Colorado Skiing

Colorado Skiing – The Evolution, Resorts and Safety Reminders

Since the late 1800's people have enjoyed Colorado skiing. Skiing in Colorado began as a necessity for the gold miners, as they used skiing as a way to maneuver more efficiently on the steep slopes and deep snow. Whenever telegraphs lines were knocked out due to harsh weather or avalanches couriers relied on skis to deliver messages. The locals began enjoying skiing as a recreation and began holding competitions, races and other organized events.

It is a known fact that until the early 1900's the best way to travel to school and work during the winter months was to ski. Colorado skiing began to evolve quickly when Carl Howelson, a onetime Norwegian Ski Champion, introduced the population to improved techniques and modern equipment. It was what catapulted Colorado skiing into the sport that it has become.

One rather unknown influences on Colorado skiing is the United States Army. In order to better prepare for combat with the Nazis the 10th Mountain Division trained extensively in the snow in Colorado. After the war, many of the men returned to the Colorado Rockies and helped to develop skiing throughout the state.

Colorado prides itself in knowing that some of the most talented skiers in the world are homegrown. They are also recognized as one of the premier skiing destinations in the world. There are more than 50 peaks that exceed 14,000 feet and they are covered in over 300 inches of snow. They also offer more than two dozen ski resorts which proves that Colorado skiing is hugely popular.

Whether you are an avid skier or a family looking for terrains or runs to match your abilities then you should look at what is known as the Colorado Gems. This little treasure is a collection of eight ski resorts that will give you a wide variety of runs that will match your skills. They are not crowded and are very affordable. The resorts that make up "The Gems" are, Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, Sunlight Mountain Resort, Ski Cooper, Eldora Mountain Resort, Loveland Ski Area, and the Monarch Ski & Snowboard Area.

To make sure that you enjoy your Colorado skiing experience, make sure that you follow all the recommended safety instructions. First do not try trails that are above you skiing experience and physical capabilities. Before you get on a lift there is a posted sign that will tell you who should or should not try this run. This will not only help keep you safe but it will also insure the safety of the other skiers on the trail.

Make sure you follow the "Your Responsibility Code." It states that you need to be in control of your skiing. Make sure that you obey the warnings posted and trail signs. Do not use closed trails, they are closed for a reason. You are responsible to avoid the people in front of you. Do not stop on a run unless you are highly visible and will not be an obstacle. If you don't know how to use the lifts properly, ask.