SKI & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL
Private lessons are the way to go! Book online or call (970) 728-7414 or email lessons@telski.com to reserve your spot.
Private Lessons
Take the fast track in improving your skills on the mountain and have the ultimate learning experience. A private lesson with a Telluride instructor will take your ability to the next level with individual learning and feedback. Choose your instructor, what you want to improve, what terrain you want to cover, and at what pace you want to progress.
- Express Lift Lanes
- Multilingual Instructors
- Up to 4 Students per Instructor
Have friends or family of the same ability level? With up to 4 students per instructor our professional staff can accommodate a group of friends or family members.
We are focused on creating great experiences for our ski & snowboard school guests while maintaining a safe and healthy environment during the global pandemic. To this end, as a guest you can expect:
- Full Day products include up to 6 hours of instruction. This allows the instructor and guest to plan for time apart during the lunch hour.
- Advance reservations will be required
- All ski & snowboard school guests and instructors will be required to adhere to the 5 Commitments of Containment
- Daily Health Screenings will be required for all ski & snowboard school guests and staff
| PRIVATE LESSON | PRICE |
|---|---|
| Full Day (9am-4pm) | $910 |
| AM Half Day (9am-noon) | $620 |
| PM Half Day (1pm-4pm) | $500 |
PRICES INCLUDE LESSON ONLY. LIFT TICKETS AND/OR SEASON PASSES MUST BE PURCHASED SEPARATELY.
Are you ready to book your Private Lesson? Text or call our Ski School Director at 970-708-4380.
Adult Group Lessons
Spend the morning or the afternoon with a snow pro to learn the sport or advance your skills. You may purchase the lesson only, or build a lesson package that includes lift access and rental equipment.
We are focused on creating great experiences for our guests while maintaining a safe and healthy environment during the global pandemic. To this end, as a ski and snowboard school guest you can expect:
Small Group Lessons
- Max 4 (Maximum 4 guests per instructor)
Half Day Lessons Only
- Guests will meet and stay outside for the lesson and will avoid crowded indoor spaces
- Morning and Afternoon lessons will be available
View More Details
- Advance reservations will be required; due to small group sizes, limited inventory will be available.
- All ski & snowboard school guests and instructors will be required to adhere to the 5 Commitments of Containment
- Daily Heath Screenings will be required for all ski & snowboard school guests and staff
Lesson Check-In Map. View Larger »
Children’s Group Lessons
For the 2020-21 Winter, we are focused on creating great experiences for our children while maintaining a safe and healthy environment during the global pandemic. To this end, as a parent you can expect:
Small Group Lessons
- Max 2 for Otters and Bears (Maximum 2 children per instructor)
- Max 4 for Eagles (Maximum 4 children per instructor)
Half Day Lessons Only
- All age groups will meet and stay outside for the lesson and will avoid crowded indoor spaces
- No lunch offering for this season
- Morning and Afternoon lessons will be available
View More Details
- Advance reservations will be required; due to small group sizes, limited inventory will be available.
- All ski & snowboard school guests and instructors will be required to adhere to the 5 Commitments of Containment
- Daily Heath Screenings will be required for all ski & snowboard school guests and staff
Lesson Check-In Map. View Larger »
Cubs Camp Nursery
Welcome! Is this your first time visiting the Telluride Ski Resort Cubs Camp nursery? We are very excited to meet you and spend time with your children!
The Cubs Camp Nursery Operations
Ages 1 -4 years old
Monday – Friday | 8:30am – 4pm
Thanksgiving Day – April 2, 2021
Reservations
Reservations are required! We highly recommend making a reservation as soon as possible to guarantee a space for your stay this upcoming winter season. We have a max capacity. Please reserve online, email Nursery@Telski.com or give us a call at (970) 728-7531, we would be happy to assist you!
Telluride Ski Resort Cubs Camp Nursery does our best to accommodate all needs.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT THE NURSERY
Products
Telluride Ski Resort Cubs Camp Nursery offers full day child care (8:30am-4pm), morning child care (8:30am-12:30pm) and a one-hour private cub lesson (typically taught between the hours of 9am-12:30pm). The Cubs lesson can be paired with a full or half day of childcare, or the lesson alone. The Cubs lesson is reserved in addition to the childcare day.
Cubs Ski Lessons
2 ½ years old to 4 years old
Willing 2½ – 4-year old Cubs are welcomed to the slopes for an individual hour-long introductory lesson with passion and love of skiing through personalized instruction with one of our dedicated ski Cubs instructors. The Cubs lesson is intended to teach your child the fundamentals of skiing in small amounts of fun and exciting techniques which have them leave wanting to return and learn more. This is a perfect option for your child to get comfortable in ski gear, learn the basics of skiing and spend time playing on the slopes. Your child does not need to be potty trained to attend the cubs one-hour introductory lesson.
Toddler Care
1 year old to 4 years old
Our toddler program is perfect for children ages one year to four years old who are too little to hit the slopes, or those who need a break from the on-snow adventures. Your child will spend the day with one of our loving child care teachers who continuously provide a safe, fun-filled, stimulating environment. Our staff has the knowledge, background and training to provide an inclusive setting. At the Cubs Camp Nursery, your child will play the day away with age appropriate toys, unstructured free play and small group activities.
What You Need
- Please provide your child with the following items; Diapers, wipes, and ONE personal item from home, such as a lovie.
- Please label all items. Telluride Ski Resort Cubs Camp Nursery is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
- We will provide regular snacks, water and a lunch daily. We are a peanut free facility.
- Your child must have sunscreen on prior to his or her arrival if you choose for your child to participate in any outdoor adventures. (Weather and ability permitting.)
Cubs Camp Nursery FAQ
WHAT ARE YOUR DAYS/HOURS OF OPERATION?
Telluride Ski Resort Cubs Camp Nursery operates Monday-Friday 8:30am-4pm.
WHAT IS YOUR PRICING?
Toddler one day $250
Cubs one day $325
Cubs one hour $195
Cubs half day $250WILL MY CHILD GO OUTSIDE?
We have every intention of getting outside daily, we will do so when staffing, ability and weather permits.
IS LUNCH PROVIDED?
Yes, the Nursery will offer a well-balanced meal every day. We ask that parents please do not pack snacks/lunch unless otherwise discussed.
ARE SNACKS PROVIDED?
Yes, snacks are provided regularly throughout the day. We ask that parents please do not pack snacks/lunch unless otherwise discussed.
IS THERE A NAP TIME?
Yes. We do our best to maintain your child’s regular nap schedule.
DO YOU PROVIDE A NAP MAT/CRIB/BLANKET ETC?
Yes! We have cribs and nap mats for each child daily. The linens are washed and the crib/nap mats are each sanitized daily.
CAN I ENTER YOUR FACILITY WITH MY CHILD?
During operating hours, we do not allow anyone in our facility that is not an employee of the Telluride Ski Resort. In addition, each employee is required by the state of Colorado to have a CBI FBI background check and a child abuse neglect trails background check.
CAN I TOUR YOUR FACILITY?
Absolutely! We would be more than happy to arrange a tour of our facility before or after our operating hours. (Hours: Monday – Friday 8:30am – 4pm.)
WHAT DO YOU DO IF MY CHILD GETS UPSET WHILE IN YOUR DAY CARE?
First and foremost, if your child becomes upset, we will approach your child with patience, love and tender care. We will do our very best to comfort your child. If we need suggestions and guidance we will give you a call immediately. We can discuss the situation together to figure out the best plan moving forward for your child. Our goal is for your child to have a wonderful nursery experience. We understand this may be your child’s first time away from a loved one and adjusting may be difficult. After completing a nursery reservation with us we will be in touch with necessary paperwork for you to fill out. Here you will find a special care form that allows us to learn more about your child with specifics throughout the day. This may help us to comfort your child by learning more about them prior to their arrival. Furthermore, our staff has the experience to connect the specific needs of children who need extra attention to positively and successfully transition to our new surroundings. We have a few suggestions on handling separation anxiety in a daycare setting.
1. Bring a familiar toy or security blanket.
2. Arrange to visit our facility prior to your first day.
3. Avoid letting this be your child’s first experience away from you. It is helpful if the child has learned to trust other adults (babysitters or caregivers.)
4. Talk to your child about how much fun he or she will have in the Nursery before your arrival.
5. Tell your child where you will be and when you will return.
Two great book recommendations for this topic are Anna Dewdney’s Llama Llama Misses Mama or Audrey Penn’s The Kissing Hand. We have both these books in our nursery library and will be happy to read to your child upon arrival with your suggestion.DOES MY CHILD NEED TO BE POTTY TRAINED FOR THE TODDLER PROGRAM OR THE CUBS PROGRAM?
No.
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL MY RESERVATION?
The nursery needs to be notified by phone or e-mail within 48 hours of your reservation in order to receive a full refund. After that, a$45 cancellation fee will be charged.
(970) 728-7531 or Nursery@Telski.comWHAT IS YOUR SICK POLICY?
Telluride Ski Resort Cubs Camp Nursery reserves the right to limit enrollment or refuse admittance to any child who, in TSGs sole discretion, does not fit into the program due to load limitations, age, adaptability or illness. Any child showing a sign of illness, including the common cold, WILL NOT be accepted into the program until the symptoms have subsided. Your child needs to be symptom free for 24 hours prior to attending our program.
WILL MY CHILDREN BE IN THE SAME PROGRAM INSIDE THE NURSERY?
Absolutely!
WHAT KIND OF TOYS/ACTIVITIES WILL MY CHILD PARTICIPATE IN?
In our nursery we have age appropriate toys for the group we accept. We believe that play is a vital part of your child’s fine and gross motor skill development. Our staff will encourage movement to help develop these skills. Your child may also participate in story time, arts and crafts, pretend play and much more! Inside our nursery your child will find, play cars, a large play cabin, multiple kitchen sets, a small jungle gym, puzzles, books, building blocks, mazes and much more!
IS YOUR STAFF CPR CERTIFIED?
YES! At least one individual working daily has CPR/AED certification.
CAN YOU ADMINISTER MEDICATIONS TO MY CHILD?
YES! At least one individual working daily has Medical Administration training.
Telluride Adaptive Sports
Telluride Adaptive Sports Program is a non-profit organization that offers winter and summer outdoor activities for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities who need adaptive equipment and instruction.
In addition to guided activities, ski buddy services, and adaptive equipment rentals, the Telluride Adaptive Sports Program offers a wide range of specialty camps and programs for all ages.
Reservations can be made by phone at (970) 728-5010 or email at TASP@TellurideAdaptiveSports.org.
Visit tellurideadaptivesports.org for more information.
First Time Skiers & Snowboarders
Trying a new sport can be daunting, regardless of if you are six years old, 36 or 66. We put together a list of frequently asked questions from first timers to help you get from your accommodations to the slopes with as little anxiety as possible. Of course, if you have questions that we haven’t answered, our staff is here to help you. Give us a call at (970) 728-7414.
First Time Skier FAQs
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
You’ve booked a trip to Telluride, so you’ve taken the first step. The next step is to book your lessons, lift access and gear, there is a limited availably this season, book your lessons before you arrive to ensure availability. All of the information you need to have an enjoyable time on the slopes is below, from what we recommend you wear to where you need to go.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
COVID protocol: Face mask will be required in lift lines and in any indoor spaces.
While Colorado sees more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the weather can change in an instant. It’s important to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions and temperatures. Our strongest advice is to dress in layers so you can add or remove them as needed throughout the day. We also recommend wearing:
- Absorbent socks in wool or other material that is not cotton – You may be tempted to wear two pairs of socks but we discourage this as the socks can cause your feet to hurt if they bunch up in your boots.
- Insulated, water-resistant gloves or mittens should always be worn, even on warmer days. Avoid wearing knit gloves or mittens as they will get wet and not keep your hands warm.
- A warm hat, or even better, a helmet. A helmet will keep your head warm and protect you. We have helmets available for rent if you do not own one.
- A water-resistant jacket with a high collar.
- Water-resistant ski pants or snow bibs to stay warm and dry.
- Goggles or sunglasses – at high elevation, the sun is extremely strong, and its reflection off of the snow can do damage to your eyes. Protect them from the sun’s rays and other elements with a good pair of goggles and sunglasses.
SHOULD I TAKE A LESSON?
We encourage all new skiers and snowboarders to take a lesson. You’ll learn all the basic skills you need to hit the slopes and will eliminate some of the frustration that could take the fun out of this new activity. We see skiing and snowboarding as a lifetime sport, and receiving instruction from a professional helps you get off on the right foot so you are set up for years of enjoyment ahead of you.
WHAT KIND OF LESSON SHOULD I TAKE?
The Telluride Ski & Snowboard School offers a variety of lessons for all ages and abilities. Ask yourself, are you more comfortable learning in a one on one environment, or would you prefer to be with peers of the same ability? We offer group and private lessons for adults and children and specialty lessons such as our “Never Ever Beginners” program for adults just starting out in the sport. Call our Ski School, (970) 728-7414 , to speak with a representative who can help determine the best lesson for you.
MY KIDS WANT TO LEARN TO SKI, ARE THERE OPTIONS FOR THEM?
Our Ski & Snowboard School has a variety of options for children starting at age 2½ and up. We break our children’s lessons into various age groups, including Cubs (ages 2½ – 4), Otters (ages 3 – 4), Bears (ages 5 – 6) and Eagles (ages 7 – 14). Lessons are 3 hours long, your child can participate in a morning lesson and/or an afternoon lesson. You can bundle your lesson with a lift ticket and gear rental for ease. The Cubs ski lesson program even includes rentals. Visit our Children’s Lessons page for more information and rates.
HOW MUCH WILL A LESSON COST?
Taking a lesson from one of the Telluride Ski & Snowboard School instructors can be one of the best investments you can make when you’re learning to ski. Check our online store for more information on the various lessons and relative costs.
I DON’T HAVE SKIS OR A SNOWBOARD, WHERE CAN I GET MY EQUIPMENT?
You can rent everything you need with our local outfitter, Telluride Sports. Their on-site experts will make sure you are set up with everything you need for a successful day on the slopes. When booking your lessons through the Telluride Ski & Snowboard School, you can also include rentals in your package. Our Children’s Rentals can provide your child Ages 3-14 with a helmet, boots, skis and poles if needed.
We advise redeeming any rental equipment the day prior to your lesson. Rental equipment processes are experiencing longer wait times due to physical distancing measures. Waiting until the day-of to procure lift tickets and/or rental equipment may result in a delayed start to your lesson.
DO I NEED A LIFT TICKET?
Lift tickets are required to access any area of the ski resort, including the magic carpet learning areas.
WHAT TIME SHOULD I GET TO THE MOUNTAIN?
If you plan on picking up rental equipment immediately prior to your lesson, please arrive at the rental shop you booked with 1 hour prior to the check in time for your lesson.
WHERE DO I GO FOR MY SKI LESSON?
All Group Lessons (both children’s and adults) meet around the core of Mountain Village. We have specific meeting locations based on the age of your child and/or ability level. Please follow this link for a map of Mountain Village that identifies the meeting location of your specific lesson.
Lesson check-in map. View Larger »
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
You should expect to learn the sport in a safe and encouraging environment with a good possibility of falling in love with the sport and meeting some great new friends as well. All of our lessons are based on the Professional Ski Instructors of America teaching model and the American Teaching System. What does this mean for you? It means that our instructors are focused on the guest (that’s you!) and constantly modifying their lesson plan to best meet your needs. Lessons start with a thorough equipment check to ensure proper fit and understanding on flat terrain and progress slowly, introducing new tasks and terrain only when you are comfortable and ready.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD DO?
Remember, even though it’s cold out, you are getting a good workout and are using different muscles than you would if hiking, running or biking, so you’re expending more energy than you think you are. Take frequent breaks and don’t forget to eat and drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and keep your energy levels up. But maybe most importantly, HAVE FUN!
Meet a few of our highly qualified instructors.
Richard Thorpe
Describe your snowsports history: first taught @Snoqualmie Summit, 11 Years in Taos, Ski School Dir. Cuchara, 15 Years in Telluride
Hometown: Burlingame, California
Qualifications: Staff Trainer, Level III Alpine Certified, Children’s Specialist 2, Freestyle Specialist 1
What I can do for your skiing: Make skiing easier, with less effort & more Fun! Ski Bumps the Easy Way
Favorite teaching moment: Watching my Guests “Get It” Too many to list!
Favorite run to ski on my time off: Mtn. Quail to Black Tusk trees
I ski on: Volkl & Wagner Skis, Lange Boots
Favorite off snow activities: Running, Mtn Biking, Exploring “off the beaten path” locations
Coolest place Ive ever been: Chacaltaya, Bolivia, Highest Ski Area in the World
Favorite place to eat in Telluride: Siam
Deb Willits
First Instructing Job: Teaching other students to ski for PE credit during my senior year in college. No training. Had to make it up.
Discipline: Alpine, Telemark and Cross County
Certifications: Level 3 in Alpine, Telemark and Cross Country. Children’s Specialist 2. PSIA National Nordic Team, Alumnus.
Favorite Run: Any run is my favorite with great conditions and friends.
Other Interests: River SUPing, XC skiing, cycling, gardening, traveling and volunteering
Family/Pets: Pat (husband), Sam (daughter), and Orion (son). Rio is our dog. Both kids teach at Telluride in the ‘Family Business’.
Favorite Teaching Moment: Every day and each student is special.
Scott Kennett
First Ski/Snowboard Instructing Job: Telluride.
Discipline(s): Skiing.
Certifications: Level 2 PSIA.
Favorite Run: What ever run I am currently skiing. I like to have a positive mental outlook.
Other Interests: Water skiing. Love ripping through the single track trails on my dirt bike. Mtn biking, Hiking, Designing and building trails, ask me about the new Bear Creek nature trail. and building houses.
Family/Pets: Super cool wife Patty and two Jack Russell Terriers Eight Ball and Beezy.
Telluride Insider Tip: Too many to list, you will have to ski with me to find out.
Motto: Skiing is not about how many runs you do in a day, it’s about the quality of the turns and the bliss of the run.
Favorite Teaching Moment: Teaching somebody how to roll on to their edges, not twist their feet and ride a perfect railroad track turn.
What I can do for your skiing/snowboarding: Too many things to list, you will have to ski with me to find out.
Favorite Colors: Black and Chrome or Blond and Tan.
History in Skiing: My uncle was a Captain in the 10th mtn WWll. I Skiied in 35 ski films, three tv adds. and was on the cover of ten ski mags. won 6 national championships two in freestyle and 4 in big mtn skiing, Have been coaching and or ski instructing for over 25 years.
Cristina Candido
I started teaching skiing when I was just a kid to children on a little teeny tiny patch of snow. We had so much fun that I have been doing it ever since, and that was over 20 years ago in my home town, Bariloche, Argentina. I had the opportunity to come to Telluride in 2000, and have been able to teach skiing year round ever since. I also ran the kids ski school in Bariloche for three years. I feel so lucky to work doing what I love.
Discipline: Alpine
Certifications: PSIA III, Children’s Specialist 2, ADIDES II
Favorite Run: Any run through the trees including Satisfaction, Happy Thoughts, and Can’t Make Em trees
Other Interests: Anything outdoorsy, whether its Hiking, Mountain Biking, Fly Fishing, River Rafting, or laying in the sun on a beach.
Pets: My one eyed cat called Misterio, which means mystery in English. I found him at the Fire Station where I volunteer in Bariloche. Misterio told me that I needed to take him home, so I did.
Motto: Enjoy every minute!
Annie Savath
Experience: First started teaching in Engelberg, Switzerland. Have been teaching at Telluride, TSG since 1972. Alpine Examiner (Emeritus), Loves to go find the best snow on the mountain, wherever it might be.
Motto: Get involved, leave Telluride better than you found it
Other Interests: hiking, biking, paddle boarding, gourmet cooking, photography, exploring other countries with husband Ro-bear
Insider Tip: Be aware, you come to Telluride, life will never be the same.
Kim Hewson
First Ski Instructing Job: Telluride 2000
Discipline(s): Alpine Private Ski Instructor, Staff Trainer(Biomechanics)
Certifications: Alpine Level II
Favorite Run: Snow covered
Other Interests: Sports Medicine
Family: In Telluride since 1974
Telluride Insider Tip: Bar at ALLREDS with bartender Paul
Motto: Knowledge for the sake of knowledge
Favorite Teaching moment: Watching smiles
What I can do for your skiing: Teach you how “body awareness” makes skiing easier.
Dennis Huis
I’m now in my 18th year here in Telluride and can’t believe I could ever be anywhere else in the winter!
Fully certified in alpine and telemark, kids and freestyle 2 accredited. Staff trainer for the resort.
I love to ski chair 9, whatever run seems to have the best snow.
My wife and I live in Durango during the summer where we Guide hiking trips on the Colorado Trail and Horsepacking trips in the Weminuche Wilderness. If it involves the outdoors I’ll do it or try it. Favorites are scuba diving, cycling, hiking, camping anywhere.
The best Skier on the Mountain is the one having the most FUN!
Joanna Huis
My husband Dennis, our 2 dogs and 2 cats split our time between summers in Durango, CO and winters in Telluride. Initially I taught skiing 3 years at Purgatory in Durango and the last 16 in Telluride.
I am certified to teach alpine & telemark skiing. I also have my children’s accreditation.
I love skiing and it doesn’t matter where I ski or with whom I am skiing. As long as I am out in the snow with those who want to be out having fun and enjoying the beauty of the mountain it is a good day!
Shayne Marion
Motto: Fun and safety first then learning is easy. Simple stuff.
Other Interests: I love golf, mountain biking, hiking, water skiing and will do just about anything outdoors.
First Ski/Snowboard Instructing Job: First starting teaching in 1995 at Smiggins Holes Australia.
Certifications: APSI LEVEL 4 and CANADIAN race coach Level 2.
Favorite Run: Bushwhacker on a powder day is my go to run.
What I can do for your skiing/snowboarding: After teaching more then 25 seasons I have a lot to offer on and off the snow. There is a reason this is my life. Best life in one of the world’s greatest environments.
Steve Hindman
Time in Telluride: 1976-79, and winters since 2010
Insider Tip: Ski the trees on the lower lifts instead of waiting for higher lifts to open on powder mornings.
Teaching Certifications: Level 3 in Alpine, Telemark, and Cross-Country Skiing
Why Ski with Me: To discover who you need to be and what you need to do to go where you want to go and do what you want to do.
Family/Pets: Married to Hannah (and her two cats) and Opa to Marin and Ellis, my granddaughter and grandson.
Other Interests: Learning, growing, coaching executives to be human, backcountry and cross-country skiing, travel, mountain and road biking, cooking, wine, and live music.
Motto: Enjoy!
Robbie Carpenter
Discipline: Snowboard, Ski, Snowbike
First Ski Job: Telluride 03/04
Other Interests: Music, Hiking, Working outdoors, Travel
Favorite Run: West Drain
Motto: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Aristotle
What can I do for your Skiing or Snowboarding: I’m here to help you make the very most out of your experience in Telluride. Whether you’re brand new and looking for a safe and fun way to try out the sport or advanced and looking to tighten up your game. We can use a verity of tools and techniques to meet your personal goal.
Frankie Zampini
Experience: Year round Alpine ski Instructor, Based in Telluride, CO, (2007/08) and Bariloche, Patagonia, Argentina (2004). Pro Staff Rep for Dynastar and Lange. Member of Southern Synchro Skiers (one of the Telluride Demo Teams).
Certifications: PSIA Level III, Children Specialist 2, AADIDES level II, Junior Telluride Trainer.
Motto: Do what you love and your life will have meaning
Favorite Run: Power Line
Family: Wife and 2 kids (8 and 5 years old)
Other Interests: Sport and Classics cars, Tennis, Rugby, Mountain Bike, Diving
Favorite Teaching Moment: When student/instructor relationship make the necessary click to push them self to sussed their goals.
What can I do for your skiing: Technical and coaching skills plus my friendly personality make skiers of all ages and level enjoy the Telluride environment and seek for new goals.
Cindy Smith
Welcome to Telluride. We look forward to skiing with you!
Experience: I started teaching at Drumlins in Syracuse N.Y. I have been teaching in Telluride since 1980. I am a Rocky Mountain Trainer with P.S.I.A.
Motto: Enjoy this very moment.
Favorite Run: Dynamo
Awards: I have been awarded twice as Ski Magazine’s top 100 instructors in North America.
Why you would want to ski with me: I really listen to my students and customize the lesson to what they want.
Other Interests: Anything outside. The lighting in Telluride changes everyday and I never go tired of it. Golfing, road biking, and listening to the quiet in the woods. I also enjoy a beer with friends.
I Am: Grateful to be here.
Poncho Winter
Certifications: I have gotten certifications in Alpine, Telemark, Freestyle and Snowboarding. Its great to be able to teach skiing in the morning and snowboarding in the afternoon.
Favorite run: My favorite run is Mammoth. Its northern exposure keeps the snow soft, and its not too steep for a Telluride bump run.
Other interests: I also love Nature, Kitesurfing and Surfing
What I can do for your skiing/snowboarding: Teach you to control your speed with turn shape.
Vince Boelema
First Ski/Snowboard Instructing Job: Turoa, New Zealand
Discipline(s): Ski, Snowboard, Back Country Guiding
Certifications: Alpine Level 3
Favorite Run: Bear Creek
Other Interests: Kite Surfing, Travel, Languages, Writing
Family/Pets: My sister and better half both teach at Telluride. It is a family passion!
Insider Tip: Just ask…
Motto: Just worry about one thing: nothing.
Favorite Teaching Moment: Any smile from a child on their first day
What I can do for your skiing/snowboarding: Make it easy and fun.
Eric Thoren
Experience: I have been teaching in Telluride for 20 years.
Motto: Skiing is a journey, not a goal. Enjoy the journey.
Favorite Runs: Any of the tree runs, from green to double black.
Certification: PSIA Level III, Children’s Specialist 2, Freestyle Specialist 1
Awards: Awarded in 2001 as ski magazine’s top 100 instructors in North America.
What I can do for your skiing: I specialize in working with families, giving the conservative skiers the confidence and skills so they can enjoy skiing with the rest of the family. My success comes from believing people know when you care and progress further because of it.
Marti Martin-Kuntz
Discipline: Alpine ski instructor
Certification: Level III Certified Alpine Ski Instructor
How long have you been in Telluride: I moved to Telluride in 1976 to teach skiing. My home is Telluride and with my husband we celebrate having adventures where we can soak in the beauty of these amazing mountains.
Motto: After years of skis racing and teaching, I now strive for efficient and effortless dynamic skiing.
What I can do for your skiing: When you ski with me I promise to help you discover the skier within yourself… the one that recognizes how to dance with the mountain.
Insider Tip: hang out in Telluride and you’ll never grow old. The beauty and adventure will keep you coming back.
Ursula Acurio
Hometown: Cusco – Peru
Experience: Teaching and learning in Telluride since 1996.
Motto: ”Powder days are worth the wait.”
Interests: Soccer, travel, motorcycles, photography, F1 racing, gastronomy.
Summer Occupation: Architecture & Interior Design
Favorite Hike-to Terrain: Machu Picchu
Favorite Concert: Rolling Stones
Favorite Food: Anything with truffles
Favorite Place to Unwind: Maldives
Favorite Languages to Speak: Spanish, English & Portuguese
Greatest Personal Achievement: Understanding that life is better when love is present.
Best part of working in Telluride: My office. My peers. The clients I’ve met and had the privilege to ski with.
Howie Denton
First Instructing Job: Turoa Snowsports School, Mount Ruapehu, New Zealand. In the year 2000. First season instructing in Telluride, 2002/2003 Winter.
Disciplines: Snowboard and Ski
Certifications: Full Cert Snowboard Instructor with Alpine Crossover. ISIA,NZSIA,NZSBA,PSIA,AASI.
Favorite Run: Hard to say, Plunge, from the top of chair 9, has a bit of everything which I like, powder or not.
Other Interests: Downhill Mountain Biking, World Travel, Music & Film.
Family/Pets: Wifey Ashley, kittykat Bella.
Insiders Tip: Best fish n chips in town @ Smugglers Gastro Pub, that’s where this Englishman gets his fix..!!
Motto: turning IS speed control..!!
Favorite Teaching Moment: Sorry, far too many to choose from..!!
What I can do for you: Help you to ride with your body and the mountain rather than against them.
Katie McHugh
Discipline: Alpine
Certifications: Full Certification Alpine, Children’s Specialist 2, Master’s Degrees in both adult and children’s education.
Other Interests: Getting to know people from all walks of life, and doing anything that involves going down hill.
Telluride Insider Tip: Drink a lot of water!
Favorite Teaching Moment: Teaching is my passion. Helping anyone move to that next level, whether its a beginner making it down their first green run or an advanced skier making tight turns through the trees, it all makes me smile.
What I can do for your skiing: I can help you define your goals and teach you to attain them while making sure your next step is not too big that it presses your “freak out” button!
Michael Blanton
First Ski/Snowboard Instructing Job: Nub’s Nob – Harbor Springs, MI
Discipline(s): Snowboard and Ski
Certifications: Level 3 SNB, Level 1 ALP, Children’s specialist level 2, Freestyle specialist level 1, RM Level 3 examiner
Favorite Run: Mammoth-Makm trees
Other Interests: Fishing, climbing, biking, hiking, sailing, SUP’n and watching my daughter grow-up 🙂
Family/Pets: Yes and Yes 🙂
Telluride Insider Tip: On powder days- get up to the higher lifts and stay there. The lower lifts get congested.
Motto: Be safe, Be smart and make good decisions!
Favorite Teaching Moment: First powder turns!
What I can do for your skiing/snowboarding: Efficient movements = More runs :). Easing fears = Having fun!