Plan Your Mountain Escape the Right Way
Nestled in a box canyon surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, Telluride is one of Colorado’s most stunning and adventure-packed destinations. Whether you’re heading there for epic skiing, summer hikes, or the legendary film festival, this guide gives you everything you need — from what to do to what to pack.
🎯 Why Visit Telluride?
Telluride isn’t just a ski town — it’s a historic, high-altitude getaway with unreal scenery, boutique charm, and a ton of outdoor activities. Its remote location helps keep it peaceful and less crowded than some bigger-name resorts.
You’ll find:
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World-class skiing and snowboarding
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Vibrant summer festivals
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Breathtaking hikes (like Bridal Veil Falls and Bear Creek Trail)
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Charming historic downtown
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A free gondola that connects Telluride to Mountain Village
Whether you’re a powder chaser, festival goer, or nature lover, this town delivers year-round magic.
🧳 Packing Tips for Telluride (Season by Season)
❄️ Winter (Nov–April)
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Waterproof insulated jacket + snow pants
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Thermal base layers + wool socks
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Gloves, beanie, neck gaiter
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Ski/snowboard gear (rentals available)
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Sunglasses or goggles (the sun reflects hard off the snow!)
☀️ Summer (June–Sept)
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Lightweight moisture-wicking layers
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Hiking boots or trail shoes
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Sun hat + sunscreen (elevation = intense UV)
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Rain jacket (afternoon showers are common)
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Swimsuit (hello, hot springs!)
🌼 Spring/Fall (Shoulder Seasons)
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Layered clothing for fluctuating temps
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Warm fleece or puffer jacket
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Daypack + refillable water bottle
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Casual wear for town (jeans, flannel, hoodie vibes)
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
Telluride has a surprisingly great food scene! Some favorites:
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Brown Dog Pizza – Classic with a mountain twist
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The Butcher & The Baker – Cozy café and bakery
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221 South Oak – Upscale dining in a historic house
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Telluride Distilling Company – Small-batch cocktails and chill vibes
💤 Where to Stay
You’ve got two main options:
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Downtown Telluride – Walkable, charming, close to shops and restaurants
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Mountain Village – More resort-style, with ski-in/ski-out options and the gondola
Tip: Booking early is key, especially during winter or festivals.
🚐 Getting There
Telluride is remote — and that’s part of the magic. You can:
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Fly into Montrose (MTJ) and take a shuttle (about 1.5 hrs)
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Drive from Denver (approx. 6.5 hrs, but stunning mountain views)
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Arrive by train + car combo for a scenic journey
🧡 Bonus Packing Essentials (Don’t Forget These!)
🟧 Portable Power Bank – Great for trail days or festival weekends
🟧 Hiking Daypack with hydration bladder
🟧 Compact Travel First-Aid Kit
🟧 Altitude sickness relief drops
Whether you’re carving down the slopes or watching an indie film under the stars, Telluride is the kind of place that sticks with you. Pack smart, plan ahead, and prepare to fall in love with Colorado all over again.
– Hawk Lee