Nick Geiser is 'On The Rise'
Aspen native Nick Geiser is a rising talent on the Stifel U.S. Ski Team's freeski halfpipe team. At just 21 years old, Geiser, who grew up training and competing with the Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club, is a true force on the ultra-competitive men's freeski roster.
Growing up in Aspen, he was surrounded by talent. The local hill, Aspen Snowmass, is home to some of the West's most challenging terrain and it only pushed Geiser to aim high. Initially starting in moguls, he was inspired to take on halfpipe because of the "cool" factor. Years later, his halfpipe resume shows he made the right decision.
Going into the 2026-27 season, Geiser has secured back-to-back U.S. Championships halfpipe titles in 2022 and 2023, seven NorAm podiums and several top-10 World Cup results. Last season was the best of his career, securing three top-8 finishes against the best in the world. Though he missed making the 2026 Olympic Winter Games team, he continues to make an impact for U.S. freeskiers.
Geiser reflects on his progression, the milestones that have shaped his young career, and what he hopes to accomplish in the "On the Rise' interview sponsored by Zions Bank.
U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s “On the Rise” series, presented by Zions Bank, highlights athletes throughout the season. Through community service, sponsorships and charitable donations, Zions Bank is committed to fueling economic growth and enhancing the quality of life in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming.
Q: What initially drew you to the sport?
NICK GEISER: My mom and dad put me on skis when I was two years old and ever since I can remember, I’ve loved being on snow. My dad is a ski patroller and my mom is an endurance athlete, so being active in the mountains was a huge part of growing up. I was incredibly lucky to spend my childhood skiing at Aspen Snowmass, where I fell in love with the sport. I started with Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club (AVSC) skiing moguls, but I always wanted to ski park and halfpipe because I thought it was so cool. So I made the switch when I was about 13. Every winter I’d go to X Games Aspen and watch all the athletes compete. Seeing local athletes like Alex Ferreira, Torin Yater-Wallace and Peter Olenick made me believe that someone from my hometown could make it to the highest level. Watching them compete and the movies they made inspired me to chase the same dream.
Q: When you were younger and getting into the sport, what were your goals?
NG: When I was younger, my biggest goal was to compete in the biggest events in the sport, like X Games and the Olympics. I wanted to ski like the best athletes in the world, learn how to do the tricks they were doing and push myself to that level. I always dreamed of making the U.S. Ski Team and eventually building a career doing what I love. Those goals have motivated me since I was a kid and still do every day!
Q: What is your biggest accomplishment?
NG: My biggest accomplishment so far has been making the U.S. pro halfpipe team this past 2025-26 season. It was the result of years of hard work and one of the goals I’d been chasing since I was a kid. Reaching this milestone gives me a ton of confidence and motivation and now even more excited for what’s ahead.
Q: What is your ultimate goal?
NG: My ultimate goal is to stand on the podium at World Cups, X Games and the Olympic Games. Representing the United States and winning medals for my country on the biggest stage would be an incredible honor. Beyond competition, I want to be a mentor for the next generation of athletes. Freeskiing has given me so many amazing opportunities and I wish more kids had the chance to experience this sport. If I can inspire young athletes to get on skis, chase their goals and believe they can make it to the highest level, that would be so cool.
Q: Who are your heroes? Both in & out of the sport.
NG: My heroes within the sport would have to be Alex Ferreira, Torin Yater-Wallace, Peter Olenick and Joss Christensen. They were some of the athletes who paved the way and made me believe what was possible in freeskiing. Watching them compete and push the sport forward inspired me to chase the same dream. I’ve also looked up to countless other freeskiers, for example Lyman Currier, Aaron Blunck, Hunter Hess and Birk Irving. I’m incredibly lucky to now call many of these athletes my teammates. Outside of the sport, my biggest heroes are my family and friends. My mom, especially, has been my greatest inspiration. Without her support and sacrifices, I wouldn’t be where I am today. She has always been my biggest motivator and has done everything she can to help me pursue this dream. I’m incredibly grateful that I get to live this life and share this journey with her by my side.
Questions sponsored by Zion's Bank.
Q: You win $5,000 in prize money: What do you do with it?
NG: I would put the money right back into my skiing. Competing at the highest level comes with a lot of expenses; every opportunity to invest in my career brings me one step closer to achieving my dreams. I would also save some money for sure and invest in cryptocurrency.
Q: Do you budget or follow any structure related to spending?
NG: Yes, I try to be intentional with how I spend my money. As an athlete, I know that a lot of my expenses go toward my career. I try to prioritize those things while also being smart with everyday spending. Having a budget helps me stay focused on my goals for sure. And, I try to make sure I’m investing in my future.
Q: What’s one money habit you follow?
NG: One money habit I follow is focusing on what truly helps me reach my goals. I try to spend/save intentionally and make sure my money is going toward things that support my skiing and my future. I’m figuring out that being disciplined with my finances, is just like being disciplined in my training.
Keep up with Nick on Instagram, HERE!
