Written By: Vanessa Gurule

"When my friend and I came upon the small but magnificent waterfall on that trail, we simultaneously sat together on a fallen log and didn’t say a word for the next several minutes. When finally we spoke, our conversation was of never wanting to leave that place, of the peace that comes from such quiet beauty.....And then we settled back into silence for another long while.....The only thing that got us up and going again was *not* the nagging responsibility of office or family, and not even the warm green chili simmering on the stove back at home, but rather it was the eventual dawning of the certainty that more beauty awaited us just around the next bend. And how could we postpone the fulfillment of such a promise?"
Denise Alleman
Dallas, Texas

"I have been to only a few other places in my life that boast an amount of sensory input that comes even close to that which dwell in the San Juans. This is the mountain version of the Grand Canyon. No matter which way I face, there is something not only beautiful, but uniquely beautiful."
M. John Fayhee

CLIMBING
Rocky Mountain high! Imagine yourself rock climbing, using your strength (physically and mentally) to pull yourself up to the top of a mountain. When you stand up and view the beauty that surrounds you, you feel as if you have conquered the world. Although rock climbing looks easy, it’s definitely an acquired skill. However, there are options for anyone looking to get into this unique sport. Make sure you have the appropriate equipment, that it is in working order, and that you have some instruction before attempting a climb. Below is a list of equipment that should be worn by climbers to protect themselves and other fellow climbers.

VIEWS
Whether it’s by foot or Jeep, Telluride has some incredible vantage points to glean some drop-dead gorgeous views. Steeped in history from the hell-bent-to-leather years, the San Juans’ mineral-rich turf is forged with ghost towns and mining ruins; there views are well-worth their weight in gold.

MOUNTAIN BIKING
Whether or not you are an avid biker, a ride in the Colorado mountains is an experience of a lifetime. The San Juans are loaded with trails and country roads for your enjoyment. Include safety in your journey by wearing a helmet and obeying the rules of the road. Also remember that you are in the mountains where the altitude is high, so be prepared for a great workout. Make sure you are prepared for any type of weather and take plenty of food and water.

THE COWBOY WAY
Goodnight, Charles Goodnight that is, drove thousands of longhorns to Colorado in the mid-1800s as did countless other homesteaders. The cattle ranching enterprise was nearly as big as the mining gold rush. Eventually the cattle industry became an intricate part Colorado’s tradition, that is very much intact today. Riding through rustlers’ old roosts and trails wildlife and the Ute Indian packed-out out centuries ago is one of the most romantic ways to experience Telluride’s western frontier. Call: Many Ponies, Angel Ridge Ranch, Telluride Horseback or Deb’s Livery to get your Wild West fix.

FISHING
Whether you’re tying on a fly or rigging-up a worm your fishing experience in the Telluride area is going to be exceptional. With the San Miguel and Dolores rivers, plus many other creeks and streams, you have an array of spots to choose from that guarantee your experience will be a memorable one. The rivers and streams around Telluride include a wide variety of trout species including brook, rainbow, cutthroat and browns. If you are unfamiliar with the area, hook up with a fishing guide and they will make the experience exceptional. Make sure you purchase a fishing license because you wouldn’t want anything to ruin this great experience. Always respect private property boundaries and carry out what you carry in. A few items that you may want to consider carrying with you are bug spray, sunscreen, water, food and snacks. Always keep a safe distance from other fishermen to ensure your safety and the safety of others.

GOLFING
No matter your golfing ability, golf in the San Juans is guaranteed to be a quality experience. Surrounded by snowcapped peaks, lush valleys and plush green grass, how could it possibly go wrong; that is unless you slice it on the 1st tee! Be considerate of others and always abide by the course rules and practice general golf etiquette. You would think that only attitude not altitude could effect your game, but at 9,545 the balls fly some extra yardage. The air is thinner here so the ball travels faster and farther than it would at sea level, so be sure to hit a bucket of balls before you hit the course. You are also closer to the sun so be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Tee times fill up very quickly, so schedule your’s well in advance.