This weekend is one of the best times this fall to enjoy the beautiful fall colors in Telluride and get out on a hike or bike ride. With some heavy rainfall and thunderstorms overnight last night we woke up to enjoy the first major snow of the season on the peaks overlooking Telluride this morning. Great time to get out for a hike!

Telluride is home to an abundance of hikes and mountain bike trails; many multi-purpose use. Several of them can be accessed from town, such as the popular Jud Wiebe, which starts and ends in downtown Telluride with a 3 mile loop overlooking town and the the box canyon, providing a sure way of getting your fall colors fill. Bear Creek Trail is an up-and-down kind of hike that starts by Town Park in Telluride and ultimately ends at the Bear Creek falls. The fairly new Bridal Veil Trail goes up to the Bridal Veil falls and starts on the very east side of Telluride by the mine, accessible from downtown by car, bike or by walking along the river trail.

Today’s pictures are from Deep Creek Trail, one of Telluride’s main trails with its trail head on the east end of town close to the airport. From here you have several options depending on time and fitness level. The Deep Creek Trail is a 10.9 mile trail that, if you follow it all the way, will drop you in downtown Telluride on N Aspen Street, taking you down the Jud Wiebe trail at the end.

You can also choose to go up and down at desired distance/time, or follow the trail down Mill Creek, which eventually drops you on Mill Creek Road by the Shell station, about a mile from downtown Telluride.

Whatever way you choose to get outside, this time of year is one of the best. If you have not yet gotten a chance to get to Telluride this fall we are offering our fall promo through November 1. Book your stay with us this fall and receive 20% off your stay. At already great fall pricing, this is one of the best deals of the year!

Every September, our small rustic mountain ski town in Colorado becomes host to one of the most elite film festivals in North America — The Telluride Film Festival. It’s not the most accessible film festival, and its certainly not cheap. So why do people attend the Telluride film Festival each year?

It’s been theorized that the best film festivals are in places that aren’t easy to get to. The idea is that they aren’t convenient to get to and that you have to spend considerable time, energy and money to partake in their treasures — you have to work for it, you have to earn it. It’s a flawed theory that totally sidesteps any of the metropolitan film festivals, most notably, the Toronto International Film Festival (but some could argue that dealing with customs is enough to qualify).

The line-up for Telluride is a closely guarded secret which isn’t revealed until the day before the festival begins. Everyone who attends books flights, hotels, passes and car rentals without even knowing what movies will play.

And even then, most of the bigger films are hidden in TBA “Sneak Preview Screening” slots. This allows Telluride to secretly premiere films that are already set to “officially premiere” at other festivals like Venice, Toronto, New York and Fantastic Fest. Of course, you’ll never hear the word “premiere” come out of anyone’s mouths that work or program the festival.

So you’re probably asking yourself: why would anyone want to go to the Telluride Film Festival? Seems like a lot of effort and money to see a few films, right?  Here are the reasons we make the trek to Telluride every year:

The Rediscovery of Old Movies

The selections are eclectic, foreign (many of the films premiered at Cannes) and there is a large amount of classic screenings. It would be easy to attend this festival as a cinephile and see not one new movie. A lot of the classic films screened are movies not available on DVD or VHS. In some cases, the print being projected is the only one still known to be in existence.

Telluride Is Where The Road To The Oscars and Golden Globes Begins

In past years, Telluride has been the unofficial first stop for many award winners and contenders.  Telluride secretly screened Jason Reitman’s Juno before it’s scheduled Toronto premiere. Danny Boyle secretly screened Slumdog Millionaire in the high school auditorium. Reitman returned with Up in the Air, days before the scheduled TIFF premiere. Fox Searchlight sneak previewed Black Swan and 127 Hours, while King’s Speech surprised everyone even though it was on the listed line-up. The Artist (which went on to win Best Picture) made its North American premiere, while Searchlight brought Alexander Payne’s The Descendants.

The award season bloggers flock to Telluride each year to get a sneak preview of what the story might look like for the next five months. Its great to experience these films early, before the hype and reviews boasting Oscar-caliber performances.

The Discovery of New Movies, Smaller Films That Might Not Get As Much Exposure

While many of the journalists that come to Telluride are award-minded, many come to the festival more to discover new gems. A great film doesn’t need to be award-caliber.

For many attending the festival, Telluride can mean being at that first screening — where the buzz begins.

The Atmosphere

Telluride’s high school auditorium is transformed into a state of the art movie theater. The small convention center is turned into a Chuck Jones-themed movie palace. Even the Elks lodge downtown is also fitted with a screen and seats. Walking around Telluride, you get the feeling these people could turn a banana into a small umbrella and put on a show…

You walk down the streets of Telluride and you’re walking next to the filmmakers and stars of the movies playing at the fest. Unlike Sundance, Cannes or Toronto, there is no divide. There are no limos escorting large entourages, and there are little to no celebrity gawking crowds or paparazzi. Everyone is there to see some great films and enjoy themselves. Its less about the business and more about the art. Telluride is a great place to experience movies.

Check out the Telluride Film Festival WEBSITE for more information on programing and schedule of events. And don’t forget to check our INVENTORY for any available lodging while Telluride hosts the Telluride Film Festival!

Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler!

The beloved Telluride Jazz Festival is back in town this weekend, with acts playing on Telluride Town Park’s Main Stage, and throughout town for the late night Jazz After Dark shows.

Telluride Jazz Festival is a wonderful laid back festival that draws a smaller yet dedicated group of jazz music fans to the box canyon. This is a great festival to bring the whole family. There is usually plenty of space to roam in the festival grounds. Or just sit back under the rain/sun shade to catch some smooth tunes emanating from the town park stage.

The musical acts are always diverse and the setting is amazing. You can’t beat the backdrop Telluride provides for music festivals!

Click HERE for a full schedule of events. And don’t forget to check our LODGING AVAILABILITY if you need a place to hang your hat after a full day and Night of Festivating!

And all the trailheads start in town!

There are nearly 30 hikes in Telluride and we’ve narrowed them down to the top 5 hikes in Telluride! From family friendly to all-day adventures there’s a hike for everyone! The best part? They all start from town so there is no need for a car! Grab a yummy coffee from The Coffee Cowboy and get hiking!

Bear Creek Falls

This family friendly hike is accessible all times of year. In the summer cruise on up the 2.5 miles until you reach the stunning falls. On your way up you’ll pass many clearings, cross streams, and stumble upon an opening full of cairns along the river. In the winter time the falls freeze into an icy blue spectacle. If you want a real challenge fat bike up to the falls!

Jud Weibe

This locals favorite trail is a loop that twists through the aspens and offers an aerial view of town. Locals will argue what trailhead to start at. Some say Tomboy if you want an easier incline while others are die hard Aspen Street starters. Either way, this hike is a weekly (if not daily) staple for Telluride folks throughout the year. Yes, even in winter!

Lewis Mine

If abandoned mines and high alpine lakes are up your alley try Lewis Mine. Make sure you go during July or August when the wildflowers peak. You’ll enjoy miles of Columbine, Lupine, and Paintbrush flowers plus streams and vistas galore. At the top of the hike you are rewarded with a preserved 5 story mine. Follow the trail beyond the mill to reach Lewis Lake. If you are feeling even more adventurous there’s an unnamed trail beyond the lake with views of Columbine Lake.

Ajax Peak

Ajax peak awards it’s hikers with endless views and landmarks throughout the hike. Start at the Bridal Veil Trail trailhead and climb steeply past the stunning falls, up the road towards the famous Black Bear Pass. You’ll pass mine ruins including mining cables overhead. Once at the summit you have a panoramic view of Silver Lake, the Town of Telluride, Imogene Pass and numerous peaks. You can hike Ajax all summer, but we love this hike in July!

Sneffels High Line

This 13-mile loop hike is an all-day affair that winds you through aspen trees, fields of wildflowers, and alpine basins. You’ll get unreal views of the southwest including the ski area Wilson Peak, El Diente and Lizard Head. This trail sees minimal traffic so at times you’ll have the whole high country to yourself. Locals have their favorite season to hike this trail. If you are a wildflower fan try late summer but we love it in the fall when gold season peaks.

Whatever your hiking preferences may be, Telluride has plenty more where these came from! These might be our top 5 favorite hikes in Telluride, but there are so many more in the area. Ask our friendly staff members for advice on their favorite hikes, and don’t forget to check our available lodging for a place to rest your weary feet!

Telluride may be a small town, but it has plenty of summer activities to partake in that are worth writing home about. Since it can be tough to choose exactly what you want to do on your vacation, we’ve gathered some of our favorite summer activities in Telluride and compiled them into a perfect five-day trip to our quaint town. Trust us, you won’t regret this trip (we’re already jealous over here).

Day 1 – Arrive in Telluride on a Tuesday

Yay! You’re here. Welcome to the best little box canyon town around.

First things first: once you’ve settled into your vacation rental, it’s time to drink some water and take in the sights. Trust us, you may not feel thirsty, but it’ll help SO much when it comes to the altitude (8,750 feet isn’t a joke) and all of the other fun Telluride summer activities that await.

The good news? You can drink water AND have fun at the same time. Stroll down Main Street and gander at Ajax Peak in all its glory. Window shop, stop for ice cream or a grilled cheese sandwich in Elks Park, and be sure to pet all of the local dogs walking around!

Did you know that Bridal Veil Falls is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado? It’s definitely a sight to take in at the end of the box canyon while exploring. Be sure to grab a classic photo in front of the Telluride flower box in the middle of the street.

Day 2 – Hike Telluride’s Most Popular Trail on Wednesday

Start your second day in Telluride off by hiking Bear Creek. The popular trail begins right in town, and takes you on a scenic, moderate, short hike to Bear Creek Falls, which overlooks the town of Telluride. This trail is beautiful and not too strenuous (it’s under three hours round trip), which makes for a great hike to further adjust to the altitude while getting to admire Telluride from above.

If you start early enough, you’ll be back in time to walk straight to La Cocina de Luz for a delicious lunch on the patio. Soak in those mountain rays while chowing down on fresh and authentic Mexican food.

Continue your day by taking advantage of one of Telluride’s most beloved (and beautiful) activities: the free gondola to Mountain Village. Did you know more than 2.8 million riders use the gondola annually? Check out our 13 other cool facts about our one-of-a-kind transportation system, grab your crew and head up the gondola to Mountain Village’s Sunset Concert Series, held every Wednesday from June to September. After the show, head back to town and enjoy the colors of the sun setting on the beautiful
town of Telluride.

Local note: Little Hawaii is a beloved local and semi-hidden trail along Bear Creek. If you’re looking for an extra challenge or a cool place to explore, be sure to keep an eye out for the trail!

Day 3 – Thursday Gets Spooky

No, really! Start off your Thursday by hitting up The Phoenix Bean on main street for a sweet latte and some of their famous burrito for breakfast. You’ll want a good breakfast for what’s ahead!

Spend the rest of your morning embarking on a tour of one of Telluride’s famous ghost towns. Our friends at Telluride Outside offer half- and full-day tours to some of the coolest 4WD accessible spots, including Alta Ghost Town and Tomboy Ghost Town. The Alta Ghost town trip generally ventures to the Alta townsite and Ophir pass, a classic shelf road with unreal views. The Tomboy Ghost Town half-day trip is one of Telluride Outside’s most popular tours, with views from over 13,000 feet en route along Imogene Pass. Full-day trips include the option to return via Ophir Pass or Black Bear Pass (for the more adventurous clientele), while half-day trips return to Telluride on Tomboy Road.

If you’d rather venture the roads by yourself, Mountain Adventure Equipment offers high-end off-roading rentals, including a Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro and a Jeep Trailhawk.

When you return to Telluride, grab a bite at the Butcher and the Baker, a local hotspot.

Day 4 – SUP Dude?! on a Friday

You’ve all seen those bright yellow boards glowing against the clear blue lakes and the mountains looming in the background. Experience it yourself by renting stand-up paddleboards from Mountain Adventure Equipment. Not only will they deliver a high-end SOL paddle board to your vacation rental, but they’ll also drive them up to Trout Lake for you for an extra $25! They even pick them up, saving you the stress of lugging them anywhere and returning them. They also offer full- and half-day rentals.

After SUPing in the morning, do some shopping around town. Sublime is a local favorite for clothing, while HOOK has some amazing home décor and gifts for everyone. If you loved SUPing or want to prepare for Saturday’s adventure, Jagged Edge Mountain Gear is the go-to shop in town for outdoor performance gear.

To top off your day, visit the Sheridan Hotel’s epic rooftop for a specialty watermelon margarita. The views are unreal, and if you’re there at the right time, you might just catch a rainbow, or at least a beautiful sunset on Ajax.

Day 5 – Get High on Saturday

This is the day you’ve been waiting for – the Via Ferrata day. Telluride’s Via Ferrata, which means “iron road” in Italian, allows brave souls to trek along a rock face 600 feet above the town of Telluride below. While it’s possible to do it on your own, Mountain Trip also offers guided tours, complete with a guide, equipment, and all the support and advice you need to make it across the rocky ledge.

Upon your return from the legendary Via Ferrata, it’s time to get ready for your last meal in town. Watch the Alpenglow from a panoramic seat at Allred’s, located at the top of the gondola, or choose an exquisite meal in town at the top-rated Cosmopolitan in our very own Hotel Columbia. No matter what you choose, your last meal in town will be a memorable one!

Day 6 – Depart Telluride on Sunday

How soon is too soon to plan a trip back to Telluride? Pretty sure the answer is that it’s never too soon! Many of our town’s best units book up a year in advance, so be sure to start planning your next trip to visit us ASAP! And check back with this Blog for more Telluride summer activity ideas!

5″ Overnight!

The Telluride Ski Resort reported 5″ of fresh white gold from last night’s storm, so we just had to take a lunch break on the mountain and soak in the bluebird day.

A few laps on Milk Run, Cimarron, then a nice locals loop back home!

More Telluride Snow On The Way!

NOAA has forecasted more Telluride snow to come next week, with the precious white gold starting to fall on President’s Day! Get those skis edged and waxed, because things might start getting good again!

And don’t forget to check our lodging inventory for available places to stay in Telluride or Mountain Village!

Whoever said nothing in life is free? If you’re looking to experience Telluride this winter without skis, here are 10 FREE things to do in town – It will help your wallet stay happy! 

10 FREE THINGS

1. Gondola Ride – The only transportation of its kind in North American, catch a ride on the free Gondola that connects the towns of Telluride and Mountain Village. Open 275 days per year from 7am to Midnight, this scenic ride is a must do. The short, 13 minute ride will leave you speechless as you’re surrounded by 13,000 foot peaks. Don’t forget your camera!
2. Ice Skating – If you bring your own gear… check out the frozen pond by Bootdoctor’s in the core of Mountain Village. Kids 5 years and younger skate for free! In no time you’ll be skating like Oksana Baiul! There is also an outdoor rink at the Telluride Town Park!
3. River Trail – Located in the town of Telluride, the River Trail is a popular path for both locals and tourists trying to take the scenic route. Stretching along the San Miguel River, this is a beautiful trail that connects the East and West ends of town.
4. Wilkinson Public Library – You will spend ALL day once you enter the doors of this award winning library. This is a great way to rent books, magazines, DVD’s, CD’s, and more (like snowshoes!) for your vacation. Also, use the FREE internet to change your flights (because you’ll never want to leave T-ride). 
5. Nordic Skiing – If you bring your own gear… take advantage of this large Nordic course that weaves through the protected land of the Valley Floor. Located on the west end of town, this is a great exercise to get the leg’s burnin’ and the heart pumpin’ in a beautiful valley setting. There is also terrain at Telluride Town Park, or you can also head up to nordic ski areas at Priest Lake and Trout Lake further up towards Lizard Head Pass.
6. Snowshoeing – If you bring your own gear or check out snowshoes at the Wilkinson Public Library… there are endless spots to snowshoe in Telluride if you’ve got the gear. A popular spot to snowshoe is Bear Creek Trail located on the east end of town. Check out the beautiful nature and backcountry ski terrain. Another great spot, the River Trail (#3). 
7. Town Loop Bus – Take a ride on the free transportation provided by the Town of Telluride. This bus will circle around downtown Telluride (7am-Midnight) stopping at various spots to access restaurants, Post Office, and numerous lodging facilities. Catch the Galloping Goose every 10 minutes during the day and every 20 minutes at night! If you are lucky, the famous Busdriver Jim (formerly known as Postman Jim) will be your chauffeur!
8. Wildlife Viewing – It would be extremely rare to vacation in Telluride and not see any wildlife. While you’re driving into town, check out the wild elk herds that feed and rest on the Valley Floor.
9. Sledding –Telluride Town Park or by Chair #7 are great places to sled after the slopes have closed for the day. Fun for the entire family!
10. Free Box – A “Telluride Tradition” located right off Main Street, the name says it all. The Free Box is a place to exchange clothes, small trinkets, books, and many other trash or treasures. Be sure to swing by the Free Box and see what you can find! 

You can also check out or THINGS TO DO page for more not-so-free ideas!