Full Breakdown
Telluride Ski Patrol Strike Leads to Resort Closure
1/1/2026, 10:28:01 PM
Overview of the Strike and Closure
The Telluride Ski Resort in Colorado has been closed since December 27, 2025, due to a strike by the Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association (TPSPA). The strike follows stalled contract negotiations between the union and the resort's owner, Chuck Horning, who has not made any new proposals since the strike began. The TPSPA, representing 78 ski patrollers, is demanding higher wages to address the rising cost of living in the area, while the resort has offered a smaller wage increase.
Wage Dispute and Contract Negotiations
The core issue of the strike revolves around wage increases. The TPSPA is seeking a $7.78 hourly increase, raising the median wage from $30 to $35.09, with a range from $26 to $53 per hour. In contrast, the resort's latest offer proposed a $3.89 increase, resulting in a median wage of $30. The union argues that the current wages are insufficient to retain experienced patrollers, which poses a safety risk on the mountain. Katherine Devlin, the union's vice president, emphasized that the demands are not merely about pay but also about ensuring safety through experienced personnel.
Economic Impact on Local Businesses
The closure of the resort has significantly impacted local businesses, with lodging bookings down 54% compared to the previous year. Many visitors have opted to ski at nearby resorts, such as Crested Butte, which has seen an uptick in bookings. The Telluride Tourism Board is working to provide alternative activities for guests affected by the closure, but the economic ramifications are evident, as local businesses heavily rely on winter tourism.
Official Statements and Responses
In a joint statement, the towns of Telluride and Mountain Village, along with San Miguel County, acknowledged the strain the labor dispute places on the community but noted that contributions to bridge the wage gap are prohibited under labor laws. Chuck Horning expressed disappointment over the strike's timing, stating that the decision to close the resort was not made by the ski patrol but was a consequence of their actions.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the resort's management argue that the refusal to negotiate meaningfully has exacerbated the situation. The union contends that the resort has not made any adjustments to its offer despite the union's willingness to compromise. The TPSPA has reduced its demands, including dropping requests for healthcare and equipment allowances, yet the resort's position remains unchanged.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
There is some discrepancy regarding the financial gap between the union's demands and the resort's offers. Reports indicate a gap of approximately $100,000 to $115,000 over the life of the proposed three-year contract, highlighting the complexities of the negotiations.
What's Next for Telluride Ski Resort
As the strike continues with no resolution in sight, the Telluride Ski Resort is developing plans to reopen, although it remains unclear how long the closure will last. The situation reflects broader labor unrest in the ski industry, with similar disputes occurring at other resorts, indicating a growing movement among ski patrollers for better wages and working conditions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We want to make a deal, we want to get back to work,” — Katherine Devlin, Vice President, TPSPA
- “The Ski Patrol did not make any decision to close this mountain.” — TPSPA Statement
- “We are concerned that any organization, particularly one that exists to help people, would do something that will have such a devastating effect on our community,” — Chuck Horning, Owner, Telluride Ski Resort
- “All of this could end if ownership offered a contract that reflects the work we do,” — Andy Dennis, Interim Safety Director, TPSPA
