15 Epic Things To Do in Telluride

Few places rival the beauty of Telluride, Colorado. Year-round, its stunning scenery and vibrant character make it a destination worth exploring in any season.

Editor's Note: I've been to countless countries and all 50 states and Telluride is one of the most visually spectacular and charming places I've ever been.

We’ve gathered some of our favorite activities and experiences to enjoy throughout the year, giving you endless ways to explore this incredible mountain town.

Telluride Ski Resort consistently ranks among the top ski destinations in North America. Known for its steep terrain, reliable snowfall, and uncrowded slopes, the resort appeals to both adventurous skiers and those seeking a quieter mountain experience. The resort’s layout spans terrain across both Telluride and Mountain Village, offering something for everyone from gentle beginner runs to challenging expert chutes that draw seasoned powder hunters.

Beyond skiing, the resort comes alive in summer when lifts transform into scenic chairlifts for hikers, photographers, and mountain bikers. Trails such as the Jud Wiebe Trail and Bear Creek Trail offer panoramic alpine views, wildflower meadows, and hidden spots perfect for a picnic or wildlife spotting. Visitors can also discover quiet overlooks near Prospect Bowl or secluded glades along the Liberty Bell Trail, which often go unnoticed by day-trippers, providing a peaceful escape amidst the mountains.

The resort also features après-ski experiences and dining options with stunning vistas, making it easy to relax after a day on the slopes or trails. Whether you’re carving fresh powder in winter, trekking alpine paths in summer, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, Telluride Ski Resort offers a year-round adventure that captures the essence of the San Juan Mountains.

Best season: February - March once the snow has had a chance to accumulate and create a great base.

At 365 ft (111 m), Bridal Veil is Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall, and an unforgettable reward after a scenic climb up the canyon.Visible from many points in town, the waterfall plunges dramatically from the edge of the canyon, creating a stunning visual backdrop.

The hike to Bridal Veil Falls is steep but rewarding. You can hike or bike up the dirt road, or drive during certain seasons when conditions allow. Along the way, you’ll gain sweeping views of Telluride below.

At the top, you’ll find the historic Bridal Veil Powerhouse, which still generates electricity for the town. This hike is one of the most rewarding things to do in Telluride for travelers who want iconic scenery with a sense of accomplishment.

Best season: Late May – June (for peak water flow) or September – early October (for fall colors)

Over Labor Day weekend, Telluride transforms into a film lover’s paradise. Filmmakers and actors gather here to premiere new works, and audiences have the rare chance to see independent and international films before they hit theaters. Screenings are often paired with panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and outdoor events in the picturesque town square.

Annual Event: Labor Day Weekend

This remote wilderness area offers rugged beauty, solitude, and dramatic peaks, including the striking spire of Lizard Head itself. Hikers and backpackers find alpine meadows, wildflowers, and vast mountain panoramas. It’s ideal for those seeking a backcountry adventure far from the crowds.

Best season: July – September

A Telluride classic, this short but steep loop offers sweeping views over the town, canyon, and surrounding peaks. The mix of aspen groves and open ridgelines makes it especially stunning in the fall. It’s a rewarding quick hike for those wanting epic scenery close to town.

Best season: June – October (peak colors mid-September)

This free-flowing river offers an exhilarating ride through lush canyons and cottonwood forests. Guided trips range from mellow floats to exciting Class III rapids, depending on water levels. Spring snowmelt makes the river wild and thrilling for rafting enthusiasts.

Best season: May – June

For adventurous visitors, Telluride’s frozen waterfalls offer one of Colorado’s most unique winter challenges. Guided ice climbing tours provide safety gear, professional instruction, and access to breathtaking frozen canyons near town. It’s a unique way to experience Telluride’s rugged winter landscape up close.

Best season: December – March

Just outside Telluride, Alta Lakes combine alpine serenity with echoes of the mining era. Paddle, picnic, or photograph the reflective waters surrounded by high peaks, then wander through the nearby ghost town’s weathered cabins. It’s a peaceful escape into the area’s history and wilderness.

The winding drive to the lakes is an experience in itself, offering glimpses of rugged peaks, wildflower meadows, and the occasional grazing wildlife along the way. Once you arrive, the area invites leisurely exploration, from peaceful picnics by the lakeshore to photography sessions that capture the mountains mirrored perfectly in the water.

Visitors can enjoy short, easy walks around the lakes, making it a great option for families or anyone looking for a gentle outdoor adventure. Wandering through the old mining cabins reveals glimpses of Telluride’s past, and the surrounding trails, such as the Engineer Mountain Trail and the San Juan Ridge Trail, offer quiet spots to pause and soak in panoramic views of the lakes, valley, and rugged peaks. In autumn, Alta Lakes becomes especially magical, with vibrant fall foliage painting the mountainsides in shades of gold, red, and orange a photographer’s dream.

For those looking to extend the visit, the nearby Engineer Mountain Trail provides a moderate hike with sweeping vistas over the lakes and valley below, while hidden overlooks along the drive offer private spots for sunrise or sunset. For avid hikers or mountain bikers, trails connecting to the Storm King Mountain Loop provide more challenging terrain and spectacular alpine scenery. With easy access by vehicle, Alta Lakes is one of the most scenic and versatile escapes near Telluride, perfect for a half-day trip or a relaxing day immersed in nature.

Best season: July – September (snow often lingers until mid-summer)

The free gondola connecting Telluride and Mountain Village becomes magical at dusk. As the sun sets behind the jagged peaks, the sky glows in pinks and golds while the town lights begin to twinkle below. It’s a serene, must-do experience for photographers and romantics alike.

The ride takes about 12 minutes each way and is completely free, making it both scenic and practical. It runs year-round, providing access to ski slopes in winter and hiking trails, dining, and shopping in warmer months.

Even if you’re not heading anywhere specific, riding the gondola purely for the views is well worth your time.

Best season: Mid-September for Fall Colors

Held every June in Town Park, this iconic festival fills the valley with world-class music, dancing, and mountain energy. Bluegrass legends and fans from around the globe gather amid alpine peaks for four days of community and song. It’s one of Telluride’s defining cultural experiences.

The festival features a mix of national acts and local performers, with jam sessions spilling into nearby parks and streets, giving visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the communal spirit of live music.

Annual Event: June

The Telluride Historical Museum offers a captivating window into the town’s mining origins and its transformation into a world-class mountain destination. Housed in a beautifully preserved former hospital, the museum combines historic architecture with thoughtfully curated exhibits, giving visitors a sense of the town’s unique character. Guests can explore displays on 19th-century mining techniques, regional geology, and the colorful individuals who shaped Telluride’s early days, from miners to local entrepreneurs.

Rotating exhibits and special programs ensure there’s always something new to discover. Past features have included local photography collections, vintage ski equipment, and stories highlighting Telluride’s cultural evolution. The museum also hosts lectures, hands-on workshops, and family-friendly activities, making it engaging for visitors of all ages. Educational panels and interactive elements allow guests to learn at their own pace, whether they’re history enthusiasts or casual travelers.

Visiting the museum is a perfect indoor activity for cooler days or a leisurely break between outdoor adventures. After exploring the exhibits, a stroll through the nearby historic district offers a chance to see original miners’ cabins, Victorian-era buildings, and charming storefronts, blending the town’s rich past with its vibrant present. Whether you’re fascinated by history, architecture, or the human stories behind the mountains, the Telluride Historical Museum provides an enriching and memorable experience.

Best season: Year-round (great rainy-day or off-season activity)

This beloved local trail leads hikers through lush forest to a spectacular waterfall cascading into a granite canyon. The moderately graded path begins right from downtown Telluride, making it perfect for an easy half-day adventure. In spring, snowmelt swells the falls to their most dramatic.

Best season: Late May – June (for peak flow) or September – early October (for fall colors)

In winter, the plaza in Mountain Village turns into a charming outdoor rink lit by string lights. Families, couples, and friends can glide across the ice with music, cocoa, and mountain views all around. It’s a quintessential small-town alpine experience.

Best season: December – February

Located near Ouray (an easy day trip from Telluride), this natural park features a roaring 285-foot waterfall enclosed by towering cliffs. Walkways and bridges take you deep into the canyon for dramatic photo ops and cool mist on summer days. It’s both family-friendly and geologically fascinating.

Best season: May – September

Just under 30 minutes from Telluride, Trout Lake is a high-alpine gem surrounded by forested slopes and snowy peaks. Calm mornings are perfect for paddling across the mirrored water and taking in the mountain silence. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and great for all skill levels.

Best season: June – September

No matter the season, Telluride promises its own unforgettable adventure, from snow-dusted peaks to sunlit trails.