Youth Ski Mountaineering Program at Eldora Ski Resort — Train for the 2026 Olympics!
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If you are a teenager looking to learn ski mountaineering, check out the Skimo education program just announced by Eldora Mountain Ski & Snowboard Club (EMSC) and Boulder Skimo. They launching the Youth Skimo Program, a unique initiative aimed at introducing kids and teens to the growing sport of ski mountaineering (skimo).
Running from early December through early April, this 15-week program will take place at Eldora Ski Resort, just 30 minutes from Boulder, Colorado. Participants will receive expert coaching in a safe, controlled, and fun environment while learning the techniques of human-powered ski touring and mountain endurance racing.
What is Skimo?
Ski mountaineering, or skimo, blends the endurance challenge of uphill ski touring with the thrill of downhill skiing, making it one of the most dynamic and rewarding winter sports. With skimo set to make its Olympic debut at the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Games, interest in the sport is rapidly growing, and this program provides young athletes with a chance to get ahead of the curve.
Ideal for active, outdoorsy youth—including runners, cyclists, triathletes, and alpine, Nordic, and freeride skiers—skimo builds strength, endurance, and technical skills while offering a fresh new way to experience the mountains.
“Human-powered ski touring is an incredible way for kids to stay active and build endurance during the winter months. Our Youth Skimo Program offers a safe, accessible, and fun environment to introduce kids to this growing sport, while also fostering skills that can last a lifetime.”
– Davide Giardini, co-founder of Boulder Skimo
Program Details
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:00–5:30 PM (December–April)
Where: Eldora Ski Resort
Ages: 12 to 19 years old
Requirements: Participants must be able to ski a blue run and have their own skimo gear (gear assistance available)
Cost: $750 for the full 15-week program (30 sessions) or $35 per drop-in. Late signups are pro-rated at $25 per session.
The program emphasizes technique, fitness, fun, and progression, ensuring an engaging experience for skiers of all levels. Whether a participant is completely new to skimo or looking to refine their skills, the expert coaching team will help them build confidence, endurance, and friendships along the way.
Meet the Coaches
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Davide Giardini
- Former youth ski racer on the FIS European Alpine Ski and Carving Cup circuits
- 2024 USA Skimo National Team coach
- 2024 Colorado Ski Mountaineering Cup overall series winner
- La Sportiva North America ski team athlete and founder of Boulder Skimo
Meg Cooke
- Canadian Level 2 Ski Instructor and Race Coach
- 2024 Colorado Skimo Cup winner
- Boulder Skimo Women’s Clinic coach
- Competitive racer on the National Skimo Cup circuit
Why Join?
This program isn’t just about racing—it’s about building fitness, technical skills, and a deep love for the mountains. Whether your child dreams of competing at the highest level or simply wants to try something new and exciting this winter, the Youth Skimo Program at Eldora is the perfect opportunity to explore this fast-growing sport.
Sign Up Now
Spots are limited! Don’t miss the chance to get your child involved in one of the most exciting winter endurance sports out there.
Register today, right here.
