Bret Howard & Alyssa Jensen

Dining & Things To Do

Telluride is a former Victorian mining town in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
Elevation: 8,750′
Population: 2,426

Two Towns. One Amazing Experience
It is a place of legend, nestled at the end of a lush canyon and surrounded by 13,000 and 14,000-foot peaks. The summers are full of cultural events and endless outdoor activities. Telluride is embraced for their authentic mountain character, unpretentious attitude, and celebration of four seasons of adventure.

Town of Telluride
The town of Telluride is just eight blocks wide and twelve blocks long along the valley floor. Because of its significant role in the history of the American West, the core area of Telluride was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1964. The sites are so special that they are eligible for consideration to become national parks. With the town's colorful Victorian-era homes, clapboard storefronts, boutiques, art galleries, gourmet restaurants, historic buildings and more, Telluride is a delight to explore. The citizens are committed to preserving Telluride's historically significant architecture, open space, traditional design elements and, most of all, Telluride’s small-town mountain lifestyle.

Mountain Village
Mountain Village is perched above the valley floor at 9,500 feet, providing access to the Telluride Ski Resort and Uncompahgre National Forest. The Town of Mountain Village was founded in 1987 and includes approximately 2,100 acres of rolling aspen and spruce-covered mountainsides. This European-style village allows for guests to experience the best of everything in the Telluride region.
The two towns are connected by a free, scenic gondola. Exploring both Telluride and Mountain Village is easy with the convenience of the gondola.

The Gondola
The towns of Telluride and Mountain Village are linked by a 13-minute ride on a free gondola. This popular scenic attraction provides access to hiking and biking trails in the summer. Passengers can load the gondola in either Mountain Village or Telluride and ride to the midway point (Station St. Sophia from which hiking and biking are accessed) and then continue on to the other side.
It offers a front row seat to view all of Telluride from 10,500 feet. The ride from Telluride to Station San Sophia has an elevation change of 1,750 feet; the ride from Station San Sophia to Mountain Village has a 960-foot conversion. The gondola runs daily from 6:30 a.m. to midnight during summer.
The gondola has three primary stations where you can board and unload:
● Station Telluride (Oak Street) – access in Telluride
● Station St. Sophia (mid-mountain stop) – access to Allred’s Restaurant & Bar, The Ridge Club and biking and hiking trails
● Station Mountain Village – access in Mountain Village
● Just across from Station Mountain Village, a shorter gondola stretch connects to Station Village Parking, where the free parking garage, Town Hall and the Mountain Market are located.
Handicap-accessible cabins are available, as well as pet cabins for well-behaved animals on leashes. Please ask a gondola attendant for help boarding; they can slow down the cabins for those with strollers, wheel chairs, etc.
In the summer, bike racks are mounted on the exterior of the cabins, and gondola attendants help load bikes.

Gondola Facts
Fast: Each cabin travels at 11 mph, and the ride from Telluride to Mountain Village takes 13 minutes.
Free: With the support of a number of community financial sources, the gondola is free to ride.
Green: Electricity used to operate the gondola comes from wind power purchased from San Miguel Power Association.
Click Here for More Gondola Information

Choose from an array of experiences, including traditional and innovative spa services, wellness programs and fitness and outdoor recreation. Find restoration, transformation and renewed energy while experiencing the luxuries of the 42,000-sq ft. sanctuary.

Spa & Fitness Center – Open Daily Year-Round
Summer Hours • 7am – 8:30pm

Pool Slide Hours • 9am – 5pm
Hours are subject to change

THE SPA AT THE PEAKS RESORT
Inspired by the beauty and revitalizing energy of the San Juan Mountains. The Spa at The Peaks Resort defines a true spa experience, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and well-being. Here, you will find traditional and innovative spa services and fitness and outdoor recreation surrounded by the pristine beauty of 14,000-foot Rocky Mountain peaks. Find restoration, transformation and renewed energy while experiencing the luxuries of our 42,000-sq ft. sanctuary.

To Make An Appointment
Please Call (970) 728-2590

Altezza at The Peaks
Altezza restaurant at The Peaks Resort & Spa offers casual mountain dining with regionally sourced ingredients and panoramic Telluride views from both the restaurant and outdoor deck. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Morning Dining | 7:30 – 11:00am
Express Breakfast Buffet $19
Full Breakfast Buffet $26
All Day Dining | 11:00am – 9:00pm

BREAKFAST MENU | ALL DAY MENU | DESSERT MENU | TO GO MENU

For dining reservations, please phone (970) 728-2525.

Bean Café
Open 7am – 5pm daily.
Enjoy different types of coffee, tea, juice, fresh baked pastries, house made breakfast burritos, and healthy portable snacks. The Bean Café features local Steaming Bean Coffee, and Two Leaves and a Bud organic whole leaf tea.

The Great Room and Deck
Sharing views of Mt. Wilson with Altezza at The Peaks, the Great Room features an impressive fireplace, oversized club chairs, and floor-to-ceiling windows with a special menu and full beverage selection including cocktails, local craft beer, and wine.
BAR & GREAT ROOM MENU

Deep End Pool Bar
Open 12pm – 5pm daily during the summer. A relaxing and sunny place to enjoy drinks, sandwiches, and appetizers. Incredible scenic views, ideal for poolside lounging.

Some of the country’s most celebrated chefs, now call Telluride home. Whether you’re looking for a fresh pizza, foie gras, or free-range steak, Telluride has everyone’s taste buds covered.

Condé Nast readers ranked Telluride in their Top 20 List of Best American Cities for Foodies. And Fodor’s ranked Telluride in the Top 10. At night, wander Main Street for some saloon hopping, live music, or tuck into a wine bar.

Click here to view all the local restaurants in Telluride.

Hiking is, by far, the most popular activity in the summer season. Surrounded by an abundance of scenic nature trails, expansive jeep roads, as well as plenty of less-traveled paths, you can choose from a quick afternoon jaunt to summitting a 14,000 foot peak (14er) to a multi-day cross-country excursion.
Click here to view hiking trails in the area.

Whenever exploring the outdoors in mountain locations, weather can change quickly, and we recommend hiking prepared. Please carry water, sunscreen, a first aid kit, appropriate trail maps, and extra layers for hikes of all durations. Bug spray is also recommended in the summer months.

With over 90 hikes, and historic walks around town, the Telluride Hiking Guide provides maps, descriptions and histories of the hiking trails of the area.

To view a hiking map, click here.

The San Juan Mountains provide a variety of terrain perfect for riding. From the town of Telluride, find challenging trails that explore old mining roads and basins high above the box canyon. For longer, moderate trails, mountain bikers can link several former railroad tracks throughout the valley and to the west. When the snow melts, the Telluride Ski Resort transforms into a biking playground with plenty of trails that meander through aspen groves and lush meadows.

The free scenic gondola cabins are outfitted with bike racks in the summer. From San Sophia Station, access bike trails for both Telluride and Mountain Village.

Road riding is also popular along the scenic San Juan Skyway. The region offers technical and challenging routes for skilled road riders featuring many mountain passes and substantial elevation gains.

Click here for the Mountain Village Biking Trail Map.

With some of the finest trout streams in the Rocky Mountains, and a variety of lakes, ponds and alpine creeks, Telluride is an angler’s paradise. To make the most of your fishing outing, we recommend learning the waterways and surrounding terrain with the help of a local guide. With an outfitter, you can also choose a float fishing trip or access private waters.

Fishing Etiquette:
● A fishing license is required in Colorado and can be purchased at most sporting good shops.
● Most lakes and rivers on Colorado’s Western Slope have a zero to four possession limit depending on species of fish. Ask for the “Colorado Fishing Proclamation” in local sporting good shops for details.
● Protect river corridors. Avoid trampling plants and causing erosion of banks as it affects fish habitat.
● Avoid trespassing. River corridors that cross private property cannot be accessed without permission from the landowner.
● Please learn local regulations, including bait restrictions and catch-and-release sections of the river. To catch and release, buy barbless flies or flatten the barbs on your hooks. Handle fish with wet hands and avoid sunscreen and insect repellent, which can damage the trout’s protective coating.

Click here to view more information on fly fishing and to book a reservation.

Off Roading
The rich mining heritage left a legacy of intertwined jeep roads, providing access to some of the area’s highest mountain passes. Travel to Telluride's high country to view beautiful mountain vistas, alpine lakes, waterfalls, wildflowers, ghost towns and mining ruins. From moderate overpasses to extreme roads, there is nothing like a 4x4 adventure ride on some of Colorado's most breathtaking mountain roads. Tour Imogene Pass, one of the most popular mountain passes, connecting Telluride to Ouray or explore one of the many other off-road routes such as Bridal Veil Falls, Last Dollar Road, Ophir Pass, Alta Lakes or Black Bear Pass (one way East to West, advanced drivers only). Choose from a full-service guided adventure or rent a 4x4 vehicle for a self-guided trip. Mountain driving experience is highly recommended for all visitors venturing out on their own.

Please be aware of runners, hikers, and mountain bikers while driving.
Trails:
● Bridal Veil Falls (4.2 miles one-way to top of falls)
● Alta Lakes (5 miles one way)
● Black Bear Pass (3.6 miles one way from Red Mountain Pass to Bridal Veil Intersection)
● Illium Road/Ames (6 miles one way)
● Ophir Pass (6 miles one way from Hwy-145 to top of pass)
● Tomboy Road, Town of Tomboy & Imogene Pass (5 miles to ghost town of Tomboy)

Click here for rentals

Click here for tours

ATV & Motocycle
For powersports fans, the greater Telluride region offers plenty of terrain to tour. Ride the scenic San Juan Skyway on motorcycle and take in the spectacular scenery. Or, head out onto dirt trails and play in the woods on an ATV. From the vast network of trails, access mountain lakes, rivers and streams and explore alpine meadows, high altitude passes and historic mining sites.

Telluride Outfitters offers half-day and full-day ATV and Razor tours.

Please observe all signage regarding motor vehicle access. Also, please use caution when you encounter runners, hikers, and mountain bikers.

The rich mining heritage left a legacy of intertwined jeep roads, providing access to some of the area’s highest mountain passes. Travel to Telluride's high country to view beautiful mountain vistas, alpine lakes, waterfalls, wildflowers, ghost towns and mining ruins. From moderate overpasses to extreme roads, there is nothing like a 4x4 adventure ride on some of Colorado's most breathtaking mountain roads. Tour Imogene Pass, one of the most popular mountain passes, connecting Telluride to Ouray or explore one of the many other off-road routes such as Bridal Veil Falls, Last Dollar Road, Ophir Pass, Alta Lakes or Black Bear Pass (one way East to West, advanced drivers only). Choose from a full-service guided adventure or rent a 4x4 vehicle for a self-guided trip. Mountain driving experience is highly recommended for all visitors venturing out on their own.

Please be aware of runners, hikers, and mountain bikers while driving.
Trails:
● Bridal Veil Falls (4.2 miles one-way to top of falls)
● Alta Lakes (5 miles one way)
● Black Bear Pass (3.6 miles one way from Red Mountain Pass to Bridal Veil Intersection)
● Illium Road/Ames (6 miles one way)
● Ophir Pass (6 miles one way from Hwy-145 to top of pass)
● Tomboy Road, Town of Tomboy & Imogene Pass (5 miles to ghost town of Tomboy)

Click here for rentals

Click here for tours

Every spring, Telluride’s substantial snowpack gives way to trickling streams and free-flowing rivers. From wild river rapids to a leisurely float, the Telluride area offers water sports second to none. The rafting season typically starts in late May and continues through October on the Colorado, Animas and Gunnison Rivers.

Experienced outfitters lead a variety of rafting trips down the San Miguel River, down the Dolores River, or through the famous Black Canyon of the Gunnison River. Choose from half-day or full-day adventures and try one of the most refreshing activities in the region.

Take your own river trip by floating down the San Miguel River, which runs through town, in a tube (purchase at Timberline Ace Hardware or rent from various outfittters).

Click here to book river rafting

As you run trails in Telluride and Mountain Village, you’ll find your eyes wandering from the path as you take in the surroundings. There are trails that start right from your doorstep, whether you’re an athlete training at altitude or a cardio fan out for a leisurely run. Choose from nature trails that meander through forests and lead to waterfalls or head out onto the paved bike path that follows the valley floor.

Click here to view all the running trails in Telluride.

The jagged peaks and extensive wall faces of the San Juan Mountains provide a variety of climbing and bouldering routes. Legendary climbers, from Lynn Hill to Charlie Fowler, have explored the area and help put the San Juan Range on the map as a climbing destination. From classic routes on Ophir Wall to moderate climbs on Pipeline to the Via Ferrata, the climbing is diverse and plentiful.
Warm up at Adventure Rock in Mountain Village. This manmade climbing boulder is located in Conference Center Plaza and is open daily during (weather permitting) from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the summer. Various problems offer challenges for novices to expert climbers.

For those learning the sport or seeking local expertise, a number of guide services are available. Find local trail maps, route information and gear at one of the many sport shops.

Click here for more information on Rock Climbing options

To thoroughly explore the San Juan Mountains, backpacking and camping is the ideal method. Outdoor enthusiasts can gear up for a multi-day backpacking outing and explore the many peaks in the surrounding mountains. Camping also offers an affordable way to enjoy the greater Telluride region. In-town camping is perfect for family outings or groups gathering for a festival. Designated campsites are available in Telluride Town Park, as well as in surrounding areas within a twenty-minute drive from town. In addition, there are other private campgrounds in the area located in Ridgway, Montrose and along the Dolores River next to Highway 145.

RVs are welcome in Town Park but the maximum length allowed is 30 feet; that number must include the length of the vehicle pulling it. Sorry, no electrical hookups or RV dump stations are available on-site. The RV dump station is at the wastewater treatment plant at Society Turn.

Camping Etiquette
● Please camp in established sites
● Contact campground hosts, USFS or BLM to learn if campfires are allowed
● Avoid camping in riparian habitats. If you plan to drink water from streams or lakes, treat it with a filter or chemicals. Waters in the San Juans often contain heavy metals and bacteria.
● Keep human waste 200 feet from lakes and streams
● Pack out trash. Black bears and other scavengers sometimes visit camp sites. Don’t leave garbage or food scraps around your camp site. Take your garbage to the dumpster regularly. If you do see a bear, remain calm. If the bear approaches you, make noise. Don’t run.
● Be prepared for sun, rain and cold. Remember, thunderstorms are common, and it can snow any time of the year.
● Telluride is surrounded by public lands. Please use these lands and avoid private property.

Click here for more information on camping

According to science, golf balls fly further at elevation. See for yourself on the Telluride Golf Course.

Telluride Golf Course
This par 71, 6,739-yard, 18-hole, mountain resort course is surrounded by the highest concentration of 14,000-foot mountains in the United States. Perched 9,300 feet above sea level, the elevation works to your advantage as Telluride's thin air creates less resistance against the golf ball during flight, translating to 15 percent more distance. The course offers meandering fairways that wind through aspen groves and towering pines and beside mountain ponds and sparkling streams.

The Telluride Golf Course was constructed in 1992 and serves as a private club for members, as well as a public course for locals and guests. The Pro Shop and Clubhouse are located at The Peaks Resort in Mountain Village.

Key Features:
● Course is typically open from May to mid-October (conditions permitting)
● Luxury golf carts come equipped with state-of-the-art Global Positioning System (GPS)
● Private instruction and clinics are available daily from PGA professionals
● Facilities include full practice range, complete with chipping and putting greens
● Full service pro shop is open daily between 7:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. offering state of the art clubs and shoes for rent.
● Twilight and sunset rates are available
● Reservations are highly recommended. Please call the Telluride Golf Club Pro Shop at (970) 728-2606 for details.