80 for 80 | A Film by Tamara SUSA

Set in the mountains of Aspen, Colorado, 80 for 80 follows Niklaus Kuhn—a Swiss adventurer with his sights set on hiking Highland Bowl 80 times in one season, all leading up to his 80th birthday.

Highland Bowl isn’t just any ski run. At 12,392 feet, it’s one of the toughest—and most beloved—spots in North America. For Niklaus, the climb isn’t just about the challenge. It’s where he feels closest to something bigger than himself.

This film is about more than just ticking off laps. It’s about grit, passion, and the kind of quiet determination that pulls people together. As Niklaus pushes toward his goal, he becomes a reminder that it’s never too late to chase what lights you up—and that sometimes, the wildest dreams bring out the best in all of us.

80 for 80 Film Trailer

As a Colorado documentary filmmaker and Aspen Colorado photographer, I was inspired to capture not just the physical beauty of this place, but the emotional terrain as well. The result is a short film that celebrates community, longevity, and the deeply personal relationships we form with the mountains.

If you enjoyed this film, you may also like 2 Legs is 2 Easy — a documentary that follows the story of an adaptive skier redefining the limits of human potential in the snowy terrain of the Rockies and beyond.

Smiling man in blue ski jacket, helmet, and sunglasses giving two thumbs up outdoors at Highland Peak with snow and a sign showing elevation of 12,392 feet.
Snow-covered mountain with evergreen trees on the slopes and a blue sky with clouds in the background.
Group of people celebrating and raising drinks on snowy mountain with skis and picnic setup.
Close-up of an elderly man smiling outdoors in a snowy mountain landscape, wearing a black winter hat, red bandana, and black jacket.
An older man roller skiing on a paved road surrounded by trees and mountains, wearing a red shirt, red cap, sunglasses, and black and white shorts.
An elderly man in red sportswear, rollerblading, sitting on a park bench with a plaque, surrounded by greenery, with a walking stick resting against the bench.