Outdoor Activities

ADVENTURES TO REMEMBER

HORSEBACK & SLEIGH RIDES

Slip on your cowboy boots and Stetson and enjoy a sleigh or horseback ride in the winter wonderland of the San Juans. Ride under a cobalt blue sky or bundle up and star gaze during a dinner sleigh ride, all while embracing the spirit of the Wild West.

This winter, try these off-mountain activities in our big, beautiful backyard full of fresh air, wideopen spaces and opportunities for adventure.

You may have come to ski or snowboard the Telluride Ski Resort, but keep a day free for an off-mountain experience to remember. Hop on a snowmobile and explore the relics of Telluride’s mining days. Try snowshoeing to experience mountain terrain in a different way. Or fat tire bike or Nordic ski along the Valley Floor and spot some winter wildlife.

For a complete listing of outfitters, turn to page 106 or go to telluride.com.

KITE SKIING

Snow sport enthusiasts wanting an extra challenge can soar across the snow and up or down slopes with the pull of a kite. The sport is done with downhill ski or snowboard equipment and a colorful kite. Kite skiers fly through the meadows at Lizard Head Pass, full of wide-open spaces and gorgeous views. Check with a local outfitter for more.

SNOW BIKING

Want to discover the ski resort in a unique way? Try snow biking. A knowledgeable instructor will teach all aspects of riding a snow bike, which has skis instead of wheels. Rentals and certification courses are available through the ski resort’s Telluride Adventure Center.

FAT TIRE BIKING

Fat tire bikes enable cycling enthusiasts to pursue their passion year-round, even in snow. Half-day or full-day rentals and tours are available.

THE VALLEY FLOOR

The 3-mile stretch of open space at the entrance to town contains the only trails with a groomed track set just for fat bikers. The social rider can exit at the far west end for a stop at the Telluride Brewing Company, Telluride Distilling Company or delish eatery Aemono, all in the Lawson Hill neighborhood, before a mellow pedal back to town.

TELLURIDE GOLF COURSE

The undulating groomed trails that ribbon over the golf course in Mountain Village are multi-use trails open to dogs, bikes, hikers, snowshoes and Nordic skiers. Enjoy the views of the San Sophia ridge to the north and Wilson range to the west as you catch your breath between the dips and climbs.

FISHING

Visiting Telluride in winter doesn’t mean you have to leave your rod and reel behind. Many streams and rivers in the region are prime for fishing year-round. Late February to April, the San Miguel River provides excellent fishing opportunities, while farther afield the Uncompahgre River fishes well all winter. Or try ice fishing on the area’s lakes and reservoirs. Local outfitters can guide you.

ICE CLIMBING

Strap on your crampons and grab your ice axe, the alpine setting of the San Juan Mountains offers world-renowned ice climbing. Regional waterfalls turn to cathedrals of ice once the temperatures hold below freezing. Hiring a local guide is recommended to fully explore winter climbing routes. Lessons are available through outfitters.

Tony Demin Ryan Bonneau

SNOWMOBILING

Get your motor running on an extensive network of trails that has created a snowmobiler’s paradise. Explore stunning landscapes, as well as ghost towns and relics from Telluride’s mining days. Local outfitters offer half-day or full-day tours for all abilities.

ICE SKATING

You can enjoy ice skating at any of three rinks. In Telluride Town Park, you’ll find a professional-grade indoor hockey rink as well as an outdoor rink, and in Mountain Village you can skate at the Madeline Hotel and Residences’ delightful outdoor rink. Ice skate rentals are available at both locations.

Jeff Cricco

HELICOPTER SKIING

In continuous operation for over 35 years, Telluride Helitrax is Colorado’s ultimate heli-ski adventure. With access to over 200 square miles of pristine terrain, Helitrax operates at some of the highest elevations in North America and consistently skis off summits and in high-alpine basins and cirques. The family-owned guide service’s proven formula of small groups, exclusive terrain and seasoned staff combine to deliver an unforgettable experience that exceeds expectations while remaining committed to the highest safety standards. For more, see p. 38.

SNOWSHOEING

When the whole family wants to go for a walk in the woods, don’t let the deep powder stop you. Snowshoes offer the freedom to explore many snow-covered places. Easy to learn and fun to do, snowshoeing is an activity for all ages. Choose between a leisurely sightseeing outing or an uphill trek for the perfect cardio workout. Guided snowshoe adventures are available with a number of local outfitters.

NORDIC SKIING

Need a break from downhill skiing and boarding? Nordic skiing in the area offers a change of scenery and a great workout. Groomed tracks can be found in Telluride Town Park, on the Valley Floor, on the golf course in Mountain Village, at Trout and Priest Lakes and on the ski resort. The Nordic Center in Town Park is a superb resource for trail conditions, lessons and gear rentals.

BACKCOUNTRY HUTS

Skiing in the backcountry of the spectacular San Juan Mountains is a true outdoor adventure. Explore and marvel at some of the country’s most spectacular off-resort mountain terrain while skiing to a hut or lodge, each stocked with the amenities necessary for a comfortable winter’s night stay. Travel to a single hut or tour hut to hut. Local outfitters can help you plan the adventure of a lifetime.