Rocky Mountain Travel Winter Activities in Telluride
Telluride, Colorado transforms into a spectacular winter destination when snow blankets the towering peaks of the San Juan Mountains. Nestled in a dramatic box canyon at nearly 9,000 feet in elevation, Telluride offers incredible winter scenery along with a wide range of outdoor adventures.
Best known for the world-class Telluride Ski Resort, the town attracts visitors from around the world each winter. But skiing is only part of the experience. Visitors can also enjoy snowshoeing, snowmobile tours, cross-country skiing, scenic sleigh rides, and other winter activities throughout the region.
Combined with Telluride’s historic charm, vibrant cultural scene, and breathtaking alpine landscapes, winter in Telluride offers one of the most unforgettable mountain experiences in Colorado.
Cross-Country Skiing
Telluride also offers excellent cross-country skiing opportunities for visitors looking for a slower-paced winter activity. There are six Nordic Ski areas in the Telluride Region. Trails at Priest Lake and Trout Lake are maintained by Telluride Nordic Association. Detailed information, including downloadable maps for trails maintained by TNA and the Town of Telluride are available by visiting the links for each trail.
Top-A-Ten Nordic Trails
Top-A-Ten Nordic TrailsThe trail system is at the top of the Sunshine Express Lift (#10). Trails are accessible with the purchase of a $25 single-use lift ticket (that affords a ride up and down the Sunshine Express Lift) or follow the uphill guidelines set forth in the resort’s uphill policy.
Visitors can enjoy:
- classic cross-country skiing
- skate skiing
- beginner-friendly Nordic trails
- guided lessons and equipment rentals
Cross-country skiing provides a relaxing way to experience the beauty of the San Juan Mountains during winter.
Tours & Winter Activities
Snowshoeing in Telluride
Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to experience the peaceful winter landscapes surrounding Telluride. It allows visitors to explore quiet winter landscapes away from the ski slopes. If you want to snowshoe on your own, rental gear is available locally in shops. Several scenic trails wind through forests and alpine terrain near town.
Popular snowshoe areas include:
- Bear Creek Trail
- Jud Wiebe Trail
- trails around Mountain Village
Guided snowshoe tours are also available and provide opportunities to learn a new skill and about the local ecosystem, wildlife, and mountain environment. Local outfitters such as Stellar Tours offer half day tours with instruction, equipment and transportation!
Snowmobile Tours
Snowmobile tours are a fun and exciting way to explore the winter terrain surrounding Telluride. Guided snowmobile tours with outfitters, such as Telluride Outfitters, travel through alpine forests, scenic valleys, and high mountain passes while offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks. Beginners and families with children can experience the alpine wonder of Telluride with a two hour snowmobile tour of Alta Ghost Town, an old mining village.
Then there are backcountry tours for intermediate to advanced riders to Dunton Hot Springs and along Barlow Creek south of Telluride. These tours run all day starting in mid-January. The Dunton trip includes a sit-down gourmet lunch at the Dunton Hot Springs resort and a soak in the natural springs. The Barlow Creek trip is aimed at more proficient slednecks. It navigates ungroomed terrain and has numerous alpine meadows that allow for free play and hill climbing opportunities.
When you book a snowmobile tour with a professional outfitter like Telluride Outfitters, these tours include professional guides who are trained and knowledgeable about the area and conditions. They provide safety instruction as well as offer scenic mountain viewpoints.
Snowmobiling is perfect winter activity for visitors looking for a thrilling winter adventure beyond the ski resort.
Winter Fly Fishing
Experience the magic of winter fly fishing in Telluride and the San Juan Mountains with Telluride Fly Fishers. It’s a peaceful, scenic adventure surrounded by snow-covered peaks and crystal-clear waters. Try a half-day guided trip which are offered during the warmest part of the day. Experienced local guides will take you to some of the most beautiful winter fishing spots in the Telluride region. Each guide works with up to two guests.
Dogsledding At Twilight
Dogsledding is a fun and energizing adventure. During the day, watching the winter landscape pass by as you glide over snow-packed mountain passes is an experience you won’t soon forget. With Alaskan huskies as your guides, explore snow-covered trails throughout the San Juan and Uncompahgre National Forests. Learn about the sport of Mushing, races and necessary equipment.
Sleigh Rides
Horse-drawn sleigh rides provide one of the most magical winter experiences in Telluride. These scenic rides travel through snowy mountain landscapes before arriving at cozy mountain cabins or lodges.
Visitors can enjoy:
- scenic winter landscapes
- hot drinks or dinner experiences
- peaceful rides through alpine meadows
Sleigh rides are especially popular with families and couples visiting Telluride during the winter season.
Ice Skating in Telluride
Ice skating is another fun winter activity for visitors exploring Telluride. Enjoy free ice skating with your family in Telluride Town Park! The outdoor rink is open December through March. The outdoor rink has a warming hut and restrooms. The indoor rink is open all winter season. Check the schedule for hours and pricing. Ice skates can be rented at the Nordic Center or bring your own.
Mineral Hot Springs
Sink into Telluride’s mineral hot springs and soak away your sore muscles after a day skiing or hiking. Locations include Orvis Hot Springs where seven different pools with varying temperatures await you. The waters are most famous for their lithium content, highly sought after due to its soothing effects that naturally melt away stress and anxiety. A soak in Orvis Hot Springs can reduce the effects of conditions such as arthritis and eczema, by improving the function of many of the body’s vital systems. Scientific evidence shows that the combination of the heat and minerals in hot springs improve blood circulation, relax tense muscles, relieve pain, and promote peaceful sleep.
Book your me time at Orvis Hot Springs!
Explore Historic Telluride in Winter
Historic downtown Telluride is especially charming during winter. Snow-covered streets and colorful Victorian buildings create a beautiful alpine setting.
Visitors can explore:
- local boutiques and art galleries
- cozy cafés and bakeries
- historic landmarks
- winter festivals and events
The town’s walkable layout makes it easy to explore while enjoying the winter atmosphere.
Winter Festivals and Events
Telluride hosts several exciting winter events that bring visitors together to celebrate the season.
Winter events often include:
- live music performances
- cultural celebrations
- holiday festivities
- winter sports events
These events add to the lively atmosphere of the town throughout the winter months.
Après Ski in Telluride
Après ski is an important part of the Telluride winter experience. After a day on the slopes, visitors gather at restaurants and bars throughout town to relax and enjoy the mountain atmosphere.
Popular après ski experiences include:
- outdoor patios with mountain views
- craft cocktails and local beers
- cozy fireplaces and mountain lodges
The relaxed and friendly atmosphere in Telluride makes après ski a memorable part of any winter trip.
Internal link suggestion:
Telluride Restaurants Guide
Best Time to Visit Telluride in Winter
The winter season in Telluride typically runs from late November through early April.
December
Holiday lights and festive decorations create a magical mountain atmosphere.
January and February
These months usually provide the best snow conditions for skiing and winter sports.
March
Spring skiing brings warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours.
Each part of the winter season offers unique experiences for visitors exploring Telluride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What winter activities are available in Telluride?
Telluride offers skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, and ice skating.
Is Telluride good for beginner skiers?
Yes. Telluride Ski Resort offers excellent beginner terrain and professional ski schools.
Is Telluride crowded in winter?
Compared to some other Colorado ski resorts, Telluride is known for its uncrowded slopes and relaxed atmosphere.
Experience Winter in Telluride Colorado
Telluride offers one of the most spectacular winter destinations in the Rocky Mountains. With world-class skiing, breathtaking mountain scenery, and a variety of outdoor adventures, visitors can enjoy unforgettable winter experiences throughout the season.
Whether you’re carving fresh powder on the ski slopes, exploring snowy forests on snowshoes, or enjoying a scenic sleigh ride through the mountains, winter in Telluride provides endless opportunities for adventure.
- Telluride Colorado Travel Guide
- Things to Do in Telluride Colorado
- Where to Stay in Telluride Colorado
- Telluride Restaurants Guide
- Getting to Telluride Colorado
- Colorado Ski Resorts Guide