If downhill skiing isn’t your thing, which for some it isn’t (and really, that’s okay), Telluride is a winter haven for many other cold weather sports.
Ice Skating and Hockey: Both are very popular in Telluride, particularly since the NHL regulation-sized Hanley Ice Rink opened in Telluride’s Town Park in 2005 and the Madeline Hotel’s outdoor skating rink opened in the Mountain Village Core in 2009. There is also an outdoor rink in Town Park.
Snowmobiling: From snow-cruising to more extreme riding, opportunities are numerous; popular spots include Alta Lakes and the mesas.
Nordic Skiing: For those looking to stay in shape, cross-country and skate skiing are fantastic workouts; popular places include Telluride Town Park, the Telluride Golf Course, the Valley Floor, and Priest Lake/Trout Lake. The Ski Resort offers Nordic skiing for a nominal fee, utilizing trails at the top of Lift 10. The Nordic Center is located in Telluride Town Park.
Ice Climbing: Crystal blue walls are scattered about the region; the biggest is the internationally recognized Ouray Ice Park.
Helicopter Skiing: Telluride is home to Colorado’s only heliskiing company– Telluride Helitrax; the outfit has escorted thousands of clients down millions of vertical feet of fresh snow since 1983 and uses an A-star chopper.
