Let’s face it: few of us are ever going to ski like World Cup superstars Mikaela Shiffrin, Lindsey Vonn or Bode Miller. But thanks to some sophisticated and fun clinics at Colorado Ski Country resorts, we can learn some world-class tips that will help us ski not only better, but also safer. Here’s a roundup of a few of this winter’s offerings.
Telluride Ski Resort: At the Ski Biomechanics Camp, skiers train Dr. Kim Hewson, an orthopedic surgeon, the former Director of Sports Medicine at the University of Arizona and a lead Telluride Ski School Instructor. The focus is on moving functionally down the mountain—starting with foot and ankle mechanics; examining upper and lower body separation; and “stacking” the bones for less muscular work. A maximum of four instructors per student means semi-private instruction. The result? Dynamic, energetic turns and plenty of video analysis for lifelong learning. It’s all sandwiched between receptions and luncheons at the Peaks Resort & Spa in the Mountain Village to fuel the fluid, more efficient movements. (16 and up; $1550; January 17 to 20 or February 7 to 10, 2020; tellurideskiresort.com)
Copper Mountain: For those who are looking to race as fast as an Olympian, look no farther than Copper’s new Alpine Technical Center, which the mountain designed specifically for GS and slalom training and racing. Athletes can train on challenging, race-prepared terrain regularly reconfigured for team needs. Coaches will find top safety protection and optimal snowmaking, too. (coppercolorado.com)
Steamboat: The brand-new, $15 million gondola means everyone can move to the top of the mountain 38 percent faster—including kids enrolled in Signature 5 for first grade through age 17. Steamboat’s unique “high-touch” alternative to traditional ski school groups no more than 5 kids per instructor for more personalized instruction ($369 with lunch; steamboat.com).
Loveland Ski Area: This resort right off I-70 is just one of several Colorado Ski Country destinations to make first-timer families feel at home with a private lesson. Think three hours, beginner tickets and gear rentals for four; the photos and memories are free. ($379; skiloveland.com)
Sarah Tuff Dunn recently moved to Louisville, Colorado, with her husband, Carlton, and their two children, Dillon, 12, and Harper, 10. They’re looking forward to exploring the world-class skiing in Colorado, aided by the Colorado Ski Country 5th and 6th Grade Passport Program. Sarah has been writing professionally for nearly 25 years and her work has appeared in The New York Times, SKI, Skiing and Powder, among other publications. Read more of Sarah’s stories here and follow along with her Colorado skiing journey here.
