Adventure Awaits

The region’s backyard stands ready to comfort and recharge body, mind and spirit, and provide some summer fun

HIKING / RUNNING

Trails weaving throughout the mountains afford hikers a quick jaunt to a nearby waterfall or an opportunity to spend the day traversing high-alpine-terrain, uncovering old mining ruins and viewing wildflowers. The trail system in the region has extensive options for a range of levels. Before any hike, consult trail descriptions and a map, check the weather and be prepared with layers, water and sunscreen. Remember to take good care of our backyard by disposing of pet waste and trash properly and avoid using single-use plastics, which are more likely than reusables to be left behind.

ROCK CLIMBING

The area’s routes include jagged peaks, boulders and extensive wall faces that provide a variety of climbing and bouldering opportunities for all abilities. For those learning the sport or seeking local know-how, a number of guide services are available, and local maps, information and gear can be found at many sport shops. The Telluride Mountain Club reminds adventurers of all levels that many routes, in particular the Via Ferrata, require technical ability and appropriate gear.

FISHING

Telluride is an enthusiast’s paradise in every season, offering a different experience for fishing throughout the region. From the Dolores River and the easily accessible San Miguel River to the many area ponds and lakes, there is a fishing adventure for everyone. Local guides know the ins and outs of the area’s rivers and streams, offering guided tours and invaluable advice about flies and water complexities.

RZRS

RZRs are small recreational off-road vehicles with options for one, two or four riders. They are also a lot of fun. Local outfitters offer half-day tours of the backcountry for first-timers as well as experienced four-wheelers, with activities to suit all tastes and levels. Buckle up and have a blast.

BIKING

The region provides a striking backdrop for road and mountain bikers with a variety of terrain for all abilities. Mountain bikers will find challenging trails that explore old mining roads and basins high above the box canyon and ski resort, as well as moderate trails on former railroad tracks. Another exciting option is the bike park on the Telluride Ski Resort and high-desert trails networks in Norwood and farther west. Road riding is popular along the scenic San Juan Skyway.

HORSEBACK / WAGON RIDES

Horseback riding in the San Juans is a favorite memory-maker for families. Have an Old West experience by riding through aspen groves and alpine meadows on horseback. Outfitters offer guided daytime outings, half-day trail rides and overnight trips. Or try a wagon ride followed by a gourmet dinner served outdoors. Altogether an unforgettable experience.

4X4 OFF ROAD

Telluride’s mining days carved a string of roads into the San Juan Mountains over 100 years ago. Today, those same routes offer access to the high country as experienced guides lead tours over mountain passes past ghost towns and high alpine meadows filled with wildflowers and wildlife. Explore the rugged beauty of the area on one of the many 4x4 tours, such as over Imogene Pass to the old mining camp of Tomboy or over Ophir Pass to the town of Silverton. Using a local guide will add to the experience.

WATER SPORTS

As the snow melts, area lakes and rivers become playgrounds for rafting, kayaking and tubing with vistas second to none. Local outfitters take paddlers on half-day or full-day excursions through class II to III+ rapids. There is also SUPing (stand-up paddleboarding), a great way to soak up the sun while getting a workout. If that sounds like too much hard work, grab an inner tube and meander along the San Miguel River from Town Park downstream on a summer’s afternoon.

TOWN PARK

A hub of activity year-round, Telluride Town Park is home to family fun in a beautiful setting. In the summer, you’ll find softball and soccer fields, tennis courts, a skate park, the Imagination Station, a six-lane pool and more. Walks to Upper and Lower Bear Creek Falls can be accessed from the park, which is also the venue for many of the town’s festivals.

BASE CAMP Mountain Village

Located at 9,545 feet above sea level, Telluride’s high-alpine twin is a hub for summer activity.

Telluride Bike Park

Mountain bike enthusiasts can revel in interconnected, lift-accessed trails that weave a network of freeride, technical and cross-country routes for almost every level of rider. The routes tie into established U.S. Forest Service trails, part of an area trails network. Oh yeah — that’s nearly 50 miles of riding.

Fun for All Ages

Spend the afternoon exploring the kid-friendly activities that are dotted around the Village Center. There are giant Jenga and Connect Four games, a bouldering rock, ropes course, bungee trampoline, disc golf course and more. Or visit a local outfitter for equipment and meander over to Elk Lake, Mountain Village’s designated fishing pond. The Telluride Racquet Club, on the grounds of the Peaks Resort and Spa, offers tennis and pickleball for more fun in the sun.

Hiking Trails

Varied hikes wind their way around Mountain Village and the surrounding slopes and offer stunning vistas. A favorite is the Ridge Trail, a 2-mile intermediate route that offers hikers two options with varying degrees of difficulty. Ride the Gondola to San Sophia Station and hike the Ridge Trail down to the Village Center. Or, if your gang is feeling energetic, hike the route uphill to San Sophia Station, which connects with more challenging trails.

Canopy Adventure

Ready for an adrenaline rush? Try this course of ziplines, aerial bridges and rappels that span terrain in the Village Express (Lift 4) area of the Telluride Ski Resort. Reaching a maximum height of 140 feet above the forest floor and with zipline traverses as long as 1,800 feet, this fully guided tour takes about three hours and offers unforgettable vistas and thrills.