As the heat of the summer season drags on, a jaunt into the cool mountain air is a welcome escape for summer vacationers. After the white blankets of snow melt from the slopes, the mountains reveal their green grass and colorful wildflowers. Fresh air, warm days and cool nights are a welcome change from the hubbub of sticky heat in a crowded metropolis.
Usually regarded as winter wonderlands, ski towns and resorts have capitalized on their pleasant summer weather to attract tourism by providing visitors a unique mix of nature’s beauty, diverse culture, adventure and value. They offer urbanites and wilderness novices a taste of the rugged mountains without sacrificing the comforts of modern restrooms and coffee bars.
Whether you’re traveling with a group, the children or seeking a romantic get-away; there’s something for everyone. A charming ski town is an oasis of fine dining, nightlife and culture surrounded by vast stretches of open country. Visitors are enticed away from beaches and theme parks by alpine golf courses, world-class spas, unlimited athletic endeavors, and nature’s solitude. Endless trails beckon to be explored on foot, mountain bike, and horseback.
To stimulate their slower off-season economies, many resorts host festivals to celebrate music, art, films, wild flowers, athletic races, summer holidays, rodeos and farmers’ markets. In the free-spirited tradition of ski towns, they’ll come up with any excuse to throw a party!
Some resorts are even more famous for summer festivals than skiing. With the exception of avid skiers, Telluride Resort has become more widely known for its world-renowned Bluegrass music festival than its first-rate skiing. It’s so popular that local hotels mandate a four night minimum stay during the festival.
Attempting to replicate its Bluegrass success, Telluride plays host to numerous other festivals throughout the summer. Some of the highlights of their festival calendar include the Telluride Film Festival, Hot Air Balloon Rally, Wild West Fest, Wine Festival, Arts Festival, Music Festival, ‘Red - White and Blues Concert’, 4 x 4 Off-Road Rally, Jazz Celebration, Culinary Festival, Chamber Music Festival, ‘Blues and Brews’ Festival, frequent farmers’ markets, and then they conclude the “off-season” with an Oktoberfest.
The best place to find these bargains are on the resorts’ Web sites where they offer inclusive packages and last minute specials. Most sites offer flexibility to find the most appropriate accommodations including hotels, condos, dog friendly establishments, and bed and breakfasts.
Another great way to enjoy the mountains and trim the expense is to camp. Sleeping outdoors is an invigorating experience, and you’ll be close to all the activities that the resorts offer. Grab your tent and sleeping bag; though don’t worry about the camp kitchen. There will be plenty of dining options in town or at slope side cafes.
There are many ski towns to choose from for a summer ski resort getaway, including mega resorts and quaint villages. Loyalists return year after year to the same place where they discovered welcoming charm and hospitality. Make your choice based on convenient geography and access to your preferred activities. As the end of summer nears, seize the opportunity to take a memorable trip into the mountains before they once again turn cold and frozen.
If You Go:
Telluride Farmers Market Every Friday through summer, the Telluride Farmers Market provides local organic vegetables, fruits, grass fed beef, lamb, poultry, buffalo, elk, freshly baked breads, homegrown honey, fresh flowers, and more! Located on South Oak Street.
Winterfilm Every year the Mountainfilm’s spring festival screens thought-provoking and adventure-related films at the Telluride Conference Center. Call 970-728-4123 for more information.
Ah Haa Summer Art Programs Art classes for the kids are a great way to take a vacation within a vacation. While the kids are at the Ah Haa School for the Arts (ages 4-6 & 7-9 on Fridays through July and August), you can hit the town and go hiking, boating or out to lunch. Students at the school can explore a different medium every Friday and experience the joy of a completed project.
Telluride Chamber Music Festival The joys of sweet music to the ears can be enjoyed at different spots around town, including the town park, with the sounds of Chamber Music.
Mudd Butts Mystery Theatre Troupe A fun and creative local children’s theater troupe that performs a different act at a different venue every year.
Telluride Mushroom Festival Now 25 years in the running, the Telluride Mushroom Festival gathers fungophiles from around the world to participate in forays, lectures, dining, and the famous mushroom parade.
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