Telluride Travel Guide

Settled 9,500 feet above sea level in a box canyon, Telluride, Colorado is a jewel of a town. 13,000 foot peaks in the San Juan Mountains surround it, making Telluride a haven for skiers and snowboarders alike. The town is a National Historic District as well as a vision of the past with it's quaint, Victorian architecture. It was originally a mining town called Columbia in the 19th Century, but it's name was changed in 1887 due to a conflict with another city named Columbia.

Kids will have a ball in this winter wonderland, so if a family vacation is in your plans, Telluride is a great place to go. It is also a cozy, romantic destination for couples looking for a getaway. A vacation here can be moderately priced to expensive depending on the activities you choose to do and where you decide to stay.

Winter Fun

Telluride is located at the base of Ski Mountain, so obviously skiing and snowboarding are major winter activities. Try out the famous Spiral Stairs, the Plunge, and the Kant-Mak-M ski runs. The Ski resort has Gondola transportation, the Gorrone Restaurant, and a mountain village all set in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. In several ski magazines, Telluride has always been given the top awards and honors.

During the winter, you can also go on snowmobiling tours. There's one that's a 2 hour guided tour to Alta Lakes, and another that goes to some hot springs and lasts the whole day. You can take a cozy sleigh ride with your family or significant other, as well. Just cover up with the heavy blanket, and enjoy the gorgeous natural landscape. Ice climbing is also popular, as is snowshoeing; there are several snow show rental places.

Every ski area provides its own lodging. Most have gas fireplaces and balconies. Prices run from about $200-$300 per night.

Summer Fun

Since Telluride is basically just a giant ski resort, what can you possibly do in the summer? Well, believe it or not, there's maybe even more to do in the summer than in winter. You can raft along the San Migues River, the Uncompahgre River, or the Dolores River for a half day or a full day with class II to III rapids (May to September). You could fly-fish and hunt waterfowl. Rock climbing, horseback riding, and hiking are all common tourist activities, as is going on 4X4 tours through the mountains. You can go mountain biking as well, as there is a great trail system including overnight facilities.