Telluride is one of those places that you’ve heard so many great things about that you wonder if it will actually live up to the hype — canyon walls, aspens, waterfalls, charming town, and endless things to do. If you’re wondering what to do in Telluride, I’ve got you: here are all the best hikes, walking spots, gondola rides, farmers markets, and must-see views. Consider this your go-to guide for making the most out of your Telluride trip.
(For a full 4-day fall itinerary in Telluride, check out my Telluride fall itinerary blog.)
Must-Do Activities in Telluride
Here are the top things to do in Telluride — outdoor + town life + views + relaxing moments.
Ride the Gondola
One of the first things you have to do: ride the Telluride-Mountain Village Gondola. We were staying in Mountain Village and it was the only way we chose to get to and from town. Totally worth it even if you aren’t staying in Mountain Village because it’s free. It’s about a 12- to 13-minute ride, offering stunning views as you travel between Town, the mid-station (San Sophia), and Mountain Village. Great for sunrise/sunset, or just to take in the scenery without doing a strenuous hike.
Hikes and Trails
Views over downtown Telluride from Jud Wiebe Trail—this place is unreal in the fall. 
If you time it right, Telluride turns completely golden in the fall. 
Every viewpoint in Telluride somehow looks like this. 
Even on cloudy days, Telluride still delivers. 
There are so many easy trails right outside of town with views like this. 
The walk to Bridal Veil Falls from the parking lot 
Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most iconic hikes in Telluride. 
Peak fall here is short—but so worth it. 
Another angle of one of Telluride’s best waterfall views.
If you’re in Telluride in the summer/fall, here are hikes and trails you can’t miss:
- Jud Wiebe Trail: A local favorite. It’s a ~3-mile loop (start from Aspen Street or Oak Street), climbs through aspens and meadows with sweeping views of Town, Bear Creek, and Bridal Veil Falls. Steep in places, beautiful especially in fall.
- Bridal Veil Falls: Colorado’s tallest free-fall waterfall at ~365 feet. The hike (or drive + short walk) to see it is dramatic. The 2.6-mile route is perfect for a short adventure but they have longer ones as well that give you a view above the waterfall.
These are great options to get your nature-fix without it taking up the entire day.
Sports and Recreation in Mountain Village
Summer in Mountain Village means golf with some of the best mountain views at the Telluride Golf Club. 
Winter in Mountain Village feels like a postcard with snow-covered trees everywhere. 
Views like this are why skiing in Telluride is next level. 
Even if you’re not skiing, the views alone are worth the trip. 
There are plenty of trails around Mountain Village for exploring beyond the slopes. 
From beginners to pros, Telluride has runs for every level.
Mountain Village isn’t just about views — it’s also where you can get your adventure fix year-round.
- Winter: Hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding. Mountain Village is part of the Telluride Ski Resort, offering ski-in/ski-out access, trails for every level, and some of the best alpine views in Colorado. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s something here for everyone.
- Summer: Trade your skis for golf clubs. The Telluride Golf Club is a stunning course set against the mountains, with challenging holes and breathtaking scenery. Even if golf isn’t your thing, the trails and open space around the course are perfect for hiking or a scenic stroll.
No matter the season, Mountain Village is a hub for outdoor sports and adventure, complementing all the sightseeing and relaxing you can do in Telluride.
Walk & Explore Town
Stroll through downtown Telluride (Colorado Avenue and the surrounding streets). Shop at local boutiques, galleries, grab coffee, or just people-watch. Truly one the most charming mountain towns I’ve visited in Colorado.
Farmers’ Market & Local Life
- Telluride Farmers’ Market: Held on South Oak Street in downtown Telluride, Fri, usually 10:30 am–3:30 pm during summer/fall. Local produce, artisan foods, crafts. Great for breakfast or a casual snack before/after heading out on a hike.
- Market on the Plaza in Mountain Village: A smaller, mid-week market during summer. If you’re there, it’s worth stopping by.
Seasonal & Special Things
- Festivals: Telluride has an impressively full calendar — Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Telluride Blues & Brews Festival, Mountainfilm Festival, etc. If you time your visit right, a festival adds so much local flavor.
- Fall colors: When the aspens turn gold, it’s the best time for both photo ops and hiking in crisp, beautiful weather.
- Other winter activities: Aside from skiing/snowboarding, there are snowshoe hikes, winter walks, cozy firesides.
Telluride Tips
- Bring layers. It’s variable at altitude; mornings/dusk tend to be chilly even if midday is warm.
- Get started early on hikes to beat the afternoon sun and crowds.
- Drink water, especially the first day — altitude matters.
- If visiting the markets, bring cash (some vendors prefer, though many accept cards).
- Use the free gondola when possible — it’s scenic, helps skip driving/parking hassles, and gives access to viewpoints and trails.
- Going in off-season will result in certain restaurants, the gondola, and other things being closed so do your research before selecting dates
Why is Telluride Worth It
Telluride isn’t just a mountain town. It’s a blend of dramatic natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and laid-back charm. You can hike or ride all day, then settle into enjoying mountain views. It feels special without needing constant planning or activity.
It’s one of the rare places where you can go hard on adventure and come home relaxed.
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