Best of Southwest Colorado

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Telluride's Helitrax: Photo credit: Brett Schreckengost

If you're looking for a true Colorado ski vacation you'll find everything you need in Southwest Colorado. The five Southwest ski areas - Crested Butte, Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort, Silverton, Telluride, and Wolf Creek - offer options for the whole family from beginner terrain to extreme steeps. The Best of the Southwest features unbelievable scenery, fewer crowds, plentiful powder, great value and authentic mountain town experiences. Ski and snowboard in the heart of the American West - experience the Best of the Southwest.


Telluride:

Telluride Skiers shred some fresh snow

Nestled among the highest concentration of 14,000 foot peaks in North America, Telluride blends historic buildings and local watering holes with world-class hotels, restaurants, shops and spas. With legendary terrain, revered as some of the best in Colorado, the region receives more than 300 inches of snow each year and offers over 2,000 skiable acres that cater to all abilities. For those daring enough to take on some backcountry terrain, stroll on over to Telluride Helitrax. They offer helicopter-assisted skiing and snowboarding out of the Mountain Village base area.

Getting to Telluride is easy with nonstop flights from nine U.S. cities on six commercial carriers to the Telluride/Montrose airports. Once you've arrived, Telluride's free gondola is the main source of transportation - no traffic or lift lines, and no driving once you get there. Experience the unrivaled scenery and terrain, new world-class hotels, shopping, spas, and much more. Discover why Telluride is unmatched in North America.

For more information, call 866-552-7216 or go to www.tellurideskiresort.com. 


Wolf Creek:

Wolf Creek Skiers Hiking a ridge

Known for its abundant, light powder snow, Wolf Creek Ski Area is the iconic family owned and operated resort with world renowned powder skiing in southern Colorado. First opening their doors in 1939, Wolf Creek is one of the oldest ski resorts still operating in Colorado.

The area surrounding Wolf Creek is a playground for outdoor activities, most notably in the quaint mountain towns of Pagosa Springs and South Fork. One of the most popular attractions is the natural hot springs that can be found locally. Tourists and locals alike find comfort and relaxation in these naturally heated pools, and they have become a favored pit stop after a great day of skiing/snowboarding.

If what you're looking for is adventure, value and tons of powder then Wolf Creek is where you want to be this winter. Call 970-264-5639 or visit www.wolfcreekski.com to start planning you Colorado ski vacation today.


Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort:

Early morning at Purgatory at DMR

A winter paradise in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort is the perfect family vacation destination, known for its unmatched scenery; terrain for all abilities; and a vibrant, historic downtown. With more than 1,350 skiable acres, two terrain parks and a kids' play area, Purgatory has something to offer the entire family.

Purgatory is located just 25 miles north of the historic mining town of Durango, Colorado. Named one of "America's Best Small Towns" by Outside magazine. Durango offers a wide array of shopping, dining and recreational opportunities, including more restaurants per capita than San Francisco. A spectacular location, friendly staff, and some of the best ski weather in America make Purgatory the perfect place for a memorable winter vacation.

Call 800-525-0892 to book your Ski and Stay package today. For updates on snow conditions, trails and ticket prices visit their website at www.durangomountainresort.com.


Crested Butte:

Skier turning in deep powder at Crested Butte

Colorado's True Colors

Located in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is the place to inspire your passion for adventure. With vibrant Victorian store-fronts and expressive local characters, the small historic town remains true to its heritage and radiates an unparalleled welcoming and inviting spirit that takes you back to a simpler life and time. Whether you are arriving for the first time or a frequent visitor, you immediately feel a difference that sets Crested Butte apart from other mountain locations.

With no traffic lights or chain stores and people who openly celebrate life every day, the genuine nature of the community and the pristine surroundings immediately capture you. Here, your time isn't just about a visit to ski an incredible mountain. It's about being away from your other world, finding adventure in an unspoiled setting surrounded by majestic peaks, wide valleys, and being connected to the culture and lifestyle that is Crested Butte.

More information about Crested Butte Vacations can be found on their website at www.skicb.com or by calling 800-810-7669.


Silverton Mountain:

Skier drops a crazy line at Silverton Mountain

Imagine a place where the average total snowfall of over 400" exceeds the amount of daily visitors. At Silverton you will find amazing terrain in every direction and one chairlift, perfectly located, to deliver you to the goods. Silverton offers unparalleled big-mountain powder and chairlift-served guided skiing with an emphasis on adventure. Advanced and expert only riding, no groomers, no clear cut runs. Just a real mountain experience with plenty of adventure on tap.

Silverton Mountain now offers heli skiing by the run or for the day. Taking the quick helicopter ride form the base of Silverton Mountain to the summit is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Picture standing at 13,487 feet with nothing below except acres of untouched powder. Talk about breathtaking.

For more information or to book your trip to Silverton visit www.silvertonmountain.com or call 970-387-5706.

The Best of Southwest program is supported by:

The Colorado Tourism Office & Colorado Ski Country USA