lionshead Village and float up the moonlit, snow-covered slopes to this famous mountaintop restaurant. Enjoy the acclaimed, five-star American cuisine of executive chef Steven Topple and his staff while overlooking breathtaking views of Vail Mountain. With excellent service and an award-winning wine list, this European chalet-style restaurant is sure to be one for the books. Just be sure to make a reservation ahead of time—they’re required.
2. Hazie’s – Steamboat
Photo: Hazies
A 2016 OpenTable Diner’s Choice Winner, Hazie’s is certainly not your average night out. Take a nighttime Steamboat Gondola ride to the top of Mt. Werner to enjoy wild game, seafood, steaks, new takes on classics, an extraordinary wine list and a delectable New American menu. In addition to delicious menu options, patrons can take in beautiful views of starlight Yampa Valley and Steamboat Springs. What better way to end a day of skiing and snowboarding? Keep in mind, dinner reservations are highly recommended, but not required.
3. Allred’s Restaurant – Telluride
Photo: Telluride Ski Resort
Looking for spectacular views and an unforgettable dining experience? Take the Free Gondola up to Allred’s Restaurant, Telluride’s flagship restaurant. Take in the steep, snowy mountain scenery, sip on handcrafted cocktails or fine wines and choose from an innovative menu or wilderness-inspired dishes. You’ll be sure to remember your meal of sustainable-sourced elk paired with an award-winning Pinot Noir. Due to its popularity, reservations are recommended.
4. Elk Camp – Aspen Snowmass
Photo: Aspen Snowmass
Take the Elk Camp Gondola to the top of Snowmass every Friday night during peak winter season to honor the Norse God of Snow—Ullr. These family-friendly Ullr Nights are filled with fun outdoor winter activities like ice skating, tubing, snowbiking and hot chocolate and s’mores by the fire. With a delicious la carte dinner and live music, a night spent at Elk Camp is sure to be unforgettable. To enjoy the full experience, be sure to lock in your spot for the winter activities ahead of time.
5. Piste Mountain Bistro – Jackson Hole
Photo: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Ride the Bridger Gondola to very top and visit Piste Mountain Bistro, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort’s newest restaurant. Enjoy moonlit views and a flavor-packed dinner menu of locally sourced seasonal dishes, served from Thursday to Saturday. With a welcoming bar scene and breathtaking mountain views, this restaurant has quickly become a Jackson Hole favorite. Reservations are highly recommended so make sure to book before your evening visit.
6. Alpenglow Stube – Keystone
Photo: Keystone Resort
Located at the top of Keystone’s North Peak in the Outpost Lodge at 11,444 feet, Alpenglow Stube is the highest AAA Four-Diamond dining experience in North America. Take the gondola up to this secluded spot for stunning views and award-winning, contemporary dishes with a Bavarian accent. If you’re looking for a nice wine to pair with your meal, be sure to check out their wine list that has won the Wine Spectators “Best of Award of Excellence” six years in a row. Reservations are recommended.
7. The Lodge at Sunspot – Winter Park Resort
Photo: Winter Park Resort
Take a moonlit gondola ride to the top of Winter Park and enjoy dazzling nighttime views of Fraser Valley and the Continental Divide. Once you’ve reached the peak, step into the Lodge at Sunspot for a fine dining or Fondue experience by the crackling fire. Be sure to check out the panoramic views at 10,700 feet! Make sure to reserve your spot.