If you have visited Telluride, Telluride Ski Resort, or the San Juan Mountains, you will quickly understand what makes it unique and memorable. Situated in the San Juan Valley in Southwestern Colorado, Telluride boasts a distinctive culture and atmosphere. A blend of bohemian vibes, affluence, and bluegrass make Telluride an intriguing and peaceful destination. Telluride has a rich mining history and is famous for its out-of-this-world festivals and cultural events throughout the year. Whether you're drawn to adventurous outdoor pursuits, cultural festivals, or simply savoring the town's charm, here are twelve recommendations to make the most of your visit to Telluride.
Where is Telluride?
Telluride is a small town located in the southwestern part of Colorado, nestled in the San Juan Mountains next to the San Miguel River. The town sits at an elevation of ~8,750 feet and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. Telluride is accessible via State Highway 145.
Is Telluride Best in the Summer, Winter, Fall, or Spring?
Telluride offers something unique for every season. Summer is great for hiking, mountain biking, and festivals like the Bluegrass Festival. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and a number of activities that don't involve downhill skiing, such as fat biking and snowmobiling. Fall provides stunning foliage and cooler temperatures for hiking and photography. Spring is quieter, ideal for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful visit.
For more on skiing at Telluride, view our Insider Guide to Telluride Ski Resort here.
The ideal time to visit Telluride varies depending on your preferred activities. We categorize our suggestions into two main seasons: Summer and Winter. However, some of these options can also be enjoyed during the spring and fall, depending on the weather conditions.
Things to do in Telluride in the Summer
Summer is a great time to explore Telluride's stunning natural beauty; so it may not be a surprise that it is one of the busiest times of the year. The town hosts world-class festivals and outdoor events such as the San Miguel River Runs, making it a popular destination in the summer, even as memories of the ski season fade away. Below are some classic along with lesser-known activities to enjoy in Telluride:
Listen to Some Mandolin at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival
Some will call this the most important festival in the history of Bluegrass Music. Set in the Telluride Town Park during the summer solstice every June, The Telluride Bluegrass Festival has been a mecca for Bluegrass lovers since its inception in 1974 and has everyone majoring in the genre play, from Emmy Lou Harris to Bela Fleck, to the more modern Yonder Mountain String Band and the String Cheese Incident. The event is one of a kind, and thousands of people flock to Telluride to soak in the experience and go hiking around Bear Creek Falls while watching the String Cheese Incident play and catching a glimpse of Bridal Veil Falls in the background.
Season: Summer (Usually around the summer solstice, 3rd week of June)
Vehicle Needed: No
How to Get There: The festival takes place in Telluride Town Park during the summer solstice in June. The park is easily accessible from anywhere in Telluride, and the town is pedestrian-friendly.
Telluride Bluegrass tickets sell out a year in advance sometimes. Plan ahead; we have access to tickets along with private homes in the area.
Visit Ouray and Sit in The Hot Springs or Hike Around
Ouray is a small off-the-beaten-track town near Telluride, and travelers visiting Ouray, Colorado, can enjoy a variety of natural hot springs. The Ouray Hot Springs Pool features multiple pools with varying temperatures and different setups that the whole family can enjoy, such as Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings offers a very different experience with an underground vapor cave and private soaking areas. While in Ouray, it's also advisable to have a look at Box Canyon and the multitude of hiking trails in and around.
Season: Summer
Vehicle Needed: Yes
How to Get There: Ouray is located about an hour's drive from Telluride. Visitors can drive via US-550 N to enjoy the hot springs.
Remember, when traveling, it's important to make sure your prescriptions are filled! Take it from Alex Evans, director of the South East Travel Guide, who was previously a pharmacist. "If you’re going overseas for a ski trip (or you’re from Canada and visiting Telluride), forgetting a medication can be a lot tougher. I don’t care how good your doctor in Canada is; they don’t have a license to practice medicine in the US. So I can’t fill a prescription from them. I had an ophthalmologist from Canada once yelling at me because he wanted to write eye drops for himself. He was visiting Hawaii for a medical conference. I’m sure he was an outstanding doctor. I still couldn’t legally fill his prescription."
Hike Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is a popular hiking destination in Telluride, known for its breathtaking views and the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado. The hike is approximately 4.2 miles round trip and offers striking views of the San Miguel mountains along the way. The trail has a n elevation gain of 1,650 feet, much of which is in the final ascent. When you reach the falls, you can sit back, tired and satisfied, and watch the water pour.
For an added challenge, you can hike to the top of the falls. On warmer days, it can also be fun to get wet in the Falls. Then, head back in to town for some well deserved eats.
Season: Summer
Vehicle Needed: Optional (You can walk or drive to the trailhead from town)
How to Get There: The hike begins at Box Canyon Forest, approximately two miles from town. We recommend heading back into town after the hike and going to the Butcher and the Baker for some of the best house-made baked goods along with sandwiches, local brews, and more.
When helping clients choose the perfect travel destination, I always look for places that offer a good mix of relaxation and adventure. For instance, a destination with both peaceful beaches or soothing spas and exciting options like adventure sports or hiking is ideal. I also make sure to check out what activities are available throughout the year so my clients always have something fun to do, no matter when they go. Abhishek Jain, travel and visa agent.
Explore Telluride Gorge
Also called the Keystone Gorge Loop, the Telluride Gorge hike is a relatively short and modest 2.2-mile loop hike that takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of the San Miguel River. This trail is perfect for those looking for a less strenuous but equally beautiful outdoor experience.
Season: Summer and Fall
Vehicle Needed: No
How to Get There: Start from the Lawson Hill area in Telluride. Head west on the Galloping Goose Trail and follow signs for the Keystone Gorge Trail. You'll cross the river on two footbridges covered in prayer flags. The trail continues next to the San Miguel River, then crosses back across the river via a suspension bridge before rejoining the Galloping Goose Trail back to the trailhead. The hike finishes at Telluride Brewing Company, which means great beers are waiting for those with tired feet and a thirst that must be quenched.
Visit Alta Ghost Town
Just outside of Telluride, Alta Ghost Town offers a fascinating glimpse into Colorado's rich mining history. Colorado came of age during the Gold Rush. To understand the foundations of Colorado, stepping into the past for a few minutes is the tried-and-true method. Once a bustling mining town settlement, Alta was abandoned in the 1940s after the local mill burned down. Today, it stands as a tranquil, picturesque relic of the past, with ramshackle buildings that provide excellent photo opportunities.
Season: Summer
Vehicle Needed: Yes
How to Get There: Alta Ghost Town is located just a 10 minute drive up a gravel road just outside of Telluride. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the drive.
The Telluride Mushroom Festival
Mycology has recently become a subject of much prominence and debate. Those with an interest in this field may enjoy attending one of the leading festivals and conferences focused on mushrooms and their various applications. Attendees can participate in guided foraging excursions, educational lectures, and workshops that delve into the fascinating world of mushrooms and mycology. Since its inception in 1981, the festival has evolved to be more science-related, with less emphasis placed on partying and festivities and more emphasis on educational aspects and foraging techniques. The event takes place towards the end of summer in August when temperatures are milder.
Season: Summer (August)
Vehicle Needed: No
How to Get There: The festival is held in various venues around Telluride, such as the Sheridan Opera House, Elks Park, and Telluride Conference Center. New venues are used each year, so make sure to check before going. Most locations are within walking distance of the town.
To get the most out of a trip, I’ve found it really helps to plan around the local events and activities that happen during the time of year I'm visiting. It makes the experience richer and helps me connect more with the place. Whether it's joining a local festival or checking out a trail when it's less crowded, these little touches can make the trip more memorable and unique. Jeffery Wang, Perfect Moment Photos.
Off-roading on Orphid Pass
Offroading is a pretty awesome endeavor in general, but combining that adrenaline with the backdrop of the San Juan mountains makes it a must! Orphic Pass is a 10-mile dirt road with an altitude of 13,000 feet, more than twice as high as Denver, the Mile High City. In Ouray, you can rent a variety of off-road equipment from several reputable providers. Altitude Adventures offers Polaris RZR rentals for exploring the stunning trails, while Ouray Mountain Adventures provides both Jeeps and UTVs, perfect for navigating the rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains.
Season: Summer
Vehicle Needed: Yes
How to Get There: Ophird Pass is a 10-mile dirt road accessible from Ouray. Rentals for off-road vehicles can be found in Ouray, and the pass is best navigated with a 4WD vehicle.
Things To Do In Telluride In the Winter (Other than Skiing)
Although most people go to Telluride for the downhill magic, there are plenty of winter activities that are fun for groups of friends or family. The town has sleigh rides and winter activities galore during the Christmas season, as well as some interesting activities in and around the area.
Go Ice Fishing at Blue Mesa Reservoir
No, ice fishing isn’t just reserved for Eskimos; you can try your hand at it at Blue Mesa Reservoir. The trick with ice fishing is to look for underwater structures like drop-offs, weed beds, and rock piles where fish are likely to congregate and then set up shop in those spots. Blue Mesa Reservoir is a pretty cool place in general, and in summer, you can rent kayaks and venture out. Ice fishing during the winter, however, can put one in touch with their inner Eskimo and satisfy an evolutionary urge to hunt for food in strange and unexpected places.
Season: Winter
Vehicle Needed: Yes
How to Get There: Blue Mesa Reservoir is located about 2 hours from Telluride. Drive via US-50 W to reach the reservoir for ice fishing.
Snowshoe Bear Creek Trail
Bear Creek Trail is a popular hiking route in Telluride, offering scenic views of waterfalls and dense forests as it winds through the San Juan Mountains. This moderate trail, which is accessible year-round, can be especially fun to snowshoe on during the winter. Snowshoeing can be more fun and less intense than cross-country skiing and make for a great alternative to a day on the slopes.
Season: Winter
Vehicle Needed: No
How to Get There: Bear Creek Trail is easily accessible from Telluride. The trailhead starts in town, making it convenient for snowshoeing.
Fatbike Around
If you’ve never heard of a fat bike before, don’t be ashamed; most people have not. A fat bike is just like how it sounds: a bike with extra fat tires and solid treading to enable you to bike around in the snow on flat surfaces. In Telluride, fat biking can be enjoyed on several scenic trails beside the Valley Floor. The Telluride Golf Course in Mountain Village features undulating groomed trails that are open to fat bikers, offering stunning views of the San Sophia Ridge and Wilson Range. Additionally, the trails around Trout Lake provide beautiful and challenging terrain for fat biking enthusiasts.
Season: Winter
Vehicle Needed: No
How to Get There: Fat biking trails are located on the Valley Floor, the Telluride Golf Course in Mountain Village, and around Trout Lake. These locations are easily accessible from Telluride.
Looking to get some fat biking action in while you ski? We have the access to talk to us!
Snowmobile Through Breathtaking Vistas
Alta Lakes offers a serene environment for snowmobiling with its historic mining area and frozen lakes. Lizard Head Pass provides stunning views and challenging terrain for high-altitude trails. Last Dollar Road features winding paths and breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. Wilson Mesa offers open fields and forested areas with panoramic mountain views, ideal for varied snowmobiling experiences.
Season: Winter
Vehicle Needed: Yes
How to Get There: Snowmobile rentals are available in Ouray. Popular locations for snowmobiling include Alta Lakes, Lizard Head Pass, Last Dollar Road, and Wilson Mesa.
Telluride Comedy Festival
Held annually in February, the Telluride Comedy Festival is a vibrant, entertaining event that brings top comedians from around the country to the Sheridan Opera House in Telluride, Colorado. This four-day festival features a variety of performances, including stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy, offering attendees a diverse range of humor. Known for its intimate setting and high-quality acts, the festival provides a unique opportunity for comedy fans to enjoy performances in a stunning mountain environment. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Telluride Comedy Festival promises a weekend filled with laughter and fun.
Season: Winter (February)
Vehicle Needed: No
How to Get There: The festival takes place in various venues around Telluride. Most locations are within walking distance of the town, with the main venue being The Sheridan Opera House.
Go Ice-Skating on a Natural Lake
For a unique winter experience in Telluride, try ice skating on one of the natural lakes in the area. Alta Lakes, Trout Lake, and Woods Lake are all excellent spots for outdoor ice skating. Alta Lakes is accessible via a gravel road and requires a 4WD vehicle; it offers a serene environment with stunning views. Trout Lake, just a 15-minute drive from Telluride, is easily reachable by off-road vehicle and provides a beautiful frozen surface for skating. Woods Lake, located 22 miles from Telluride, also requires a 4WD vehicle to navigate the gravel road, making it a perfect secluded spot for a winter adventure.
Season: Winter
Vehicle Needed: Yes
Alta Lakes: From Telluride, head south on CO-145 S, then turn left onto Alta Lakes Road. Continue on the gravel road for about 5 miles until you reach Alta Lakes. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for this route.
Trout Lake: Drive west on CO-145 S for about 10 miles, then take a slight right onto Trout Lake Road. Follow the signs to Trout Lake, where you can park and access the lake for ice skating. An off-road vehicle is recommended.
Woods Lake: Take CO-145 N from Telluride and turn left onto Fall Creek Road. Continue for approximately 9 miles on the gravel road until you reach Woods Lake. A 4WD vehicle is necessary to navigate this route.
Looking to ski in Telluride? Check out our Telluride Resort Guide.
Where to Stay in Telluride
For a comfortable stay in Telluride, you have several great options. In Mountain Village, the Auberge Madeline Hotel offers beautiful mountain views, dining with outdoor fire pits, a world-class spa, and an outdoor pool. In town, The New Sheridan Hotel mixes that classic mountain west mining down historic charm with modern comforts and is adjacent to the New Sheridan Opera House, which features awesome local music like bluegrass for most of the summer. Another good choice in Mountain Village is Lumière with Inspirato, a luxury boutique hotel located in Mountain Village, Telluride.
Some of these hotels will sell out months, sometimes years in advance, during festivals. Avant Ski has the relationships to get you in, and ensure you are treated like a VIP, no matter what's happening in town.
How to Get to Telluride
Getting to Telluride by Air
The nearest airports to Telluride are Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), Telluride Regional Airport (TEX), and Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO). From these airports, you can arrange road transfers to Telluride.
Montrose Regional Airport to Telluride
Distance: Approximately 65 miles.
Travel Time by Road: About 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
Transfer Options: Road transfers, including shuttle services, rental cars, and private car services, are available. Public bus options also exist but may take longer.
Telluride Regional Airport to Telluride
Distance: About 6 miles.
Travel Time by Road: Approximately 15 minutes by car.
Transfer Options: Shuttle services, taxis, and rental cars are readily available, making this the quickest airport transfer option.
Durango-La Plata County Airport to Telluride
Distance: Roughly 130 miles.
Travel Time by Road: Around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Transfer Options: Road transfers via shuttle services, rental cars, and private car services are common. Public transportation options are limited and typically longer.
Getting to Telluride by Road
From Denver
Distance: About 330 miles.
Travel Time by Road: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Route: Take US-285 S and US-50 W to CO-62 W in Poncha Springs. Continue on CO-62 W, then take CO-145 S to Telluride.
From Albuquerque
Distance: Approximately 300 miles.
Travel Time by Road: Around 5 to 6 hours.
Route: Take I-25 N to US-550 N towards Durango, then follow CO-145 N to Telluride.
From Moab*
Distance: Approximately 130 miles.
Travel Time by Road: Around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Route: Take CO-145 N to CO-90 W, then continue on UT-46 W. Merge onto US-191 N towards Moab.
*Moab is one of our favorite places to pair with Telluride in the summer, and Avant Ski can organize an amazing two-for-one Rocky Mountain experience like no other.
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