Telluride Ski ResortTelluride, Colorado

Resort Description

If you’ve imagined an old west ski town, you’ve probably already pictured Telluride. Nestled in a box canyon between the 13,000-foot peaks of the San Juan Mountains, in some ways Telluride has resisted the call to modernize into a resort juggernaut. That is, until you take the terrain into account: 2,000 skiable acres of chutes, bowls, and couloirs that would make even the wiliest cowboy shake a little in his boots.

Wild, ungroomed shots like Gold Hill and Black Iron Bowl are just a short hike along the summit ridge and highlight the 4,425 feet of Telluride vertical. A new bridge and staircase helps access to Gold Hill Chutes 9 and 10. Delta Bowl and Eagle’s Nest are good ways to start the day while taking in jaw-dropping views of Uppers, Wedding Chutes, and Little Wasatch Face.

Those looking for intermediate options need not fear; over half the terrain is intermediate or below. Take Upper See Forever for majestic 360-degree views. Telluride’s four terrain parks range from beginner to expert, and produced the likes of freeskiing champion Gus Kenworthy, a Telluride local.

Finish the day at the New Sheridan Hotel. Opened in 1891 this place has what many consider the best hotel, bar, and restaurant of the old west. Gay Week is a change of pace in this sleepy western village, but a rowdy, good time that has taken off over the last decade. The land of the handlebar powder ’stache, Telluride combines great skiing with a little cowboy swagger.