After seeing Vail, I wanted to visit another well-known ski resort. On the way from Moab, we drove to Dolores, Colorado so we could take the San Juan Scenic Byway (Hwy 145) through Rico up to Telluride. Snow-covered mountains greeted us as we drove along the Dolores River. Nearby Mesa Verde National Park near Cortez beckoned us. However, research showed that the cliff houses weren’t open for tours when we were there. Unfortunately, the Spruce Tree House, which normally is open year round, temporarily closed after a rock fall in October 2015. We still could have done the scenic drive, but we were looking at 80 miles out of the way and just couldn’t squeeze it in.
No matter, the drive to Telluride was a contrast to the red rock desert of Utah. Temperatures dropped and we were back in fleece jackets and jeans.
On first glance, Telluride is the antithesis of Vail. The main street ushered us along what could have been a western town surrounded by large mountains. Where Vail began as a ski resort in the 1970s, Telluride was an existing mining town that grew into a ski resort. The vibe is artsy and more laid back. I love it and want to return!
The ski season ended the previous weekend so the gondola and several restaurants were closed until May when the summer season starts. We found a casual lunch spot at Floradora Saloon. Afterwards, we walked along the main street peering into the stores. It reminded me of western North Carolina: Highlands, NC with the quaint shops on the main street and Asheville, NC with the hippie/artsy feel.
In addition to the free box in the picture above, a community spirit prevailed. Maybe we felt it since it was the off-season, but we stopped for hot beverages at The Cowboy Coffee. To the side were coupons redeemable for free food items paid for by community members.
Telluride boasts high-end, luxury homes, condos and lodging rivaling Vail but they are set apart from the small town. Additionally, nearby Mountain Village is the newer area with ski-in, ski-out lodging, houses, restaurants and shops. The free gondola connects the two. Click here to learn more about Telluride and Mountain Village.