Gay Ski Week History

Telluride Gay Ski Week was founded in 2002. Since then, it has been a week to look forward to for participants and locals alike. When director Rosie Cusack took over the reins of Telluride Gay Ski Week in 2016, she was sure to create a carefully orchestrated schedule of entertainment, which ups the fun: opening-day party, daily après ski, pool parties, late-night lounge happenings, with events extending well into the morning hours, including the signature White Party and much more. Historically, Telluride Gay Ski Week has coincided with Telluride Aids Benefit fashion show gala, an event run by TAB who is “dedicated to fighting HIV/AIDS by raising awareness and generating financial support for prevention programs and client care.” Telluride Gay Ski Week continues to grow and expand, and we encourage you to come check it out for yourself if you haven’t already!

Winter Activities

Deep powder. Endless runs. No lift lines. Blissful solitude. But it’s the views that will really take your breath away.

There are lots of places with snow. But there are no places quite like Telluride. As you click in atop Revelation Lift, stop to take in the moment. The valley floor lays nestled far below. Around you, the endless peaks of the San Juans encompass you in their jagged majesty. While under your feet, fresh powder awaits your first tracks down the flowing steeps and chutes of Revelation Bowl. For many, Telluride is a powder-seeker’s nirvana. And for good reason. Great snow conditions and crowd-free runs. Breathtaking scenery. Expansive side country and hike-to-terrain that provide an in-bounds “backcountry” experience. It all creates the perfect recipe for fun. Which is why Condé Nast readers ranked us the #1 Ski Resort in North America. Should you decide to take a break from carving turns, we also serve up everything from snowshoeing and nordic skiing to sleigh rides and big tire bike tours. But be forewarned, we’re a life-list destination that will set the bar high for the way skiing and riding are really supposed to be.

Dining and Nightlife

Such a special place is destined to draw special people. That list includes some of the country’s most celebrated chefs, many who now call Telluride home.  Truth is, you sort of work up an appetite here, and whether you’re looking for a fresh pizza, foie gras, or free-range steak, we’ve got a collection of restaurants that get our mouths watering just talking about them.

Condé Nast readers ranked Telluride in their Top 20 List of Best American Cities for Foodies. And Fodor’s ranked us in the Top 10. Imagine how far up the list we’d be if you took the actual “cities” off that list.   We’re also a town known for playing hard, and that doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. In fact, USA Today ranked us Top 5 Ski Resorts for Nightlife. Wander Main Street for some saloon hopping, catch some live music, or tuck into a wine bar and enjoy our friendly, festive atmosphere for yourself. We encourage you to visit the online version of the Telluride Dining Guide to explore all of the excellent options that Telluride and Mountain Village have to offer.

Shopping

Ready for a break from playing in all those powder stashes?  Check out our assortment of “shopping stashes.”

Telluride and Mountain Village offer a unique collection of independent retail shops and galleries. Wander our historic downtown or the pedestrian-friendly plazas of Mountain Village in search of the perfect gift, fashion accessory, or latest sporting equipment. Whether admiring window displays or indulging in the latest styles in apparel, home décor, jewelry and more.  Shopping is a perfect way to spend a day off the slopes, or to while away the late afternoon hours before heading to dinner. Visit Telluride Tourism Board’s Shopping Guide before you arrive to plan the perfect boutique day!