Telluride Travel Guide

Explore the best of Telluride with our comprehensive travel guide highlighting must-see attractions, top things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Telluride

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Rocky Mountains in southwestern Colorado, Telluride is a charming small town that offers a perfect blend of rustic natural beauty and modern amenities. From hiking and skiing to cultural attractions and delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Telluride.

List of Places to Visit in Telluride

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Telluride Historical Museum: Learn about the rich history of the region, from the mining era to the ski industry, through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • San Miguel County Courthouse: Admire the stunning Victorian architecture of this historic courthouse that dates back to 1886.
  • Alta Lakes Observatory: Discover a piece of history at this remote mountain property built in 1889 that served as a luxurious retreat for mining tycoons.

Natural Attractions of Telluride: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • **Bear Creek: **Hike along the picturesque Bear Creek trail to see the stunning Bear Creek Falls.
  • **Gondola Rides: **Get unparalleled views of the mountains on a scenic gondola ride from Telluride to Mountain Village.
  • **Skiing and Snowboarding: **Hit the slopes at the Telluride Ski Resort that boasts 2,000+ skiable acres and over 300 inches of annual snowfall.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Telluride

  • Jud Wiebe Trail: This moderate loop trail offers panoramic views of Telluride, its box canyon, and the surrounding mountains.
  • Bridal Veil Falls: Take a strenuous hike up to the tallest waterfall in Colorado and enjoy the breathtaking views.
  • Galloping Goose Trail: A popular paved path for hiking and biking that runs for 20 miles through the stunning San Juan Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Telluride: Activities and Tours

  • Via Ferrata: Embark on a thrilling climbing adventure that combines rock climbing with iron ladders, cables, and bridges.
  • Fly Fishing: Experience world-class fly fishing on the San Miguel River and its tributaries.
  • Snowmobiling: Speed through the snow-covered backcountry on an exhilarating snowmobiling tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Telluride

Day Activity
Day 1 Hike the Jud Wiebe Trail and explore downtown Telluride
Day 2 Take a gondola ride and explore Mountain Village
Day 3 Ski or snowboard at Telluride Ski Resort
Day 4 Visit the Telluride Historical Museum and the San Miguel County Courthouse
Day 5 Embark on a Via Ferrata adventure
Day 6 Drive to Alta Lakes Observatory and hike around the area
Day 7 Go fly fishing on the San Miguel River and relax at a local spa

Food and Drink Scene of Telluride

Must-Try Dishes

  • Elk and Bison Burgers: Savor the flavors of local game meat in a juicy burger.
  • Trout and Salmon: Try fresh trout or salmon prepared in a variety of delicious ways.
  • Green Chile: This spicy regional specialty is used in many dishes, including stews and sauces.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Sample local brews from Telluride Brewing Company, Smuggler’s Brewpub, and more.
  • Wine: Sip on handcrafted wines from 81435 Wine Bar and Telluride Wine Company.
  • Spirits: Taste unique spirits like Montanya Distillers rum and Telluride Vodka.

Where to Stay in Telluride: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Hotel Telluride: A luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of Telluride.
  • The Mountainside Inn: Affordable accommodations located just steps away from the gondola and downtown Telluride.
  • The Telluride Hostel: A cozy hostel that offers shared and private rooms at affordable rates.

What to Buy in Telluride: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Telluride Ski Resort Merchandise: Shop for ski gear, accessories, and clothing branded with the iconic Telluride logo.
  • Local Art: Browse local art galleries for unique paintings, sculptures, and crafts.
  • Silver and Turquoise Jewelry: Admire and purchase handcrafted silver and turquoise jewelry made by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Telluride

Telluride prides itself on its deep-rooted cowboy culture and appreciation for the outdoors. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to respect the natural beauty of the surrounding area and keep it clean.

Best Time to Visit Telluride

The best time to visit Telluride is during the summer months of June to August when the temperatures are mild and the outdoor activities are in full swing. Winter is also a popular time to visit for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Telluride

Do:

  • Do take advantage of the free gondola rides between Telluride and Mountain Village.
  • Do pack layers of clothing as temperatures can vary widely throughout the day.
  • Do be mindful of wildlife and respect their space.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the altitude, and remember to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.
  • Don’t litter or leave any waste on trails or in public areas.
  • Don’t forget to tip your server at restaurants and bars.

Safety and Health

Safety in Telluride

Telluride is a very safe and welcoming community. However, visitors should always be mindful of the natural hazards present in the area, including wildlife, extreme weather conditions, and high altitude.

Health in Telluride

Telluride boasts excellent medical facilities, including the Telluride Medical Center, which offers a range of medical services to residents and visitors alike.

Getting to Telluride: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Telluride

  • Telluride Regional Airport: Located just 5 miles from downtown Telluride, this small regional airport offers flights from Denver and other major cities.
  • Montrose Regional Airport: Located about 65 miles from Telluride, this airport offers more flight options with connections to major cities across the US.

Bus Stations Near Telluride

  • Telluride Greyhound Station: Located in the heart of Telluride, this station offers bus service to cities throughout the US.
  • Galloping Goose Bus Service: A local bus service that connects Telluride with surrounding areas and towns.

Other Options

  • Driving: Telluride can be accessed via scenic routes from major cities like Denver and Salt Lake City.
  • Private Shuttle: Several private shuttle companies offer transportation services to and from Telluride.

How to Get Around in Telluride

Telluride is a small town, and most attractions can be easily reached on foot. However, visitors can also use the free gondola and Galloping Goose Bus Service to navigate around town.

Where to Go Next from Telluride: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Durango: A charming historic city with a rich mining history located about 130 miles from Telluride.
  • Mesa Verde National Park: Explore ancient cliff dwellings and learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans, located about 120 miles from Telluride.
  • Moab: Known as the gateway to the national parks, Moab is a scenic desert town located about 135 miles from Telluride.

Conclusion

Telluride offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, incredible food and drink, and small-town charm that makes it a must-see destination. With this comprehensive travel guide, plan your visit to Telluride with ease and make unforgettable memories in this majestic mountain town.

Main Street and town hall, Telluride, Colorado Main Street and town hall, Telluride, Colorado View from the Telluride ski slopes. View from the Telluride ski slopes.