Colorado Springs to Telluride Drive: Complete Route Guide Through the Rockies

The drive from Colorado Springs to Telluride covers roughly 300 miles through some of Colorado’s most dramatic landscapes. This isn’t a quick highway jaunt—it’s a legitimate mountain road trip that rewards proper planning and realistic time expectations. I’ve made this drive in both summer and winter conditions, and the experience varies dramatically based on route selection, season, and how much time you allocate for stops.

Most navigation apps default to routing through US-285 and US-50, crossing Monarch Pass before heading southwest. This represents the most direct route, but “direct” in Colorado mountain driving doesn’t mean fast. You’ll spend 6-7 hours behind the wheel under ideal conditions, with winter weather or stops easily extending that to 8-9 hours. Understanding your route options and planning accordingly transforms this from a tedious necessity into one of the highlights of your Telluride trip.

The Primary Route: US-285 to US-50 via Monarch Pass

The most common route from Colorado Springs to Telluride follows US-24 west to US-285 south, then US-50 west over Monarch Pass before connecting to US-550 south toward Telluride. This 300-mile journey typically takes 6-7 hours in good conditions, though winter weather and traffic can extend that significantly.

Leaving Colorado Springs on US-24 west, you’ll pass through Woodland Park and climb toward Wilkerson Pass. This initial section gains elevation quickly, taking you from Colorado Springs’ 6,000 feet to over 9,000 feet in about 40 miles. The road is well-maintained and generally safe year-round, though winter conditions can create icy patches, especially in shaded areas and early morning.

The junction with US-285 near Antero Junction marks your turn south toward Poncha Springs. This stretch follows the Arkansas River valley, offering relatively gentle terrain and good sight lines. You’ll pass through Johnson Village and Nathrop, small communities that serve as gateways to the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. If you’re making good time and want to stretch your legs, the Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort near Nathrop offers a worthwhile detour for lunch or a quick soak.

Poncha Springs represents a critical decision point. Here, US-285 continues south toward Alamosa, while US-50 heads west toward Monarch Pass and Gunnison. You want US-50 west. This is where the drive becomes genuinely mountainous, with the road climbing 2,000 feet over 20 miles to reach Monarch Pass at 11,312 feet elevation.

Monarch Pass demands respect, especially in winter. The road is well-engineered with gentle grades and good sight lines, but elevation, weather, and traffic all create challenges. In summer, expect slow-moving RVs and tourists stopping for photos. In winter, expect snow, ice, and the possibility of temporary closures during severe storms. The pass typically remains open year-round, but chains or four-wheel drive may be required during active weather. Always check COtrip.org for current road conditions before attempting this section.

The descent from Monarch Pass into Gunnison offers spectacular views of the Sawatch Range and the upper Gunnison River valley. The road drops quickly, requiring attention to speed and brake management. Gunnison itself makes an excellent stop for fuel, food, and a break from driving. The town offers numerous restaurant options and serves as the last significant services before the final push to Telluride.

West of Gunnison, US-50 continues through increasingly remote terrain toward Montrose. This 65-mile section is relatively flat and fast by mountain standards, following the Gunnison River through sagebrush-covered valleys. The landscape shifts from alpine forests to high desert, with the dramatic peaks of the San Juan Mountains visible to the south.

Montrose marks your final turn south onto US-550, the beginning of the famous Million Dollar Highway. The 65-mile drive from Montrose to Telluride via Ridgway and Placerville takes 90 minutes in good conditions, following the San Miguel River through increasingly dramatic canyon scenery. The final approach to Telluride through the box canyon reveals the town in spectacular fashion, with 14,000-foot peaks rising directly above the valley floor.

Alternative Route: I-25 South via Walsenburg

Some drivers prefer routing south on I-25 to Walsenburg, then west on US-160 over Wolf Creek Pass before connecting to US-550 north to Telluride. This route adds 30-40 miles and typically takes 30-60 minutes longer than the Monarch Pass route, but it offers advantages in certain conditions.

The I-25 route keeps you on interstate highway for the first 120 miles, providing faster speeds and more reliable winter maintenance than mountain highways. This matters during active weather when Monarch Pass might be experiencing delays or requiring chains. The trade-off comes at Wolf Creek Pass, which at 10,850 feet presents its own winter challenges and often receives even more snow than Monarch.

I generally recommend the Monarch Pass route unless you have specific reasons to prefer I-25—perhaps you’re combining your Telluride trip with stops in southern Colorado, or weather reports show Monarch Pass experiencing severe conditions while Wolf Creek remains clear. For most travelers, the Monarch route offers better scenery and more interesting stops despite similar driving challenges.

Timing Your Drive: Season and Departure Considerations

When you leave Colorado Springs matters almost as much as which route you choose. Summer driving offers the most flexibility, with long daylight hours and minimal weather concerns. You can depart anytime and arrive safely, though I recommend leaving early enough to cross Monarch Pass before afternoon thunderstorms develop. These storms typically build between 2-4 PM and can create brief but intense rain, hail, and lightning.

Winter driving requires more strategic timing. Departing Colorado Springs by 7-8 AM puts you at Monarch Pass around 10-11 AM, after road crews have completed morning maintenance but before afternoon weather potentially develops. This timing also gets you to Telluride before dark, which matters when navigating unfamiliar mountain roads in winter conditions.

Avoid driving this route at night if possible, especially in winter. Mountain highways lack the lighting of urban roads, wildlife crossings are common, and black ice becomes difficult to detect. If you must drive after dark, reduce speed significantly and increase following distance.

Essential Stops and Detours

The Colorado Springs to Telluride drive offers numerous worthwhile stops that break up the journey and add value to your trip. How many you include depends on your schedule and priorities.

Buena Vista and Salida, both just off your route on US-285, offer excellent lunch options and access to hot springs. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort provides the most convenient stop, located directly on US-285 with day-use access to multiple pools. Salida’s downtown features numerous restaurants and coffee shops if you prefer a more traditional break.

Gunnison serves as the logical midpoint stop for fuel, food, and stretching. The town offers fast food, sit-down restaurants, and grocery stores for snacks and drinks. This is your last chance for full services before the final 90-minute push to Telluride.

Ridgway, located 25 miles north of Telluride on US-550, makes a pleasant final stop before arrival. This small town offers coffee shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the Sneffels Range. If you’re arriving in Telluride during peak check-in times and want to avoid waiting, spending 30 minutes in Ridgway can improve your timing.

Winter Driving Essentials

Winter transforms the Colorado Springs to Telluride drive from straightforward to potentially challenging. Proper preparation and realistic expectations make the difference between a stressful ordeal and a manageable journey.

Your vehicle needs appropriate tires—either winter tires or all-seasons in good condition with adequate tread depth. Colorado’s Traction Law requires this minimum standard, while the more restrictive Passenger Vehicle Chain Law (PVL) requires four-wheel or all-wheel drive with winter tires, or chains on two-wheel drive vehicles. These laws are enforced during active weather, with fines for non-compliance and potential liability if you cause accidents.

Carry emergency supplies including blankets, water, snacks, flashlight, first aid kit, and a fully charged phone. A small shovel and ice scraper live in my vehicle year-round. These items seem excessive until you need them, at which point they become invaluable.

Check road conditions before departing and monitor them throughout your drive. COtrip.org provides real-time updates on road conditions, closures, and chain requirements. Save this website to your phone and check it at every stop. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, and conditions that were clear at departure may deteriorate by the time you reach high passes.

Allow extra time in winter—at least 7-8 hours for the drive, potentially more during active weather. Rushing on mountain roads in winter conditions creates unnecessary risk. If weather deteriorates significantly, consider stopping in Gunnison or Montrose rather than pushing through to Telluride. Your hotel will understand, and arriving safely matters more than arriving on schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Colorado Springs to Telluride drive safe in winter?

Yes, with proper preparation and realistic expectations. The route follows major highways that receive regular winter maintenance. However, you need appropriate tires, emergency supplies, and willingness to delay or stop if conditions deteriorate. Check COtrip.org before and during your drive, and never attempt mountain passes during active blizzards or when chain laws are in effect without proper equipment.

Where should I stop for gas on this drive?

Fill up in Colorado Springs before departing. Your next reliable fuel stops are Buena Vista (90 minutes), Gunnison (3 hours), and Montrose (5 hours). Telluride has gas stations, but prices are significantly higher than along the route. I typically fuel in Gunnison, which provides enough range to reach Telluride and explore the area before needing to refuel.

Can I make this drive in a rental car?

Yes, though confirm your rental agreement allows mountain driving and understand your insurance coverage. Most rental companies permit this route, but some restrict travel on unpaved roads or during winter months. Request a vehicle with all-wheel drive for winter travel, and ensure you understand how to operate it properly.

How much does this drive cost in gas?

Expect $40-60 in fuel costs depending on your vehicle’s efficiency and current gas prices. Mountain driving reduces fuel economy due to elevation changes and lower air density. Budget an additional $20-30 for food and drinks if you stop for meals along the way.

Is it better to fly to Montrose and drive from there?

Flying to Montrose Regional Airport reduces driving to 90 minutes and eliminates the mountain passes, making it the easier option. However, Colorado Springs often offers cheaper flights and more route options. If you’re comfortable with mountain driving and want to save on airfare, the Colorado Springs drive is manageable. If you prefer minimizing driving or are traveling in winter, Montrose makes more sense.

Making the Drive Work for Your Trip

The Colorado Springs to Telluride drive shouldn’t be an afterthought in your trip planning. It’s a significant undertaking that deserves realistic time allocation and proper preparation. Travelers who budget 6-7 hours minimum, check weather and road conditions, and pack appropriately find the drive manageable and even enjoyable. Those who underestimate the distance, ignore weather, or rush inevitably encounter stress and potential safety issues.

Consider the drive as part of your Telluride experience rather than an obstacle to overcome. The landscapes you’ll cross—from the Collegiate Peaks to the Gunnison valley to the San Juan Mountains—represent some of Colorado’s finest scenery. Building in time for stops and photo opportunities transforms the journey from a chore into a genuine Rocky Mountain road trip.