Telluride: Colorado's Hidden Gem
Discover Telluride: A picturesque mountain town in Colorado offering outdoor adventures, cultural festivals, and historic charm in the stunning San Juan Mountains.
Nestled in a box canyon in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, is a picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. Originally a mining town, Telluride has transformed into a vibrant community known for its stunning landscapes and welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Telluride. The town is a gateway to an array of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The Telluride Ski Resort is renowned for its world-class slopes and breathtaking views. During the summer, the surrounding mountains and trails become a paradise for hikers and bikers of all skill levels. Telluride is also a cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals throughout the year, including the famous Telluride Film Festival and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. The historic downtown area is home to charming shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Rocky Mountains. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Telluride offers something for everyone. Its unique mix of outdoor recreation, cultural events, and small-town charm makes it a must-visit destination in Colorado.
Local tips in Telluride
- Visit during the fall to experience the beautiful changing colors of the aspen trees.
- Take the free gondola ride from Telluride to Mountain Village for stunning views.
- Book accommodations well in advance during festival seasons.
- Explore the historic downtown area on foot to fully appreciate its charm.
- Be prepared for variable weather conditions; pack layers.
Telluride: Colorado's Hidden Gem
Nestled in a box canyon in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, is a picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. Originally a mining town, Telluride has transformed into a vibrant community known for its stunning landscapes and welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Telluride. The town is a gateway to an array of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The Telluride Ski Resort is renowned for its world-class slopes and breathtaking views. During the summer, the surrounding mountains and trails become a paradise for hikers and bikers of all skill levels. Telluride is also a cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals throughout the year, including the famous Telluride Film Festival and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. The historic downtown area is home to charming shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, all set against the backdrop of the stunning Rocky Mountains. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Telluride offers something for everyone. Its unique mix of outdoor recreation, cultural events, and small-town charm makes it a must-visit destination in Colorado.
When is the best time to go to Telluride?
Unmissable attractions to see
Telluride Ski Resort
Experience the breathtaking beauty and exhilarating adventure of Telluride Ski Resort, a winter wonderland nestled in Colorado's San Juan Mountains.
Town Park
Experience the natural beauty and tranquil ambiance of Town Park in Telluride, a perfect destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Bear Creek Trail
Discover the stunning Bear Creek Trail in Telluride, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers with breathtaking views and vibrant wildflowers.
Blue Lakes Trailhead
Explore the stunning Blue Lakes Trailhead, a haven for hikers and nature lovers in the heart of Colorado's breathtaking landscapes.
Telluride Historical Museum
Explore the captivating history of Telluride at the Telluride Historical Museum, where the past meets the breathtaking beauty of Colorado.
San Sophia Overlook
Discover the stunning views and serene trails of San Sophia Overlook, a must-visit park in Mountain Village, Colorado.
Alta, Colorado (Ghost town)
Discover Alta, Colorado, a hauntingly beautiful ghost town offering a glimpse into the past amidst stunning mountain landscapes.
Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail, a premier hiking destination in Telluride, Colorado, with stunning views and rich nature.
Kroger Via Ferrata
Experience the thrill of climbing at Kroger Via Ferrata in Telluride, CO, where breathtaking views and outdoor adventure await.
Telluride Free Box
Explore the Telluride Free Box: a unique community treasure trove of free goods, embodying sustainability and local culture in the heart of Colorado's stunning mountains.
Bridal Veil Trail
Explore Bridal Veil Trail in Telluride, Colorado, where breathtaking waterfalls and stunning alpine views await every adventurer.
Alpine Chapel
Discover peace and beauty at Alpine Chapel, a captivating blend of serene spirituality and stunning mountain architecture in Telluride, Colorado.
Telluride Bike Park
Explore the thrilling trails and stunning vistas of Telluride Bike Park, a mountain biking haven nestled in the Colorado Rockies.
Downtown Telluride - Historic Colorado Ave
Discover the charm and history of Downtown Telluride, where stunning mountain views meet vibrant local culture and rich heritage.
Cornet Falls
Explore the beauty of Cornet Falls in Telluride, Colorado, a stunning hiking destination offering breathtaking views and serene natural landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Butcher & The Baker
Discover The Butcher & The Baker in Telluride: a delightful café, bakery, and bar offering delicious breakfast and brunch options in a cozy setting.
Clarks Market Telluride
Discover the freshest local produce and gourmet delights at Clarks Market Telluride, your go-to grocery store in the heart of Colorado's stunning landscapes.
The Village Market
Experience the flavors of Telluride at The Village Market, your go-to grocery destination for local produce and gourmet delights.
Denimaxx
Discover fashionable outdoor clothing at Denimaxx in Telluride, Colorado, and gear up for unforgettable adventures in the Rockies.
Green Dragon Weed Dispensary Telluride
Experience the essence of Colorado's cannabis culture at Green Dragon Weed Dispensary in Telluride, where quality meets community.
Telluride Truffle Artisan Chocolate
Discover the sweet side of Telluride at Telluride Truffle Artisan Chocolate, where artisanal chocolates meet breathtaking mountain views.
Between the Covers Bookstore and Bruno Cafe
Discover a literary paradise at Between the Covers Bookstore and Bruno Cafe in Telluride—where books meet brews in a cozy atmosphere.
Jagged Edge Mountain Gear
Discover the best outdoor gear and expert advice at Jagged Edge Mountain Gear in Telluride, Colorado, your gateway to adventure.
Sit, Stay, Shop!
Discover unique treasures while supporting animal welfare at Sit, Stay, Shop! in beautiful Telluride, Colorado.
Telluride Green Room
Explore the finest selection of cannabis products in Telluride at the Telluride Green Room, where quality meets community.
Crossbow Telluride: Handcrafted Leather Goods & Custom Hats
Explore Crossbow Telluride for handcrafted leather goods and custom hats, capturing the essence of Western craftsmanship in every piece.
Alpine Wellness
Discover the healing power of cannabis at Alpine Wellness in Telluride, where nature meets wellness in the heart of the mountains.
Shirtworks of Telluride
Explore Shirtworks of Telluride for unique t-shirts that capture the spirit of the Rockies, perfect for souvenirs or everyday wear.
Telluride Trappings & Toggery
Explore the best in fashion and outdoor gear at Telluride Trappings & Toggery, a must-visit shopping destination in stunning Telluride, Colorado.
Gold Mountain Gallery
Explore Gold Mountain Gallery in Telluride for an exquisite collection of contemporary art, unique furniture, and stunning oriental rugs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smuggler Union Restaurant & Brewery
Experience the best of Telluride's culinary scene at Smuggler Union Restaurant & Brewery, where craft beer meets delectable dining in a cozy atmosphere.
Steamies Burger Bar
Discover the best burgers in Telluride at Steamies Burger Bar, where unique flavors and a cozy diner atmosphere await every guest.
Allred's Restaurant
Experience the best of New American cuisine with stunning mountain views at Allred's Restaurant in Telluride, Colorado.
New Sheridan Hotel
Discover the historic elegance and vibrant atmosphere of New Sheridan Hotel, a perfect blend of luxury and adventure in Telluride, Colorado.
Cornerhouse Grille
Experience a unique blend of New American cuisine in a cozy setting at Cornerhouse Grille, the heart of Telluride's culinary scene.
Floradora Saloon
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful cuisine at Floradora Saloon, a must-visit bar and restaurant in picturesque Telluride, Colorado.
Tomboy Tavern
Experience the best of American cuisine at Tomboy Tavern in Telluride, where breathtaking views meet exceptional flavors, making every meal unforgettable.
Chop House Restaurant at New Sheridan
Experience fine dining at the Chop House Restaurant in Telluride, where exquisite steak and brunch options await in a historic setting.
there Telluride
Experience a culinary fusion at There Telluride, where Japanese izakaya meets New American cuisine in a cozy, eclectic atmosphere.
Cosmopolitan Restaurant
Discover the unique flavors of Telluride at Cosmopolitan Restaurant, where eclectic dishes meet New American cuisine in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Wood Ear
Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine and crafted cocktails at Wood Ear, a must-visit restaurant in Telluride, Colorado.
221 South Oak
Experience the best of New American cuisine at 221 South Oak in Telluride, where culinary innovation meets local flavors.
ESPERANZA'S Tequila Restaurant
Discover the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Esperanza's Tequila Restaurant in Telluride, Colorado.
Poachers Pub
Discover the lively atmosphere at Poachers Pub in Mountain Village, where great drinks, tasty food, and vibrant nightlife await you.
Black Iron Kitchen + Bar
Experience the rustic charm of Black Iron Kitchen + Bar in Telluride, where local flavors meet a cozy mountain ambiance.
Local Phrases about Telluride
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- HelloHowdy
[haw-dee] - GoodbyeSee ya
[see yah] - YesYep
[yep] - NoNah
[na] - Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
[pleez/no prob-lem] - Thank youThanks
[thanks] - Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
[par-dun me/my bad] - How are you?Howdy
[haw-dee] - Fine. And you?Just dandy. You?
[just dan-dee. yoo?] - Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
[yah speak ing-lish?] - I don't understandI'm lost
[I'm lost]
- HelloHowdy
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
[kan i chek out the men-yoo?] - I don't eat meatNo meat for me
[no meet for me] - Cheers!Cheers!
[cheers!] - I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
[chek, please]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
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- Help!SOS!
[S-O-S!] - Go away!Beat it!
[beat it!] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[call the cops!] - Call a doctor!Need a doc!
[need a dock!] - I'm lostLost!
[lost!] - I'm illI'm sick
[I'm sick]
- Help!SOS!
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- I'd like to buy...I wanna get...
[I wanna get...] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[just brows-ing] - How much is it?What's the damage?
[whats the dam-age?] - That's too expensivePricey!
[pry-see!] - Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
[can you do bet-ter?]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna get...
-
- What time is it?Time?
[time?] - It's one o'clockIt's one
[it's one] - Half past (10)Ten-thirty
[ten-thur-tee] - MorningMornin'
[morn-in'] - AfternoonArvo
[ar-vo] - EveningEvenin'
[even-in'] - YesterdayYest'day
[yest-dee] - TodayToday
[to-day] - TomorrowTomorrah
[tom-or-rah] - 1One
[wun] - 2Two
[too] - 3Three
[three] - 4Four
[four] - 5Five
[five] - 6Six
[six] - 7Seven
[seven] - 8Eight
[ate] - 9Nine
[nine] - 10Ten
[ten]
- What time is it?Time?
-
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
[where's the...?] - What's the address?Address?
[address?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Show me (on the map)?
[show me (on the map)?] - When's the next (bus)?Next (bus)?
[next (bus)?] - A ticket (to ....)Ticket (to ....)
[ticket (to ....)]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
History of Telluride
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Telluride, originally known as 'Columbia,' was established in 1878. Its name was changed in 1887 to avoid confusion with another town in California. The new name, Telluride, is derived from the chemical element tellurium, which was never actually found in the area. The town quickly became a bustling mining camp, known for its rich deposits of gold, silver, and other valuable minerals.
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The late 19th century saw Telluride transform into a booming silver mining town. The discovery of the Smuggler-Union, Tomboy, and Pandora mines brought a surge of wealth and population. By the mid-1890s, Telluride's mines were producing some of the richest ore ever found, and the town became a significant player in Colorado's mining industry, drawing prospectors and entrepreneurs from all over the world.
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In 1891, the Rio Grande Southern Railroad arrived in Telluride, connecting the remote mountain town to the rest of the country. This development was crucial for the mining industry, as it allowed for the efficient transport of ore to smelters and markets. The railroad also brought new residents and tourists, contributing to Telluride's growth and cultural development.
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Telluride is famously known as the site of Butch Cassidy's first bank robbery. In June 1889, Cassidy and his gang robbed the San Miguel Valley Bank, making off with $24,580. This daring heist marked the beginning of Cassidy's notorious criminal career and has become a legendary story in Telluride's history.
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The early 20th century was a time of labor unrest in Telluride. Miners, who worked under harsh conditions for low pay, organized strikes to demand better wages and working conditions. The most significant of these was the Western Federation of Miners' strike in 1901, which led to violent clashes between strikers and mine owners. The labor struggles in Telluride were part of a larger movement that eventually led to significant labor reforms in the United States.
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By the mid-20th century, the mining industry in Telluride began to decline. Many of the mines were depleted, and the town's population dwindled as miners left in search of work elsewhere. Telluride faced an uncertain future, with many of its historic buildings falling into disrepair and its economy struggling to survive.
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Telluride's fortunes changed dramatically in the 1970s with the development of the Telluride Ski Resort. Entrepreneurs saw the potential for tourism in the town's stunning mountain setting and began building ski lifts and lodges. The resort's success brought new life to Telluride, attracting visitors from around the world and transforming it into a premier destination for outdoor recreation and luxury tourism.
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In 1974, Telluride became the home of the Telluride Film Festival, an event that has since grown into one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. Each Labor Day weekend, filmmakers, actors, and cinephiles gather in Telluride to celebrate cinema, showcasing a diverse selection of films and often debuting major Oscar contenders. The festival has played a significant role in shaping Telluride's cultural identity and international reputation.
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Today, Telluride is known for its blend of historic charm and modern luxury. The town has preserved many of its historic buildings and mining relics, offering a window into its colorful past. At the same time, Telluride boasts world-class amenities, including upscale dining, boutique shopping, and a vibrant arts scene. Its year-round attractions, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and festivals, continue to draw visitors from all over the globe.
Telluride Essentials
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Telluride is located in the southwestern part of Colorado, nestled in a box canyon in the San Juan Mountains. The nearest major airport is Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), about 65 miles away. From Montrose, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Telluride, which typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Denver International Airport (DEN) and then take a connecting flight to Montrose or drive approximately 6 hours to reach Telluride.
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Once in Telluride, getting around is quite convenient. The town is compact and walkable, with many attractions within easy walking distance. The Galloping Goose is a free shuttle service that operates in Telluride and the nearby Mountain Village. For those looking to explore further afield, rental cars and local taxi services are available. During winter, the Gondola connecting Telluride and Mountain Village offers a scenic and practical mode of transportation.
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The official currency in Telluride, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals. While tipping is customary in the United States, typically around 15-20% for good service in restaurants, bars, and for taxi drivers.
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Telluride is generally a very safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. There are no specific neighborhoods in Telluride known for high crime rates targeting tourists. The town is well-patrolled, and local law enforcement is approachable and helpful.
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In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Telluride has a local police department and medical facilities, including the Telluride Medical Center, which provides urgent care. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Don't forget to bring sturdy shoes for hiking. Religion: While Telluride is not particularly religious, do respect any local customs if visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do use the free Galloping Goose shuttle and the Gondola for convenient travel. Don't forget to check the schedules. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Locals are generally very friendly. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and visit local eateries. Don't forget to tip for good service, usually around 15-20%.
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To experience Telluride like a local, take advantage of the hiking trails and outdoor activities. Visit during one of the many festivals, such as the Telluride Film Festival or Bluegrass Festival, to get a sense of the vibrant local culture. Engage with locals at coffee shops or farmers' markets. Don't miss out on the stunning views from the Gondola ride, which is free and operates year-round.
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