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Colorado Shines a Spotlight on Ski Safety Awareness Month

January isn’t just about fresh powder and mid-season turns—it’s Ski Safety Awareness Month, a time when Colorado’s ski areas put extra focus on slope safety and encourage skiers and riders to be mindful on the mountain.

Across Colorado Ski Country USA, resorts took to the slopes and screens to educate guests on Your Responsibility Code—the 10 essential guidelines from the National Ski Areas Association designed to help skiers and riders navigate the mountain as safely as possible.

From reminders to stay in control (because nobody wants to be “that guy”) to knowing where to stop (spoiler: not in the middle of a run), resorts found creative ways to keep safety top of mind. Many also offered behind-the-scenes glimpses of their ski patrol in action and hosted special events to highlight the importance of safety on the slopes.

And in the state capitol, Governor Jared Polis proclaimed January 23 as Colorado Ski Safety Awareness Day, further emphasizing the significance of education and responsibility on the mountain.

Skiing and riding in Colorado is all about fun, freedom, and adventure—and knowing and obeying the Code makes it even funner, even freer, and even more adventurous.

Love at First Lift: Planning the Perfect Snowy Date

Slope-mates in the Making

Preparation is key to making your ski date as smooth as freshly groomed corduroy. Start by checking out the CSCUSA Snow Report to scope out conditions—bonus points if there’s fresh powder in the forecast. Then dive into the specific resort pages to nail down the essentials, like parking info, dining options, and any on-mountain events that might spice up your date. For the ultimate hack, consider the Colorado Ski Country USA Gems Discount Card, which offers BOGO deals at 9 Colorado resorts with slopeside scenes so sparkling we call them our Gems.

When it comes to ski runs, mapping out a game plan is a must. Choose trails that match your mutual ability level, and don’t forget to pick a designated meeting spot on the mountain; walkie-talkies are an underrated retro hack if cell service gets spotty. Before you hit the slopes, ensure your passes are compatible or snag those lift tickets online to avoid awkward surprises at the ticket window.

The Road to Romance

Getting to the mountain can set the tone for your whole day. Make the drive more memorable with a collaborative playlist filled with tunes you both love. Double-dating or carpooling? Even better. If you’re looking to skip traffic entirely, hop on the Winter Park Express or Snowstang bus for a stress-free ride.

Breakfast is the power meal of any powder day, so pack a thermos of coffee and road-friendly eats, like breakfast burritos, granola bars, and fruit. Don’t forget to charge everything up: phones, Bluetooth speakers, and even boot heaters, if you’re feeling fancy. Savvy skiers know that the best laid ski date plans include parking reservations, especially at resorts where spots are limited or required. Circling the lot like a lost ski bum is so 2000-and-late.

Tandem Turns and Chairlift Chats

Once you’re on the mountain, the real fun begins. Make sure you’re both rocking colorful or easily identifiable gear to avoid accidental separation. Tuck pocket snacks, like granola bars, gummy fruit treats, or nuts, into your jacket for quick energy boosts And don’t sleep on our favorite toasty tip: hand warmers in your pocket for instant heat.

Whether you’re ripping double blacks or cruising greens, remember to keep the vibe fun and supportive. After all, it’s not about how many runs you take but how much fun you’re having together.

Liftlines to Love Stories

No ski date is complete without a little après-ski magic. If you’re in the mood for an intimate, easygoing vibe, bring along a small portable propane firepit, a warming blanket, and a folding table with camp chairs. A boot mat is a game-changer for keeping your feet clean and dry as you swap out of gear, and don’t forget a bathroom kit with a change of clothes for peak comfort.

Tailgating spots, like A-Basin’s legendary Beach, Loveland’s laid-back slopeside scene, or Sunlight’s cozy community vibe, are perfect for parking lot après. Seeking something a bit more glamorous? Aspen’s world-renowned après bars, complete with DJs and bubbly, deliver a festive atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Waiting out ski traffic over a nice dinner in town is also a smart move to end the day on a high note.

Final Chair Thoughts

From sharing chairlift laughs, carving turns together, and toasting to a successful day on the slopes, a ski date is the perfect mix of adventure, teamwork, and cozy moments. With a little planning, the right gear, and plenty of snacks, you’ll both leave the mountain with rosy cheeks and warm memories.

 

 

Image courtesy of Purgatory

Three Toasty Tips to Keep Skiers Warm on the Coldest Days

Let it Snow — The Cold Never Bothered Skiers Anyway

We’re in the heart of the ski season, and no matter the weather, skiers and riders are loving every moment on Colorado’s slopes. Our top tip for tackling bone-chilling ski days? Layers! Cover all exposed skin and stack on extra and thicker layers when temperatures plummet.

1. Don’t flake on layers
  • Start with a base layer of quick-drying polyester, wool, or even silk to help wick sweat and keep you toasty and dry. Cotton is a hard pass—it’ll leave you cold and clammy in no time.
  • Next up, the middle layer for insulation. Think fleece pullovers, sweaters, or vests; they’re perfect for locking in warmth. When it’s downright frigid, doubling up is the move. Try layering a sweatshirt over your fleece, rocking a fleece-and-vest combo, or slipping on lined leggings over your long underwear.
  • Now it’s time to suit up with your outer layer or shell to keep snow and wind from crashing the party. Opt for waterproof jackets and pants with snow guards and insulation to stay warm, dry, and ready to conquer the cold.
2. Warm hands and feet are happy hands and feet
  • Layering wins again when it comes to keeping your hands warm on sub-zero ski days. Mittens outshine gloves in the warmth department, and synthetic or silk glove liners (not cotton!) are a game-changer. Don’t forget to toss some hand warmers in your pocket for the ultimate heating hack.
  • Ditch the bulky sock stacks. One tall, heavy-weight wool or synthetic blend sock will lock in warmth and boost circulation. Keep your tootsies extra toasty by wearing one pair of socks on the drive up and changing into your warm woolies right before you strap on those boots.
3. Brain freeze? Not on our watch!
  • Helmets are a no-brainer (pun intended). Not only do they protect your noggin, but they also keep your head surprisingly warm. For those extra-arctic days, layer up first with a snug beanie, wear a neck gaiter to shield your face, and add a helmet hood to lock in heat.

Skiers and riders thrive in the cold—it’s the key to perfect powder. Layer up with the right gear, review slope safety with Your Responsibility Code, and snag your Colorado Ski Country USA passes for accessible skiing options before sales close. The slopes are calling!

Aspen Delivers Delicious, Sustainable Design On Buttermilk Mountain

by Amanda Faison
skier, ski mom, lover of slopeside cuisine

 

With a holistic approach that considers sustainability from at least three levels, local, state, and federal, CSCUSA member and four-mountain resort Aspen Snowmass has been a leader in the push for sustainability for decades. One such example of their commitment to combating climate change and enacting actionable sustainability efforts is the Buttermilk Mountain Lodge, which opened to the public in January 2023.

The Nitty-Gritty

The passive-solar, all-electric, Argon gas filled-windowed building houses Buttermilk’s base restaurant and guest services center. Instead of relying on natural gas for heating and cooling like conventional buildings and emitting carbon dioxide for the duration of its life cycle, Buttermilk Mountain Lodge will get greener with each passing year. In fact, within a matter of years, it will become 100 percent carbon neutral. The target date is 2030, but that goal may be achieved sooner: the resort has partnered with Aspen CORE, a nonprofit leading the Roaring Fork Valley to a carbon-free, net-zero energy grid by 2030.

The Buttermilk Mountain Lodge may be just one building, but it’s a shining example of the Aspen Snowmass commitment to tackling climate change, both day-to-day and in the long term.

The Yum-Yum

But don’t think that the eco-conscious structure doesn’t also fulfill all the requirements of an on-mountain lodge built for skiers and riders.

Its high-beam ceilings and mountain views are a feast for the eyes, and the Mediterranean inspired cuisine (think pastas, salads, fresh grill selections, house-made soups, and baked goods made on premises) is a feast, period.

 

 

 

Photo courtesy of Buttermilk Mountain

Wish You Were Here: Copper Mountain

Greetings from Copper Mountain

Known since its 1972 inaugural season as the Athlete’s Mountain, Copper‘s founders took a cue from the topography and designed a resort built to inspire snow lovers of all skill levels. The mountain’s 2,500+ acres of high alpine terrain was helpfully separated by Mother Nature into three distinct zones: access expert terrain from East Village, intermediate terrain from Center Village, and easy terrain from the West Village.

The Athlete’s Mountain

Located just 75 miles west of Denver, Copper is also home to Woodward Copper, a skiing and snowboarding facility for the young (and aerially-minded) at heart that operates all year long, and an official U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team Training Center.

Not surprisingly, Copper‘s calendar is suitably jam-packed with world-class events for world-class athletes, including the Toyota U.S. Grand Prix halfpipe event, a new X Games event, and the U.S. Revolution Tour. But wait… there’s more! Staple events, like Safetyfest and the Subaru Winterfest, share mountain time with the IFSA Freeride World Qualifier and Junior Freeride events for big mountain competitors and the USASA National Championships.

So whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder or a spectator or all three all at once, Copper’s got you covered. Grab that Ski Passport and go, future Olympians!

 

 

Photo courtesy of Copper Mountain

Peak Presents: 13 Gifts to Elevate the Ski Season

Colorado Ski Country USA Brings the Magic of the Mountains to Skiers & Snowboarders

It’s the holiday season, and you know what that means here in Colorado Ski Country USA: fresh snow and days on the slopes!

As you’re scouting for stocking stuffers or spinning up Hanukkah gift ideas, here are some snowy suggestions to give the chill chasers on your list the present of powder days and magical mountain memories.

Stocking Stuffers
  • Our Ski Passport is perfect for students in grades 3–6. Give ’em four days each at 20 CSCUSA member resorts for just $67—that’s 80 days on the slopes for just $67! (Do we repeat ourself? We do! What a deal, snow lovers!) As if that’s not enough, every Ski Passport includes two free junior gear rentals, courtesy of presenting sponsor Christy Sports.
  • Our Gems Teen Pass gives 12 to 17-year-olds access to the slopes at Colorado’s best-kept ski-crets—the Gems resorts! For $199, teens can enjoy up to 22 days of skiing or riding.
  • “Fully compostable” probably doesn’t scream “tech accessories” to you, but Pela is here to flip the script. Pela’s phone cases are plastic-free, made from plants, and ethically manufactured on top of being incredibly chic. Check out their Ski & Snowboard Collection for the perfect stocking stuffer.
  • Anything that makes hauling gear less of a hassle earns a spot at the top of our wish lists, and that’s where the Stevie Strap comes in. This clever accessory lets you carry your skis and poles with ease, taking the struggle out of schlepping to the slopes.
  • You can never go wrong with a classic pair of socks, especially when they’re warm enough to make your toes do a happy dance. Smartwool delivers an impressive lineup of ski socks in every style, thickness, and colorway imaginable. Functional, fashionable, and downright cozy? That’s a win-win-win, people!
  • Give the shredders on your list a little extra grip and a whole lotta Colorado pride. A snowboard stomp pad with a Centennial State twist adds style and function to your favorite snowboarder’s set up.
After the Party, It’s the Après Party
  • For all the après aficionados in your life, a portable camp stove is an absolute must-have. Tuck it away while you conquer the slopes, then fire it up for a cozy lunch or a post-lift parking lot party.
  • Level up your après game with a pair of cozy slippers. The Rossignol Winter Slippers from our partner Christy Sports are the ultimate gift for snow lovers who value comfort. Stash them in the car for that glorious moment when the boots come off.
  • Keep those tootsies toasty and dry with a trusty rubber mat. Lay down an Adventure Mat while swapping out your boots and use it to keep your gear clean as you load the car. It’s the perfect defense against snow and mud.
Prezzies for Powder Hounds
  • Got ski and snowboard sistahs? These clinics offer expert instruction tailored just for women, whether they’re out to master moguls, learn to carve perfect turns, or just meet new friends and make memories.
  • Powder hounds, meet your match: the Head Radar Helmet. This clever combo fuses the perks of goggles with the sleek functionality of a visor helmet. With the Radar line, Head has nailed the trifecta—fit, style, and performance—all while keeping comfort on lock.
  • Thanks to the collaboration between Christy Sports, SOS Outreach, and Nordica, there’s a ski that’s truly in a class of its own. The Nordica SOS Outreach Enforcer 94 features a limited-edition graphic, with 100% of profits going straight to SOS Outreach. Talk about a gift that gives back! But don’t wait—only 70 pairs will hit the slopes, so act fast before they’re all spoken for.
  • Searching for the ultimate gift for the snow lover who has it all? Look no further than the Colorado Ski Country USA Gold Pass membership. This luxury pass offers unlimited skiing all season long at 20 CSCUSA member resorts with no blackout dates and direct-to-lift simplicity. Plus, it’s fully transferable, making it the perfect gift to share with clients, colleagues, family, or friends. Gold Pass membership applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and a limited number are available each season. It’s a golden opportunity to give the gift of endless powder days!

Last but definitely not least, consider the gift of a FREE subscription to the Colorado Ski Country USA Snow Report! Customize your delivery days and get up-to-the-morning snow totals, resort conditions, and more, delivered straight to your inbox at 7:00 am.

Happy holidays, snow lovers!

Slay, Belles: Women’s Clinics In Colorado Ski Country USA

Women’s Ski Clinics, Camps & Lessons

Whether you’re looking to boost your confidence, sharpen your skills, or simply have a blast with like-minded women on the slopes, we have you covered here in Colorado Ski Country USA. Our member resorts offer an array of women’s clinics for gals eager to up their ski—or board—game. Led by expert female instructors, these clinics combine camaraderie with personalized coaching, giving you the tools you need to hit the slopes with style and confidence. Powder hound or blues cruiser, there’s a clinic ready to help you take on new challenges—and have a great time doing it!

Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves

Women-only clinics in Colorado Ski Country USA provide a fun, supportive space that’s perfect for tackling fears and boosting confidence on the mountain. “I’ve seen that in a women-only clinic, the women feel more comfortable talking about their fears,” says CSCUSA’s 2023–24 Ski Instructor of the Year and Telluride Ski Instructor Deb Willits. “When that happens, we can really dive into what it will take to increase confidence.”

The kind of support to be found in ski clinics run by women for women fosters growth and resilience among participants. Olivia Butrymovich, Copper Mountain communications and philanthropy manager, says that the “extra layer of encouragement that a group of women can provide one another is unmatched.”

Butrymovich details Copper’s decades-long commitment to female snow lovers: “We’ve offered some form of seasonal women’s program for over 30 years. This winter is no different, as we’ll have our Women’s Wednesdays seasonal program and our Women’s Clinics.” Many women’s clinics are also tailored to particular areas of technique that allow skiers and shredders to hone specific skills. “We’ve really tried to create a supportive space for women that are looking to tackle new challenges on the mountain, like navigating a technical bump run or making a lap through the terrain park,” Butrymovich explains.

Explore Your Edge

Women-only clinics are available each season at Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Eldora, Granby Ranch, Monarch Mountain, Powderhorn, Purgatory, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Ready to master moguls, perfect your turns, or make new friends? Women-only clinics across Colorado Ski Country USA offer something special for every woman.

So buckle up those boots, join your ski sisters, and leave your fears in the dust… er, powder. (Pro tip: our Gems Discount Card has a BOGO offer that’s perfect for sharing with a girlfriend!)

Golden Deals for Silver Skiers

Senior Skier Programs in Colorado Ski Country USA

According to the most recent National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) Demographic Study, the median age of snowsports participants continues to climb slowly upwards, a trend fueled by baby boomers, many of whom are skating—and skiing—into their 60s and 70s with no signs of slowing down. The NSAA survey tell us that, here in Colorado Ski Country USA, the median age of our fellow snow lovers is 38 and that means that the sight of silver-haired skiers schussing down a trail near you is more common than ever.

And why not? Skiing can improve balance and coordination, cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and bone density. Skiers (and snowboarders) of all ages know that happiness is being outside doing something you love with people you love, and happiness, along with all those other measurable benefits, keeps you young at heart.

If you’re one of the many elder statesmen and women who plan to hit the slopes this winter, take advantage of the deals, discounts, and special events on offer in Colorado Ski Country USA.

 

Aspen Snowmass

Seniors between the ages of 65–69 can choose between two season pass options for the upcoming winter season. Purchase an Premier Senior Pass at the early pricing rate, now through November 29; regular pricing begins November 30.

Seniors age 70+ can purchase a Premier Silver Pass, now through November 29; regular pricing begins November 30.

Aspen Snowmass also offers discounted lift tickets for seniors 65+.

 

Cooper

If you’re 75 or older, you can enjoy all that Ski Cooper has to offer with a $10 no limitations, no restrictions season pass.

 

Copper Mountain

If you’re 50 years or older and still committed to carving, consider Copper’s Over the Hill Gang. Members meet in Center Village to share their love of skiing and shredding, if you’d rather ride than slide. Come for the tips and tricks you learn; stay for the camaraderie and the new friends.

 

Echo Mountain

The ski area that describes itself as close, affordable, and kick-butt wants seniors to come on up and try new things—or keep on getting better and better, like fine wine. Their Unlimited Senior and Value Senior season passes are for skiers and snowboarders age 65+.

 

Howelsen Hill

North America’s longest running ski area features a variety of discounted tickets and passes for seniors age 65+. And skiers of all ages can take advantage of Ski Free Sundays all season long, thanks to the community of Steamboat Springs, which greenlit the program as a way to celebrate the community’s Olympian spirit and honor the tradition of this historic ski area.

 

Granby Ranch

Skiers 76 and older are golden at Granby Ranch, where they can ski or ride all winter long with the purchase of a discounted Golden season pass or take advantage of discounted daily lift tickets.

 

Loveland

Seniors 70+ can enjoy deep discounts on season pass products, while skiers and riders age 60-69 can also take advantage of daily lift ticket deals during the regular season.

 

Monarch

Seniors ages 62–69 can take advantage of discounts on new and renewal season passes, and since Monarch is celebrating its 85th birthday this year (congrats, Monarch!), they can buy their own Super Senior Pass for skiers and riders age 69+ for just $25.

 

Powderhorn

Thanks to the Western Colorado resort’s Mission Affordable program, seniors 75+ can buy a very, very affordable season pass.

 

Purgatory

Purgatory offers a senior discount at every level of pass for skiers and riders 65 and older, and Super Seniors (75+) ski for free.

The resort’s 6-week Senior Ski Clinic (55+) is designed specifically for older adults looking to build confidence and improve their skiing skills. Whether it’s mastering speed control, balance, or navigating varied terrain, this clinic provides expert instruction in a safe and welcoming environment. It’s the perfect opportunity for skiers aged 55+ to enhance their abilities, enjoy the mountain, and connect with others who share a passion for skiing.

Clinics are offered for both skiing and snowboarding, intermediate and advanced; clinics are limited to 3 students. Clinics run on 6 successive Tuesdays, January 9, 16, 23, 30, and February 6, 13 or Thursdays, January 11, 18, 25, and February 1, 8, 15.

 

Steamboat

In Ski Town, U.S.A.®, skiers and snowboarders 70 and older can take advantage of discounts on daily lift tickets. Prices vary throughout the season.

 

Telluride

For skiers 50 years young and up
Telluride’s Silver Skier Program welcomes everyone from novices all the way through advanced skiers. Ski in small groups with new friends who have similar goals and abilities. Groups are kept together and coached by the same certified instructor for the entire 4-week session. Session 1 will take place January 9, 16, 23 and 30; Session 2 will take place February 6, 13, 20 and 27.

 

 

 

Photo courtesy of Granby Ranch

Say It IS Snow!

Colorado Ski Country USA Resorts See the First Snow of the 2024-25 Season

 

Several Colorado Ski Country USA resorts woke up to a tantalizing taste of winter this morning: a dusting of snow on the peaks!

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, about 65 miles west of Denver, saw a dusting of the white stuff even though they’re still open for summer operations— or as they call it: “not winter.” Visitors to Arapahoe Basin can still enjoy such “not winter” activities as scenic lift rides, an aerial adventure park, a via ferrata, hiking, biking, and disc golf.

Just a little further up the road—82 miles west of Denver—Copper Mountain also got a frosty preview of winter overnight.

Believe it or not (believe it, snow lovers!), Copper Mountain still has skiers and snowboarders enjoying the snow this summer at the Summer Hike Park. The hike-to snowfield has held up all summer long, giving athletes 12 straight months of training on snow for the first time ever! Copper Mountain is only a few weeks out from turning on the snow guns, but there’s still time to enjoy golfing, go-karting, the mountain coaster, scenic chairlift rides, hiking, biking, and more.

Now is a great time to start planning your season because the earlier you book tickets, lessons, rentals, and lodging, the more opportunities there are to save. Just like airline tickets or hotels, ski prices increase as the season gets closer, and by the time the snow flies and the skiing is great, the best deals will be long gone. If you have a favorite resort, look into a season pass or multi-day lift ticket pack. Many resorts have bundle pricing for packages of lift tickets, lessons, rentals, and lodging, and some include free skiing for kids. ​

Start planning your trip now on our resorts page. You can search by CSCUSA passes accepted, available activities, and see a map of where all the CSCUSA member ski areas are located.

And once the season starts, be in the s’know with our customizable Snow Report. Just sign up, choose your days, and get the overnight snow totals from all 21 CSCUSA member resorts in your inbox by 7:00 am.

 

 

Photo courtesy of Arapahoe Basin

2024 Double Diamond Award Winners

Double Diamond Awards Celebrate Standout Snow Pros from the 2023-24 Season

 

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) announced the winners of its 2023-24 Double Diamond Awards in front of an audience of industry leaders and partners at its annual meeting on June 6, at Coors Field. Sponsored by Leitner-Poma, the Double Diamond Awards, which have been given annually since 1999, honor the men and women who dedicate their seasons to making Colorado winter sports enjoyable, safer, and fun-filled.

“The recognition of the Double Diamond Awards is richly deserved by each and every one of the award winners,” said CSCUSA President and CEO Melanie Mills. “In partnership with our sponsor Leitner-Poma, we take a moment to celebrate the professionals who make skiing and snowboarding safer and more enjoyable for everyone, each day of the season.”

 

 

And the 2024 Double Diamond Awards go to…

 

Amy Geppi

Amy Geppi  |  Food & Beverage Professional of the Year
Copper Mountain
An industry veteran with extensive experience at several Colorado ski resorts, Amy Geppi has mastered the unique challenges of on-mountain dining, including staffing, transportation, and crowd management. She brought all that to bear as Copper unveiled Aerie, its new 19,000 sq. ft. facility mid-mountain lodge with three eateries.

 

 

 

Bill Henke

Bill Henke  |  Guest Services Professional of the Year
Sunlight Mountain Resort
Bill Henke brings more than 40 years of experience in corporate sales to the Guest Services Department at Sunlight Mountain Resort. According to his colleagues, he is intelligent, kind, and an excellent communicator, and his compassion, patience, and follow-through make him the perfect fit for Sunlight’s guest experience team.

 

 

 

Emily Moratta

Emily Moratta  |  Patroller of the Year
Arapahoe Basin
Emily Moratta manages Arapahoe Basin’s patrol medical training, coordinates EMT education, and liaises with the medical director. With advanced avalanche and rescue certifications, she plays a key role in snow safety and lift evacuation training. As a Summit County Search and Rescue Team Leader, Emily has logged nearly 900 hours on missions and trainings. Emily is also currently training her puppy Echo as an avalanche dog while she pursues her Advanced EMT certification.

 

 

Louis Miller  |  Snow Groomer of the Year
Eldora
Louis Miller’s colleagues from Eldora Mountain Resort accepted the award for Snow Groomer of the Year posthumously on his behalf. Louis, Eldora’s equipment manager and snowcat supervisor, died while working on the trail crew at Eldora in May, days after learning he had won the award. Originally from Kentucky, Louis worked in the ski industry for over 25 years. During the nomination process, he shared that he loved the physical and mental challenge of his job, and the focus and concentration necessary to overcome those challenges. ​

 

 

Marc Fernandes

Marc Fernandes  |  Instructor of the Year
Aspen Snowmass
Marc Fernandes is a 17-year veteran of Aspen’s Ski and Snowboard School. This award recognizes his work to update Aspen Snowmass’s New Hire Training Program as a comprehensive, multimedia experience. Marc’s colleagues say his always-smiling presence on the snow combined with an innate ability to connect with guests make him the ideal instructor for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and abilities.

 

 

Micah Schulman

Micah Schulman  |  Snowmaker of the Year
Echo Mountain

Micah Schulman has been with Echo for four years. During that time, he has excelled—first as a lift operator, then as a snowmaker, and now as Echo’s snowmaking supervisor. According to his colleagues, Micah’s persistent optimism and positive attitude, even during long, cold overnight shifts, make him a joy to work with, and his hard work, determination, and strategic thinking have significantly enhanced Echo’s snow surface quality. ​

 

 

Scott Mackie

Scott Mackie  |  Terrain Park Specialist of the Year
Aspen Snowmass
In his 11 years at Aspen, Scott Mackie has worked in food and beverage, hospitality, trail maintenance, terrain parks, and snowcat operations. Over the past decade, Scott has demonstrated an unparalleled attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to his team.

 

 

 

Micki Hackenberger

Micki Hackenberger  |  President’s Award
The 2024 President’s Award, which is given annually to a person who has made significant and positive contributions to the trade association, went to Micki Hackenberger from Husch Blackwell Strategies. Micki’s political skills combined with her deep knowledge of and connections at the Capitol have been crucial in navigating state policy and legislation on issues of concern to the ski industry.

 

 

 

 

Rob Perlman

Senator Dylan Roberts  |  Chair’s Award
The 2024 Chair’s Award was presented to Senator Dylan Roberts, a strong and effective voice for mountain and rural communities at the Capitol. Senator Roberts was elected in 2022 to serve in Colorado’s 8th Senate District, which includes Summit, Eagle, Grand, and Routt Counties. Senator Roberts has passed numerous bills to protect our environment and water, lower healthcare costs, create housing solutions, and secure funding and tax incentives for passenger rail efforts.

 

 

 

 

 

All photos courtesy of Cort Muller