Located in the heart of the American West, Telluride once beckoned to prospectors and fortune seekers seeking to strike it rich in the town’s gold and silver mines. Nowadays the town attracts a different crowd – one hoping to find thrills on one of the many ski slopes the surrounding mountains have to offer. Should you join this crowd, you’re sure to find plenty of things to do in Telluride, too.
A Ski Resort for All Ages
Thanks to its position in the middle a box canyon, Telluride (and it’s counterpart, Mountain Village) is often considered one of the best ski resorts in the world. There are nearly 2,000 acres of skiiable land surrounding the towns, and there’s plenty of variety to be found within them. Roughly half of the available slopes are advanced, while the remainder are split between beginner and intermediate runs.
Telluride Ski Resort has plenty to offer outside of the traditional slopes as well. Ski schools for all ages are available, as is a Nordic ski and snowshoe area for those wishing to explore the beautiful Rocky Mountain scenery. Telluride also has a complimentary mountain tour program that is sure to please skiiers and history buffs alike.
Those planning to hit the Telluride slopes should be aware that lift tickets can be purchased over 48 hours in advance at a cheaper price. If interested, head to the official Telluride website.
More Wintertime Fun
Though it was once famous for mining silver, Telluride is actually a gold mine for winter activities and things to do even if you’re not an avid skiier. Telluride itself maintains its historic roots and is well worth exploring on foot – just don’t forget to take in the gorgeous mountain views that surround you. Mountain Village, on the other hand, is a more modern community that has a public ice skating rink well worth visiting. Both towns are surrounded by picturesque hiking trails for intrepid explorers willing to brave the cold (though these trails are available to hike all year round).
Note that there is a free pedestrian gondola system that goes back and forth between the two towns and provides breathtaking views of the area at the same time. While the towns themselves might be the stars of the show, this gondola system is an attraction in its own right, and is the only system of its kind in North America. Be sure to check it out!
Accommodations and Lodging
From ski-in ski-out hotels to more traditional lodges, Telluride has it all. The Inn at Lost Creek is particularly notable for being located directly on the slopes and offering fantastic suites for an even more fantastic price. Other accommodations of note include Mountain Lodge at Telluride – featuring rustic yet modern accommodations – and the Madeline Hotel & Residences, which offers all the comforts of a traditional mountain chalet. Many boutique options are available as well, and plenty more accommodation options exist in both Telluride and Mountain Village.
Header photo by 12019 on Pixabay.
