Uphill New England: Building a Community for Uphill Skiers

Hi there! Feel free to drop us a text if you enjoy the episode.In this episode we interview Ed Warren, founder of Uphill New England, an organization dedicated to promoting uphill skiing in the region. Ed discusses the origins of Uphill New England, its partnerships with ski resorts to create an amazing Uphill Ski Pass, community-building initiatives, and the development of a mobile app to enhance the uphill skiing experience. Our conversation highlights the challenges and successes of creating a supportive community for uphill skiers, as well as the importance of collaboration within the outdoor sports community. Ed discusses the vibrant uphill skiing community in New England, highlighting local gear shops, resources for beginners, and the importance of community events. He emphasizes the evolving culture of uphill skiing, the competitive spirit fostered by platforms like STRAVA, and shares personal achievements in the sport. Ed also provides insights into favorite backcountry skiing locations and hidden gem events, while passionately advocating for the unique endurance culture in New England. The conversation concludes with tips on being a responsible and engaged member of the uphill skiing community.Key Takeaways:Uphill New England was founded in the summer of 2023 with a group of friends passionate about Uphilling.Community building is a key focus, with newsletters and events to engage skiers.The Uphill New England app provides real-time conditions for ski resorts that have partnered with Uphill New England.A gear library was established to lower the barrier to entry for new skiers.Events are designed to be welcoming and accessible for all skill levels.The organization aims to standardize uphill skiing policies across resorts.Ski mountaineering races are fun and inclusive.New England is a hub for endurance sports enthusiasts.This podcast embarks on a journey to showcase and celebrate the endurance sports community in New England.