There are few towns in the world that can evoke an instant reaction of bliss, simply by saying the name. I’ve found that Telluride is one of those towns. The stunning beauty of the San Juan peaks. The ever-constant flow of Bridal Veil Falls. The gritty history of a rough-and-tumble mining town. Having a beer in a 150-year old saloon, and then walking a few doors down to a Michelin star restaurant or settling into refined mountain luxury at Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection. Yes, Telluride is the perfect Old West cocktail.
In 2025, locals Scott & Lauren Woodward, in partnership with Southworth, broke ground on a project to transform a 26,000-square-foot timber frame lodge perched at the top of the gondola, connecting the town of Telluride to Mountain Village. The vision was to create Telluride’s first fully private, on-mountain club—designed for those who view the mountains not just as a destination, but as a way of life. Scott and Lauren’s presence at the foundation makes it immediately clear that The Alpine Club includes the soul of Telluride. “Lauren and I spent years searching for the perfect partner to help bring this dream to life. Southworth instantly stood out to us. They don’t build and sell — they invest, they listen, and they lead with soul. Together, we’re creating something truly special for Telluride and a legacy for generations to come,” says Scott Woodward, Telluride Resident and Partner in The Alpine Club.
The Alpine Club will offer members and its guests unique amenities including an indoor/outdoor après lounge; expansive great room; world-class dining with a signature bar, private dining room and chef’s table; a dedicated kids club; a state-of-the-art golf, gaming and multi-sport simulator room with cinema; personalized concierge services; ski and parking valet; luxury owners’ lockers; and a fitness center with massage rooms, sauna and cold plunge. The architecture and aesthetic are a perfect balance of mountain modern and intricate details. The interior design, curated by Pembrooke & Ives, is inspired by the area’s raw natural beauty and western lore. Weathered woods, aged metals, and hand-stitched saddle leathers define the tactile warmth of the club’s aesthetic, while floor-to-ceiling windows frame 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains.
Continuing with the “locals” theme, The Alpine Club tapped George Bigley as General Manager. Bigley is a man who needs no introduction in Telluride. George spent nearly a decade as the General Manager of Allred’s Restaurant, also located in Telluride’s San Sophia Station. With George’s connections in the food and beverage community, he will undoubtedly be putting an all-star hospitality team together. George is closely tied to Southworth, as he spent the last several years holding the same position at Willowbend on Cape Cod, also a Southworth club. “I have deep roots in Telluride, and this is really a full circle moment. I’m excited about creating cuisine, a bar scene, and memories that will rival the view,” says Bigley.
With construction in full swing, The Alpine Club is already operating and hosting member experiences including wine dinners, mountain biking excursions, and exclusive access to local Telluride concerts and events, including Telluride Reserve in July and Telluride Skijoring in March. Members can also expect a thoughtfully curated calendar of events, from early morning tracks and exclusive access for mountain adventures to signature après gatherings and wellness retreats.
Southworth also recently acquired an approximately half-acre site at the base of the ski slopes in the town of Telluride, just steps from the gondola, for future development. Connected to The Alpine Club with a short ride, the investment underscores Southworth’s long-term commitment to create a connected private club community in Telluride.
Additionally, The Alpine Club has partnered with several local organizations including the Telluride Foundation and the Telluride Mountain Club, providing ongoing contributions to the community. These philanthropic efforts reinforce the club’s commitment to supporting and enriching the cultural and social fabric of Telluride beyond its member offerings.
The Alpine Club is set to open its doors for members in summer 2027. For more information, please visit TheAlpineClub.com.