Epic Escapes

Welcome to summer in the San Juans, where you can hike through fields of wildflowers, spot wildlife and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this mountain paradise

4X4 OFF ROAD

During the region’s mining days a string of roads were carved into the San Juan Mountains. Today, those same routes offer access to the high country and experienced guides lead tours over mountain passes and through ghost towns and high alpine meadows filled with wildflowers and wildlife. Explore the rugged beauty of the area on one of the many 4x4 tours, including an excursion to Ophir Pass and the ghost town of Alta. Using a local guide will add to the experience.

FISHING

Telluride is a fishing enthusiast’s paradise year-round, offering unique angler experiences throughout the region. From the easily accessible San Miguel River to the many area ponds and lakes, there is a fishing adventure for everyone. Local guides know the ins and outs of the area’s rivers and streams, offering guided tours and invaluable advice about flies and water complexities.

BIKING

The region provides a striking backdrop for road and mountain bikers with a variety of terrain for all abilities. Mountain bikers will find challenging trails that explore old mining roads and basins high above the box canyon and the ski resort, as well as moderate trails on former railroad tracks. Another exciting option is the bike park at Telluride Ski Resort and the high-desert trail networks in Norwood and farther west. Road biking is popular along the scenic San Juan Skyway.

HORSEBACK / WAGON RIDES

Horseback riding in the San Juans is a favorite memory-maker for families. Riding through aspen groves and alpine meadows on horseback is the ultimate Old West experience. Outfitters offer guided daytime outings, half-day trail rides and overnight trips. Or, try a wagon ride followed by a gourmet dinner served al fresco.

RZRs

RZRs are compact recreational offroad vehicles with options for one, two or four riders. They are also a lot of fun. Local outfitters offer tours of the backcountry for both first-timers and experienced riders, with activities to suit all tastes and levels. Buckle up and have a blast.

TOWN PARK

A hub of activity year-round, Telluride Town Park is home to family fun in a beautiful setting. In the summer, you’ll find softball and soccer fields, tennis courts, a skate park, the Imagination Station playground, a pool and more. Lower Bear Creek Falls can be accessed from the park, which is also the venue for many of the town’s festivals.

ROCK CLIMBING

The area’s climbing routes include jagged peaks, boulders and extensive wall faces that provide a variety of climbing and bouldering opportunities for all abilities. For those learning the sport or seeking local know-how, a number of guide services are available, and local maps, information and gear can be found at sporting goods stores. The Telluride Mountain Club reminds adventurers of all levels that many routes, in particular the Via Ferrata, require technical ability and appropriate gear.

HIKING / RUNNING

Trails weaving through the mountains offer hikers a quick jaunt to a nearby waterfall or the chance to spend the day exploring high-alpine terrain, uncovering old mining ruins and admiring vibrant wildflowers. The region’s trail system has extensive options for a range of hiking levels. Before any hike, consult trail descriptions and a map, check the weather and be prepared with layers, water and sunscreen. Remember to take care of our backyard by disposing of pet waste and trash properly, and avoiding single-use plastics, which are more likely to be left behind than reusables.

WATER SPORTS

As the snow melts, area lakes and rivers become playgrounds for rafting, kayaking and tubing with vistas that are second to none. Local outfitters take paddlers on half-day or full-day excursions through class II to III+ rapids. There is also SUPing (stand-up paddleboarding), a great way to soak up the sun while getting a workout. If that sounds like too much effort, grab an inner tube and float leisurely down the San Miguel River from Town Park on a summer afternoon.

BASE CAMP MOUNTAIN VILLAGE

Located at 9,545 feet above sea level, Telluride’s high-alpine twin town is a hub for summer activity

TELLURIDE BIKE PARK

At the park, which is ticketed and located on Telluride Ski Resort, mountain bike enthusiasts can revel in miles of interconnected, liftaccessed trails that create a network of freeride, technical and crosscountry routes for almost every level of rider. The routes tie into established U.S. Forest Service trails. For more, see page 24.

CANOPY ADVENTURE

Ready for an adrenaline rush? Try this course of ziplines, aerial bridges and rappels that span the Village Express (Lift 4) area of Telluride Ski Resort. Reaching a maximum height of 140 feet above the forest floor and with zipline traverses as long as 1,800 feet, this fully guided, ticketed tour takes about three hours and offers unforgettable vistas and thrills.

HIKING TRAILS

Varied hiking routes wind their way around Mountain Village and the surrounding slopes. A favorite is the Ridge Trail, a 2-mile intermediate route that offers hikers two options with varying degrees of difficulty. You can ride the Gondola to San Sophia Station and hike the Ridge Trail down to the Village Center. Or, if your crew is feeling energetic, hike the route uphill to San Sophia Station, which connects with more challenging trails.

FUN FOR ALL AGES

Spend the afternoon exploring the kid-friendly activities that dot the Village Center. There are giant Jenga and Connect Four games, a bouldering rock, a ropes course, a bungee trampoline, a disc golf course and more. Or, visit a local outfitter for equipment and meander over to Elk Lake, Mountain Village’s designated fishing pond. The Telluride Racquet Club, on the grounds of The Peaks Resort & Spa, also offers tennis and pickleball.