By Hope Good and Billie Olson
It was a different kind of morning. Treasure State Lifestyles Montana loaded up the vehicle with cameras, recorders, notebooks, and pens. Normally, that would be no different than any other day; however, heading to the mountain without skis tied to the top and no major winter gear was different. Yes, we were headed to the mountain: King’s Hill, Showdown Montana, a place where so many of us have memories starting as young as we could stand and strap a pair of skis on our feet; but this time we were going to visit with the Willett family.
It’s truly important to capture the stories of people and families who have made a lasting difference in Montana, creating memories and happiness for countless others. That’s precisely the story of the Willett family and Showdown Montana, a legacy of heart and soul, which for decades has been led by George Willett.
The Vision
In 1973, George Willett and his business partner Edward (Ted) Cogswell Jr. purchased Ski Lift Inc. at the Kings Hill Ski Area, one of the oldest ski areas in Montana, operating since 1936. Willett was a practicing CPA who knew business, and Cogswell was a visionary who had big ideas. Together they incorporated the spirit of the ski world and above all else had fun doing it.
George Willett quickly learned from mentors at a National Ski Area Association meeting after his first day, while the quiet continued support of his partner proved essential in their success. If it were not for Ted Cogswell Jr., Showdown would not be what it is today. Cogswell provided the grounding and backbone that allowed George to cultivate the energetic, fun- first culture that defines Showdown.
The Willett Philosophy: Tips Up, Hips Together
George Willett built the entire operation around a simple, infectious philosophy: “Skiing is the most fun you can have with your clothes on.” He instilled a deep sense of responsibility in the staff, emphasizing that the guest was the “chief in charge.” This meant being highly motivated to “shake hands and kiss babies,” making every visitor feel special and welcome. George’s fun-loving nature was the engine – he wanted to make sure everyone left the mountain with a bigger smile than they arrived with. This spirit, along with the mantra “Tips up, hips together,” defined the mountain’s instruction and ambiance.
For decades, the Willetts, led by patriarch George Willett, have cultivated a vibe that is proudly “no hierarchy.” It’s a place where everyone walks in on the same playing field, whether they’re a doctor or someone you just met, all sharing the stoke of a powder day.
When George and his wife Margie, moved their family Katie, Jamie, and Charley, up to a house on the property in 1983 they truly lived the mountain life, embracing the early morning energy of the T-Bar and the simple pleasure of building a business centered on happiness. George, being a CPA with a fun-loving heart, juggled being fiscally responsible while assuring Showdown would be here for decades.
Accessible Skiing is the Showdown Way
The heart of the Showdown experience is its dedication to keeping skiing affordable. While other resorts have become exclusive, the Willetts run a “numbers game” to maintain their famously low season pass prices. This commitment is most visible in their revolutionary PE program and the $10 pass for 4th and 5th graders – policies that ensure no one is turned away from the joy of skiing because of cost. Katie explained that to make these affordable prices work, they embrace the business. Skiers get it, and they happily trade luxury for the ability to get their whole family on the mountain.
A Continuing Legacy of Family and Accessibility
Today, that vibrant tradition is proudly continued by George’s daughter Katie Boedecker (née Willett) who purchased the ski hill in September of 2020 along with her daughter and son- in-law, Avery and Shawn Patrick. Boedecker, who grew up at Showdown, has worked many positions at the ski area including General Manager for the last three years before the sale. According to the National Ski Area Association, she joins a very small list of women world-wide that own and operate a ski area.
The cherished spirit of Showdown is lovingly maintained by Katie and her family, ensuring the mountain remains a treasured destination for generations. Katie believes that if
you can find something for a family to do together, especially if the kids love being there, people will keep coming back. A wonderful little girl once stopped Katie to share a sentiment that has remained in her heart: “Showdown is the only place on earth that I can be myself.” This quote from a 12-year-old skier perfectly captures the mountain’s warm, welcoming charm.
Built on Heart and Home
The Willett family’s deep connection to the mountain has guided it through decades of change. Katie’s main priority is taking good care of employees and making sure Showdown skiing is affordable for people in Central Montana. This personal touch has made Showdown an essential piece of Montana’s ski culture. The mountain, with its 39 trails and 640 acres of skiable terrain, is the perfect size for family adventure. For those looking to start a day of fun, the King’s Hill Grille and Hole-in-the-Wall Saloon, part of the on-site restaurant service, offer hearty food, local brews, and a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The family’s fun-loving spirit is infectious, reminding us of the days when kids would hop on a bus from town to ski, relying on the kindness of strangers and the mountain’s simple magic.
A Lasting Commitment
The commitment to making skiing accessible is one of the family’s greatest contributions to Montana. George was a very early adopter, if not a pioneer, of the school PE program starting around 1978. This huge investment in the first few years has resulted in the mountain teaching over a quarter of a million kids to ski over the decades. This is more than just a business model; it’s a social investment, recognizing that getting people outdoors in the winter helps combat seasonal depression and mental health challenges prevalent in the region. The Willett legacy ensures that Showdown remains a destination where the focus is on good times, affordable access, and a genuine, homespun welcome.
Keeping the Dream Alive: A Showdown Family Legacy
The cherished spirit of Showdown is lovingly maintained by Katie and her family, ensuring the mountain remains a treasured destination for generations. At the helm is Katie Boedecker, who is supported by her children (all of whom are part-owners) and other talented relatives. Her daughter, Avery Patrick, is a part-owner who manages much of the marketing, with her husband, Shawn Patrick, joining as an investor and shareholder. You can follow their adventures on Instagram at @Averyfrommontana. Katie’s three sons also play vital roles: Will Gold is responsible for overseeing the Snow School and driving business development; George Clark-Gold contributes as the business operations director; and even while attending Boise State, her youngest son, Bridger Boedecker, contributes to IT and tech-related issues. The family talent extends further, with Katie’s younger brother, Charley and his wife Allyson Willett, contributing to marketing (check out their work with Willett Media LLC and his outdoor content at @intothelittlebelts), and her sister, Jamie Hurd, can often be found helping behind the bar. As Avery warmly notes, “It’s just like one big family up there,” a sentiment that clearly radiates from the slopes and promises a bright, familial future for Showdown, which will likely be continued by Katie’s four grandkids: Ruby Patrick, Callan Patrick, Elsie Gold, and Simon Gold.
Check ShowdownMontana.com for snow reports and current pricing or follow them on Facebook.