The ski movie director Warren Miller passed away this week. Miller’s early films came out when the Colorado ski resorts were first opening in the 1950s and '60s. He helped transform skiing from an elite activity to one enjoyed by the masses. His films were always lighthearted with corny, with deadpan voice-overs: “You can’t get hurt skiing unless you fall."
Warren made over 500 movies and was an entertainment icon for those of us who grew up in the early days of Colorado skiing. When I was in high school, we would pile in someone's car and drive 86 miles to Breckenridge. That's a long trip, all across South Park and over Hoosier Pass, but the roads were mostly deserted then and we didn't think much of it. A lift ticket was just $4; you could buy one with your saved allowance. I just checked out of curiosity, and a ticket will set you back $169 today at Breckenridge. Skiing is once again an elite sport.
Amanda, Tom and the girls are lucky having the Loup Loup Ski Area just 22 miles away from home. I've never been up there in the winter, but the Loup reminds of long gone little ski areas like Holiday Hills outside Woodland Park. Our dad worked there on the weekends and we kids all had a blast. Truly the golden age of Colorado skiing.
Rest in Peace, Warren Miller.
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