Telluride Ski Resort in Colorado plans to shut down on Saturday, December 27, 2025, after its ski patrol union voted to strike amid a heated labor dispute. The closure stems from failed talks over pay and benefits, leaving visitors and the local economy in limbo during the busy holiday season.

Background on the Labor Dispute

The conflict has brewed for months between the Telluride Professional Ski Patrol Association and resort owner Chuck Horning. Union members, who handle critical safety tasks like avalanche control and emergency rescues, have pushed for better wages to match the high cost of living in Mountain Village.

Negotiations started six months ago but broke down over key issues. The union represents about 78 patrollers who argue their current pay falls short compared to similar roles at other Colorado resorts. This year, warm weather already delayed the season, with only a fraction of trails open, adding pressure to resolve the standoff quickly.

Resort officials called the strike decision unfortunate but said they had no choice but to close for safety reasons without the full patrol team.

Key Demands from the Union

Patrollers seek raises to address rising living costs and retain experienced staff. Their proposals aim to bring starting wages in line with industry standards.

Here are the main wage changes requested:

• Boost entry-level pay from $21 to $28 per hour.
• Increase rates for veterans with over 30 years from $30 to between $39 and $48.60 per hour.
• Improve benefits like health coverage and paid leave to support families in the expensive area.

These demands reflect broader trends in the ski industry, where workers face seasonal jobs and high housing prices. Union leaders say fair pay would help attract and keep skilled patrollers, who risk their lives daily on the slopes.

A recent vote showed strong support for the strike, with nearly all members backing the action after weeks without a contract.

Impact on Visitors and the Local Economy

The closure hits at a peak time, with holiday crowds expecting fresh powder and family outings. Many skiers booked trips months in advance, now scrambling for alternatives like nearby resorts in Aspen or Vail.

Local businesses feel the pinch too. Hotels, restaurants, and shops in Telluride and Mountain Village rely on winter tourism. One estimate suggests the area sees thousands of visitors daily during holidays, pumping millions into the economy.

Residents worry about the ripple effects, as the resort employs hundreds and supports year-round events.

Similar Strikes in the Ski Industry

This is not an isolated case. Just weeks ago, Park City in Utah faced a similar patrol strike over wages, leading to partial closures. There, workers won raises after a short standoff, with base pay jumping from $21 to $23 per hour.

Industry experts note a wave of labor actions across U.S. resorts. Vail Resorts, a major player, dealt with multiple disputes in 2025, highlighting tensions between corporate profits and frontline pay. In Colorado alone, living costs have risen 15% in the past year, outpacing wage growth in tourism jobs.

These events show growing union power in seasonal industries, where safety roles demand fair compensation.

What’s Next for Telluride

Both sides remain at the table, but no quick resolution appears in sight. The resort says it will stay closed indefinitely until a deal is reached, urging patrollers to reconsider for the community’s sake.

Union reps plan peaceful pickets and hope public support will pressure owners. If talks fail, legal steps or mediation could follow, similar to recent cases in other states.

Visitors should check updates and consider refunds for passes. As the new year approaches, all eyes watch for a breakthrough to reopen the slopes.

What do you think about the Telluride strike? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to keep the conversation going.