The Telluride Ski Resort is facing an unprecedented challenge as the Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association, the union representing the ski patrol, has decided to go on strike. The strike will commence on December 27, 2025, during the holiday weekend, causing the resort to close its doors temporarily. This action comes after months of negotiations between the union and the resort over compensation issues, with no resolution in sight.
The dispute has been brewing since June, with the union and management unable to agree on a fair wage increase for the ski patrol. The Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association has been pushing for higher wages, while the resort offered a 13% wage increase for the 2025/26 season, along with guaranteed minimum Cost of Living Increases of 5% for the subsequent two seasons. The union, however, found this offer insufficient, leading to the decision to strike.
The decision to strike has significant implications for the resort and its visitors. The closure of the ski resort during a peak holiday period is a substantial blow to both visitors and the local economy. The closure is expected to disrupt travel plans and cause financial losses for local businesses that depend on tourist traffic. The resort has stated that it will work on a plan to reopen safely once the strike is resolved.
The strike highlights the broader issues within the ski industry regarding labor conditions and compensation. Ski patrollers are essential workers who ensure the safety of visitors on the slopes. Their work is physically demanding and often involves high-risk situations, making fair compensation a critical issue. This strike serves as a reminder of the value these workers bring to the industry and the importance of addressing their concerns to maintain a safe and functional ski resort.
As the Telluride Ski Resort navigates this labor dispute, visitors and the local community are left in limbo. The future of the ski season at Telluride hangs in the balance, and the resolution of this strike will be crucial for the resort's operations and its reputation. The situation underscores the need for dialogue and negotiation to resolve labor issues and ensure the smooth running of ski resorts during peak seasons.
