Located in southwestern Colorado, Telluride is a picturesque mountain town surrounded by the San Juan Mountains. With its rich mining history, stunning natural beauty, and world-class skiing, Telluride is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. However, there are many other amazing places to visit near Telluride that offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Overview
The region surrounding Telluride offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to different interests and ages. From historic mining towns to scenic hiking trails, and from rugged mountain peaks to serene lakes and rivers, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of Colorado. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top places to visit near Telluride, including towns, landmarks, and natural attractions that are within a few hours’ drive or hike.
Must-Visit Places Near Telluride
Here are some of the top places to visit near Telluride:
- Ouray Hot Springs: Located about an hour’s drive from Telluride, Ouray Hot Springs is a natural hot springs pool that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: This national park is about a two-hour drive from Telluride and features a deep, narrow gorge carved by the Gunnison River.
- San Juan Skyway: This scenic drive takes you through some of the most beautiful mountain towns in Colorado, including Silverton, Ouray, and Durango.
- Maroon Bells: Located near Aspen, Maroon Bells are two of the most photographed mountains in Colorado, with stunning views and hiking trails.
- Vallecito Reservoir: This scenic lake is about an hour’s drive from Telluride and offers boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit near Telluride. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region of Colorado.
Places To Visit Near Telluride, Colorado
Telluride, Colorado, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Located in the southwestern part of the state, Telluride is nestled in the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. If you’re planning a trip to Telluride, here are some places to visit near the town:
Mountain Towns
Just a short drive from Telluride, you’ll find several charming mountain towns that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich mining history and stunning natural beauty.
- Silverton: This historic mining town is about 45 minutes from Telluride and features a charming main street lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Take a ride on the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains.
- Ophir: This tiny town is about 30 minutes from Telluride and is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visit the Ophir General Store for souvenirs and snacks.
- Crested Butte: This former mining town is about an hour from Telluride and is famous for its colorful Victorian-era architecture and vibrant arts scene. Take a stroll down the charming main street and visit the Crested Butte Museum to learn about the town’s rich history.
Scenic Drives
Take a drive through the stunning scenery surrounding Telluride and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Godhra)
- Mesa Verde National Park Scenic Drive: This scenic drive takes you through the stunning landscape of Mesa Verde National Park, featuring ancient cliff dwellings and stunning vistas.
- San Juan Skyway Scenic Drive: This 236-mile drive takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Rocky Mountains, featuring stunning vistas, historic mining towns, and charming mountain villages.
- Kebler Pass Scenic Drive: This scenic drive takes you through the stunning landscape of the West Elk Mountains, featuring stunning vistas, meadows, and forests.
Waterfalls
Telluride is surrounded by stunning waterfalls that are accessible via hiking trails or scenic drives.
- Box Canyon Falls: This stunning waterfall is located just outside of Telluride and is accessible via a short hike from the town’s main street.
- Waterfall Trail: This scenic hike takes you to several stunning waterfalls in the San Juan Mountains, featuring stunning vistas and scenic views.
Wildlife Viewing
Telluride is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and bears. Take a guided tour or drive through the surrounding mountains to spot these amazing creatures.
| Wildlife | Best Time to Spot |
|---|---|
| Elk | September to November |
| Deer | May to October |
| Bears | May to November |
Other Attractions
There are many other attractions to explore near Telluride, including historic mines, scenic gondola rides, and world-class skiing.
- Telluride Mine Company: Take a guided tour of this historic mine and learn about the region’s rich mining history.
- Telluride Gondola: Take a scenic gondola ride between Telluride and Mountain Village for stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
- Telluride Ski Resort: Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding at this renowned resort, featuring over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone near Telluride, Colorado. Take a trip to this stunning mountain town and discover its many wonders for yourself.
As we conclude our article on “Places to Visit Near Telluride, Colorado”, we hope you’ve been inspired to explore the many wonders that surround this charming mountain town. From the stunning natural beauty of the San Juan Mountains to the rich history and culture of the region, there’s something for everyone in the area.
In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the top places to visit near Telluride, including the picturesque town of Ridgway, the historic mining town of Silverton, and the breathtaking scenery of the San Juan Skyway. We’ve also explored the many outdoor activities available in the area, from hiking and biking to skiing and snowshoeing. (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Milwaukee)
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to take in the breathtaking views, the places to visit near Telluride, Colorado, have something for everyone. So why not start planning your trip today and experience all that this incredible region has to offer?
Before you go, here’s a quick recap of the key points discussed in this article:
- The picturesque town of Ridgway, with its charming shops and restaurants
- The historic mining town of Silverton, with its rich history and culture
- The San Juan Skyway, a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most stunning natural beauty in the region
- The many outdoor activities available in the area, including hiking, biking, skiing, and snowshoeing
We hope you’ve enjoyed this article and that it’s inspired you to visit the places to visit near Telluride, Colorado. Happy travels!
Here are five FAQs related to “Places To Visit Near Telluride Colorado”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular hiking trails near Telluride?
Telluride is surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, offering endless hiking opportunities. Some popular trails include the Bear Creek Falls Trail, the Jud Wiebe Trail, and the Valley Floor Trail. Be sure to check trail conditions and difficulty levels before heading out.
Are there any scenic drives near Telluride?
Yes, the San Juan Skyway is a 236-mile scenic drive that takes you through some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in Colorado. The drive takes you through historic mining towns, past towering peaks, and through picturesque valleys. Be sure to stop at the many viewpoints and take in the breathtaking views. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Taos New Mexico)
What are some must-visit attractions in Telluride?
Telluride is home to many unique attractions, including the Telluride Historical Museum, the Sheridan Opera House, and the Telluride Rodeo. Be sure to take a stroll down Main Street, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Don’t miss the Telluride Gondola, which takes you from the town to the top of the mountain for panoramic views.
Can I go skiing or snowboarding near Telluride?
Yes, Telluride is a world-renowned ski resort, offering over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. The resort has something for every level of skier, from gentle groomers to challenging black diamond runs. In the summer, the resort offers hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as a scenic gondola ride.
Are there any nearby national parks or monuments?
Yes, Telluride is close to several national parks and monuments, including the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, and the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. These parks offer stunning natural beauty, ancient ruins, and a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.