Summer Activities and Events

Telluride is hailed as the "Festival Capital of the World" 

A picturesque escape where you can start your day on trails and end it in town indulging in delicious local food and libations. Walking around you will find yourself staring up at the impressive San Juan Mountains that surround this quaint mountain town and you’ll probably ask yourself if you ever have to leave. Soak up all that Telluride has to offer in the summer season and discover LIVing Your Telluride!

Summer Activities in Telluride

Although Telluride is renowned for its world class skiing, our scenic mountains provide for an awe inspiring array of heart pounding summer thrills as well. From rafting explorations to self-guided Jeep tours, you’ll find yourself on the doorstep of adventure here in Telluride.

Below is a list of some of our favorite activities we highly recommend trying during your visit!
With a backyard of 14,000-foot peaks, it is no wonder that Telluride is just as incredible in the summer as it is in the winter. Take in the 360-degree views as you venture into the alpine or ride along winding old mining roads and meandering meadows. Or simply take a moment to relax among the many lakes in the area.

And after a day of activity, enjoy apres in our mining town. Just eight blocks wide and twelve blocks long and a designated National Historic Landmark, Telluride today showcases a thriving arts scene, mixed with modern comforts and culinary delights.

 

Nearby Day Trips

Black Canyon National Park

Black Canyon is well worth the 1 ½ drive from Telluride with its remarkable views and array of things to do. From horseback riding to rock climbing, Black Canyon will make for a fun and educational experience your family won’t soon forget. Read More »

Ridgway State Park

The park is just 45 minutes outside of Telluride and provides spectacular views of the San Juans while you are out sailboarding, hunting, or geocaching. Grab a pair of binoculars and explore this beautiful state park. Read More »

Silverton

Like Telluride, Silverton was born from the prospect of striking it rich by an influx of miners in the late-1800s. Now the town thrives as a historical community with plenty of great outdoor activities. Families will enjoy horseback riding, fishing, and of course, Silverton/Durango’s historic coal powered train that provides unparalleled views while winding through the twists and turns of the San Juan Mountains. Read More »

Mesa Verde National Park

Walk, hike, or bike through spectacular canyons and get a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde National Park. You can visit any of five different cliff dwellings, Balcony House, Cliff Palace, Long House, Spruce Tree House or Step House, and immerse yourself into a different culture. Twilight Tours are also available! Read More »

Durango

Beautiful Durango, CO is only a two hour drive from Telluride and filled with amazing shopping, views, and historical walks. On top of playing host to outstanding skiing, hiking and biking, Durango has a lively town scene with museums, art galleries, and a variety of spectacular live music. Don’t forget to try a handcrafted brew at any number of their many local breweries. Read More »

Ouray

A quick trip over to the famous Ouray Hot Springs is a great way to unwind after a day of play in Telluride. This family friendly location has a lap pool, diving area, and a shallow kid’s play zone. For more of an adult adventure, check out the birthday suit friendly Orvis Hot Springs. Day time activities in Ouray include miles of Jeeping trails, ice climbing, or a historical walking tour. Read More »

Events in Telluride

Telluride, Colorado is a town that offers many activities and events throughout the year, so there is always something to do no matter what month you visit. Here are some of the monthly activities and events you can enjoy in Telluride:

January: 
Telluride Art Walk: a free event that takes place on the first Thursday of every month, showcasing local artists and their work.
Telluride Fire Festival: a three-day event that features fire installations, performances, and workshops. 

February:
Telluride Comedy Festival: a three-day event that brings together top comedians from around the country for stand-up performances and other comedic events.
Telluride Gay Ski Week: a week-long event that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with skiing, parties, and other events. 

March:
Telluride Gay Ski Week (continues from February)
Telluride AIDS Benefit: a fundraiser that features a fashion show, art auction, and performance art. 

April:
Telluride Mountainfilm Festival: a four-day event that showcases films about outdoor adventure, environmental activism, and social justice.

May:
Telluride Literary Arts Festival: a free event that celebrates literature and the written word with readings, workshops, and other activities.
Telluride Balloon Festival: a weekend-long event that features hot air balloon launches, live music, and other activities. 

June:
Telluride Bluegrass Festival: a four-day event that features live bluegrass music from some of the best musicians in the world.
Telluride Yoga Festival: a weekend-long event that offers yoga classes, workshops, and other activities. 

July:
Telluride Plein Air Festival: a week-long event that brings together artists to paint the stunning landscapes of Telluride.
Fourth of July Celebration: a day-long event that includes a parade, live music, and fireworks.

August:
Telluride Chamber Music Festival: a series of concerts that showcase classical music performed by world-class musicians.
Telluride Mushroom Festival: a weekend-long event that celebrates the world of fungi with lectures, workshops, and guided mushroom hunts. 

September:
Telluride Film Festival: a four-day event that showcases some of the best films from around the world, often featuring world premieres.
Telluride Blues & Brews Festival: a three-day event that features live blues music and craft beer. 

October:
Telluride Horror Show: a three-day event that showcases horror films from around the world.
Telluride Festival of Cars & Colors: a four-day event that features vintage and exotic cars, as well as a hot air balloon rally. 

November:
Ski Season Begins: depending on snow conditions, the ski season usually begins in November.
Telluride Mountain Village Tree Lighting: a festive event that kicks off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony and other activities. 

December:
Holiday Prelude: a weekend-long event that features holiday lights, live music, and other festive activities.
Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade: a beloved Telluride tradition where skiers and snowboarders descend the mountain carrying torches.
New Year's Eve Fireworks: a fireworks display to ring in the new year.

Top Things to do

Telluride is a beautiful mountain town in Colorado that offers a wide variety of summer activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Telluride during the summer:

  • Hiking: Telluride is surrounded by scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Popular hikes include Bridal Veil Falls, Jud Wiebe Trail, and Bear Creek Falls.

  • Mountain Biking: Telluride has over 40 miles of single-track mountain biking trails for all levels of riders. Some popular trails include Prospect Trail, Wasatch Trail, and Village Trail.

  • Rafting and Kayaking: The San Miguel River runs through Telluride and offers exciting whitewater rafting and kayaking adventures. The river also has calmer sections for scenic floats.

  • Horseback Riding: Explore the beautiful landscape of Telluride on horseback. Many ranches offer guided tours of the area.

  • Festivals: Telluride hosts a variety of festivals throughout the summer, including the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival, and Telluride Wine Festival.

  • Golfing: Enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning mountain views at the Telluride Golf Club.

  • Jeep Tours: Take a guided tour of the rugged backcountry around Telluride in a 4x4 Jeep.

  • Fishing: Telluride has world-class fly fishing in its streams and rivers. Guided tours and gear rentals are available.

  • Yoga and Wellness: Many studios and retreat centers offer yoga classes and wellness retreats in the Telluride area.

  • Scenic Drives: Take a drive on the San Juan Skyway, a scenic byway that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Overall, Telluride offers something for everyone during

Gondola Information

Known for being “the most beautiful commute in America”, the Telluride/Mountain Village Gondola system may be the most unique public transportation in the country.

Stations: Located at the Mountain Village Parking Garage (& grocery store), Heritage Plaza in the Mountain Village core, at the top of San Sophia Ridge, and at the base of Oak Street in the Town of Telluride.

It is approximately a 15-minute ride from Mountain Village to Telluride. For more information and updates please visit: The Town of Mountain Village. 

  • Hours of operation: The gondola operates from 6:30 a.m. to midnight during the summer season (late May to mid-October) and from 7 a.m. to midnight during the winter season (mid-December to early April).

  • Frequency: The gondola cabins run continuously, departing every few minutes during operating hours.

  • Duration of ride: The ride from Telluride to Mountain Village takes about 13 minutes, and the ride from Mountain Village to Telluride takes about 16 minutes.

  • Accessibility: The gondola is accessible to individuals with disabilities. Wheelchair accessible cabins are available upon request.

  • Pets: Leashed pets are allowed on the gondola, but they must ride in the designated pet cabins.

  • Bikes and skis: Bikes and skis are allowed on the gondola during certain times of the year. During the summer season, bikes are allowed on the gondola from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Skis are allowed on the gondola during the winter season.

  • Views: The gondola provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular activity for sightseeing and photography.

  • Safety: The gondola cabins are inspected regularly to ensure safety. There are emergency phones located in each cabin and at various points along the route.

Adventure Information

Where to get your adventure gear and trail information
There are many options in Telluride to get suited up with the right gear for the mountain.
If you're looking for adventure tickets and trail information in Telluride, here are some places to check:

Telluride Adventure Center: This is the hub for all things adventure in Telluride. They offer a wide variety of activities including hiking, biking, rafting, jeep tours, and more. You can purchase tickets and get trail information at their location on Main Street.

Telluride Ski Resort: During the summer, the Telluride Ski Resort offers scenic lift rides, mountain biking, and hiking. They have a ticket office at the base of the mountain where you can purchase lift tickets and get trail information.

Telluride Nordic Center: If you're interested in cross-country skiing or snowshoeing during the winter, the Telluride Nordic Center is the place to go. They offer rentals and trail information at their location on the Valley Floor.

San Miguel County Sheriff's Office: If you're planning on hiking or camping in the backcountry, it's always a good idea to check in with the local authorities. The San Miguel County Sheriff's Office can provide trail information, camping regulations, and safety tips.

Telluride Visitor Center: The Telluride Visitor Center is a great resource for visitors to the area. They can provide information on all the local attractions, including adventure activities, and can help you plan your itinerary.

Guest Information
Interested in learning about the events happening around Telluride during your stay? Check out Visit Telluride for more information and happenings around town.

Telluride Weather Forecast - Get Weather forecasts for your day of adventure
Telluride.com - This is the official tourism website for Telluride and has a comprehensive events calendar that is updated regularly. You can search by date, category, or keyword to find events that interest you.
Telluride Daily Planet The Telluride Daily Planet is the local newspaper and often features articles and announcements about upcoming events. You can also check their online calendar for a list of events.
Telluride Arts - Telluride Arts is a non-profit organization that supports the arts community in Telluride. They host events and exhibitions throughout the year and have a calendar on their website.
Telluride Mountain film Festival - The Telluride Mountainfilm Festival is a popular event that takes place every Memorial Day weekend. It features films, speakers, and events related to outdoor adventure and environmentalism.
Telluride Bluegrass Festival - The Telluride Bluegrass Festival is another popular event that takes place in June. It features live music, workshops, and activities for all ages.
Telluride Snow Report - Know where the newest powder is and the best ski conditions