You’ve spent four hours fighting the wind on the slopes, your shins ache from the boots, and honestly, the only thing keeping you going is the thought of a cold pint and something covered in melted cheese. This is the exact moment where Trax Pub & Grill stops being just a restaurant and starts feeling like a sanctuary.
Located right at the base of Greek Peak Mountain Resort in Cortland, NY, it’s basically the epicenter of après-ski culture in the Finger Lakes region. But here’s the thing: it isn't just a "winter place." Most people think of it as a seasonal haunt for skiers to thaw out, but that’s actually a huge misconception.
Trax keeps the energy high year-round. It’s got this massive 6,000-square-foot, two-tier heated deck that literally hangs over a creek. In the summer, you're sitting there watching mountain bikers fly down the trails instead of skiers. It's weirdly peaceful and chaotic all at once.
The Food: Wagyu Burgers and Wood-Fired Heat
Let’s talk about the menu because it’s surprisingly ambitious for a pub. They aren't just slinging frozen patties. They use 100% locally sourced Wagyu beef for their burgers. If you haven't had the Honey Maple Bourbon Burger, you're missing out on a sticky, savory mess that’s worth every napkin you’ll ruin.
Then there’s the wood-fired pizza oven. You can smell it the second you walk through the floor-to-ceiling glass doors.
The Mac n Cheese Pizza is a polarizing masterpiece. It’s got bacon and a thick layer of mozzarella, and while it sounds like a carb-induced fever dream, it’s the number one thing people order after a day of burning 2,000 calories in the snow. If you want something a bit more adventurous, they occasionally run an Elk in Rut burger—elk meat topped with smoked cheddar and a hot pepper relish that actually has some kick.
Why the Atmosphere Works
The design of the place is smart. They’ve got room for about 250 people inside, but it never feels like a cramped cafeteria. The floor-to-ceiling windows mean you never lose sight of the mountain. You're part of the action even if you’re just three beers deep and haven't touched a ski lift all day.
- Mondays: 1/2 Price Wings (the bone-in kind).
- Taco Tuesdays: A classic staple that keeps the locals coming back.
- Trivia Thursdays: This is when things get competitive. DJ Brad DeWitt usually runs the show, and there’s a prize wheel involved.
- Fish Fry Fridays: A New York tradition. For $18.99, you get a massive portion of crispy fish that’s basically a requirement for living in the Northeast.
The "Après Ayrloom" Vibe
Right now, in early 2026, the big draw is the Après Ayrloom series. Every Friday through January and February, they partner up with Ayrloom NY. It’s not just a happy hour; it’s a full-on takeover from 5 PM to 7 PM. You get live music—guys like Roger Decker or the Dead & Friends crew—and samplings of local spirits and ciders. It turns the transition from "day on the mountain" to "night at the pub" into an actual event.
Honestly, the staff deserves a shout-out here too. Dealing with hundreds of people in wet gear who are all starving is a special kind of retail hell, but the service at Trax usually stays pretty sharp. Just don't expect a quiet, romantic candlelit dinner. It’s loud. It’s lively. There are usually 15 big-screen TVs showing whatever game is on. It’s exactly what a mountain pub should be.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning to head over, here are a few things to keep in mind so you don't end up frustrated:
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- Check the Hours: They generally open at 11 AM and stay open until 9 PM or 10 PM depending on the day, but they are subject to the mountain's schedule. If the lifts aren't running due to weather, double-check their socials.
- The Deck is Key: Even if it's chilly, the outdoor heaters on the deck are surprisingly effective. It's the best seat in the house for people-watching.
- Split Checks: They have a strict rule—maximum of four checks per group. If you're there with a massive pack of 12 friends, sort out the Venmo situation before the bill hits the table.
- Gluten-Free Options: They actually offer gluten-free crusts and buns for a small upcharge (usually around $2.49), which isn't always a given at mountain resorts.
Beyond the Resort
While Trax is the star of the show at Greek Peak, it’s part of a bigger ecosystem. You've got Carvers Steakhouse nearby if you want something more upscale, and the Cascades Indoor Waterpark is just a stone's throw away. But for the "real" mountain experience, Trax is where you end up.
It captures that specific feeling of being exhausted but happy. You’re surrounded by people who are all there for the same reason: to enjoy the ridge, the food, and the company. Whether you're there for the $25 Steak & Shrimp Wednesday special or just to grab a pint of something local after a hike, it’s a spot that consistently delivers.
Next Steps for Your Visit
Start by checking the Greek Peak live mountain cams to see the current conditions and crowd levels. If it's a Friday or Saturday night, aim to arrive by 4:30 PM to snag a table before the après-ski rush hits at 5:00 PM. Make sure to download the resort's app or check their website for any last-minute "blackout dates" on their weekly specials before you commit to that 1/2 price wing craving.