Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, Telluride is a ski destination like no other. Known for its stunning scenery, uncrowded slopes, and authentic charm, Telluride offers an unforgettable ski experience for everyone, from beginners to experts. Beyond the slopes, this resort is packed with unique winter adventures, from guided snowshoe tours to exhilarating snowmobile and heli-skiing trips.
This guide will cover everything you need to know for a perfect Telluride ski holiday – from its location and vast ski area to its après-ski, dining hotspots, and exciting off-slope activities.
Let’s dive in!
Telluride is located in southwestern Colorado, approximately 6.5 hours southwest of Denver by car.
For a detailed view of Telluride's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
Telluride seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern sophistication. The town of Telluride retains its Wild West roots, featuring beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and a vibrant cultural scene. Located 15 minutes above by free gondola, Mountain Village offers luxurious ski-in/ski-out accommodations, boutique hotels, and contemporary amenities. Together, these two areas create a unique dual experience—historic and rustic in the town, modern and upscale in the village—providing visitors with the best of both worlds.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for all skill levels | Steep runs back to town can be challenging |
| Exceptional steep runs for advanced skiers | High cost of living |
| Beautiful historic town | Remote area |
| Spectacular scenery | Lacking intermediate terrain |
Telluride’s ski area is renowned for its legendary terrain and breathtaking scenery. The resort is divided into distinct zones, each catering to different abilities:
Telluride’s beginner areas are perfect for building confidence. Sunshine lift (10) and Ute Park offer gentle greens with scenic views, while the Galloping Goose trail provides an enjoyable long descent for new skiers.
Intermediate skiers will delight in Telluride’s flowing blue runs and open glades. Trails like See Forever and Polar Queen offer breathtaking vistas, while Village Express (4) provides corduroy cruisers and moderate bumps.
For advanced skiers, Telluride is a playground. Steep bump runs like The Plunge deliver adrenaline-pumping descents, while the hike-to terrain in Gold Hill and Palmyra Peak promises fresh powder and technical challenges.
Telluride offers incredible backcountry-style skiing within its boundaries. Zones like Black Iron Bowl and Gold Hill Chutes provide thrilling, untouched terrain for those willing to hike for their turns.
Snowboarders will love Telluride’s wide-open bowls, natural features, and top-tier terrain parks. The Hoot Brown Parks range from beginner rollers in Ute Park to advanced features like jumps and rails in the Advanced Terrain Park.
The ski season in Telluride for 2024/25 is expected to start on November 28th and run until April 6th, though dates may vary depending on snow conditions. If you're planning a ski holiday to Telluride next winter, be sure to explore our Telluride deals for the best ski offers available.
Telluride offers optimal snow conditions from December through April. December and January consistently bring about 21 cm (8.27 inches) and 22 cm (8.66 inches) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 2.8 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly increases to 27 cm ( 10.62 inches) and occurs more frequently, averaging 3.4 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the fourth week of February, traditionally the snowiest week in Telluride, with an impressive 34 cm (13.38 inches) of snow over 3.8 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 16 cm (6.29 inches) of snow over 2.8 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 21 cm (8.27 in) | 2.8 days |
| January | 22 cm (8.66 in) | 2.9 days |
| February | 27 cm (10.62 in) | 3.4 days |
| March | 24 cm (9.44 in) | 3.2 days |
| April | 16 cm (6.29 in) | 2.8 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Telluride boasts a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, combining upscale dining with casual favourites and local flavours. From award-winning fine dining to rustic pizzerias and international cuisine, there’s something for every palate.
Telluride’s après-ski and nightlife scene combines laid-back charm with lively hotspots.
Download Telluride Town map here
