Senior Team Skimo Program, ages 14+

Senior Team Skimo introduces athletes to the fundamentals of ski mountaineering, racing, and training. Skimo (ski mountaineering) racing has been accepted as an official Olympic sport for the 2026 games in Italy, and this is a chance to be a part of one of the first dedicated youth programs in the U.S. focused on ski mountaineering training and racing.

This program is for athletes interested in this fun sport and building their fitness throughout the winter season. It will be geared toward competing in the Town Challenge Uphill Ski Series of races and some other events throughout the State. Think of it as a combination of cross-country skiing (uphill) and alpine skiing (downhill) with some mountain trail running and backcountry adventures thrown in too. It really is a sport for those who value fitness, fun, racing, and a love of being in the snow.

The focus will be on the fundamentals of Skimo, including proper skinning technique, transitions from uphill to downhill (skin to ski), advanced endurance training, and building a fun team atmosphere. Strength training one day a week will also be included. There will be a pre-season period with strength training, spin bike workouts, and some uphill hiking. Athletes will also learn the importance of the local uphill ski policies and set an example for other athletes.

• Minimum ability requirement: Downhill ski experience, a base level of fitness, and a desire for physical and mental challenges. Uphill (backcountry or resort skinning) ski experience would be very beneficial.
• Pass requirement: Participants must have an uphill pass to Steamboat Ski Resort and Howelsen Hill (pass type for Howelsen Hill TBD).
• Equipment information: Lightweight AT ski gear: boots, skis, bindings, skins, etc. (typical heavy backcountry gear will not allow you to get the benefits of this program - We will be sourcing product deals and discounts with vendors to help with this). Athletes will also need a pack, helmet, beacon, shovel, probe, and proper apparel. (Think more cross country than downhill for apparel.) A heart rate monitor would also be a beneficial piece of equipment. Gear discounts are available on certain brands until Thursday, November 2!  Email Tim Deboom with questions.

  2023-2024 DATES, TIMES AND LOCATIONS: November 15 - March 29

  Dryland: November 15 - 29
  Wednesday and Friday, 4-5:30pm at Howelsen Hill - strength, spinning, hiking

  On Snow: December 1 - March 29
  Monday and Wednesday, 4:00-6:00pm at Howelsen Hill
  Friday, 4:00-7:00 at Steamboat Resort
  Strength/Gym Day TBD

  2023-2024 PROGRAM FEE: $3,250 plus $450 refundable work deposit

  Visit our Scholarship page for information on program fee scholarships, including the one-step EZ Scholarship.

  For information on the SSWSC work deposit program, see the Volunteer page.

  Questions?
  Email Andy Michnay, Freeskiing Program Director