We are now 48 hours into a significant labor dispute in the San Juan Mountains. The Telluride Ski Patrol strike has entered its second day, resulting in the indefinite closure of Telluride ski resort. While the lifts are stationary, the situation on the ground is rapidly evolving.
From an industry perspective, this strike highlights the growing tension between resort operations and the rising cost of living in premier ski towns. Telluride, which holds a respectable ShredIndex score of 72.9/100, is a bucket-list destination for many, but for the patrollers who ensure its safety, the financial reality has reached a breaking point. Currently, striking patrollers are not receiving pay, placing immediate financial strain on the workforce responsible for avalanche mitigation and mountain safety.
However, in true mountain town fashion, the community is stepping up to bridge the gap. If you are looking to support the patrol during this stoppage, several avenues have emerged.
How to Support the Patrol
1. Direct Financial Aid A GoFundMe campaign was launched earlier this month to assist striking patrollers with urgent necessities, including rent and groceries. This is the most direct way to ensure these workers can sustain themselves during negotiations.
2. Silverton Mountain Steps In In a show of solidarity from the rugged neighbor to the north, Silverton Mountain is offering a 25% discount on guided tickets and heli-skiing. Crucially, each sale using the promo code “SupportPatrol” will result in a donation to the Telluride Ski Patrol fund. It is a unique instance of inter-resort cooperation during a labor crisis.
3. Industry Support from Raide Research Colorado-based mountain gear brand Raide Research, known for their specialized ski touring equipment, has pledged to donate 5% of its sales to the ski patrol.
With the resort closed, many skiers may be looking to earn their turns in the backcountry. If you are heading out past the gates, ensuring you have reliable touring equipment is non-negotiable. While supporting Raide is a great way to help the cause, if you are outfitting yourself for backcountry travel, ensure you have the essentials:
4. Local Support at The Cowboy Coffee On the ground in town, The Cowboy Coffee is accepting donations from customers directly at the register. Additionally, they are keeping the striking patrollers fueled by offering them free coffee throughout the dispute.
For those currently in the area or planning to book accommodation for later in the season, be aware that resort operations are suspended until further notice. We will continue to monitor this developing story as negotiations proceed.
Source: Unofficial Networks
