Best of the High Country
Best of the High Country 2006
Readers' choices and editors' picks for the best places to go and things to see in the mountains.

(page 1 of 2)

Each year, we ask our readers to vote on the best of everything that defines mountain life. We're thrilled to present the results of our 2006 Best of the High Country survey.

Best Après Ski

The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado An Aspen tradition, whether imbibing fireside in The Living Room, celebrating a great day on the slopes at the legendary Ajax Tavern, or splurging at local hot spot Montagna. (970) 920-4600 or thelittlenell.com.

Apples Bar & Grill, Ketchum, Idaho Tucked at the base of Mt. Baldy in the Warm Springs Village, this lively restaurant and bar is a local favorite for après-ski camaraderie, an affordable menu and a great selection of beers. (208) 726-7067.

Amsterdam Café & Pub, Whistler, B.C. Funky, fun and fresh, the patio of this hip hangout is the place to see and be seen—and refuel with home-style cooking—after a day on the hill. (604) 932-8334 or amsterdampub.moonfruit.com.

Best Place to Buy Land

Taos County, New Mexico Wide-open spaces and gorgeous scenery make this a popular area for equestrian properties. Easy access to ski slopes and Santa Fe, as well as a growing number of fine art galleries, adds to the appeal. taosguide.com.

Tuolumne County, California Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Nevadas, this area is the gateway to Yosemite National Park. An emerging wine region, wine properties are still available at reasonable prices. tuolumne-county-relocation.com.

Park County, Wyoming Stunning distant-mountain views and plentiful rivers and creeks perfect for fly-fishing create a sublime natural setting for the many ranch properties and sprawling land parcels offered in this county. Check out the Cody area for great deals. codywyoming.net.

Grand County, Colorado A mountain-rimmed valley easily accessible from Denver, Grand County is home to local favorite ski resort, Winter Park, and Grand Lake, the west entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Forest. grand-county.com.