The Telluride Ski Resort is set to close today, December 27, 2025, as the Telluride Professional Ski Patrollers Association has announced a work stoppage. This strike, which was planned for the holiday weekend, is the culmination of ongoing contract negotiations that have been stalling since June 2025. The dispute centers around compensation, with the ski patrollers' union seeking a significant pay increase that has proven contentious with management.
The Telluride Ski Resort has decided to close its operations entirely in response to the strike. The resort's management, under Telski, cited safety concerns as the primary reason for shutting down. Without the presence of ski patrollers, the resort cannot ensure the safety of its visitors, especially during a busy holiday season. This decision was made after nearly all unionized ski patrollers voted in favor of the strike.
The Ski Patrol Strike has significant implications for the resort and its visitors. Telluride Ski Resort is one of Colorado's premier winter destinations, attracting thousands of tourists each holiday season. The closure, effective from today till further notice, will disrupt travel plans and potentially impact the local economy. The resort's management has expressed regret over the closure but emphasized that safety is paramount.
This situation is not unprecedented. Last year, Park City ski patrol union also chose December 27 to begin a work stoppage lasting 13 days. The Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association announced late Tuesday its intention to strike on December 27. In response, Telluride Ski and Golf said it would close the resort the same day and work on a plan to safely reopen. The ongoing labor disputes highlight the challenges faced by ski resorts in balancing operational costs and employee compensation.
The Telluride Ski Resort has announced that it will be working on a plan to safely reopen. The resort's management is committed to resolving the labor dispute as quickly as possible to minimize the impact on visitors and the community. The strike serves as a reminder of the critical role that ski patrollers play in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of winter sports enthusiasts.
