Ski·mo
/ˈskēmō/
noun
Short for ski mountaineering, specifically in a light, fast, and competitive style.
Idaho’s first youth skimo program. Elevating the next generation of ski tourers, mountain athletes, and skimo racers.
Coaching, Community, and Education in the sport of light and fast ski mountaineering and skimo racing. Based in Sun Valley, Idaho.
What is ski mountaineering?
What is ski mountaineering?
This video describes the sport of light and fast ski mountaineering, AKA “skimo”
What is racing like?
Watch this first-person-view perspective from within the “Tour de France” of skimo, Pierra Menta held in France each year to see the different aspects of racing - ascending, descending, and bootpacking in spectacular winter environments.
Ski mountaineering (or “skimo” for short) is an endurance sport based around light and fast ski touring that combines the endurance fitness of cross-country skiing with the skill and strength of alpine skiing.
Skimo is highly popular in European ski culture as both a competitive and recreational sport, and is making its Olympic debut in the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Games. It’s becoming more and more popular here in the U.S. with many programs across the country developing young skiers in similar mountain towns such as Park City, Aspen, Summit County, and Bozeman. We want to be a part of this.
It’s a perfect winter sport for those with an endurance background, alpine and big mountain skiing, and even as a winter cross-training sport for mountain bikers and trail runners.
However, racing isn’t the only way to experience this fun sport. Embracing ski touring, whether on the resort or in the backcountry, is a fantastic way to gain fitness, be among nature and the mountains, and learn new skills.
Our Program
Through structured and professional coaching our goal is to foster a positive team environment for young athletes interested in learning the essentials of ski touring and skimo. With twice a week programming between Baldy, Dollar, and Rotarun, skiers can expect a fun workout combined with developing the skills of backcountry skiing and skimo-specific training.
We have big goals of incorporating partnerships with the local avalanche education organizations to provide knowledge in safe backcountry travel, offer discounted gear, and eventual race travel support.
Our Mission
Sun Valley Skimo’s mission is to develop the sport of ski mountaineering and skimo racing for Idaho’s young winter endurance athletes through community, coaching, and education.
We aim to build the skills and fitness of the sport to foster a lifelong passion for the sport and the outdoors.
Sun Valley Skimo is for skiers ages 13-19 who have a background in downhill skiing and want to learn the essentials of ski touring and skimo skills through training in a fun, positive environment.
Lightweight ski touring or skimo race gear recommended. Please see the “Skimo Gear” page for more details.
Want to get involved?
Sun Valley Skimo is excited to grow the sport of skimo here in the Wood River Valley. If you’d like to join, get involved, or help contribute to our mission, please contact Jackson Long through our contact form.