Spring is in the air and with the blooming alpine flora and fauna of Telluride, it’s time to head outside. With seemingly limitless options for outdoor activities in this spectacular mountain region, Telluride has something for everyone in the great Colorado outdoors.
Ride with Roudy
Viewing the breathtaking mountain vistas of the Wilson Range via horseback is a perfect way to start spring. From one- to two-hour rides, private rides or custom pack trips, Roudy is a local expert of local trails and a knowledgeable guide through Telluride. The gentle horses and wildflower-speckled fields await, with a spectacular spring horseback riding experience.
Hiking in Telluride
The trails of Telluride aren’t limited to horseback—several scenic trails range from beginner to expert, with scenic waterfalls, riverside strolls and 14,000 foot peaks all found on hiking destinations of Telluride. Bear Creek Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are two favorites in the area, as well as the towering 14ers Wetterhorn and Mount Wilson for the more experienced hiker and climber. Lace up the hiking boots, as adventures await just up the dusty path.
Mountain Village: Shopping at Altitude
If long walks through fantastic retail are more your speed, shopping at the Mountain Village will sure to put spring in your step. High-end boutiques and luxury retailers await, with fresh fruits and a full-service deli available at Clark’s Market, perfect for an outdoor spring snack. Whether waiting for others to finish their hike or picking up the latest spring fashions, Mountain Village covers all your shopping needs.
Swing Away
The mountain majesty is certainly felt in Telluride and to enjoy the great outdoors, golf is a spectacular option. Whether hitting a birdie or shanking into the Colorado wilderness, the par 71, 18-hole course affords thinner air for golf balls to fly through, upping your game and improving the backdrop. Practicing your swing or taking in the craggy mountains are all part of a great spring day on the course.
Wet and Wild
White water rafting is somewhat of a favorite sport in Colorado, with miles of fantastic rivers and waterways creating a lacework of playgrounds throughout the state. Telluride is no exception, offering fantastic white water tours from a couple hours to two or three day runs. The San Miguel and Dolores Rivers offer some great stretches, with canyons and creeks aplenty in this rugged Colorado expanse.
From serene waterfalls to heart-pumping white water rafting, Telluride has something for everyone this spring. With stunning landscapes, fantastic outdoor activities, and a variety of family-friendly and adventure-seeking events and activities throughout the city, Telluride is the place to be this spring.
If You Go
Telluride is located in the southwest corner of the state. 6 hours and 30 minutes from Denver by car, direct flights into Telluride and Montrose regional airports cut the commute down substantially. A scenic drive through Colorado’s highways and byways are a great spring activity in and of itself, or car rental from Telluride or 1 hour and a half commute from Montrose are other popular travel choices. Learn more about the area and local activities at VisitTelluride.com
Horseback Riding:
Telluride Horseback Adventures
(970) 728-9611
www.ridewithroudy.com
Hiking Trails:
www.telluridehikingguide.com/hikes
Shopping Guide:
www.visittelluride.com/things-to-do/shopping
Golfing:
Telluride Ski and Golf Club
565 Mountain Village Blvd
Telluride, CO 81435
(970) 728-2606
www.tellurideskiresort.com
White Water Rafting:
Telluride Outside Guided Tours
(800) 831-6230
www.tellurideoutside.com
Chad Chisholm is a Denver-based travel writer and photographer, his work is featured at JustLuxe, Denver Life Magazine, Colorado Expression, AAA EnCompass, The Denver Post and various other outlets.
Special thanks to the Telluride Tourism Board for providing the photos featured in this article!