If anyone can speak of the old days of Telluride, Johnnie Stevens can. He is a true native of Telluride, the son of one of its former miners, and an integral individual in the formation of Telluride’s current precious metal, the Telluride Ski Resort.
And Stevens too is likely the most dedicated to its growth from the ski area’s inception when just five lifts and one day lodge supported Telluride’s skiing passion, to today’s 1,700 skiable acres and 16 lifts.
“There are not many that started a ski resort and stayed with it—we stayed with it,” Stevens said of himself, Senior Mahoney and others who began the Telluride Ski Area. “We were just ski guys, ski guys and miners, who were passionate about skiing.”
He’s worked in every realm of the ski area from cutting trails in the beginning, to the esteemed position of Chief Operating Officer when he retired three years ago. Stevens was nominated into the Colorado Ski Hall of Fame in 2004 for his contributions to the ski industry.
“Telluride will always be a special place,” he said. “It’s been a good ride, a lot of fun. And it ain’t over yet."
What is Plum 98? It¹s a collection of 98 individuals (a nice, round number) who have etched a mark in the Telluride community with positive energy and vision. Be it in the realm of art, recreation or politics, we at Plum want to recognize these local stars for their encouragement and inspiration. To meet more interesting locals, see the rest of our Plum 98ers.
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