Things to Do in Telluride: Ultimate Activity Guide (2025)

Telluride offers far more than world-class skiing. This box canyon town of 2,600 residents hosts major film and music festivals, provides access to hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, operates a free gondola with spectacular views, and maintains an authentic Victorian downtown perfect for strolling, dining, and gallery hopping. The combination of outdoor recreation, cultural events, historic architecture, and natural beauty creates a year-round destination where you’ll never run out of activities regardless of season or interests.

Whether visiting in winter for skiing or summer for festivals and hiking, for a weekend getaway or week-long vacation, Telluride delivers diverse experiences beyond typical mountain resort offerings. This ultimate guide covers 50+ things to do across all seasons, from must-do experiences that define the Telluride experience to hidden gems that locals treasure.

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For detailed skiing information, see our Telluride ski resort guide. To plan your visit timing around weather and conditions, check our ski season guide. For accommodation recommendations near these activities, explore our best hotels in Telluride.

Note: Activity information, trail names, and general descriptions are accurate as of publication. Specific prices, hours, and availability change seasonally and should be verified with activity providers or the official Telluride tourism site before planning your itinerary.

Top 10 Must-Do Experiences

1. Ride the Free Gondola

The gondola represents Telluride’s most unique transportation system and top free activity. This 13-minute ride climbs 1,700 vertical feet over the box canyon, offering constantly changing perspectives of 13,000-foot peaks, historic downtown buildings, and the ski resort spread across the mountain. As the only free public gondola in North America, it operates year-round connecting downtown Telluride with Mountain Village.

Rather than simply transportation, the gondola functions as an scenic experience itself. The suspended journey provides bird’s-eye views of the town laid out in the canyon floor below, with Victorian buildings creating a miniature village effect from above. Mid-way through the ride, the perspective shifts to showcase the surrounding peaks and the ski terrain carved into their flanks. By the time you reach Mountain Village, you’ve experienced a comprehensive visual tour of Telluride’s geography and layout.

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Sunset rides capture golden light illuminating the peaks in warm hues, creating particularly photogenic conditions. Winter visitors can ride up to Mountain Village and ski down to town, experiencing both perspectives of the mountain. Summer hikers use the gondola to access higher elevation trailheads without the exhausting climb. The mid-station at Station San Sophia provides a third perspective option—exit here, explore the intermediate elevation, then catch the next cabin to continue your journey.

2. Explore Main Street

Colorado Avenue forms Telluride’s historic and commercial heart, stretching four pedestrian-friendly blocks lined with Victorian storefronts dating to the 1880s. These preserved buildings now house art galleries showcasing local and regional artists, boutiques selling everything from high-end fashion to outdoor gear, restaurants serving diverse cuisines, and bars maintaining authentic Old West atmosphere. The street’s relatively compact size makes everything walkable within minutes, yet you could spend hours ducking in and out of shops, galleries, and cafes.

The architecture itself tells Telluride’s history—ornate Victorian details, false-front buildings, and period facades transport you to the mining era while modern businesses inside serve contemporary needs. Jamieson & Whitehorn supplies serious outdoor gear for hiking, climbing, and skiing. The Market provides excellent coffee and grab-and-go breakfast options. Brown Dog Pizza serves New York-style slices perfect for lunch. Historic saloons like Last Dollar Saloon and New Sheridan Bar maintain original bars and period details while pouring modern craft cocktails.

Gallery hopping reveals remarkable local art talent, with many artists inspired by the surrounding landscape and mountain culture. Outdoor patios and sidewalk seating enable people watching and soaking up the relaxed mountain town atmosphere. The street comes alive during festivals when outdoor stages, vendor booths, and crowds transform the normal flow. Even window shopping provides entertainment, with displays ranging from fine jewelry to mountaineering equipment to contemporary Western wear.

3. Visit Bridal Veil Falls

Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall drops 365 feet at the head of Telluride’s box canyon, creating a spectacular natural landmark visible from town on clear days. A rough 4WD road along Tomboy Road leads adventurous drivers to the base, though the washboard surface, steep grades, and lack of guardrails demand serious off-road vehicles and confident drivers. The reward for successful navigation includes up-close views of the falls thundering over the cliff face and access to historic mining ruins.

The waterfall flows strongest in June and July when snowmelt from high alpine basins feeds maximum water volume over the falls. By late summer and fall, flow diminishes significantly though the site remains impressive. The historic power plant perched atop the falls represents a remarkable engineering achievement—built in 1895, it was the world’s first commercial AC power plant, transmitting electricity 2.5 miles to Telluride’s mines using alternating current technology that revolutionized electrical distribution.

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Those without 4WD vehicles can view the falls from various points in town, though binoculars help appreciate the scale and power. Hiking trails also approach the falls from different angles, ranging from moderate to strenuous depending on your chosen route. The site draws photographers year-round, with winter freezing creating massive ice formations climbing the cliff face.

4. Soak in Natural Hot Springs

After days of skiing hard or hiking steep trails, natural mineral hot springs provide perfect muscle recovery and relaxation. While Telluride itself doesn’t have hot springs, several excellent options sit within an hour’s drive. Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway (35 miles, 50 minutes) operates clothing-optional natural pools fed by underground geothermal sources, creating an authentic Colorado hot springs experience. Multiple pools at different temperatures allow you to find your comfort level.

Ouray Hot Springs (40 miles, one hour) maintains a massive family-friendly public pool complex with multiple pools ranging from 80-106°F. The larger facility accommodates more visitors and provides a less intimate but more social atmosphere. Dunton Hot Springs (60 miles) represents the luxury option—a restored ghost town converted into an ultra-high-end resort where day-use soaking comes with premium pricing but delivers exceptional ambiance and service.

The drives to these springs showcase beautiful mountain scenery, making the journey part of the experience. Most visitors time hot springs visits for late afternoon or early evening, soaking as the sun sets and temperatures drop. The contrast between cold mountain air and hot mineral water creates an invigorating sensory experience that epitomizes Colorado’s outdoor culture.

5. Attend World-Class Festivals

Telluride punches far above its weight in festival offerings, hosting internationally recognized events that draw thousands of visitors and major talent. The Telluride Film Festival in early September ranks among cinema’s most prestigious events, premiering significant films and attracting Hollywood A-listers, directors, and industry insiders. Unlike commercial film festivals, Telluride maintains an intimate atmosphere where celebrities walk Main Street and audience members might find themselves sitting next to famous directors at outdoor screenings.

The Telluride Bluegrass Festival in late June transforms Town Park into a four-day acoustic music celebration drawing 10,000+ attendees and top bluegrass, folk, and Americana artists. The festival’s legendary nightgrass sets run until 2:00 AM, while workshops and smaller shows fill the days. Camping onsite creates a community atmosphere, though hotel accommodations work for those preferring beds to tents.

Blues & Brews in September combines craft beer sampling with live blues music performances throughout downtown venues. The more relaxed atmosphere and smaller crowds make this an accessible festival for those wanting music and cultural events without the intensity of Film Festival or Bluegrass. The craft beer selection showcases Colorado and regional breweries, often featuring special festival releases.

Additional notable festivals include Mountainfilm (late May, documentary films), Jazz Festival (August), and various smaller music, arts, and cultural events throughout summer and fall. These events book accommodations months in advance, so plan accordingly if festival attendance motivates your visit.

6. Hike Bear Creek Trail

Bear Creek Trail provides accessible alpine hiking starting directly from downtown’s south end, eliminating driving to trailheads. The four-mile round-trip moderate hike gains 1,000 feet while following Bear Creek through aspen groves and pine forests to a stunning waterfall. July wildflowers create spectacular displays along the trail, with columbine, paintbrush, and dozens of other species coloring the meadows and forest openings.

The trail’s accessibility from town makes it perfect for morning or afternoon hikes without vehicle logistics. Most hikers complete the round-trip in 2-3 hours depending on pace and photo stops. The elevation gain challenges beginners enough to feel accomplished without overwhelming, while experienced hikers enjoy it as a nice warm-up or off-day lighter activity.

The trail parallels the creek most of the way, providing constant water sounds and opportunities to cool off in cold mountain water. The falls at the end deliver a rewarding destination, with pools suitable for brave souls willing to dip in frigid snowmelt. Wildflower season peaks in mid-July, though the hike remains beautiful throughout summer and into fall when aspen trees turn golden yellow.

7. Mountain Bike Epic Trails

Telluride’s mountain biking infrastructure rivals its skiing reputation, with 65+ miles of singletrack ranging from mellow cross-country cruises to technical downhill runs. The area hosted World Cup mountain bike races in the 1990s, and that legacy infrastructure remains accessible to today’s riders. Bike shops downtown rent quality mountain bikes and provide trail recommendations matched to your skill level and preferences.

The Galloping Goose Trail offers moderate 19-mile out-and-back riding following a historic railroad grade with stunning scenery and manageable technical challenges. Bear Creek presents advanced climbing with rewarding descent options for strong riders. Prospect Trail delivers easier riding with excellent views, perfect for beginners or those wanting scenic pedaling without extreme technicality.

Lift-accessed downhill riding operates during summer at the ski resort, where chairlifts carry riders and bikes to high elevations for descent-focused runs. Multiple terrain parks and jump lines cater to different skill levels. Rentals, lessons, and guided tours make the sport accessible to first-timers while challenging experts.

8. Experience Via Ferrata Climbing

Telluride’s via ferrata routes provide European-style climbing experiences using fixed cables, rungs, bridges, and equipment allowing non-climbers to access vertical terrain safely. These engineered climbing routes combine hiking, scrambling, and rock climbing into adventure experiences guided by professional companies. The unique opportunity attracts adventurous travelers wanting climbing thrills without technical skill requirements.

The Wasatch route takes approximately four hours and suits beginners or those wanting less exposure. The Tomboy route demands six hours and delivers more challenging climbing and dramatic exposure. Both routes provide spectacular views, adrenaline-inducing exposure, and achievement satisfaction. Professional guides supply all equipment, provide instruction, and manage safety throughout the experience.

These adventures book up quickly during peak summer season, so reserve ahead. Physical fitness requirements are moderate but real—you’ll be climbing and scrambling for hours at high altitude. The experiences create lasting memories and dramatic photos impossible to capture elsewhere.

9. Drive Last Dollar Road

This scenic dirt road climbs over Last Dollar Pass at 10,000 feet elevation, delivering panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains, Wilson Peak, and endless aspen forests. The 18-mile one-way route connects Telluride to Ridgway via washboard dirt requiring normal clearance vehicles but rewarding drivers with constantly changing mountain vistas. Late September brings peak fall colors when aspen groves turn brilliant gold, creating arguably Colorado’s most beautiful fall drive.

The route takes 45-60 minutes one-way without stops, though you’ll want to stop frequently for photos and to simply absorb the views. Numerous pullouts provide safe parking for photography and picnicking. The road closes in winter due to snow, generally opening in June and remaining passable through October depending on weather.

Many visitors time this drive for late afternoon, watching the alpenglow illuminate the peaks while driving back toward Telluride. The route sees moderate traffic during peak fall color season but remains relatively uncrowded compared to accessible paved scenic drives. Return to Telluride via Highway 62 through Ridgway and Highway 145 for a scenic loop showcasing diverse Colorado landscapes.

10. Explore Historic Mining Sites

Telluride’s mining heritage defines much of its character and history. The rough 4WD road to Tomboy Mine climbs to 11,500 feet where a weathered ghost town reveals Colorado’s mining past. Structures dating to the 1890s include bunkhouses, mill buildings, and residential ruins scattered across high alpine terrain. The remarkable location demonstrates miners’ hardiness, living and working year-round in extreme conditions at nearly 12,000 feet elevation.

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The drive requires high-clearance 4WD vehicles and confident off-road driving skills. Steep, loose sections with significant exposure make this unsuitable for inexperienced drivers or nervous passengers. Jeep tour companies offer guided trips for those wanting to experience Tomboy without driving themselves. Mountain bikers tackle the route as an epic adventure, though the elevation and technical challenges suit only strong, experienced riders.

Multiple other mining sites dot the surrounding mountains, including Pandora, Liberty Bell, and numerous smaller operations. These ruins provide tangible connections to the boom era when Telluride served as a supply hub for dozens of high-altitude mines extracting gold, silver, copper, and other minerals from the San Juan Mountains.

Winter Activities Beyond Skiing

Skiing dominates Telluride’s winter identity, with the resort offering 2,000 acres across 127 runs as detailed in our ski resort guide. However, winter visitors who don’t ski or want alternative activities find numerous options. Snowshoeing provides accessible winter exploration on trails like the Town Park loop, Valley Floor Trail, and River Trail. Rental shops supply snowshoes for $15-20 daily, while marked trails accommodate various fitness levels.

Cross-country skiing operates at the Telluride Nordic Center at Town Park, which maintains 10 kilometers of groomed trails suitable for classic and skate skiing. Equipment rentals, lessons, and trail passes create turnkey Nordic skiing access. Backcountry enthusiasts explore Alta Lakes Road, Bear Creek drainage, and Ophir Pass on cross-country gear, though avalanche awareness and proper safety equipment become critical in uncontrolled terrain.

Ice climbing attracts advanced climbers to frozen waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls, which forms massive ice pillars and curtains providing multiple routes rated WI3-WI5 difficulty. San Juan Mountain Guides and Telluride Mountain Guides offer instruction and guided climbs for those wanting professional supervision in this spectacular but dangerous sport.

Fat biking grows in popularity, with wide-tired bikes floating over packed snow trails and roads closed to vehicle traffic in winter. Rental shops provide fat bikes and route recommendations. Snowmobiling tours through national forest lands showcase winter mountain scenery while providing thrilling motorized recreation. Sleigh ride dinners combine historic transportation with gourmet meals at remote mountain settings.

Summer and Fall Activities

Summer transforms Telluride from ski resort to mountain adventure basecamp. Hiking dominates summer activities, with hundreds of trail miles accessing alpine lakes, 13,000-foot peaks, wildflower meadows, and waterfall destinations. Popular hikes beyond Bear Creek include Jud Wiebe Trail (3 miles, moderate), Blue Lakes Trail (8 miles strenuous, stunning alpine lakes), and Hope Lake Trail (5 miles moderate). These represent a fraction of available options spanning all difficulty levels.

The free gondola connects to Mountain Village trails accessing Wasatch Trail, Village Trail, and numerous other hikes starting at higher elevations. This eliminates the need to drive to trailheads while positioning you above 9,000 feet for reduced elevation gain on climbs. Mountain biking expands dramatically in summer, with the ski resort opening lift-accessed downhill, extensive cross-country trail networks, and shuttle-accessed rides throughout the region.

Fly fishing in the San Miguel River running through town provides walk-to trout fishing without vehicle logistics. Multiple guide services offer instruction, guided trips, and equipment rentals for those wanting professional assistance. The river’s Gold Medal Waters designation indicates exceptionally productive fishing with healthy trout populations. Nearby lakes and streams expand fishing options for those willing to hike or drive to remote locations.

Rock climbing routes around Telluride challenge climbers from beginner to expert across traditional, sport, and alpine disciplines. Classic routes like Ophir Wall and numerous cragging areas provide quality climbing within minutes of town. Guided climbing instruction makes the sport accessible to first-timers.

Golfing at Telluride Ski & Golf Club presents mountain golf at its most dramatic, with narrow fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and stunning views compensating for the high altitude’s effects on ball flight. The challenging course demands accurate shots and strategic thinking while rewarding competent play with one of Colorado’s most scenic golf experiences.

Festival and Event Calendar

Beyond the major festivals already mentioned, Telluride hosts numerous smaller events throughout the year. Mountainfilm in late May celebrates documentary and adventure filmmaking, screening films and hosting filmmaker talks in intimate venues. The Telluride Jazz Festival in August brings world-class jazz musicians to Town Park and various indoor venues. The Blues & Brews Festival in mid-September combines craft beer and blues music in a more relaxed atmosphere than summer’s larger festivals.

Fourth of July celebrations include parade down Main Street, fireworks display, and community festivities maintaining small-town tradition. Christmas events transform downtown with lights, decorations, and holiday activities throughout December. Film Festival in early September and Bluegrass in late June represent the town’s two largest events, dramatically increasing visitation and requiring accommodation reservations months in advance.

Smaller weekly events like Farmers Market (summer Fridays) and free concert series create regular community gatherings. These provide authentic local flavor beyond major tourist events, letting visitors experience how locals actually live rather than just how the town presents itself to visitors.

Dining and Nightlife

Telluride’s dining scene punches well above its small-town size, offering diverse cuisines and quality ingredients prepared by talented chefs. Upscale dining at restaurants like Allred’s (accessed via gondola with panoramic views), Alpino Vino (14,000 feet, highest gourmet restaurant in North America), and 221 South Oak deliver fine dining experiences featuring local ingredients and sophisticated preparations.

Casual options like Brown Dog Pizza, Baked in Telluride, and There Bar serve delicious food without the formal atmosphere or pricing. These restaurants maintain locals-friendly vibes while welcoming visitors with quality food and reasonable tabs. The variety spans Italian, American, Mexican, Asian fusion, and creative contemporary cuisine.

Nightlife revolves around historic bars like Last Dollar Saloon and Fly Me to the Moon Saloon maintaining authentic Western atmosphere. The Sheridan Bar in the New Sheridan Hotel has served drinks since 1891, with original bar and period details creating authentic historical ambiance. Live music appears regularly at various venues, from intimate acoustic sets to full bands. The compact downtown geography means bar hopping requires minimal walking between venues.

Craft beer culture thrives at Telluride Brewing Company and various bars pouring extensive Colorado and regional beer selections. Wine bars and cocktail lounges provide alternatives to beer-focused establishments. The overall scene maintains mountain-casual dress codes and welcoming atmospheres rather than exclusivity or pretension.

Planning Your Activities

Telluride’s diverse activity offerings suit different seasons, fitness levels, and interests. Winter visitors typically split time between skiing and other snow activities, with après gatherings and dining filling evenings. Summer travelers often book hiking, biking, or outdoor adventures for mornings, using afternoons for Main Street exploration, festivals, or relaxation before dinner.

Activity booking requirements vary significantly. Major festivals require ticket purchases months in advance with accommodations booking even earlier. Via ferrata, guided tours, and popular restaurants benefit from advance reservations during peak season. Many hikes, the gondola, Main Street exploration, and similar activities require no reservations, providing flexibility to adjust plans based on weather and energy levels.

Altitude affects performance and comfort for visitors from lower elevations. The 8,750-foot base elevation and 13,000+ foot trail destinations challenge cardiorespiratory systems, demanding acclimatization time. Plan easier first-day activities, stay hydrated, and recognize that exertion at altitude requires more rest and recovery than similar activities at sea level.

Weather variability demands flexible planning. Summer afternoon thunderstorms arrive regularly, making morning hiking ideal with afternoons reserved for covered activities. Winter cold and snow occasionally impact visibility and conditions. Having backup indoor activities planned prevents disappointment when weather doesn’t cooperate.

For accommodation near these activities, explore places to stay in Telluride to find options matching your budget and preferred location for accessing activities.

Final Thoughts

Telluride delivers year-round activities far beyond typical ski resort offerings. The compact town creates easy logistics where most activities start within walking distance or short drives. The dramatic setting amplifies every activity with spectacular mountain scenery as backdrop. From world-class festivals to extreme sports to simple Main Street strolls, Telluride accommodates diverse interests and fitness levels across all seasons.

Whether skiing powder in January, hiking wildflower trails in July, attending Film Festival in September, or simply riding the gondola and exploring Victorian downtown any time of year, you’ll discover why locals protect Telluride’s character while welcoming visitors to experience this special place. The box canyon’s natural beauty, genuine small-town atmosphere, and exceptional outdoor recreation combine to create a destination offering far more than any single-visit could possibly experience.