One of my favorite things to do during the summer months is get in my Jeep and explore Colorado.  Everywhere offers something new to discover and the beauty of the mountains literally takes your breath away.

This time, my good friend Sean agreed to make the 4.5 hour drive with me to Telluride – the most magical place in Colorado!   If you haven’t ever been, you don’t know what you’re missing.  With 100’s of hikes to be discovered amidst spectacular scenery you just can’t go wrong.  We arrived late, camped and woke up with no plans other than to take a little hike and maybe check out the Telluride Film Festival going on in town.  That “little” hike turned into a 6 hour, highly rewarding journey that I recommend to all!

One of the  unique features of Telluride is the Gondola that connects Historic Telluride and Mountain Village.    Right in the middle of the two, the Gondola allows passengers the option to get out at mid mountain (10,554ft) which is where Sean and disembarked.  Mid mountain is also home to Allred’s Restaurant, one of the most popular places to grab a drink while watching the sunset.  Having skied Telluride in the winter, I was stoked to take a walk up one of my favorite alpine trails, See Forever.  See Forever took us on a fairly steep incline passing us through numerous trail intersections and landmarks.  When we stumbled upon the Tempter House at 12,200 feet we were blown away.  This architectural wonder is nestled atop a ridge beside the famous Gold Hill and is one of the highest elevation homes in North America!  You just can’t find the privacy and views offered here at any other rental property.  That’s right you can rent this property out, just give Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals a call!

Sean and I finally reached what we felt was the top of our journey, but then we noticed that the trail seemed to keep going so we followed it up to the Revelation Bowl (12,570ft). At the top of Revelation Bowl we paused a moment for a photo and took a second look at our trail map.   We have two options- Turn around or continue onward across the Wasatch Connection down to East Bear Creek Trail into the Town of Telluride.  The answer was an obvious choice and we continued onward! Bear Creek Trail takes you down into the lush valley along the river to Bear Creek Falls putting you in Town Park in historic Telluride.  Lucky for us we brought sunscreen and water because we didn’t reach Town Park until 4 hours after we first reached Revelation Bowl.

The moral of the story is this – Get outside and explore!  When you need a place to rest your head, call on Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals to find you just the comfort you’re looking for in a Telluride vacation rental.

Ski in ski out lodging in Telluride is abundant and couldn’t be more convenient. The Town of Telluride and Town of Mountain Village in Telluride are both located just off the slopes, making ski in ski out lodging readily available.  Both the Town of Telluride and Mountain Village are unique in their location, lift access and dining options. Since there are so many lodging properties in Telluride, we went ahead and pulled our top 3 ski in ski out properties to give you a start in the right direction. But if you don’t see something you like, you can always check out our complete list of ski in ski out lodging in Telluride.

1)  Cabin on the Ridge

Cabin on the Ridge is a ski in ski out home in Telluride, Colorado that is located just off the slopes of Milk Run at the top of the Free Gondola. This luxurious property is one of the most remarkable properties in Telluride, and can only be accessed by the Gondola (runs 7am-12am). The home is right by San Sophia Gondola Station and Allred’s Restaurant, giving guests access to both the Town of Telluride and Mountain Village. Enjoy relaxing on the private deck, in the spacious living area or in 1 of 4 oxygenated bedrooms. The exclusive Ridge Club is a few steps away, providing access to workout facilities, pools and hot tubs. As this is one of the best properties in Telluride, I may have come on to strong by listing it 1^st, so let’s look at some other options….

 

2)  Mountain Lodge

The ski in ski out Mountain Lodge in Telluride is located right on the slopes and just next to the Free Gondola, providing transport to the Town of Telluride and Station Village Parking. The Lodge has units from 1 to 6 bedrooms, with private decks, grills, fireplaces, full kitchens and daily housekeeping. The Lodge has a hot tub, pool and fitness center, making your ski vacation as convenient as can be. While having a car is opportune and the Lodge has underground parking, you can get around completely by Gondola, taking scenic rides through the mountains on the way to/from the Town of Telluride. The variety of lodging and great location of the Mountain Lodge in Telluride makes for an ideal ski in ski out vacation.
3)  The Lumiere

Now that we have listed a ski in ski out home and lodge, it is fitting to throw a ski in ski out hotel in the Top 3: The Lumiere. The Lumiere Hotel is located just off Mountain Village Boulevard in Mountain Village, Telluride. The Hotel has 1 – 3 bedroom residences and 2 – 4 bedroom penthouse suites. The Lumiere has a long list of “reasons to stay,” including a pool, hot tub, outdoor patio with fireplaces,  sauna, fitness center, free wi-fi, ski valet and ski storage, massage services, a ski and snowboard rental shop on site, a bar with fresh sushi and specialty cocktails, and the list goes on….

 

The rooms are all wonderfully decorated and offer great views of Mountain Village and the San Sophia Mountains. Telluride is truly a beautiful destination, and the region is highlighted in its entirety by the ski in ski out Lumiere Hotel.

 

If you are unfamiliar with Telluride, check out the map.

 

So there is a House, a Hotel and some Condominiums to choose from when searching for ski in ski out lodging in Telluride, and if you couldn’t find something that tickles your fancy, check out our Comprehensive List of ski in ski out lodging in Telluride. Or, Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations ,and Call today! (877) 399-0152

 

Unique hardly describes the stunning Castlewood residence in Telluride.  Castlewood is Telluride’s finest private home marveling 17,300 square feet of indoor living space. And that’s just the beginning…

I challenge you to find anything quite like the estate, which includes

• Amazing hot springs that are built into the residence.  As the story goes, the hot springs were discovered many years ago and were enclosed within the guest house, left mostly in their “natural state” with exposed rock, waterfalls, and two tubs to soak in.
• Exterior hot tub outside of the 2-story master suite.
• History. Constructed to appear nearly 200 years old, you’ll find rich patina on every surface throughout the estate.
• A Murphy bed in the wine cellar tasting room!
• 3 twin beds in the observatory tower (yes there is an observatory tower)
• 4 washers and dryers
• 10 bedrooms, 10 full bathrooms, 6 steam showers and room to sleep 35 people!
• 3 interconnected but separate living quarters
• A theater – you have never seen a home theater like this!

Now imagine your perfect day of skiing…Got it? Castlewood is bound to offer all you can dream of and more. You will wake to sun rising over the San Juan mountain range outside your bedroom window, and be greeted soon after waking by a steam shower. Follow it up with a cup of Joe in the stunning gourmet kitchen (one of 3 full kitchens available to our guests).  Once you’re ready for the slopes, head over to the guest house to warm your boots and gloves prior to hopping on your skis and skiing down Double Cabins Ski Run. Ski. Ski. Ski.

Once you’ve exhausted your muscles covering all of Telluride’s diverse terrain, ski home for lunch, perhaps prepared by a private chef.  After your meal, why not opt for a private in-home massage in the guest house’s Spa room.  It already has massage tables set up, and even includes a incredible mechanical massage table for those impromptu massages! Then get out there and ski some more—you will have plenty of time to relax in luxury when you return home where the Castlewood Hot Springs await your return!

This magnificent room features a main hot spring pool and a separate hydro full-body massage tub, sauna and steam bath. While all of this is very tantalizing, what really tops off this room is the ice cold beer available from one of five taps in the room, filled with your favorite beer.

 

Once your body is rejuvenated, go ahead and challenge someone to a game of billiards in the game room or dance to your favorite tunes on the surround sound speaker system. After having some fun, there is nothing like a big meal in the Great Room where you’re surrounded by antique woods and fine furnishings.

With 23 beds at the property, it will be an adventure just deciding where you want to lay your head! Eight of the bedrooms have their own flat screen TV with access to the house media system.  This means that you can start your night watching a movie in the theater and then finish that same movie in your bedroom.  If you’re feeling in the mood for a good book, make your way to library for an expansive collection of classic reads.

 

The Castlewood estate is the perfect place for family reunions, wedding receptions, or any large group traveling to Telluride.  If you’re bringing a crew of people with you, look no further than the Castlewood estate to accommodate all of your group’s needs.  Call our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals to learn more about the Castlewood estate and book your dream vacation today.

It has been snowing up in the Colorado Rockies the past few days, providing skiers with fresh snow and new terrain. Vail, Copper, Keystone and Telluride have are all opening new terrain as we speak, opening up more and more of the mountain for adventure. So here’s a quick update on whats going on:

 

Vail: 24 hr: 4in.  72 hr: 6in.

With 6 inches in the last few days, Vail has now opened up Chair 10 (Highline Express Lift), Chair 26 (Pride Express Lift) and Chair 14 (Sourdough Express Lift). These lifts have opened up runs from the far west side all the way to the far east side of the mountain.

 

Copper: 24 hr: 2in. 72 hr: 2in.

The new Union Creek High Speed Quad chairlift opened today in Copper, giving riders access to new terrain on the western side of the front of the mountain.

 

Keystone: 24 hr: 2in. 72 hr: 2in.

This Friday, December 16, 2011, Keystone will open up night skiing every night until January 1st. This is a great opportunity to extend your day and have runs all to yourself (but dress warm, because when the sun goes down it gets chilly). Night skiing is great because your ticket to Breckenridge or Keystone is valid for night skiing! Spend your day skiing in Breckenridge, then swing over to Keystone around 3 or 4 in the afternoon and ski for a few more hours.

 

Breckenridge: 24 hr: 3in. 72 hr: 3in.

Even with the Dew Tour and official celebration of Breckenridge’s 50th birthday, they are still continuing to open more parts of the mountain. Tomorrow (Friday, Dec 16) Breckenridge will open its C Chair, providing access to Gold King, Sundown, and Lower Peerless runs. The lift is in between Peak 8 and Peak 9, so be sure to get over there early and get some fresh snow.

 

Telluride: 24 hr: 2in. 72 hr: 8in.

Telluride has been getting some good snow over the last week, resulting in the opening of Chair 6 (Apex Lift), Chair 12 (Prospect Bowl Express), Chair 14 (Gold Hill Express) and lastly Chair 15 (Revelation Lift) providing access to Revelation Bowl. This opens up more advanced slopes further up the mountain, giving skiers some great new terrain.

 

It looks as if things are starting to pick up for the season, and more snow is on the way. So  get up to the Colorado Rockies and find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized winter ski vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations.

 

The town of Telluride is surrounded by majestic mountains– and in these mountains you will find uncrowded lifts and wide open terrain. In Telluride there is skiing for skiers and snowboarders of every level because of the mixed terrain, making it the ideal vacation destination for the whole family. One of the favorite runs for experts is The Plunge; for intermediates, See Forever; and for  beginners the 4.7 mile Galloping Goose.

Telluride gets an annual average snowfall of 309 inches–789 centimeters, giving you plenty of opportunities to catch some of the most desired powder in Colorado and North America. There are a lot of on mountain activities throughout the year, and during the winter season you should be sure to attend one or several of the following activities:

Complimentary Mountain Tours

On this free daily tour, intermediate and above skiers and snowboarders will learn about Telluride’s history and the surrounding environment. The tour starts daily at 10 am from the top at Coonskins Lift.

 

NASTAR Racing

No matter what level you are, if you visit the NASTAR racing course you are sure to challenge yourself and get the adrenaline pumping. You will be nationally ranked against others of same gender and age with the opportunity to win bronze, silver and gold medals. It is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Butterfly ski run.

Terrain Parks

-Ute Park: For beginners, the park is located off the Ute Lift (number 11). It has mini snow-cross, basic small jumps and ride-on boxes.

-Misty Maiden Park: For intermediate to advanced riders, the park is located left of the lower part of Misty Maiden–there is a green entry gate. It has medium jumps, rails and boxes.

-Hoot Brown Park: The advanced Hoot Brown park is located on the left-hand side of Butterfly–there is a pillar entrance with orange Smart Style Signs. Even if you don’t feel comfortable riding in this park, it is worth swinging by to see all the amazing stunts that the more experienced skiers and snowboarders can perform. This park has large jumps, rails and boxes. 

 

TopAten Nordic and Snowshoe Area

At the top of Sunshine Express (lift 10) is the TopAten Nordic and Snowshoe Area. The area offers 10 km of groomed trails with a stunning views of Telluride and the surrounding mountains. Different tours are available at TopAten, such as guided snowshoe and cross-country tours. The guides are experts, and for two to three hours you will learn about the wildlife and world surrounding Telluride and Southwest Colorado. 

Snowbiking

Snowbiking is a fun activity for all levels, and here at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals we love snowbiking because of the adrenaline rush and the fun times that result. A two hour certification class is required and tours are offered Tuesday and Fridays at 1:30 p.m.

 

Before leaving the mountain after a long day, visit one of the many restaurants located on the mountain or in the town. It is a unique experience to dine in a lodge located on a mountain side while taking in the stunning panoramic views. 

 

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. 

 

Have you been waking up each morning with excitement? Immediately going to the window to see if snow has fallen overnight? Or religiously checking your computer for the snow report, hoping you somehow slept for a month and all the resorts have suddenly opened? Well if you have, you are not alone. I have been impatiently waiting for the beginning of ski season, even though it was only three months ago that I was taking runs at Arapahoe Basin on the 4^th of July.

It was a great day to end a wonderful season, complete with friends and a grill in the parking lot. But as I look out my office window at Vail, I look forward to the coming season, and pray that this year will be as fulfilling as the last.

While Vail is not open yet, the ski season in Colorado has already begun! On October 7^th, 2011, Wolf Creek opened, recording the earliest opening day in Colorado’s history. Arapahoe Basin followed soon after on October 11^th, this past weekend Copper and Keystone Opened! So get out your calendars, put a big red “X” on the following dates, and start the countdown to what is predicted to be another La Nina winter!

 

• ·        Keystone: November 4^th
  
• ·        Copper Mountain: November 4^th
  
• ·        Breckenridge: November 11^th
• ·        Vail: November 18^th
• ·        ***Snowmass: Now December 10^th
•          Beaver Creek: November 23^rd
• ·        Crested Butte: November 23^rd
  
• ·        Aspen Mountain: November 24^th
• ·        Telluride: November 24^th
• ·        Buttermilk: December 10^th
• ·        Aspen Highlands: December 10^th
  

 

Whether you‘re coming to ski on opening day or sometime mid-season  be sure to find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations.

 

 

The Mountain Lodge is part of a beautiful resort community, halfway up the Telluride Mountain, which provided its visitors with a magnificent panorama view of the San Juan Mountains. The Mountain Lodge is divided into three impressive log and stone buildings and one main lodge which includes the rustic, western inspired lobby. The lobby is warmed by an impressive River-Rock fireplace surrounded by oversized comfortable leather chairs. The lobby also features the Tavern Bar which is ideal for gathering for Après Ski in the evening. The Mountain Lodge has two housing options – a suite or a cabin. The luxury cabins will make you feel at home, the cabins are three, four or six bedrooms and sleep up to fourteen people. While you are there you can take advantage of some of the Mountain Lodge exclusive amenities and services, such as a massage in your cabin, ideal for rejuvenating your tired legs after a day on the mountain.

Mountain Lodge has partnered with Christy Sports Ski and Snowboard rental shop, to make renting easy and convenient as the store is in the base of the Mountain Lodge. When it’s time to ski all the Colorado fresh powder the ski-in/ski-out access makes the mountains easily accessible. When exploring the spectacular nature, don’t forget you four legged best friend. The Mountain Lodge is a pet friendly establishment, so bring everyone along for the trip of a lifetime.

After a long day outside, visit the on-site restaurant, View at Mountain Lodge, here you can sample classic tavern cuisine with a high end flare. The View takes its name from the breath-taking views it offers of the San Juan Mountains. The inside of the restaurant has the charm of an old western log cabin and the vaulted 50 foot timber ceilings and the massive fireplace adds a cozy atmosphere. If you come between two and six pm you can enjoy their Après Ski Happy Hour and catch one of your favorite sports teams broadcasted on the flat-screen TVs.

In the evening, spoil yourself by soaking in one of several hot tubs or the heated pool. If you want to do it like the Vikings, hop out of the warm water, role in the snow and then hurry back in, it will leave you feeling more alive than ever!

Telluride Ski-in Ski-out Hotels and Cabins: To find out more about the magnificent Telluride and the Mountain Lodge call our team of Friendly.Knowledgeable.Locals® and we will happily find you the perfect fit to make your vacation an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Telluride – It will not be the altitude that takes your breath away.
 
Telluride is one of Colorado’s most breathtaking mountain towns. The first residents of this beautiful town were the Ute Indians. Originally moving to Telluride for the fresh water fishing and warm weather, as Ute is translated as “land of sun.” Later Telluride was made famous as a mining town filled with silver and gold. In 1961 Telluride designated as a National Historic Landmark.
 
Today Telluride is a modern resort village combining luxury and mountain living. The locals will tell you the same story over and over again; they came for the winter but stayed for the summer and have yet to leave. The 300 days of sunshine create a year-round playground for all ages. In the summer it is ideal for hiking and interactive cultural events. The Bear Creek Falls are magnificent, with a roaring waterfall spanning over 100 feet. Don’t forget your camera, as you are going to want to capture all of the spectacular views. The town hosts a variety of different festivals ranging from the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival to the Free Thursday Night Concerts.
 

 
In the winter Telluride is a winter wonderland, covered in snow and packed with exciting, outdoor activities. Telluride has been ranked as one of North America’s top ten ski areas by both SKI and Skiing magazines. The activities in the winter include everything from world-class skiing to unique experiences such as dog sledding in the remote mountain terrain. These mountain vacations are an once-in-a-lifetime family experience, everyone will remember.
 

 
Find out more about vacations in Telluride, Colorado and how our team of Friendly.Knowledgeable.Locals® can help you experience the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

Check it out! The National Director of Sales and Marketing for RMVR, James Bengela, and videographer Trevor Kouchi went to visit destination specialist Natalie Binder in order to give you a first-hand look at the See Forever Summit Cabin property in Telluride! The video tour is featured below!

Telluride Vacation Rentals: The See Forever Summit Cabin property features five bedrooms, beautiful views, and a kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances. Residents of the property are welcome to head over to the Peaks Resort, which is a short walk away, to enjoy their 40,000 square foot spa facility, bar, arcade room, and golf course.
Find out more about how our team of FRIENDLY. KNOWLEDGEABLE. LOCALS.® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations.

As spring quickly approaches we begin to try and fill our summer schedules with awesome things to do. Although beaches and islands are always great nothing beats the mountains in the summer time.  That’s always why the locals say they came to Telluride for the winter but ended up staying for the summer.

There is so much to do in Telluride during the summer from mountain biking to river activities to a  ton of weekend festivals there is no reason not to visit us. This year marks the 33^rd annual Mountain Film in Telluride. This four day, six sense experience of the art, adventure, culture and environment will be sure to be life changing.

The festival begins each year with its Moving Mountains Symposium. This full-day event has a different topical theme each year, discussed and debated by a panel of world class experts drawn from many and varied disciplines. In 2009 the festival featured Food, in 2010 it featured The Extinction Crisis and this year the festival will focus on AWARENESS INTO ACTION where Mountainfilm will work on shortening the distance between awareness and action by providing us with a way to actively change the world around us.

I am sure once you all plan your summer vacation to Telluride and check out this year’s Mountain Film in Telluride you will understand why this festival is a locals favorite. For information on your summer activities and lodging contact your friendly, knowledgeable, locals at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

Come to Telluride this summer to experience all the festivals, mountains and beautiful scenery. If pairing the beauty of mountains with the indulgence of fine wines interest you then you will be sure to enjoy the 2011 Telluride Wine Festival. This is just one of the unique festivals Telluride has to offer this summer. The wine festival takes place on June 23rd-26th.

This year there will be more chefs, more experts, more wine, and more cocktails than ever! This is an event you cannot miss! New to the festival this year will be Chef and Food Network Star Aaron Sanchez, Chef and Author John Sedlar and Chef Sue Torres, as well as Wine/Spirits experts F. Paul Pacult and Andrea Robinson, MS. Returning favorites Doug Frost MS, MW; Steve Olson, Greg Harrington, MS; and Andy Seymour will also be part of the all star lineup, as well as many others!

The Wine Festival has amazing food, great music, and fabulous wines from across the country. You will not be bored with all the nonstop entertainment! Make sure you don’t miss out on this weekend! Contact your Friendly, Knowledgeable, Locals at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals for your lodging information.

      Telluride Comedy Fest consists of a hilarious weekend of comedy in the beautiful Telluride.  The fest begins on Feb 17^th through the Feb 20^th.  Each night of this festival includes some of the best and funniest performers out there today. There are a variety of comedic acts from Stand-Up, Sketch, and Improv.

Features Acts:

Scot Armstrong (writer) – Old School, Starsky & Hutch, Road Trip, The Hangover Part II
Jessica Chaffin – 90210, The Mighty B!, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Entourage, Rona & Beverly
Jon Daly – Parks and Recreation, Bride Wars, NYC Sketch Group Mr. A$$
Jamie Denbo – Children’s Hospital, Terriers, Conan, Weeds, Curb Your Enthusiasm
Ed Helms – The Office, The Hangover, The Hangover Part II
Brian Huskey – Free Radio, Best Week Ever, Superbad, Step Brothers, Parks and Recreation
Nick Kroll – Little Fockers, Dinner For Schmucks, Get Him to the Greek, I Love You Man, Date Night
Jason Mantzoukas – Baby Mama, Splinterheads, Parks and Recreation, The League
Seth Morris – Curb Your Enthusiasm, I Love You Man, Step Brothers, No Strings Attached, Funny or Die
Tig Notaro – Jimmy Kimmel, Sarah Silverman Program, Comedy Central’s Benson Interruption, Held Up

     For lodging information contact your Friendly, Knowledgeable, Locals at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

Are you traveling to Telluride for a Colorado ski vacation this winter? Or maybe, you’re just thinking about taking a trip to Telluride this winter.  Either way, I am here to tell you about all of the great adventurous activities there are in and around Telluride, other than skiing and snowboarding at the resort.  Skiing and snowboarding may be your initial draw to the steeps of Telluride, but perhaps there is more that you aren’t even aware of!  The list of fun & extreme things to do in Telluride goes on and on and on.  I will share with you today, my personal favorites.

First and foremost are the San Juan Huts.  The San Juan hut system is composed of five backcountry ski huts (or bike huts in the summer) connecting Telluride, Ridgeway, and Ouray.  Each hut provides advanced terrain above and is completely human powered, lightweight, and low impact on the environment.  You can travel through these huts over a period of time, or trek out to just one for a night.  This is a truly unique and extreme way to indulge in the backcountry.

For a more family-oriented unique experience in Telluride, you may want to consider dog-sledding.  This is an activity for all ages!  Be prepared to get up nice and early, as the sled dogs prefer to run when it is cold and crisp.  It is a thrilling experience being pulled on a sled fueled by a team of powerful sled dogs.  This is a great way to explore snow-covered trails through the San Juan Mountains.

One of the most exhilarating expeditions you can go on in Telluride is heli-skiing.  Heli-skiing allows you to go beyond all resort boundaries with the help of Helitrax, Colorado’s premier helicopter skiing company.  Guides provide safety and guidance, while bringing you on a personalized skiing experience.  When visiting Telluride, you can take a day trip, a multi-day outing, or plan a customized tour!

If you are looking for an extravagant backcountry experience, but heli-skiing is not for you, you can look into taking a cat trip.  The closest cat-skiing to Telluride is in Silverton, Colorado.  Silverton is known to have some of the gnarliest backcountry terrain in all of Colorado, so it is well worth the hour and a half trip!  Silverton Powdercats is a company based out of Silverton that takes skiers and boarders on guided snow-cat tours through the San Juan Mountains.  Get out into the mountains and discover what you are missing out on!

Interested in something a little more slow paced? Nordic Skiing is an enormous workout, plus a great way to spend time with the whole family!  Nordic skiing has recently exploded onto the scene in Telluride.  There are more cross-country skiers and ski areas then ever before in Telluride.  Currently, there are six nordic ski areas in Telluride’s immediate vicinity.  Each ski area has different levels of terrain, varied groomed trail lengths, and of course outrageous views.  Out of the six areas, three of them are pet-friendly! Which means, even the dog can come along on this adventure, talk about a good walk!  The Nordic Center in Telluride located in Town Park offers cross-country equipment rentals, trails maps, and even offer lessons!

Another activity that is great for the whole family is snowshoeing.  Snowshoeing is an incredible card workout, easy to learn, and fun to master.  The best part of snowshoeing, other than the incredible views and unforgettable family time, is that you can choose your  own trek! It can be anything from an intense up mountain endeavor to a leisurely downhill climb.  At the top of lift 10, “TopATen”, at Telluride Ski Resort, you can take a guided nature snowshoe hike.  Many other snowshoe excursions are available in Telluride, from a number of different outfitters.  Dedicated snowshoeing trails can be located easily from both Telluride and Mountain Village.

For those who want to have a little high voltage fun, snowmobiling is always a great activity.  Telluride has an extensive network of groomed snowmobiling trails, just outside of Telluride and Mountain Village.  Many trails are easy to access and of course all offer stunning views of the mountain landscape.  There are a variety of expert guide outfitters in Telluride, so if you are thinking of snowmobiling in Telluride, call up our concierge and we will be happy to set up an expedition for you!

Telluride is world-renowned for ice-climbing.  There are a variety of climbing options in Telluride, and it is highly recommended that you explore them with a highly experienced guide.  The 365 foot tall Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s largest free-falling waterfall, is known to be one of the most classic, extreme, and difficult ice-climbs in the United States.  The falls have recently opened to the public, in the winter of 2008/2009, besides from a few short stints of opening to the public in the past. Access to the waterfall is contingent on the climber’s awareness and compliance with a lengthy list of rules and regulations.

A Telluride ski vacation is grand, beautiful and clearly highly active.  So, if you are looking to vacation to some place adventurous, Telluride is certainly the place for you! Although it may seem like I have covered absolutely everything to do in Telluride during the winter, I have not.  You could spend the day winter fly fishing, ice skating with the family, sledding on one of Tellurides massive hills, go on a sleigh-ride, or even go horseback riding through the snow!

Are you ready for a Christmas ski vacation?  Because major resorts are gearing up for the Holidays.  Telluride will start their festivities on December 10^th.   Don’t miss the lighting of their enormous Christmas tree that will light up the night, or Santa listening to kids’ Christmas wishes. Hot beverages will be passed out, the ice rink will be open, treats will be available for the kids, and many other special events will be going on.  I didn’t even mention the amazing skiing Telluride has to offer!

If interested in other resorts for the holidays, check out our website.   Make sure to plan your trip with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals so you don’t miss out on any of the holiday fun.

Telluride is a ski resort that is unmatched in North America. If you want to escape to an undisturbed box canyon, surrounded by 14,000 foot peaks where you’ll discover miles of un-crowded slopes and diverse terrain, Telluride is the place to be. While you’re at one of the most amazing ski resorts there are, why not stay at one of the finest homes Telluride has to offer?

The Bonnaire is a secluded mountain retreat that sits at the top of the mountain complete with spectacular views and total privacy.  This spacious home feels like a romantic Swiss chalet in the alps. Bonnaire consists of three floors with four bedrooms and five bathrooms. The spacious main floor is occupied by a gourmet kitchen, an eight-person dining room table and a great room featuring vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace, and cathedral windows overlooking the beautiful mountain.

After a long day on the mountain, you can ski right to your home and relax in a steam shower, Jacuzzi tub, or in your very own hot tub on your private deck. The Bonnaire is a great place to stay with a large family, multiple families, or a big group of friends. Call us today at 1-888-866-2305  to book this fantastic mountain retreat with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

For the 2010/2011 ski season, Telluride has been busy working on 180 different projects on and off the mountain.  Some include new ski runs, a new bridge and staircase, new shops, an enclosed snow cat, more snow making, additions to four terrain parks, preparing for the LG FIS Snowboard World Cup, Telluride eco adventures, and being a featured resort in this winter’s Warren Miller film, Wintervention. With all these additions to an already marvelous ski resort, Telluride will be a must hit this season.

Telluride Ski Resort has assertively been working on cleaning up the tree runs and adding some new ones as well. Old and new tree runs will be ready for this season.

Telluride will also be the host of the LG FIS Snowboard World Cup, featuring snowboard-cross and parallel giant slalom competitions. The games will be there from Dec. 15 to Dec. 18, so make sure to check it out.

Canadian based helicopter company, Heliqwest, has air lifted two giant staircases and a 24 foot bridge to the span between Gold Hill Chutes 8 and 9. The bridge and two staircases combined make up 126 linear feet, connecting Gold Hill Chute 8 with 9 and 10.

Telluride has doubled their capacity for blowing snow this season, compared to 2009/2010, which should make this season a pretty epic one.

Another great addition is their new snow cat “People Hauler.”  This addition will have capacity for 12 explorers heated comfortably.  The People Hauler will escort you to the highest wine bar in ski country, Alpino Vino, for a great glass of wine while enjoying unbeatable views.

With all these new amenities, Warren Miller decided to feature Telluride in this seasons film; Wintervention.

Colorado’s best kept secret just got better now; there is no excuse to not visit the pristine Telluride Ski Resort.  Call Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals to book your trip today.

Starting this November, a Telluride Cub Scout’s initiative Adopt-A-Trail  kicked off for the end of 2010, going into 2011, to maintenance the popular Telluride River Trail. The Adopt-A-Trail Program will encourage individuals, families, school classes, and non-profit groups to participate in a community effort to clean up traces left behind by pet owners and littering passersby.

The program will be open to anyone interested in the community, and participants are recognized with a plaque posted at each end of their section of the trail. Interested groups in adopting a trail are responsible for just some bi-weekly clean-up, providing their own supplies and disposing of all trash bags. Giving a little love to the land once every two weeks – and one of many hands can truly go a long way.

This green initiative from a local Cub Scout troop is one of the many cool things that Telluride takes into account to preserve its natural beauty. Set in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride is well known for its 360 breath-taking views, in addition to light traffic on the mountain and plenty of fun off slope activity.

Check out this article for more information on the Cub Scout’s initiative, adopting a trail, and giving a little back to the land. Also, stay posted with events and our services in Telluride. To experience the beauty that this old mining town has to offer on the slopes, book your lodging with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

The temperature is changing, the leaves are falling, the snow has appeared, the smell of fire is around us, and we are pulling out our down jackets; this can only mean one thing.  Winter is coming!

The slopes are opening up!  Loveland and Arapahoe Basin have opened for the season and the rest will follow soon.  I am excited for Telluride to open on November 25^th, for the slopes should be covered with powder as should rest of the resorts, if we can view this recent early dumping as a positive sign.

Telluride continues to be recognized in ski magazines for its 360-degree views and towering mountains. Escape to an undisturbed box canyon, surrounded by 14,000 foot peaks where you’ll discover miles of un-crowded slopes and diverse terrain. Telluride offers some of the best black diamonds in the country, while still providing a nearly even mixture of beginner and intermediate runs. Telluride continuously draws in first-time visitors as well as longtime locals ready to experience exciting, new adventures. Whether you’re ready to enjoy the serene, beautiful alpine location, explore the intelligent arts community, or bask in the comforts of a relaxing, calm vacation, Telluride is just the place that can satisfy all your needs and more.

Telluride and Mountain Village are companion towns connected by a free gondola and surrounded by escalating mountains. Telluride boasts over 1,700 acres of “must ski” areas for beginner skiers, extreme skiers, and everyone in between. Telluride offers some of the best black diamonds in the country, while still providing a nearly even mixture of beginner and intermediate runs. The Telluride Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also one of Colorado’s 20 National Historic Landmarks. Victorian-inspired architecture can be seen throughout Mountain Village and Telluride.

Get ready for the winter season because it’s reached the mountains already!  Plan your trip to Colorado through Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals and see what I am talking about.

It’s always great to stumble upon creative opportunities that go to a worthwhile cause. Now in Telluride, the Mountain Sprouts preschool is calling for local artists to paint children’s skis and snowboards as a Telluride public art project. What a great effort to encourage local involvement, community fundraising, and the re-use of skis and snowboards outgrown by kids!

Mountain Sprouts is a non-profit preschool located in the parish hall of St. Patrick’s Church in Telluride. As a parent cooperative, it is run by a board of directors in which parents have different jobs to contribute to the function of the school. The students have a hands-on curriculum, focusing on creative play, community, the natural world, arts, and practical work.

Parent and board member Jackie Unternahrer is involved with organizing the event, and is currently looking for local artists to participate. The school hopes to have 20 skis or snowboards auctioned off at their winter fundraiser January 29^th, and interested artists may contact Unternahrer or the school by November 15^th. The fundraiser will raise money for the school’s curriculum, and there will be entertainment, food from a local restaurant and parent, and free babysitting offers.

Throughout the month of January, the painted skis and snowboards will be on display in local Telluride retailers and restaurants. The art will provide bios and bid sheets, which will offer the option of a “buy it now bid.” If you are a local artist to the area, this is a cool opportunity to make recycled materials into art, as well as contribute to a local school. If not – be sure to check out this awesome project that will be taking place over the next few months in Telluride!

Anyone who is a fan of opera will know of Giacomo Puccini, an Italian composer famous for La boheme, Tosca, Madama Butterfly, and Turandot, each of which are among the most performed in this society.  Puccini’s last opera, Turandot, was not completely finished at the time of his death, but was finished later by Franco Alfano.

Director Franco Zeffirelli’s production of Puccini’s last opera will be shown live throughout  the world on November 7th, 2010.   The Metropolitan repertoire in New York will be performing this classic opera.  Telluride, CO is one of the lucky destinations that will be showing this work of art during the live presentation and an encore on November 10^th.

The performance will begin at 11am November 7th, 2010 so don’t miss your chance to watch a timeless opera performed live in HD while being surrounded by absolute beauty.  Book you Telluride lodging today through Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals by calling 1-888-866-2305.