Ski resort employees in Colorado are experiencing a significant shift in their industry, inspired by recent events in Utah. The success of ski patrollers at Park City Mountain Resort, where a strike led to higher wages and better benefits, is now fueling discussions across Colorado. These negotiations, particularly with resorts owned by Vail Resorts, highlight a growing wave of union activity in the ski industry.
Momentum for Unions Builds After Utah Victory
The strike at Park City Mountain Resort in Utah was a watershed moment for ski resort unions. Patrollers there secured better pay and benefits, setting an example for ski workers in other states, including Colorado.
Ryan Dineen, an organizer with Communications Workers of America (CWA) Local 7781, explained how the Utah strike has energized union conversations across the ski industry. “There’s a lot of awareness now,” Dineen said. “Guests are asking questions on chairlifts, and union members are becoming more active. Park City’s achievements have been an inspiration.”
Although each resort has unique circumstances, the demands and concerns of ski patrollers in Colorado mirror those raised in Utah. With Vail Resorts owning several major ski areas in Colorado, such as Keystone, Breckenridge, and others, employees are pushing for similar improvements in their contracts.
Union Activity Expands in Colorado
In Colorado, ski patrollers at Arapahoe Basin have already voted to unionize, marking a key development in the industry. Meanwhile, negotiations for Keystone Resort ski patrollers are ongoing, and Breckenridge patrollers will have their contracts up for negotiation in April. The shift toward unionization is evident, as employees increasingly seek fair pay and better working conditions.
“This is a moment of momentum for unions,” Dineen said. “It’s changing the conversation throughout the entire ski industry. Anyone operating a ski area or a business in a mountain town is noticing this shift.”
Dineen also highlighted how these movements extend beyond ski patrollers, affecting other workers in mountain communities who are seeking greater equity in their workplaces.
Keystone and Breckenridge in the Spotlight
Keystone Resort’s vice president issued a statement during contract talks with patrollers, though the specifics of those negotiations remain private. Breckenridge patrollers are also preparing for significant discussions as their contracts come up for renewal this spring.
While a strike hasn’t been announced in Colorado, Dineen acknowledged the possibility of such actions, especially if negotiations stall. “There’s a lot of ski patrollers waking up to the reality of their situation,” Dineen said, emphasizing that this is a movement poised to create change across the industry.
Crested Butte, another Colorado ski area, has already seen union activity. Mechanics at the resort have authorized a strike, though no further action has been taken yet. These developments show a broader trend of employee empowerment across the state’s ski resorts.
The Bigger Picture: Ski Towns and Workers’ Rights
The changes in Colorado’s ski industry reflect a broader awareness of workers’ rights in mountain communities. Many employees in ski towns face high living costs and seasonal work challenges, making fair wages and benefits essential.
For ski patrollers, the stakes are particularly high. These workers are responsible for mountain safety, often facing dangerous conditions to ensure the wellbeing of resort guests. Despite their critical role, ski patrollers have historically struggled for recognition and fair compensation.
Dineen emphasized that union efforts are not just about individual resorts but about reshaping the entire industry. “Anyone connected to a ski area, whether directly or indirectly, is seeing the importance of these movements,” he said.
Challenges Ahead
While the momentum for unions is growing, challenges remain. Negotiations can be lengthy, and reaching agreements that satisfy both employees and employers is often difficult. Additionally, strikes, while effective, can disrupt operations and test public support for union efforts.
However, the successes in Utah and the progress in Colorado suggest that employees are increasingly willing to take bold steps to advocate for their rights. The solidarity among ski patrollers and other resort workers could lead to lasting changes in the ski industry.
Looking Forward
As ski patrollers in Colorado continue to push for better pay and benefits, their efforts could set a precedent for other states. The current negotiations at Keystone and Breckenridge, along with unionization at Arapahoe Basin, show a united front among Colorado’s ski workers.
The industry is watching closely as these movements unfold. Whether through strikes or successful negotiations, ski patrollers in Colorado are determined to secure the recognition and compensation they deserve.
Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.
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How Colorado’s Ski Patrollers Are Fighting for Better Pay and Benefits in 2025
How Colorado’s Ski Patrollers Are Fighting for Better Pay and Benefits in 2025
How Colorado’s Ski Patrollers Are Fighting for Better Pay and Benefits in 2025