Like a fly-fisherman reluctant to reveal his favorite secret fishing hole, Telluride was conspicuously absent from my list of ski destinations to write about. But an email from a Telluride-based pilot and AOPA member caused me to re-think that omission. As he pointed out, Telluride Regional is surely one of the most beautiful airports to fly in to, and super friendly, with low fees. If a pilot’s skills and equipment can handle the 9,070-foot elevation and surrounding terrain, Telluride is also one of the most convenient resort destinations for general aviation pilots—no car needed. The town, tucked into a box canyon and home to about 2,500 of possibly the luckiest residents anywhere, is blessed with pristine mountain scenery in every direction. And Telluride’s city leaders intend to keep it that way. The town and resort are intentionally small, the result of environmentally responsible zoning and ski-loving resort owners. So go ahead—visit Telluride for the winter skiing, the summer festivals, the vast array of really good restaurants at every price range, the Wild West ambiance—you can’t spoil it.
Source: aopaPicture-perfect mountain town