Telluride, Colorado, situated in a glorious box canyon and surrounded by the rugged San Juan Mountains, is a paradise for hikers. With ‘Telluride Trails, Sublime Hiking Adventures,” you understand its hold on a hiker’s soul. The trails and majestic peaks are captivating and exhilarating, and they’re some of the most scenic trails in the U.S. Come for crisp mountain air and invigorating hiking. Stay for the town, once a vibrant mining community, one that draws low-key adventurers from around the world.
Its trails range from the serene and accessible, like the Valley Floor, to the more challenging and awe-inspiring, such as the trek to the summit of Ajax Peak. The hyper-challenging Via Ferrata offers an adrenaline-pumping route along the cliffs of the Telluride Canyon. This trail is not for the faint of heart but provides unparalleled views and a sense of accomplishment.
The historic downtown sits at 8,750 feet, but Mountain Village is 9,545 and some area peaks are 13,000 feet or more. Drink in indomitable beauty. The mountains are calling; your spirit will soar. Embrace the challenges, and savor the sense of achievement.
San Sophia Overlook, Coonskin Ridge Lane, Mountain Village, CO, USA
The West End Bistro at The Hotel Telluride, Cornet Street, Telluride, CO, USA
The Butcher & The Baker, East Colorado Avenue, Telluride, CO, USA
Bear Creek Trail, South Pine Street, Telluride, CO, USA
Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail, R1010089020, Telluride, CO, USA
Oak, The New Fat Alley BBQ, West San Juan Avenue, Telluride, CO, USA
Brown Dog Pizza, East Colorado Avenue, Telluride, CO, USA
405 North Aspen Street, Telluride, CO, USA
Altezza at the Peaks, Country Club Drive, Telluride, CO, USA
The National, East Colorado Avenue, Telluride, CO, USA
Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection, Mountain Village Boulevard, Telluride, CO, USA
Camel's Garden Hotel & Condominiums, West San Juan Avenue, Telluride, CO, USA
Cornet Street, Telluride, CO, USA
Before Breakfast in Telluride
Best Places for Breakfast in Telluride
The West End Bistro
The small West End Bistro, located in The Hotel Telluride, is warm and inviting, with contemporary decor that features rustic mountain elements. Its focus is on American comfort food made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Try the amazing burritos, or the huevos rancheros and Belgian waffles. The service is super attentive.
The Butcher & The Baker
I eat my first meal upon arrival in Telluride here — every single visit. It’s the epitome of a small-town cafe, but with a twist, serving a globally sophisticated and well-heeled audience. Breakfasts are healthy and hearty, with house-made bread and locally-sourced ingredients. Think house-roasted meats, cheeses, handmade sausages, and organic eggs. The farm-style interior, where you order from the counter and off a blackboard menu, never disappoints. There are tables on W Colorado Ave and on the side of the building overlooking a little park.
Best Things To Do in the Morning in Telluride
Jud Wiebe Trail
The Jud Wiebe Trail is shorter, a 3-mile loop, but it’s moderately strenuous (aka challenging). It takes you through aspen groves, spruce forests, and open meadows with stunning views of the town and surrounding peaks. Don’t go if there’s snow still on the ground. Allow 1.5-2 hours for this hike.
Best Places for Lunch in Telluride
Oak, Beer, Bourbon & BBQ
Located at the base of the gondola, this laid-back eatery features a barbecue-focused menu. Savor ribs and brisket, paired with a craft beer or something from their extensive bourbon list. Or go for the pulled pork sandwich (or pulled chicken), or the worthy mac-and-cheese or gumbo. Yes, hikers are allowed to eat like this during the day.
Brown Dog Pizza
This local favorite sports a casual, sports-themed décor with memorabilia adorning the walls. Known for its Detroit-style square pizza, Brown Dog Pizza also offers traditional and gourmet options. The “Triple Crown” and “Colorado Style” pizzas are crowd-pleasers. Along with craft beers and fast, friendly service, the bases are covered.
Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in Telluride
Sneffels Highline Trail
For a full-day adventure, take on the Sneffels Highline Trail. This challenging 12.4-mile loop offers spectacular views of alpine meadows, dense forests, and rugged peaks. It’s not for the faint-hearted but the panoramic views are immensely rewarding. Allow 8-9 hours for this hike, so start early if you choose this option. The trailhead is the same as Jud Wiebe trailhead (405 N Aspen St.)
Best Places for Dinner in Telluride
Altezza at The Peaks Resort & Spa
After an adventurous day, treat yourself to a top-notch dinner at Altezza in Mountain Village. The restaurant offers a luxurious atmosphere (although they bill it as casual, it’s Telluride-style casual) and mouth-watering panoramic mountain views. It’s all about sustainably-sourced ingredients and local cuisine — including the Colorado lamb chops and the divine butternut squash ravioli. The service matches the rarified cuisine and views.
The National
The National is the most exquisite dining experience in town right now. The sophisticated restaurant located in Telluride’s historic district is chic and intimate, blending rustic and modern elements. The seasonal menu emphasizes farm-to-table ingredients, featuring dishes such as the pan-roasted Colorado striped bass, black cod, and espresso-dusted elk. The wine list is curated to perfection.
Best Places to Stay in Telluride
Madeline Hotel & Residences
How do you define luxury? Well, this Auberge Resort will redefine it and take it up a notch. With its upscale amenities, rooftop pool, and unparalleled mountain views, Madeline Hotel is perfect for a restful stay — no matter what you’ve been doing all day. Their residences offer spacious accommodations ideal for groups. Why cook when they offer complimentary kid’s meals all summer?
Camel's Garden Hotel & Condominiums
At the base of the ski mountain and adjacent to the gondola, Camel’s Garden Hotel & Condominiums is the epitome of convenience in Telluride. The property boasts rooms and suites with elegant alpine decor, deep soaking tubs, and balconies with breathtaking mountain views. Guests indulge in the on-site spa or relax in the large outdoor hot tub.
After Dark in Telluride
Stargazing
End your day by marveling at the night sky. Head to Cornet Creek at the edge of town for unobstructed views of the stars and possibly the Milky Way. Bring a blanket and a telescope if you have one (or the SkyView app).
Telluride, Taste the Sweetness of Life