Go Airborne on the San Juan Skyway

Airborne in Colorado (CO) [1]

For skiers all across the nation, the Rocky Mountains are seen as a haven for downhill skiing, and no place is better to enjoy the thrill of the slopes than Colorado’s San Juan Skyway. Join in the adventure at the Telluride ski resort in the Uncompahgre National Forest and the Durango Mountain resort in the San Juan National Forest, and create your own adrenaline-fueled memories of this exciting byway.

Ski-racing at Telluride (CO) [2]

Located just an hour-and-a-half from Montrose on Highway 145, the Telluride Ski Resort towers above the surrounding terrain near the byway’s northwestern edge. From late November to early April, 125 trails sprawl over more than 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. At its highest point of 12,570 feet, the mountain practically begs skiers to tame its many slopes. Heed that call and you’ll discover the glory of this kind of elevation – on average, the mountain receives 309 inches of snow per year. Explore the mountain's snowy grandeur on 18 lifts that usher you on your quest to experience the mountain in all its splendor. Ski school is available for all age groups, so if you’re looking to tackle this awesome winter activity or simply brush up on your skills, the resort’s staff has got you covered. Take a break from the slopes and entice your palate with a dish from one of the resort’s many restaurants. If you prefer a more unique dining experience, reserve your seat on a sleigh ride dinner. Stay overnight in one of several lodges and hotels spread throughout the resort, many of which offer discounts on ski passes for customers.

Carving the Slopes at Telluride (CO) [3]

Follow the byway farther south into Colorado’s southwestern corner and find yourself at the Durango Mountain Resort, just two hours away from Telluride. Based near the 10,822-foot summit of Purgatory Mountain, the ski area averages 260 inches of snowfall each year, creating the perfect environment to break in that new pair of skis. If you’re looking for a more forgiving skiing experience, the majority of Durango’s trails are at the Beginner and Intermediate levels, so you’ll find plenty of low-risk excitement as you glide through a gentle layer of freshly fallen powder. After a carefree day on the slopes, drop by one of the resort’s many eateries, where you can get anything from a quick cup of coffee to a thick, juicy steak at an upscale sit-down restaurant.

Whether you’re a skiing aficionado or just looking to shake the summer’s dust off your gear, make the San Juan Skyway your destination this winter. Enter the snow-covered majesty of the Colorado Rockies and begin a tradition your family will look forward to each year.