Outdoor Activities

BEST-EVER BACKYARD

This winter, enjoy these offmountain adventures in our big, beautiful backyard

You may have come to ski or snowboard the Telluride Ski Resort, but keep a day free for an off-mountain adventure to remember. For a complete listing of outfitters, turn to page 85 or go to telluride.com.

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 Counter Culture, 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.

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.

NORDIC SKIING

Need a break from downhill? Nordic skiing in the area offers a change of scene and a great workout. Try the groomed tracks 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 and the Telluride Nordic website at telluridenordic.com are superb resources for trail conditions, lessons and gear rentals.

Tony Demin

FISHING

Visiting Telluride in winter doesn’t mean leaving rods and reels behind. Many of the region’s streams and rivers are prime for fishing year-round. In March and April, the San Miguel River often 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.

Mary McIntyre Skiing in the backcountry of the spectacular San Juan Mountains is a real memory maker. 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 night’s stay. Travel to a single hut or tour hut to hut. Local outfitters can help you plan the adventure of a lifetime.

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.

Melissa Plantz

ICE CLIMBING

Feeling truly adventurous? Strap on crampons and grab an ice axe because 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 highly recommended and lessons are available through outfitters.

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 adventures are available from outfitters.

Tony Demin

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.

Telluride Ski Resort

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.

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, skiing 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 deliver an unforgettable experience that exceeds expectations while remaining committed to the highest safety standards.

Telluride Helitrax/Brett Schreckengost

ICE SKATING

Wanna-be Michelle Kwans and Wayne Gretskys can enjoy ice skating at any of three rinks. In Telluride Town Park, there’s a professional-grade indoor hockey rink as well as an outdoor rink. Or head to the Madeline Hotel and Residences’ delightful outdoor rink in the Mountain Village Center. Ice skate rentals are available at both locations.