Unseasonably warm temps and dry weather have left most western ski resorts asking, “where’s the snow”? And while seasoned skiers remain calm knowing the snow will eventually come, the rest of us are left pondering, “what will I do if I can’t ski”?

The five-star skiing experience most flock to Telluride for often overshadows the depth and vitality of the eclectic mountain town. If you are planning an early winter trip to Telluride this season you will be pleasantly surprised at the number of non-snow related activities to choose from.

Ice Skating & Sledding

Lace up your skates up and enjoy some quality family time on the ice. An indoor, NHL-size rink and outdoor rink with warming hut are found in Telluride Town Park https://www.telluride-co.gov/182/Ice-Rinks. Check out the full-service rink in Mountain Village’s European style plaza next to Hotel Madeline https://townofmountainvillage.com/recreating/ice-skating/. Grab a sled and head up to Firecracker Hill in Telluride Town Park for some guaranteed laughs and old fashioned fun.

Arts & Culture

Take some time for yourself and do something you never have time for at home. Immerse yourself in a pottery or painting class at Telluride’s Ah Haa School for the Arts http://www.ahhaa.org/ or leisurely stroll through the galleries in historic downtown http://www.telluridearts.org/galleries/.

Music

Step out to almost nightly musical performances from the likes of Shawn Colvin, Yonder Mountain String Band, Leftover Salmon and many more. http://www.visittelluride.com/festivals-and-events?tags=Live+Music

Dining

Whether you’re looking for a fresh pizza, foie gras or a free-range steak, Telluride’s restaurant selection will not disappoint – on or off the mountain. Condé Nast readers ranked Telluride in their Top 20 List of Best American Cities for Foodies and Fodor’s in their Top 10.  http://www.visittelluride.com/dining-and-nightlife

Shopping

Telluride offers a unique collection of independent retail shops and galleries. Wander historic downtown Telluride or the pedestrian-friendly plazas of Mountain Village in search of the perfect gift, fashion accessory, or latest sporting equipment. http://www.visittelluride.com/shopping

Hiking & Biking

It’s not too often that you can still hike and bike the scenic trails in and around Telluride in December. Take advantage of this rare opportunity to see Telluride’s unique and breathtaking outdoor spaces in a different light. http://www.visittelluride.com/trails

Pamper Yourself

Telluride is an ideal destination for natural rejuvenation. Treat yourself to a therapeutic massage, refreshing facial, or an impassioned yoga experience. http://www.visittelluride.com/health-and-wellness

There you have it, snow or no snow, Telluride is a special place and you are going to have a memorable time … and remember, the snow will come, it always does. I have a feeling mother nature is watching over us with a mischievous grin knowing she has something epic in store this season.

As of today: The Telluride Ski Resort will open on December 7th with top-to-bottom skiing on Village Express (4): Village Bypass to Lower Boomerang.   Check http://tel.ski/snow for updates.