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10 Things (besides skiing) to do in Winter in Telluride, CO

Although Telluride is well known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, hitting the slopes is not the only way to enjoy this mountain town. From bookstores, restaurants, and saloons to snowshoeing, ice climbing, and cross-country skiing Telluride has something to offer every travler.

(1) Exploring the winter wonderland with a Guided Snowshoe Tour Snowshoeing is an excellent way to explore the Telluride backcountry at a slower, more peaceful pace.

Telluride Ski Resort offers 2-3 hour guided tours with a local naturalist. Hear historical tales while snowshoeing through untouched fresh powder and pristine peaks.

(2) Taking in live music at the Sheridan Opera House Take in a film, concert, or show at this historic theatre built by Telluride Miners in 1913. The acoustics and architecture alone warrant the Sheridan a top spot on your Telluride must-see-list.

(3) High-Altitude Dining at Allreds Restaurant Dining at 10,551 feet has never tasted better. Get off the free Gondola at Station Saint Sophia for spectacular views and an exquisite dining experience.

(4) Ice Climbing in nearby Ouray If skiing is not enough of a challenge for you, the nearby town of Ouray offers the world's first ice park. The Ouray Ice Park is free and houses climbs for all levels. Check out the San Juan Outdoor
School for a full-day lesson of introductory ice climbing.

(5) Sipping espresso and browsing best-sellers at Between the Covers Telluride's finest bookstore specialized in local books, guides, maps, and journals unique to the southwestern region. The relaxed setting allows you to browse, lounge, and sip tea for hours.

(6) Scouting out a dinner date on the Gondola - The free gondola connecting Mountain Village to the town of Telluride is the main form of transportation between the two and a great place to strike up a conversation. The several minute ride offers just enough time to find out what your gondola companions are doing for dinner.

(7) Soaking in Dunton Hot Springs Only 35 miles from Telluride, the remote and restored ghost town of Duton now offers luxurious natural hot springs, spa services, lodging, and a notable saloon.

(8) Reliving great Western moments at the New Sheridan
Bar The oldest bar in Telluride hasn't changed much since its opening in 1895. Feel like you stepped right into the Old West and right onto a barstool in the beautifully carved front bar. The beer list along, could occupy one for days.

(9) Skiing from Hut to Hut on a Backcountry Hut Trip If cross-country skiing is more your thing, try your hand at a hut trip with the Sun Juan
Outdoor School. A multi-day trip lets you explore deep into Telluride's backcountry and sleep and dine among the peaks.

(10)
Enjoying a Sleigh Ride to Dinner Every Friday and Saturday night, Telluride Ski Rsort offers a snowcat-drawn sleigh ride to Gorreno Ranch at the base of lift 4. Enjoy cocktails under the stars on the famed Gorreno deck, followed by the best cuisine Colorado has to offer.

Learn more about this author, Jane W. Smith.
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