Ever wondered how to mix up the perfect mountain-inspired cocktail?
Step 1: Start by snowshoeing up to one of the coolest bars in Colorado: the snow bar beneath the lifts at Copper Mountain. The T-shaped bar is completely made from snow and even includes tech blanket-lined seating.
Step 2: Pick your poison. Choose from an ample selection of Colorado-crafted spirits. If you’re like me, you’ll probably reach for a bourbon from Breckenridge Distillery to serve as the base of your cocktail.
Step 3: Pick from a handful of ingredients that are easy to forage for in the mountains of Colorado, like juniper berries, raspberries or cherries. If you’re like me, you’ll probably reach for the bourbon-soaked cherries to add to your bourbon — because, bourbon.
Step 4: Muddle. According to some mixologists at the ice bar, this is the most important part.
Step 5: Add a hearty chunk of snow to chill the drink and balance out the fairly hearty portion of booze in your cup.
Step 6: Mix it all up with a spruce tip. The earthiness from the tree will add a nice flavor to your cocktail and help combine all of those tasty ingredients.
Step 7: Drink! And be prepared to handle just how it good it will taste after a short snowshoe trek to get to the bar.
If you’re interested in learning more about mountain mixology, check out the REI Adventure Station located next to Camp Hale at Copper Mountain. The new adventure station features a handful of fun activities and educational classes, like wilderness survival courses, snowshoe + hot chocolate excursions, and of course, the recently-added mountain mixology class. Learn more about activity and course offerings by visiting the REI Adventure station, or check them out online to keep up with variety of seasonal courses offered throughout the year.
