The scheduled Festivals & Events in the Gunnison-Crested Butte area and around Gunnison County are just pure Colorado fun in the mountains. Each venue reflects the nature of the area and the imagination of the people who live here. We invite you to join us in what we believe are fun, entertaining, and mind-expanding experiences! For more information about any of the events listed here, contact the WestWall Lodge front desk at 970-349-1280
- This event has passed.
The Al Johnson Telemark Race
March 21, 2020
Loosely based on the efforts of those early pioneers of ski racing, the Al Johnson Memorial Uphill/Downhill Telemark Ski Race is a unique event. It begins with a mass start of approximately 200 men and women. The race course begins near the top of Mt. Crested Butte, climbs six hundred vertical feet to the top of a ridge, then plunges twelve hundred feet down through extreme skiing terrain. Following the start, there is only one control point – a gate at the top of the uphill section. After passing through this point, racers may choose any route to reach the finish gate which is located at the bottom of the “Last Steep.” Another short uphill section brings racers to the finish line.
What makes this event so challenging is that it must be raced on free-heel telemark equipment. The rules require that each contestant finish with both skis and poles, even if broken. Many a participant has had to carry irreparable equipment across the finish line. What also adds to the fun and uniqueness of the race is that the majority of the racers dress in costume for the race. There are no limits to the creativity there.
For more details, please visit the event website.