An Uphill Battle

Steamboat Donates Over $26,000 in Uphill Armband Proceeds to Three Local Non-Profits

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO — Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation donated more than $26,000 in uphill armband sales proceeds to three local Routt County organizations this year. Routt County Search and Rescue (RCSR), Routt County Crisis Support (RCCS), and Friends of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (FoCAIC) will each receive $8,800 in donations from a percentage of Steamboat Resort’s 2022–23 winter uphill armband proceeds.

Steamboat began donating proceeds from uphill armband sales during the 2021–22 winter, with $20,000 going to Routt County Search and Rescue. With an increase in interest in uphill access, the resort decided to expand the donation program to include three non-profits with important roles for the backcountry and uphill community.

“Friends of CAIC relies on a variety of revenue channels to fund our programmatic support of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center,” said Aaron Carlson, executive director of FoCAIC. “We are extremely thankful for the generous contribution provided by Steamboat Ski Resort and continued support in helping push avalanche safety forward in Colorado.”

“With the significant growth in the uphill pass sales during the 22/23 season, we are thrilled to expand contributions to three local organizations this year,” said Wes Richey, director of ski patrol at Steamboat Ski Resort. “We have long-lasting relationships with each of these partners, and they have helped us be successful in educating and supporting the ski resort and the larger outdoor community in Steamboat.”

Steamboat will once again sell uphill access armbands for the 2023/24 winter season with a portion of proceeds going to area nonprofit organizations. All uphill users are required to watch a safety video, review the Uphill Access Policy and User Guide, sign an electronic waiver and purchase an uphill armband to be worn at all times while utilizing uphill access. New this year, the resort will host an uphill armband Pick Up Party this fall for users to purchase armbands, talk with patrol to share safety tips, and celebrate the growing uphill community in Steamboat Springs.

The uphill armband donation is part of Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporations commitment to supporting their community. Annually, the resort donates nearly $2.5 million through grants, scholarships, in-kind donations, and financial support to local nonprofits. Learn more about Steamboat Ski Resort’s philanthropic efforts here.

Photo courtesy of Steamboat Resort