Mt. Sneffels and Wilson Peak

You could almost use a Coors Light can as your map of Wilson Peak—it’s the mountain featured on most beers from the Golden-based brewery. There’s a reason for it—with its sprawling mesas in front, it is the quintessential peak. The 14,017-foot mountain just begs to be climbed. So does Sneffels, located between the towns of Ridgway and Telluride. The 14,150-foot mountain overlooks Dallas Divide and the coolest working ranch in Colorado—Ralph Lauren’s Double RL Ranch that sprawls for miles. Sneffels is also one of the quickest 14er hikes you can find with a roundtrip hike of less than three miles. Depending on the approach, Wilson can be quite a bit longer (up to 12 miles roundtrip and range from Class 1 to Class 3). When you get to the top of either one, you’ll feel transformed from the Rockies to the Andes. The San Juan Mountains are perhaps the most dramatic peaks in the state. They are sharp, steep and menacing, making for true a mountaineering experience.

[Telluride]
Telluride is way out there, a good six-hour drive from the metro area with no easy way to get there except by putting a bunch of miles on your car. But it’s worth the extra effort required. Nestled in the Box Canyon, the town is dwarfed by 13,000-plus foot peaks. Quaint homes dot downtown and everything is within walking distance. Despite having a reputation for being a refuge for the rich and famous, most of the folks who call Telluride home are friendly and down-to-earth. This is a near perfect ski town.

[The Food]
While many of the buildings appear rustic, the restaurants are far from it. There are endless five-star dining experiences. But we have to pick. Trying to get a table at Honga’s Lotus Petal (970-728-5134) can be difficult on a weekend evening, but the wait is well worth it. Offering a Japanese menu heavy on sushi, you’ll be wondering how the heck they have fish so fresh so far from civilization. And the mojitos are legendary—Honga’s is rumored to go through more Bacardi Limon than any other Colorado restaurant. Or grab a pie from Brown Dog Pizza (970-728-8046), a true East Coast pizzeria; just don’t admit to being a New York Yankees fan, these are Boston guys.

[The Drinks]
The New Sheridan (970-728-4351) is far from new. The bar being the same one that Butch Cassidy likely drank at a century ago. This swank hotel bar is cozy and historic and in the center of main street. For a true Old West feel, ask for the poker set and spend a few hours playing Hold ’em upstairs overlooking the bustling night life. The other locals’ favorite is the Last Dollar Saloon, but call it The Buck (970-728-4800) if you don’t want a dirty look and bring cash, not your Visa. Follow those two rules and you’ll have a blast at the town’s wildest watering hole.

[The Lodging]
Big rooms and location. The Camel’s Garden (970-728-9300) has both, plus a rooftop hot tub with amazing San Juan views. At the base of the Telluride Ski Area, the Camel’s Garden is just a few blocks from the shopping and dining of main street, and right on the gurgling San Miguel River. It’s one of the most luxurious in town hotels, offering fireplaces in every room and the Atmosphere Day Spa that can eliminate all those sore muscles from climbing two 14ers in successive days. If it’s booked up during a busy festival weekend, give the San Sophia Inn (970.728.3001) a try. It’s a cozy B&B with prime location.

Back to travel