Telluride is tucked into a box canyon surrounded by 13,000 and 14,000-foot peaks. The town is just eight blocks wide and twelve blocks long. Because of its significant role in the history of the American West, the core area of Telluride was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1964. This listing is the highest level of historic status available from the United States Secretary of the Interior. These sites are so special that they are eligible for consideration to become national parks.

With the town's colorful Victorian-era homes, clapboard storefronts, boutiques, art galleries, gourmet restaurants, historic buildings and more, Telluride is a delight to explore. Our citizens are committed to preserving Telluride's historically significant architecture, open space, traditional design elements and, most of all, Telluride’s small-town mountain lifestyle.

One of the most unique forms of public transportation connects Mountain Village to Telluride offering stunning 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains that extend as far away as Utah.

The gondola, the first and only free public transportation of its kind in the United States, opened in 1996 and was initially built to help improve air quality while expanding the ski area and Mountain Village. It is entirely free to commuters and sightseers.

Since then, it has become a popular attraction for residents and visitors alike, giving them a stunning ride that caps out at 10,540 feet above sea level.

Operating Dates:

The Gondola runs throughout the winter and summer tourist seasons. It does shut down for maintenance twice a year - for about a month in October/November and about 6 weeks in April/May. During these periods there are free buses that run from Mountain Village to Telluride.

Operating Hours:

Seven days a week

6:30 a.m. to midnight

Open until 2 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays December 15, 2023 -April 6, 2024

The Telluride Ski Resort is recognized internationally as a premier ski and snowboard destination. Telluride's terrain is legendary and has always been revered as the best of Colorado. The region receives on average more than 300 inches of snow annually and offers more than 2,000 skiable acres for all ability levels.

Click here for the Telluride Ski Resort trail map.

Click here for snow report and grooming information.

Click here for the Telluride Ski Resort Ski & Snowboard School.

Perched above the historic town of Telluride, Mountain Village is surrounded by the highest concentration of 13 - 14,000 foot peaks in North America. Mountain Village offers modern amenities, ski-in/ski-out accommodations and sweeping views. Mountain Village and Telluride are linked by a spectacular gondola ride, the first and only free public transportation system of its kind in United States.

Mountain Village summers are awe-inspiring and guests revel in the one-of-a-kind feeling that comes with a visit to this magical destination. The skies are blue, the vistas are unmatched and every day brings a new opportunity to experience authentic Colorado adventure. From Canopy Tours to golf (course is currently only open to members) and mountain biking at the Telluride Bike Park, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.

During winter, Mountain Village is the base area for Telluride Ski Resort, which has been consistently rated the #1 Ski Resort in North America. Mountain Village provides a seamless guest experience offering slopeside lodging, ski valet service and endless amenities for visitors to enjoy.

Hiking is, by far, the most popular activity in the summer season. It’s no surprise, as there is enough terrain in the greater Telluride region to explore a different trail every weekend. Surrounded by an abundance of scenic nature trails, expansive jeep roads, as well as plenty of less-traveled paths, you can choose from a quick afternoon jaunt to summitting a 14,000-foot peak (14er) to a multi-day cross-country excursion. View hiking trails in the area.

Whenever exploring the outdoors in mountain locations, weather can change quickly, and we recommend hiking prepared. Please carry water, sunscreen, a first aid kit, appropriate trail maps, and extra layers for hikes of all durations. Bug spray is also recommended in the summer months.

With over 90 hikes, extreme ski routes, and historic walks around town, the Telluride Hiking Guide provides maps, descriptions and histories of the hiking trails of the area.

To view a hiking map, click here.

For over 30 years, the name "Telluride" has been synonymous with its festivals—whether musical, cultural, culinary, scientific, athletic or just a dash of unusual. With many experiences heading into their third decade, Telluride's festivals have evolved and grown, and continue to inspire the loyal fans who make the annual journey to this beautiful canyon.

All the festivals are unique, with the most popular festivals being:

Blues and Brews Festival

Bluegrass Festival

Telluride Film Festival

Cars & Colors Festival

Click here to check out the Festivals