When you want to experience the true charm of small-town life, don’t forget to visit the town of Telluride. Known for its mining history, Telluride is filled with colorful museums and artifacts. The Telluride Historical Museum is a great place to visit for a little history and culture. Located in a former hospital, it has 1400 photos and over 9,000 artifacts. Hours vary by season, so be sure to check in advance.
The historical district of Telluride is packed with interesting historical landmarks, including the Last Dollar Saloon, built in 1899, and the historic Sheridan Hotel, built in 1895. The architecture of Telluride is a mix of Victorian homes and mining shacks, from rowdy fortune-seekers during the silver rush to elegant Victorians. Since 1964, Telluride’s downtown core has been a National Historic Landmark district.
There are a number of ways to get to Telluride. There is a major airport in Denver (DIA), which is located 330 miles southwest of the town. From there, take a scenic drive south along the Continental Divide. Or, drive to Telluride from one of the nearby towns, such as Mountain Village or Silverton. The gondola system is free and operates seven days a week, enabling you to visit both towns without spending a single cent.
For the more adventurous, there is a slew of activities to keep you busy during the winter. The 2,000-acre Telluride Ski Resort offers lift-accessible terrain and multiple courses for all levels of skiers. It also has 19 lifts and 150 runs. With an average of 280 inches of snow per year, you’re guaranteed to find fresh powder. And the town’s renowned art galleries offer free exhibitions and lectures.
If you’re a ski enthusiast, you can take a day trip to Mountain Village, a town that was founded in 1987. The town’s laidback atmosphere and dramatic mountain scenery make it a great base for both summer and winter activities. Free gondola rides will take you to the mountaintop town of Mountain Village, which offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains. You can even enjoy a concert series in the summer while you’re in town.
There are thirty hiking trails in Telluride, ranging from short easy trips to multi-day excursions. Some are easy to moderate, while others are steep and strenuous. Many start right from the town center. Some of the most popular trails include Jud Wiebe and Bridal Veil Falls. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to enjoy a picnic along the way. Hiking trails in Telluride are a great way to experience the town’s scenic landscape and experience the true essence of mountain living.
For the music lover, Telluride is home to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. This annual festival draws a large crowd of music lovers to Telluride. Throughout June, the festival also features smaller gatherings, with performances from the likes of Elvis Costello, Ani DiFranco, and Mumford & Sons. During summer, the town also hosts the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. The Telluride Bluegrass Festival is one of the highlights of the summer.