Industry News
The oldest resort in Montana, Showdown, just switched hands. Katie Boedecker was able to secure funding and take ownership from her father George Willett. As you might suspect Katie has been working at the resort for some time now. Helping to spin lifts or bus tables. Taking on every job from the bottom to the top. Earning her role as owner of Showdown. Becoming the sole owner and being a woman, she is in rare company. While it’s not unheard of, only a few resorts are owned by women.
Before it was known as Showdown, locals called it King Hill which began in 1936 but really took off in 1939. After the local ski club installed a warming hut. In addition to a half-mile long rope tow. Before then “It was just a small group, hiking up the mountain,” Willett said in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle.
In 1968 George started skiing in the area. Later partnering with Ted Cogswell in 1973 to buy the hill. Where they began with changing the name from King Hill to Showdown. Improving the ski runs and expanding the terrain. Plus adding more lift and parking lot capacity. Which now boasts one triple chair, two double chairs, and a “magic carpet”. With hours of operation 9-4 Wednesday through Sunday. Anyone can find something to enjoy about this little resort.
Mountain Info:
- Peak Elevation: 8,200 ft
- Base Elevation : 6,800 ft
- Skiable Terrain: 640 acres
- Annual Snowfall: 20 ft
Nonetheless, the improvements won’t stop with the last generation. For instance, the resort has laid out plans to build lodging. Plus an outdoor pavilion to appeal in summer months as well. Allowing outdoor enthusiasts to spend more time mountain biking or skiing. As a result, giving people accommodations for all seasons.
I’ll chime in here – George has been responsible for planting the ski seed in many lifelong skiers through the eras. Many landed in Sun Valley and have had successful ski industry related occupations. I cherish the memories of being dragged up the Mizpah and Meadow poma lifts, being picked up and spun around on the frozen T-bar , building huge jumps to the chagrin of the patrol and competing in the first freestyle competitions as a member of the Showdown Freestyle Team. All of which launched me into being a prominent professional mogul skier and afterwards a ski and bicycle shop owner – so now you know who I blame. Katie, hold onto your poles tight – it’s all over the head powder shots from here! Congrats to all and a big thank you!
Congratulations… this is great news! George and family run a 1st class operation. Showdown has great terrain and always has good and plentiful snow. I grew up skiing Showdown before moving to Sun Valley 46 years ago. I’ve come back to ski several times and it’s always so good and fun! I appreciate you keeping it going all these years.