Curator’s statement
Telluride, a former Victorian mining town, is tucked into a box canyon in Southern Colorado, and is a world-class destination for year-round adventure. Telluride doesn't receive the "weekend warrior" congestion of many ski getaways as Denver is six hours north. With an excellent array of luxury hotels, outdoor activities and great local dining options, Telluride is a mountain destination you won't want to miss.
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Where to stay in Telluride, Colorado
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Things to do in Telluride, Colorado
Shred the Gnar: Telluride Ski Resort is world-class. To make the most of your time, book a 1/2 day private lesson to get a feel for the mountain (and meet a local)!
Fat Biking: Otherwise known as snow biking (yes, biking on snow), fat biking is the way many locals get around in the winter. For an easy ride, enjoy the flat-ish San Miguel River Travel and end at the Telluride Brewing Company for one of their famous IPAs.
Adrenaline Rush: Dog sledding is a thrill of an experience in Telluride, as is ice climbing above the (frozen) picturesque Bridal Veil Falls.
With the Kiddos? Rent sleds at the local hardware store and race down the hills at Town Park, or put budding skaters on the rink directly in front of Hotel Madeleine.
Natural Quiet: Enjoy a guided snowshoe hike, or give Nordic skiing a try at one of Telluride's six Nordic ski areas.
A note from Brigid
Tip 1: When visiting Telluride in the winter there is no need for a car!
Tip 2: If visiting with kids who will be enrolled in ski school, finding accommodation in Mountain Village will make hectic mornings much easier.
Places to eat & drink in Telluride, Colorado
Breakfast in Telluride
Butcher & Baker: Great coffee, breakfast burritos to go (eat on the gondola!) and wonderful pastries.
Baked in Telluride: Perfect for an AM carbo load, this bakery has every morning pastry possible, including plenty of fresh baked donuts.
Lunch in Telluride
Caravan: The freshest Mediterranean fare from the smallest food truck served by the nicest people. Try the spanakopita!
Bon Vivant: Located on the mountain, this winter only restaurant feels straight of Europe with the Champagne flowing and afternoon DJs.
Smuggler's Beer Pub: Perfect for a late lunch after a day of skiing, this local spot brews their own beer and offers a refined twist on pub classics.
Dinner in Telluride
Allred's: Reservations are a must at Allred's, a Telluride mainstay perched on the mountain with views of town. Dine on the early side to enjoy the sunset.
221 South Oak: Creative fine dining in the heart of Telluride with wonderful options for vegetarians as well. The chef/owner leads culinary classes year-round.
Alpino Vino: Located on the top of the mountain, the restaurant, loved for its expansive wine list and cozy alpine atmosphere, offers dinner via snowcat in the winter.
Need to know
Often considered "hard to get to" few realize that the Montrose airport (a 90-minute drive from Telluride) is actually an excellent access point as it doesn't receive the air traffic disruptions that Aspen and Vail do. As an alternative, there is also Telluride Regional Airport, a smaller airport which primarily services private and charter flights.
Telluride is divided into two sections, the town of Telluride at 8,750 ft elevation and Mountain Village, located at 9,540, which is connected to Telluride via a free 13-minute gondola ride.
Travel Advisor
Brigid Finley
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For more travel tips, check out my guide to Mexico City: 72 Hours of Dining, Imbibing & More in Mexico City and my guide to Snowmass: Family-Friendly Ski Vacation in Snowmass, Colorado.