Their office is located right in the town, so swing on by and book a day on the river. Its easy to spend a day shopping and walking up and down the few streets that make up the downtown area. Face Down Brown, a World Beer Cup winner, is a personal favorite. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. By jmpncsu. For leather goods, check out Crossbow Leather or Overland Sheepskin Co. Learn more about coverage options for frequent travelers and those with multiple upcoming trips. Subscribe to Updates . From the 10,540-foot-high Station San Sophia, you can hike around the mountain (for free), ride your bike down or just take a seat and enjoy the views. Eliza Nimmich. Have A Beer Near Where Butch Cassidy Robbed A Bank 7. There are some incredible summer activities in Telluride. Visit Site Action Adventures Trail Rides Montrose, CO Claim Your Business However, if youre visiting for winter sports, March is the best month to visit Telluride. Telluride is located 330mi / 531km southwest of Denver, about a 6 hour drive. Why We Recommend This Kid Friendly Activity Originally founded as a mining town in the 1870s, it is now widely recognized as a year-round resort. While you may rent a car to get here, no car is needed once you arrive. Colorado boasts plenty of free activities. But by July, accessing Telluride isnt as difficult, making for one of the best Colorado road trips. What is Delta Air Lines elite status worth in 2023? Perhaps the most obvious -- and popular -- budget-friendly activity is enjoying Colorado's beautiful outdoors. Of all the hiking trails in the San Juan Mountains, few rival the popularity of Bridal Veil Falls. Cabins carry mountain biking and winter sports equipment and are accessible to wheelchairs and pets, too. More than 2,500 feet of elevation is gained across 8.7-miles. That may be fun on a road trip, but probably not the best plan for a weekend visit like we made. The camps are designed for ages 5-18 and feature a group of talented instructors and coaches. TripAdvisor/CrankingChick If youre looking for some late night fun, you wont find too many places to choose from. The backcountry route is closed during winter and is only accessible to high clearance, 44 vehicles. Downtown Telluride is full of quaint shops from southwestern apparel, custom leather pieces, and unique artwork. There are several fun activities, even for children, such as digging for gems. Here, at St. Sophies, you can disembark for amazing views (San Sophia Overlook), biking, hiking and ski trails or grab a bite to eat at Alfreds. If you have a car, make sure your accommodation offers parking. The destination is worth the journey as Alta Lakes is stunning beyond words. If you prefer a hike-in experience, check out Penny Hot Springs in Carbondale. When most people talk about Telluride, they're typically referring to this ski resort rather than the town. If you're looking to get off the slopes and out of the town for a day, hit the road on the San Juan Skyway. Another highlight of a Mountain Village trip (aside from the nearby slopes, of course) is a ride on the scenic gondola. Located on the third switchback, a drive to Bridal Veil Falls gives you a taste of Black Bear Pass. If youre visiting during June October, youll get to experience the farmers market. Radical hedonism . Take a scenic ride between two charming mountain towns, Google Maps | Website | Hours: 6:30 am 12:00 am daily | Entrance: free | Book A Gondola Plaza Hotel. This festival was happening during our most recent visit and is what almost caused us to have to sleep in a car as lodging is extremely scarce in Telluride during festival weekends. Check out my guide to the best 15 hikes in Colorado! If you're planning a trip to the Centennial State and wondering what kind of activities and adventures you can enjoy for little to no cost, you're in luck! I've mentioned that Telluride is remote, but allow me to emphasize just how remote it can be. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Were a free-spirited travel couple whose appetite for adventure and far away places fuel our wanderlusting souls. There are literally hundreds upon hundreds of trails you can enjoy free of charge. Travel is necessary and we have every intention to roam beautifully. Don't forget to go off the beaten path as well and see what's hidden off the main street. Telluride Outside- Kid Activities (970) 728-3895 Telluride, CO Telluride Outside offers Camp Caddis for kids! Catch a live performance in a cozy local venue, Google Maps | Phone: (970) 369-5669 | Website. Located just east of the adjacent town of Ophir (about 15 miles southeast of Telluride), this dirt road is a prime spot for off-roading. So, if you're looking to explore this Breathtakingly beautiful town, here are some best and most fun things to do in Telluride to get you started! Telluride in April: Highs around 51F, lows around 22F Best Things to Do in Telluride in Winter Ice Climbing in Telluride Tired of a traditional ski vacation? Whatever they want to call their cuisine, most importantly, know that Siam is absolutely out-of-this-world good. The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary. And here's the best part: It's completely free. Coonskin Ski Lift Vacations. A Telluride favorite since 1978, Last Dollar Saloon is renowned for two things: $5 margaritas (made with agave tequila and served in a pint glass) and an eclectic selection of beers from all over the world (more than 60 at last count). While some business owners use this time to enjoy a vacation of their own, there's still plenty to see and do in Telluride. Whether its the chunky boxed canyon in which Telluride sits, or the free gondola rides locals and visitors enjoy all year round, there are more than a handful of reasons this small town in Colorado is unlike any other place in the world. Mountain biking is a popular activity in Telluride. This town is dominated byTelluride Ski Resort, which encompasses more than 2,000 skiable acres and sees an unusual pairing of 309 inches of snow and 300 days of sunshine. If riding through the hills and fields of Colorados southwest sounds good to you, then you should definetly check out Telluride Wranglers. 2 National Parks. To get back to Ophir after reaching the summit, you can travel back the way you came or continue on down Red Mountain Pass. If you have the monetary means, Telluride has a Regional Airport (airport code: TEX)that is open to charters, private planes and jets. Whether you're strolling the streets of Telluride or walking Boulder's famous outdoor mall, you're in for tons of scenery and excellent people watching. Short and sweet, your visit will be a memorable one to say the least. Colorado is a magical place to visit. For all your adventure junkies, spend a half-day chasing class II and class III rapids on the San Miguel River. It is roasted in underground pits using different species of agave that, along with environmental and distillation factors, give variation to the final taste. It was part of the experience in the same vein as the "no soup for you" character in Seinfeld. Set in what was once a hospital, the Telluride Historical Museum preserves and presents its Wild West days. Telluride, another former mining community that, like Utah's Park City, had reinvented and reinvigorated itself as a. Telluride is the place to be in the spring and summer, thanks to its plentiful outdoor activitiesmountain biking, rock climbing, golfing, road cycling, kayaking, 4X4 off-roading and . Telluride, Colorado is worth visiting. Both allow you to soak in natural hot springs, a perfect complement to a day playing in the powder. Since the critically acclaimed film's premiere in Telluride last September, questions have abounded about the movie's ability to appeal to a . And if you want to get to know Telluride a bit better, spend an afternoon in Town Parkorat the Telluride Historical Museum. If you like your art to move and talk, then you've undoubtedly heard of the Telluride Film Festival. Seriously FUN Things to do in Telluride in Summer. The path stretches nearly 10 miles and climbs as high as 12,789 feet. Serving fine wines and New American cuisine, Allreds Restaurant offers an upscale dining experience. For a complete map of biking trails, check out the trail map here. The drive terminates at Red Mountain Pass, a portion of the Million Dollar Highway, where even more incredible views await. Hikers pass through the historic town, taking in the charming residences and venturing out to the Pandora Mill, a retired mining site. Dive the Million Dollar Highway to Durango, Colorado or head further south to Great Sand Dunes National Park. What are the best small towns to visit in Colorado? 2 elderly, 2 adults, 2 kids (ages 3. Look into Telluride hotels or plan to pitch a tent under the stars at Town Park Campground. Book your trip today! There was indeed "gold in them hills," though interestingly enough, never actually the mineral for which the town was named. By ImmerWandern. If youre in search of easy, family-friendly hiking trails, look no further than the San Miguel River. Marvel at the tallest waterfall in Colorado, Google Maps | Browse Telluride Tours on Viator. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). Siam serves traditional and contemporary Thai food, along with Asian-fusion menu selections. The best month to visit Telluride is July, in my opinion. The Telluride Via Ferrata is fondly called the Krogerata by locals, a tribute to the previous resident, Chuck Kroger. The river is on the left just behind the trees, and you can see the highway on the right. Those with more experience can paddle the San Miguel river running alongside town. If you are a mountain biker, or just wanting to give it a try, there are loads of great mountain biking trails in Telluride. Check out 4 Amazing Telluride Hikes Not To Miss to help you plan the perfect hike (or hikes) for you! If you want to do more than just look at pretty water from the shore, get in touch with a company such as Telluride Outside who rents out stand-up paddle-boards, offers guided tours and much, much more. If you are visiting during the winter months, skiing and snowboarding should definitely be on your list! Telluride has a rich history in silver mining dating back to the late 1800's and a very interesting transformation into the ski town it is today beginning in the 1970's. Begin your walk down Telluride's Historic Main Street. Most individuals know Telluride, Colorado for its world-class snowboarding. 2.2 Sequoia National Park, California. The San Miguel and Gunnison Rivers, plus waterways in the Uncompahgre National Forest, boast large trophy trout. I've been saving some of the best for last as Telluride's food scene is a million steps above what you might anticipate for a town of just over 2,000 residents. Another fun free activity to do in Colorado is to explore the small towns. 2.1 Yosemite National Park, California. When she's not working, she loves to cook with friends and check out new adventures. However, the reality is that TEX is not the world easiest's airport for landings and takeoffs, and flights to TEX are diverted to MTJ with some regularity, so just be prepared for that reality when deciding the best route to get your family to Telluride. Last Dollar Saloon. But should you visit in the warmer months, you can enjoy views of the San Juan Mountains from one of the region's photogenic hiking paths, such as Bear Creek Trailand Jud Wiebe Trail, or while driving along the San Juan Skyway. But, there is a lot to do in Telluride in winter beyond just skiing!Are you planning your. Becoming a town in 1878, Telluride started off as classic Americana mining town and eventually becoming one of the top destinations in the U.S. Old western-style and charming store fronts line the streets where youll easily find great shopping and amazing eateries. In the winter, this is where you will also find the Telluride ski school, nursery and more. Explore boutiques, bars, eateries, and more on this Western strip. Mild to Wild, a reputable guide company based in nearby Durango, hosts half-day rafting tours on the waterway. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. At 365-feet, this is Colorado's highest free-falling waterfall, and though I have to say that the flow from the waterfall on our most recent trip wasn't as amazing as it has been in the past, it is still a must-visit spot. Other sights accessible via the 24-hour byway include Mesa Verde National Park's prehistoric ruins, theAnasazi Heritage Centerand theRidgway Railroad Museum. They offer private and group lessons for all ages, helping you feel safe and confident before hitting the slopes. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Youll be taken to St. Sophies Station where youll disembark and begin your ride! Locals, celebrities and film buffs from all over descend on Telluride for this festival each year. This famed trail in nearby Ridgway passes three alpine lakes, and while the views are breathtaking, so is the strenuous hike. Admire the Victorian architecture and surrounding mountains while hanging out on a patio with the locals. San Sofia Gondola Station Vacations. All genres of music are celebrated at the annual Telluride Bluegrass Festival. During the weekend, we walked past a number of major film stars such as Emma Stone (saw her on the gondola), Casey Affleck (he was on West Galena) and a few other suspected sightings. Things for Kids to Do in Manitou Springs 9. Stunning scenery and seclusion are additional bonuses. Where to Eat - Chop House Restaurant at New Sheridan ($$$), The National ($$$), Brown Dog Pizza ($$) Where to Drink . Would love to come back but to be honest there are more reasonably priced places in Telluride. All the way from the Western Slope to the High Plains, Colorado is gushing with things to do and places to see. Plus, youll learn what a Krogerata is and why the locals love it. Trails are still easy to navigate compared to the snowy months and the temperatures are cool and welcoming. While we didn't find Little Hawaii (a well-hidden trail off Bear Creek Falls), we did enjoy the balanced rocks of those who came before us. On our most recent trip we hiked from town at South Pine Street up Bear Creek and that's labeled as an easy-moderate hike. While we only had a weekend to work with, we made the absolute most of every single minute we had at our disposal in the San Juan Mountains. Head to Bootdoctors, For CBD and Marijuana, the Green Dragon or the Bud Company is your place, For fine art visit Telluride Art Gallery or Daniel Kanow Fine Art, Looking for home good? We were totally exhausted by the time we reached the top, but it was 100 percent worth the effort. Splash down rapids in the San Miguel River, Google Maps | Phone: (970) 247-4789 | Website | Hours: 8 am 8 pm daily | Entrance: $145 per person | Half-Day Rafting Tour on the San Miguel River. The simple fact that hills were once mined for silver and gold deposits makes this unique box canyon one of the few places in the world where you can stand on Main Street and be ensconced in a bowl laced with flecks of gold and silver. Previous visitors said the Telluride Historical Museum is a must-see for history buffs thanks to its informative displays and easy-to-understand layout. Montrose is the closet airport to Telluride (airport code: MTJ). Come June 15-18, thousands will gather for performers, free workshops, and more. Autumn is an especially ideal time to visit, as the aspen forests turn vibrant shades of gold. Cast your line into some of the best trout streams in Colorado, Google Maps | Phone: (800) 831-6230 | Website | Hours: 7 am 7 pm daily | Entrance: $360+ (varies by tour and guest count). The mellow 6.6-mile route is a great way to go about exploring Telluride. But also discover a few hidden gems, like off-the-beaten-path hot springs and one of my favorite breweries. Love Colorado? Visitors can also learn about the region's relationship with the Ute Native American tribe, the town's geological past and the man known as "The Pathfinder of the San Juans," Otto Mears. 66. Take a look at some of the things to do in Telluride, Colorado you can look forward to experiencing. Connecting Telluride to Mountain Village, this free gondola ride is one of the best things to do in Telluride year-round. As you ascend to the second and third lakes, panoramic views amaze. While on the road, drivers and passengers will encounter breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. More accurately, there is an international art scene in the middle of the mountains, but we'll get to that in a minute. Sheridan Opera House Vacations. It's hard to imagine Colorado without its remarkable small towns. Easy-peasy, a half-day well spent. When she isnt exploring the outdoors with her husband and two dogs, Abigail manages her freelance marketing business, Campsite Creative. Get the latest creative news from FooBar about art, design and business. The museum exhibits many different aspects of Telluride's history in a number of small sections in rooms. While you may be in the area specifically to visit Ouray, it is absolutely worth the hour-long drive to Telluride to do some sightseeing and see what the fuss is all about. We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. If youre a water person, Telluride has two excellent ways to enjoy its streams and rivers. Mountain Village Gondola Station Vacations. Bridal Veil Falls is a stunning spectacle responsible for attracting people from all over the world to Telluride. Housed in the town's former hospital, the Telluride Historical Museum recounts the area's exciting history, from its gold-mining days to the development of the world-renowned Telluride Ski Resort.