Apres Ski: History of Skiing

Ski straight from the slopes of Mt. Crested Butte to the Elevation Hotel for an engaging après-ski history talk with renowned Colorado historian Dr. Duane Vandenbusche. Discover the rich skiing heritage of the Gunnison Valley through archival images and stories

Explore the rich skiing history of the Gunnison Valley through archival images and stories from the 11 lift-assisted ski resorts that have operated here from 1880 to the present, including four ski areas in and around Crested Butte: the Pershing Mine Ski Hill, Rozman Hill, Pioneer (home to the first chairlift in Colorado), and, of course, the Crested Butte Ski Area.

Learn about the early mailmen who carried mail on skis, including Al Johnson and Alex Parent, as well as the incredible feats of Crested Butte’s gelände jumpers. Dr. Vandenbusche came to the Gunnison Valley in 1962 to teach history at Western and has since authored nearly a  dozen books.

Tickets include light après and non-alcoholic beverages. A cash bar will be available.