Publisher's Notes Winter 2002

Welcome

It is always a pleasure to introduce people to Telluride, Colorado, and the stately San Juan Mountains. Although Telluride is minute when compared to big cities like New York City, L.A, Boston, Chicago, Houston and Philly, it has a big story to tell, and is a place where big times can be had.

Rooted in mining, Telluride's history reads like an "eye spy" novel filled with death defying stunts and trick maneuvers centered around explosives and rugged individuals who seemingly cared naught of the dangers they were in daily. While in Telluride, pick up a local history book to get a better appreciation for the high-life of a hundred years ago. Reading about our lovely mountain town will help set the mood and better allow you to draw the atmospheric vibrations emitted from the Victorian buildings and ginger bread houses that line the streets of Telluride.

Seemingly, Telluride attracts intrepid souls as a large segment of today's population is made up of adventurous mountaineers or those who push the threshold in whatever endeavor they are pursuing. The spirit of Telluride's presentday locals appear to mimic the founders in that they don't mind charting new courses and being trailblazers. Certainly, there isn't as much hoodwinking today as in the late 1800s, but you will find that Telluride still has a bit of a sassy and playful attitude that is transmitted from the locals who go out on the limb of life on a regular basis. Telluride's vast pool of amenities include tremendous dining opportunities, America's only free gondola transportation system, a myriad of indoor and outdoor activities, cultural events, world-renowned pampering facilities and, of course, some of the world's most amazing ski terrain set amidst the dazzling beauty of the southern Rocky Mountains. We're sure you'll find Telluride one of the most genuine mountain escapes around as it's a community that celebrates individuality, small businesses, nature, health-oriented activities and creativity. In a word, Telluride is an eclectic community that brims with freshness and exciting things-to-do.

When visiting here you'll soon find that you get the best of both worlds; a fusion of the old with the new. The town of Telluride offers Old World integrity intricately spun with down-home charms and the authentic spirit of alpine enthusiasts. See the wild and courageous athletes of Telluride finesse their way down expert mogul runs with the ease and agility of a cheetah in chase. Having one of the "most challenging" (and best beginner) mountains in America seemingly puts our athletes on edge...just where they like to be. Learn from the prowess of Telluride's finest skiers by enlisting in Telluride's Ski and Snowboard School. Your learning experience is bound to bring you to new heights.

Like a good story line, Telluride has many textures, layers and nuances that perpetually engage the romance of the past. Figuratively, the other side of Telluride's world puts you in the arms of a magnificent municipality called Mountain Village. Established in 1995, Mountain Village is surrounded by picture postcard splendor that enraptures your senses with the idyllic qualities one equates with paradise. The winding country road of Mountain Village Boulevard or a 13-minute gondola ride from Telluride leads you to this European-styled village laced with fine art galleries; one-of- a-kind, family-owned shops; restaurants; and world-class resorts like the Franz Klammer, Owner's Club, Westermere, Lost Creek, Aspen Ridge and Wyndham's 42,000- square-foot first-class spa. Mountain Village also boasts an elaborately appointed 20,000- square-foot conference center that punctuates life's finer moments by bringing you unique entertainment of all sorts. Jazz, blues, rock 'n' roll, ballets, live theater, comedy works and so much more are continuously scheduled at the Telluride Conference Center or elsewhere in Mountain Village. Unless otherwise noted, the dress is most always Sundance-esque.

Along with brilliant scenic backdrops, vast and varied ski and boarding terrain, lots of "ings" to do, Telluride's style resonates from the people who call this special oasis home. Please get to know the folks who put the style in our little town by reading their profiles on the following pages. Further, you'll find TellurideStyle offers you the most comprehensive and extensive information compiled on our town. Let our dining, real estate, shopping, services, maps and activities sections guide you through to the offerings of Telluride, Colorado. Cheers! Enjoy! Have fun!