Eldora Mountain Ski & Snowboard Club Launches New Youth Skimo Program

Eldora Mountain Ski & Snowboard Club (EMSC), in partnership with Boulder Skimo, is thrilled to announce the launch of its Youth Skimo Program, a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to introduce kids and teens to the exciting world of ski mountaineering. Running from early December to early April, this 15-week program provides expert coaching in a safe, controlled environment at Eldora Ski Resort, just 30 minutes from Boulder.

Skimo, or ski mountaineering, combines the serene challenge of uphill ski touring with the exhilaration of downhill skiing. It’s the perfect winter sport for active, outdoorsy youth, including runners, cyclists, triathletes, and alpine, Nordic, and freeride skiers. With its Olympic debut set for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, skimo is gaining popularity worldwide, and this program offers a unique opportunity for young athletes to get ahead of the curve.

Program Details:

• When: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:00–5:30 PM, from early December to early April
• Where: Eldora Ski Resort
• Ages: 12 to 19 years old
• Requirements: Participants must know how to ski a blue run and have their own gear (gear assistance available).
• Cost: $750 for the full 15-week program (30 sessions) or $35 per drop-in session. Late signups are pro-rated at $25 per session.

The program emphasizes technique, fitness, fun, and progression, creating an engaging environment for all skill levels. With expert coaches guiding them, participants will not only develop skimo skills but also build confidence and friendships along the way.

Meet the Coaches:

Davide Giardini

• Former youth ski racer on the FIS European alpine ski and Carving Cup circuits
• 2024 USA Skimo National Team coach
• 2023 USA Skimo National Team member (qualified, not selected due to non-US citizenship)
• 2024 Colorado Ski Mountaineering Cup overall series winner
• La Sportiva North America ski team athlete and Boulder Skimo founder

Meg Cooke

• Canadian Level 2 Ski Instructor and Race Coach
• 2024 Colorado Skimo Cup winner
• Boulder Skimo Women’s Clinic coach
• Experienced competitive skimo racer on the National Cup circuit

“Human-powered ski touring is an incredible way for kids to stay active and build endurance during the winter months,” said Davide Giardini, co-founder of Boulder Skimo. “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.”

Whether your child is a budding Olympian or simply looking for a new winter adventure, the Youth Skimo Program at Eldora is the perfect opportunity to explore this fast-growing sport.