HomeTravel & LeisureTravel › The Other Side of Telluride - Page 2

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Wait a minute. Hold everything. A Colorado mountain town isn’t supposed to have a cold cocktail as its signature sip, waterfall hikes within walking distance of downtown or brag worthy Thai food. Hell no. But we guess Telluride didn’t get the memo. Besides having sweeping mountain views courtesy of the majestic San Juans and some of the best skiing in Colorado, the mining town turned adventure mecca is a rule-breaker in the best way. Get ready to be surprised and delighted.

It’s super easy to get to—like, super easy It can feel like planes, trains and automobiles getting to some ski destinations (cough, Aspen), but thanks to the new non-stop daily flight from Phoenix to Montrose, hitching a ride to Telluride has never been easier. Then hop on the Telluride Express for a scenic trip that takes you straight into town. Door to door in less than 3 hours.

Trade the hot totties for martinis and craft brewskies To really drink like a local, Telluride’s signature sip, the Flatliner Martini, is a mix of vodka, Bailey’s, Kahlua and espresso that’s stronger than it tastes. Or order up Telluride Brewing Company’s Face Down Brown Ale, Wacked Out Wheat or Russell Kelly Pale Ale. All of the above are better enjoyed on the rooftop bar of the New Sheridan Hotel at sunset Ipictured).

Choose your own adventure: slopes, white water or dirt paths Schussing down the slopes is magical and meditative and never would we put down skiing, but it’s not the only thrill-seeking way to traverse Telluride. On the top of our list is white water rafting down the San Miguel or Dolores River, both high-octane adventures that’ll have you paddling, backstroking and rocking your raft at high speeds (psst: ask your Boot Doctors’ guide if you can “Ride the bull”). Of course, there’s mountain biking through untamed wilderness and standup paddle boarding on picturesque lakes, too.