15+ INCREDIBLE Things To Do In Telluride This Summer (2024)

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Having lived in Colorado for most my life, I’ve found myself wandering to Telluride more times than I can count, especially when summer rolls around.

One of the coolest things about Telluride is its unique location. Nestled in a box canyon with the San Juan Mountains towering over it, the views here are pretty epic.

This Colorado town is more than just pretty views, though. Telluride’s packed with history. It started off as a silver mining camp, and you can still appreciate the small-town feel even though it’s become pretty famous.

We’ve explored this town inside and out, summer after summer, and there’s just so much to love. You can hit up the trails for some beautiful hikes, enjoy the local festivals that bring the town to life, and of course, ride the free Gondola that connects Telluride with Mountain Village (dogs can ride too!).

In this guide, I’m excited to share with you the best things to do in Telluride during the summer. From personal favorites to local secrets, I’ve got a list that’ll make your trip here absolutely unforgettable.

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Looking for More things to do in Colorado? Check out these Guides!

Where is Telluride?

Telluride, Colorado has been on the map as one of America’s most popular ski destinations with tons of things to do in winter. Located in the heart of beautiful San Juan Mountains, Telluride is a 7 hour drive from Denver.

How to get to Telluride

Are you ready to pack your bags and head into one of the most scenic destinations in Colorado? Say yes, because Telluride awaits! Whether flying or driving, this magical destination offers an unmatched journey through mesmerizing scenery.

There are a few ways to get to Telluride, but the most scenic and adventurous is to take the scenic San Juan Skyway. The Skyway is a 233-mile loop that connects Telluride with Durango, Silverton, and Ouray, and offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains.

Another option is to fly into Telluride Regional Airport, which is a 6-minute drive away from the town of Telluride, with a direct flight from Denver that takes roughly an hour.

History of Telluride

Sitting at 8,750 feet above sea level in the western San Juan Mountains, Telluride has a rich history that goes all the way back to 1878, when the town was founded by prospectors looking for gold in this historic mining town.

Telluride was originally named Columbia, but the name was changed in 1887 due to post office confusion. Instead, it was named after Tellurium, an element that was prevalent in Colorado. Now, Telluride is well known for its ski resort and summer festival schedule.

When you get to downtown Telluride, you’ll want to stop by the Visitors Center and grab a free map so you can easily find lots of information about what there is to do and see while you’re here in an easy-to-reference guide.

Best things to do in Telluride, Colorado this Summer (2024)

This small ski resort town in Southwest Colorado has stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and has many outdoor adventures and hidden gems throughout the area to explore.

Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, or just looking for some good ole’ traditional outdoor fun – we compiled all of our favorite activities in this easy-to-read guide with the perfect list of recommendations for your visit to this charming Colorado town.

So, what is there to do in Telluride this summer?

1. Ride the FREE Telluride Mountain Village Gondola

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Telluride in the summer is hop on the Ski Resort’s free gondola. (I mean, who doesn’t love a scenic ride with zero effort?).

The Gondola is a quick 13-minute ride that takes you up to the San Sophia Ridge, where you have the choice of continuing on to Mountain Village.

Definitely take the pit stop at the top of the Ridge. You get one of the most epic views of the Rocky Mountains, downtown Telluride, and Mountain Village.

The cool thing is, this gondola runs from 6:30 am to midnight. So, whether you’re an early bird catching the sunrise or someone who likes to enjoy the nightlife, you can still make it back to your hotel at the end of the night.

And here’s a sweet bonus for people like me who can’t imagine adventures without their furry buddies—there are special pet cabins! (Yes, our three dogs love it as much as we do).

Plus, if you’re visiting in the summer and want to take your bike along for the ride, that’s totally doable too.

Gondola Fun Facts:

The Telluride Gondola is the largest and only free gondola in North America.
It has carried over 43 million passengers since its opening in 1891, with around 2.8 million of those being tourists that visit every year for skiing or snowboarding season.

To learn more about riding the Telluride Gondola and if its worth it, check out our locals guide to this attraction in Telluride.

2. Explore Mountain Village

After taking the Telluride Ski Resort gondola past the San Sophia Station to Mountain Village, explore some of the local shops and restaurants located in the Gondola plaza.

This place is loaded with cool shops and great places to eat right in the Gondola Plaza. And if you’re there in the summer, don’t miss the Sunset Concert Series—it’s one of our favorite things to do. You can also check out some of these other activites:

Disc Golf Course: It’s basically regular golf but with a Frisbee, and it’s a bunch of fun! Plus, there’s a free course here to test your skills (or lack thereof, in my case)
Mountain Biking: The Telluride Bike Park is a big draw for downhill mountain bikers. The trails here are awesome, and there’s tons of them to explore. Click here for the Mountain Village Biking Trail Map.
Kids Bungee Trampoline: And for the kids (or the young at heart), the bungee trampoline is a blast. It’s one of those things that makes you laugh just watching, not to mention the fun of actually bouncing around.

3. Best Hiking Trails Near Telluride

Hiking in Telluride is one of my favorite things to do, especially in the summer! With over 90 miles of trails, there’s always something new to explore, no matter how many times I’ve visited. (And let’s be real, the scenery is unbeatable!)

Here are a few trails I personally love and recommend checking out when you’re in town during the summer:

Hope Lake Trail

Before Jake and I tied the knot back in 2019, we decided to tackle the Hope Lake Hike just outside of Telluride, and it’s still a personal favorite of ours.

Located in the Uncompahgre National Forest just 45 minutes outside of Telluride, Lake Hope trail features a ton of wildflowers, incredible mountain views and a crystal clear sub-alpine lake.

The hike is a solid 4.8 miles and has an elevation gain of 1,348 feet. You can also continue hiking up to the saddle for even more gorgeous views, before circling back the way you came.

Just a heads up—getting to the trailhead is a bit of an adventure. The road is no joke, demanding a four-wheel drive and some serious clearance.

For more detailed information about Hope lake hike, check out our hope lake hiking guide.

Blue Lake Trail

Even though Jake and I have checked off quite a few hikes around Colorado, the Blue Lakes Trail is that one iconic trek we’ve yet to conquer. But it’s super high on our list, and for good reason.

The Blue Lakes Trail is one of Colorado’s most beautiful and scenic trails with turquoise alpine lakes, jagged peaks in Yankee Boy Basin, and so many wildflowers! Honestly, every photo I’ve seen has me itching to go.

With an 8.7-mile length and a 2,509-foot elevation gain, it’s a bit of a challenge, but the payoff sounds incredible.

Bridal Veil Falls

The Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride is a must-do! This beauty, standing tall at 365 feet, holds the title of Colorado’s highest free-falling waterfall, and its super close to town!

You can either hike up the 1.2-mile trail to get there or drive! Yes, you heard that right. If you’ve got a 4×4 with high clearance, you can actually drive to see Bridal Veil Falls up close.

Bear Creek Falls

One evening, Jake and I decided to hike to Bear Creek Falls, an 80 ft cascading waterfall, not realizing we’d end up racing against the sunset.

Starting from Pine Street in Telluride, this 5.1-mile hike, with a bit over 1000 feet in elevation gain, was more of a sprint than a leisurely stroll for us. We’ve never hiked as fast as we did that day, all because we were determined not to hike back in the dark.

Not only is the trail accessible from town, but the payoff of the waterfall is absolutely worth the effort. It’s a hike I’d recommend to anyone visiting Telluride, just maybe start a bit earlier than we did!

Cornet Creek Falls

If you are looking for another hike close to town, Cornet Creek Falls is a good option!

Despite being a short 0.6-mile hike, the trail was steep and filled with loose gravel, making it trickier than we expected. The effort was worth it for the sight of the 80-foot waterfall at the end.

If you feel like extending your hike, you can take the Jud Wiebe trail located at the same trailhead as the falls and is a 3.1 mile loop.

Mount Sneffels

If you are looking for a mountain peak to climb, the hike to Mount Sneffels via Yankee Boy Basin is a must! I did this hike with a group of friends many years ago, and it’s still one of my favorite hikes.

This 7.1-mile trail, not far from Telluride, climbs a solid 2,900 feet, offering some of the most breathtaking views across the San Juan Mountains.

Reaching one of America’s most scenic peaks was no small feat, but standing atop its 14,157-foot summit, surrounded by the vast wilderness of the Uncompahgre National Forest, was an unforgettable experience.

To discover more hikes near Telluride Colorado, check out our detailed guide to incredible trails you wont want to miss when you visit this summer!

4. Visit one of Tellurides Many Summer Festivals

Summer in Telluride means festival season! Every summer, the historic town of Telluride delivers an incredible selection of festivals that keep visitors coming back year after year to experience the eclectic array of events.

Located in Telluride town park, the town’s vibrant festival lineup includes everything from film to bluegrass and mushroom festivals, providing entertainment regardless of your taste or age.

For more information about dates and tickets for each of these festivals check out Tellurides Summer Festival Lineup.

Film Festival
Balloon Festival
Telluride Bluegrass Festival
Yoga Festival
Jazz Festival
Mushroom Festival

5. Kayak or Paddleboard on Trout Lake

Hands down, our favorite experience in Telluride is kayaking on Trout Lake. Just 14 miles from town and nestled in the Uncompahgre National Forest at 9,716 feet, it’s the perfect spot for us to bust out our kayaks and hit the water.

But besides kayaking or paddleboarding the lake is a great spot for fishing (don’t forget to grab a license in town), picnicking in the designated area, and just soaking in the scenery.

6. Experience the Via Ferrata

The Telluride Via Ferrata has been on our bucket list for years, and we have yet to check it off the list. This “Iron Road,” as it’s called in Italian, offers an incredible European-style climbing experience right on the mountainside of Telluride, complete with ladders and cables and looks really fun!

If you plan to try the Via Ferrata, we suggest you are someone who is confident in steep terrain, and while you don’t necessarily need a guide to take on the via ferrata, we’re leaning towards getting one, especially since we’re not seasoned climbers.

If you would like guidance from a professional company like Peak Mountain Guides, they offer guided tours.

7. San Juan Skyway 4x4 Off Roading Jeep Tour

Back in the day, Telluride was a booming mining town, and the miners left behind a network of old mining roads that take you to some of the highest mountain passes I’ve ever seen.

With my family being huge into four-wheeling and side-by-sides, (I practically grew up covered in mud from off-roading with the fam), Telluride has some epic 4×4 trails.

The coolest thing is, you can explore these historic trails yourself with a Telluride Jeep Tour, climbing incredible passes like Imogene, Ophir, or Black Bear. The scenery from up there is absolutely insane!

Companies such as Telluride Outside and San Juan Jeep Tours offer a variety of tours that cater to all skill levels. Plus, the guides are experienced and knowledgeable, and they provide insights into the mining history of the area.

8. Experience a High-Flying Zipline Adventure

Telluride Canopy Adventure zipline is an exhilarating and unforgettable adventure that offers an adrenaline-pumping experience for thrill-seekers. I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s definitely on my bucket list. With five zip lines, two aerial bridges, and two rappels, it sounds like the perfect adventure for someone who loves a thrill (like me!).

The ziplines range from 300 to 1,000 feet long, and the highest zipline is 150 feet above the forest floor, providing an incredible bird’s eye view of the stunning San Juan Mountains.

9. Visit A Ghost Town

Tomboy is one of several abandoned mining towns near Telluride, and it’s packed with history! Situated at an altitude of 11,500 feet, Tomboy used to be a thriving town with over 1,000 people, but now only a few structures remain.

The coolest part? You can actually explore these ghost towns yourself! The best way to get to Tomboy is on a 4×4 off-road tour.

The ghost town of Alta, located at an altitude of 11,800 feet, is another well-preserved ghost town that offers visitors a glimpse into the past.

Founded in the late 1800s, Alta was once a bustling mining town with over 500 residents, but it was abandoned in the early 1900s when the mining boom ended.

In addition to the ghost town of Alta, you can also find Alta Lakes, a favorite destination for visitors who enjoy being immersed in the mountains. Alta Lakes are a series of small lakes at 11,300 feet high in elevation called Lower Alta Lake, Upper Alta Lake, and The Third Lake. These three alpine lakes offer views of some scenic areas like Bald Mountain and Silver Mountain.

10. Visit a Hot Spring Near Telluride

One thing I can’t resist on any trip is a good hot spring soak. There are a couple options a bit of drive away, so if you’re down for a little adventure, you have some choices!

Orvis Hot Springs:

The Orvis Hot Springs, located in Ridgway, is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike. Nestled in the foothills of the San Juan Mountains, the Orvis Hot Springs features seven pools of varying temperatures, from the hottest pool that reaches temperatures of up to 107 degrees Fahrenheit, to a cooler pool that’s perfect for a refreshing dip.

Ouray Hot Springs:

Another nearby option is the Ouray Hot Springs, which is located in the charming town of Ouray. The Ouray Hot Springs features several outdoor pools with temperatures ranging from 88 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The hot springs offer beautiful views of the nearby Box Canyon and are open year-round.

Dunton Hot Springs:

Another option is Dunton Hot Springs, a luxurious resort that offers access to private, natural hot springs. The resort features a historic, restored ghost town, adding to the unique and unforgettable experience.

11. San Miguel River Walk

Finding dog-friendly activities can be ruff sometimes (pun intended!), but the San Miguel Riverwalk is a great trail to visit if you’re looking for an easy, dog-friendly stroll.

Not only is it super scenic, but there are also popular swimming holes along the way where your dogs can take a refreshing dip.

The best part? You’re on an easy out-and-back dirt path that’s only 4 miles long with plenty of opportunities to stop at viewpoints along the way.

12. Spend the day at Woods Lake

A few years ago, Jake and I stumbled upon Woods Lake one day while we were out exploring some backroads, and we were not disappointed! It’s absolutely beautiful and surrounded by an aspen forest. There’s plenty to do there, like fishing or hiking, and we even noticed trailhead access for horseback riders.

To get there from Telluride, we took Highway 145 west for 13 miles until we reached USFS Road 618 in Fall Creek. Then it was another 9 miles south.

13. Explore Historic Downtown Telluride

Main Street in Telluride is steeped in history, dating back to the town’s origins in the late 19th century. Originally, it was the bustling center of Telluride’s mining community during the Colorado Gold Rush. As the main thoroughfare, it was lined with saloons, general stores, and other businesses catering to the miners and their families.

Over time, as Telluride evolved into a ski resort destination, Main Street underwent changes while still preserving its historic charm. Many of the original buildings were renovated and repurposed, maintaining the architectural heritage of the area.

Today, you can walk down Main Street and grab a bite to eat, wander through cute boutique shops, or check out the art galleries where local artists show off their work!

14. Go on a Horseback Riding Adventure

I’m a big fan of horseback riding, especially here in Colorado. And Telluride offers some of the best trail riding opportunities in the state!

Several full-service ranches are located just outside of Telluride, offering a variety of horseback riding experiences. Here’s what caught my eye:

Telluride Wranglers: Just 25 minutes outside of Telluride, offers diverse horseback experiences year-round, including popular trail rides starting at $150 per person.
Circle K Ranch: a scenic 45-minute drive from Telluride, provides various horseback options ranging from kiddie rides to private excursions. Group tours start at $250, private rides at $450.
Telluride Horseback Adventures: offers short, intimate rides perfect for groups or couples. Specializing in one- and two-hour trails, they also offer custom private packages and seasonal wagon and sleigh rides. Pricing varies, so reservations are recommended.

15. Get Your Caffeine Fix At A Local Coffee Shop

Telluride has a range of locally-owned coffee shops that cater to our cravings for delicious coffee, refreshing drinks, and tempting treats.

One of my favorite spots is The Coffee Cowboy. It has rustic charm that I absolutely love, plus they serve up some seriously tasty organic coffee, along with sandwiches and pastries that hit the spot. And what’s even better? They have plenty of outdoor seating where I can soak in those breathtaking mountain views while sipping on my drink.

Another gem is The Butcher & The Baker. It’s a local favorite that always hits the mark with its specialty coffee offerings. From lattes to cappuccinos to pour-overs, they use only the best locally sourced beans to craft each cup. And don’t even get me started on their pastries and sandwiches—they’re made with fresh, local ingredients that add that extra special touch to every bite

Best Places to Eat In Telluride

If you prefer indoor entertainment, check out some of these great places to eat and drink while exploring Telluride’s charming downtown area:

Siam: Siam’s menu is filled with the diverse tastes of Asia. From spicy Thai cuisine to fusion creations, there are plenty of options for people that crave something different or enjoy feeling adventurous in their food choices!
Brown Dog Pizza: Brown Dog Pizza in downtown Telluride has grown its reputation for their Detroit-style pizza. In addition, they offer a great selection of hot and cold subs, salads, pastas, and more!
Allred’s Restaurant: Take the gondola ride up to Allred’s restaurant to have the most adventurous and exciting mountain top fine dining experience in Telluride.

Telluride in Summer FAQ:

Is Telluride crowded in summer?

Yes, it can be crowded in the summer, especially during peak season. However, the town is well-equipped to handle the influx of visitors, and there are plenty of quieter spots to escape the crowds. With a bit of planning, you can still enjoy all that Telluride has to offer without feeling too overwhelmed.

What is the best month to visit Telluride?

The best time to visit Telluride largely depends on your interests. If you’re looking to escape the heat, June and July are excellent choices, with average temperatures in the mid to high 70s.

However, if you’re looking for a quieter time to visit, September and October are ideal, with fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and the added bonus of fall foliage.

How do I spend a day in Telluride?

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of Telluride’s many cafes or restaurants. Some popular options include The Butcher & The Baker or The Coffee Cowboy.
After breakfast, head to the Bridal Veil Falls trailhead for a scenic hike.
Once you’ve finished your hike, take the gondola up to Mountain Village for lunch.
Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in Mountain Village, such as Black Iron Kitchen & Bar or Poachers Pub.
After lunch, take the gondola back down to Telluride and spend some time strolling through the charming downtown area.
Browse the shops and art galleries, and be sure to take a photo in front of the famous Telluride sign.
As the evening approaches, head to the Sheridan Opera House for a live music or comedy show. The historic theater is a must-see when visiting Telluride.
End your day with a relaxing dinner at one of Telluride’s many restaurants, such as 221 South Oak or Allred’s Restaurant.

How to get Around Town

Telluride is a small town with limited public transportation, but there are many ways to get around that don’t involve driving. Galloping Goose buses offer a free way to explore Telluride making it easy and convenient for anyone who needs transportation across town.

Free Parking in Telluride

Free all-day parking is available daily at the Carhenge Parking Lot on West Pacific Street. Metered zones are located throughout the business district with some free two-hour parking available on the side streets. Parking is free all day Sundays. Use this Town Parking Map to understand the local parking zones.

Where to Stay in Telluride in Summer

Telluride sits in a box canyon, which not only provides an incredible atmosphere but also helps it maintain its smaller size and charm. Because of this you won’t find any large hotel chains, but you will find one of these old and charming bed and breakfasts are a great place to stay for vacation in the summer in Telluride:

Fairmont Heritage Place
Madeline Hotel
New Sheridan Hotel
The Hotel Telluride
Grand Imperial Hotel

Camping Near Telluride

There aren’t many campgrounds located downtown Telluride, in fact, there is only one- Telluride Town park Campground. But our favorite place to dispersed camp is on Last Dollar Road. It has both service and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. And the best part? It’s completely free! Other campgrounds near telluride worth checking out include:

We always use the Campendium website when we’re trying to find free camping locations in the US. Want to know more about how we go RV camping for free? Read our Guide How We Find Free Camping Sites. If you’re looking for some tips on camping without any amenities, we have a Complete Guide to RV Boondocking with the best advice.

Travel Tips for Visiting Telluride in the Summer

Ever been to Telluride CO? We have some helpful tips for enjoying this beautiful town during the summer months:

Stalk up on groceries: There is only one grocery store in town called Clarke’s, so you need to plan ahead and be prepared for the high prices of food at this popular tourist destination!
Drink lots of water: A high elevation can be harmful to your health if not hydrated, so make sure you drink plenty of fluids before any outdoor activity.
Altitude sickness is a real thing: Altitude sickness, sometimes called mountain sickness, is an uncomfortable condition that many people experience who have not acclimated properly before going up in elevation.
The sun is stronger: Your chance of sunburn increases at high elevation because the Sun is stronger.

Telluride Summer Travel Guide Final Thoughts

We hope this blog post has helped you get started on planning your next vacation to one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets!

Whether it’s hiking or gondola rides, there is something for everyone in the summer in Telluride. We had such a fun time exploring all that telluride had to offer, and hope you enjoy this tiny town as much as we did!

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