Summit Skimo Club

Summit Skimo Club is a 501(c)(3) founded by Summit County residents who wanted to grow ski mountaineering racing locally. Since 2011, it has combined the competitive side of skimo with community education: members can access demo gear, attend workshops and social touring events, volunteer at races, and learn about snow safety, fitness, alpine culture, and responsible human-powered access. Free clinics also introduce the sport beyond the membership.

The youth club is especially distinctive. Middle- and high-school students train after school twice a week with a certified coach, using lightweight touring equipment supplied for up to 40 participants per session. They learn uphill movement, transitions, and downhill technique before becoming eligible for professionally guided avalanche education and local youth races. That creates a clear bridge from first-time touring skills to safer backcountry travel and competition.