What better place to escape than Telluride? This charming little village sits in the San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado. It was pioneered as a silver mining town and struck gold in the mid 1800s. Ores of gold and silver are called "tellurides" - hence, the town's name. Today, the main town is home to few, but a travel destination to many. While the summer months bring outdoor food, music festivals and a wide variety of recreational opportunities like golf, hiking, rafting and fishing, the wintertime sparkles with beauty and vibrant energy as people flock to the world famous slopes, the town of Telluride and the famous Mountain Village.

Plan Ahead

With 1700 skiable acres of powder, it won't be a problem finding a slope to ski, whether you are a novice or an expert. However, it's a good idea to plan ahead. Pack warm clothes, thermals, gloves and hats - the essentials of cold weather wear. Consider looking into ski insurance to protect you from losing your ski equipment or the possibility of getting injured on the mountain. Also keep in mind the timing. According to usnews.com, the best time for a Telluride winter weekend getaway is in November, when the ski resort opens its slopes to the public. Vacationers flock to the town during the holiday months for its magic and wonder and, of course, for the slopes.

The Playground

There are 115 trails carving through the Telluride Ski Resort, where 18 lifts transport people to different areas of the mountains to ski and snowboard different levels of slopes. From the 4.6 mile Galloping Goose trail for beginners to the Black Bear Pass for thrill seekers, there is hardly ever a lift line.

Besides the majestic ski slopes, the town allows for a variety of other outdoor activities like ice skating, sleigh riding, sledding and winter fly-fishing.

Also visit Colorado's 365 ft. high waterfall, Bridal Veils Falls - which breathes the spirit of the legacy of the land.

The Magic

Now, imagine the perfect little world....powder snow lining cobblestone streets and gently resting upon tree branches. Twinkle lights illuminating outdoor cafes and pubs. Dogs playing while kids are throwing snowballs and building snowmen. All with a snow-covered mountain backdrop. It's like a Thomas Kinkade painting in real time. Magical and alluring. This is the Town of Telluride. With its unique shops and heated outdoor cafes, you can simply relax with hot tea or a cold beer after a long day on the mountain.

Nightlife

Telluride Ski Resort's Mountain Village offers a more modern twist to the area. Being more family oriented, it offers great food but little nightlife after dinnertime. If nightlife is what you are looking for, there are a few bars and pubs in the town to explore.

A famous gondola glides people to and from the two towns at a height of 10,500 feet. Imagine the sweeping views at sunrise and sunset. This one-of-a-kind transportation system is open from 7 a.m. to midnight and is used by tourists and locals alike.

Pioneers knew this city was worth its weight in gold back in the 1800s. Its majesty, heritage and culture create the perfect, dynamic little town to have your next winter weekend getaway.

John Martinez John has written articles for several travel websites about subjects such as the best places to go in Atlanta for happy hour, best hummus dishes in Baltimore and best vegan restaurants in Las Vegas.