This blog post was updated on July 27, 2023.
When people think of Colorado, one of the first things that come to mind is skiing. That’s totally understandable, since Colorado provides some of the finest skiing in the world. But Colorado has much too offer besides skiing, and plenty going on outside of the winter months.
Take Telluride as an example. It’s one of the best of Colorado’s many ski resorts, but it’s also a popular travel destination at any time of the year. If you like spending time outside exploring the great outdoors and sleeping under the stars, this is the perfect location for you.
Situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Telluride offers a range of activities for you and your family to enjoy. No matter what time of year you visit Telluride, there’s always so much to do. Check out our guide for staying in Telluride before you book your flights.
Go Fishing
Are you an avid angler? Telluride is a world-renowned fly fishing destination with opportunities for all levels. The area is home to a wide variety of rivers, streams and lakes, each with its own particular personality and varieties of fish, which include brown trout, rainbow trout, kokonee salmon, walleye, small mouth bass, and large mouth bass. There’s fly fishing on the San Miguel River, boat fishing on the McPhee Reservoir, lure fishing on the Uncompahgre, and more. Be sure to check the fishing regulations and requirements before you go. Do yourself a favor and do some research on the weather at the time of year you hope to visit Telluride and dress appropriately.
Go Hiking
There are plenty of wonderful hiking opportunities in the Telluride area. Covering almost two million acres, San Juan National Forest is a natural paradise of hills, cliffs, waterfalls, and general backcountry. You’ll find ample opportunities the explore the awe-inspiring landscape through both guided and unguided tours. Looking for an adventure while you’re in Telluride? Hit up local hot spots like the Bear Creek Falls Hike or the Blue Lakes Trail Hike.
The San Juan Forest is part of both the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide Trail that stretches from Mexico to Canada. Whether you’re trekking for days or just looking for the perfect selfie spot on a summit, San Juan National Forest is a great place for outdoor experiences.
Go Horseback Riding
There’s something special about horseback riding in the mountains. It’s even more meaningful in Telluride since the town has its own cowboy history. You don’t have to own a set of spurs, however, to have some equestrian fun in Telluride. Horseback riding is a popular summertime activity in the mountains, so you can walk among the grasses and wildflowers while enjoying the jagged peaks on the horizon.
You can also visit local stables and sign up for tours or special events like chuckwagon dinner rides. If you have “horseback riding” on your vacation list, this is the place to scratch it off. The horses are friendly, the alpine scenery is beautiful, and the memories are just waiting to be made.
Gather ‘Round the Campfire
In Telluride, family-friendly activities abound, including the Bonfire & S’mores nights held at Mountain Village. Gather around the warm fire and toast marshmallows with your children as you listen to live music and breathe in the clean mountain air. If you’re visiting at the beginning of December, be sure to spend time exploring the Telluride Fire Festival. This nighttime festival features fire installations, fire spinners, delectable cuisine, and artist spotlights.
Indulge in Food & Drink
Telluride offers an array of notable restaurants and coffee shops for you to enjoy throughout your stay. Start off your morning at Coffee Cowboy. Enjoy locally roasted coffee, freshly baked pastries, and invigorating smoothies. And no trip to Telluride would be complete without a meal from Siam. Considered one of the finest restaurants in the area, Siam serves traditional Thai food prepared with the freshest ingredients and an abundance of love. The owners of Siam arrange to have fresh seafood flown in daily to serve the best possible dishes to their guests. And the food is so satisfying that you’ll find yourself returning to Siam again and again throughout your trip.
Related: The Cutest Colorado Mountain Towns You’ll Want to Visit in Winter
Visit the Telluride Historical Museum
With more than 9,000 objects in total, the Telluride Historical Museum will take you on a sprawling journey through town via photos, artifacts, tools, clothing, and other goods of note. Not only is it a wide-ranging collection, but it’s also an impressive one. The oldest objects date back to tenth century. Ten different rooms are available for touring, and each one holds something new.
Permanent exhibition topics range from the geographic formation of Telluride to tribes, explorers, and miners who cultivated the land. Ultimately, the Telluride Historical Museum is one of the best places to learn more about everyone’s favorite town. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in Telluride as more than just a skiing mountain.
Ride the Gondola
Telluride is known for its majestic mountain scenery. And there are many different ways to enjoy it, including hiking, climbing, and camping. However, there’s only one way to soak in a truly panoramic view: hopping on the gondola. Starting in Telluride and ending at the Mountain Village, the gondola will take you more than 10,000 feet into the air during a 13-minute ride.
As you ascend, you’ll get to marvel at breathtaking aerial views of the San Juan Mountains within the Rockies. You’ll even have the option of disembarking halfway through if you’d like to explore further on foot. Another great thing about the gondola is that it’s free! Open to the public and operating every day, it’ll allow you to see Telluride in all of its natural splendor, and it won’t cost you a dime.
FAQs:
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Telluride?
A: The best time to visit Telluride depends on your preferred activities. If you’re interested in skiing and snowboarding, the winter months from December to March offer prime conditions. For outdoor adventures like hiking and biking, the summer and fall months, from June to October, provide pleasant weather and stunning landscapes.
Q: Is there a wide range of accommodations available in Telluride?
A: Yes, Telluride offers a range of accommodations to suit every preference and budget. From luxurious mountain resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, there are options for everyone. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred lodging.
Q: Should I visit Telluride if I’m not an avid skier?
A: Absolutely! Telluride offers a plethora of activities beyond skiing. You can explore the town’s rich history, indulge in outdoor adventures like hiking and mountain biking, enjoy cultural festivals, and savor the local cuisine. There’s something for everyone in Telluride, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture aficionado, or simply seeking relaxation amidst beautiful surroundings.
Q: How can I get to Telluride?
A: The closest major airport to Telluride is the Montrose Regional Airport, located approximately 65 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Telluride. Alternatively, you can also fly into the Telluride Regional Airport, which offers limited commercial service.
Q: Are there family-friendly activities in Telluride?
A: Telluride is a family-friendly destination with a host of activities suitable for all ages. From family hikes in the mountains to picnics by the river, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy together. The town also offers various kid-friendly events and festivals throughout the year, ensuring that the whole family can create lasting memories in Telluride.
Q: Can I visit Telluride on a budget?
A: While Telluride is known for its luxury offerings, it is possible to visit on a budget. Look for accommodations and dining options that cater to a range of budgets, and take advantage of the many free or low-cost outdoor activities available, such as hiking and exploring the town’s historic sites. Additionally, visiting during the shoulder seasons can often result in more affordable prices.
Have you been to Telluride and have some advice to add on things to do when visiting? Let us know in the comments below!
