Basalt High grad takes over long-running ski rental shop in Glenwood Springs

Taylor Cramer/Post Independent
For most 22-year-olds, life is often about exploring — and perhaps living under their parents’ roof while charting out future paths. While Ryan Boyle, a Basalt High class of 2019 graduate continues to do the same, he is also now the new owner of the long lasting Blue Sky Ski Rental shop.
The shop, a fixture in Glenwood Springs for 37 years, was put up for sale in November by longtime owner Jerry Butler. Boyle, spotting the listing online, couldn’t resist the opportunity. His journey in the outdoor industry began at 13, fostering a deep passion for skiing and mountain biking. Starting at Ajax Bike and Sport, he moved to Basalt Bike and Ski at the Willits location, where he rose to manager by 18. His most recent role was at Revel Bikes in Carbondale, serving as the production manager this past summer. Now, he is a business owner only four years out of high school.
“I knew I had the work experience and it was a small enough shop where I knew that I could manage it,” Boyle said. “Jerry has set up this place nicely for me and made it so simple to navigate and run. He has been a huge help in this entire process, so it really has been an easy transition.”
Boyle’s unconventional approach to life’s milestones reflects in his career choices. Instead of pursuing college after dual enrollment at Colorado Mountain College during his last year of high school, he utilized his college fund, combined with savings he’s collected since age 13, to purchase the shop. Contributions from his parents and former owner of Blue Sky, Jerry Butler, also played a crucial role.
“I get the comment a lot of, ‘He is 22, how can he afford to do something like this?'” Boyle said. “People that I tell are amazed, especially my friends. But I wouldn’t be able to do this without the help of Jerry and my parents. They have been a huge reason why this is possible.”
Boyle’s dedication and hard work have earned him respect in the industry. Revel Bikes Sales Manager Matthew Hoogenboom praised Boyle’s commitment.
“His dedication for quality work as well as his efficiency was paramount to us at Revel Bikes,” Hoogenboom said. “His dedication to himself, being outdoors, staying fit, riding bikes, it all adds up to why he is fit to run his own shop.”
“Ryan is one of the most genuine guys I have ever met,” Hoogenboom continued. “He definitely made sure things were being handled in a manner that was good for business, but would also always put others first. He always made sure everyone was having a good day. Outside of work, he would be there to help out whenever you need. He deserves the recognition for what he is accomplishing at such a young age.”
Butler, who nurtured Blue Sky Ski Rental for nearly four decades, recognized Boyle’s potential and experience.
“I’ve been running this company for 37 years, I wasn’t planning on just selling this company to anyone,” Butler said. “I have made relationships with people across the world who have continued to rent from me. Working as much as he has since from such a young age, Ryan has the experience. I know this business is in the right hands.”
“This business is in my blood,” Butler continued. “It’s hard for me to remember that it’s not mine anymore, but I want Ryan to succeed and I know that he will. This is an unbelievable opportunity for him and I am happy to be a part of it.”
Ryan’s father, Tim Boyle, shared his excitement and confidence in his son’s new venture.
“I am stoked for him,” Tim Boyle said. “I have seen it for many years now… he started working when he was 13, not because we made him, but because he always wanted to upgrade his mountain bikes or buy new ski gear. This opportunity seems like a perfect fit for him. It involves the things he loves to do, so for him to own his own shop is great.”

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