Telluride Summer Trip Tips!

Telluride Summer Trip Tips

Whether you choose to embark on a family road trip via airplane or automobile, Telluride, Colorado is one destination you won’t want to miss this summer. That’s right! This popular winter wonderland has so much to offer during the summer months. As with all family vacations, my kids loved the Town of Telluride so much, they want to move there. Now, if I can just figure out how many articles I have to write to afford it.

Where to Stay

There are several VRBO’s in Telluride and the nearby Mountain Village (which is just a free gondola ride away). We chose Accommodations in Telluride. They were easy to work with and very helpful, which made our online reservations painless and our four-day stay a breeze. We chose a condo within walking distance to historic downtown Telluride shops and restaurants, the free gondola to the top of Telluride Ski Resort, the San Miguel River, nearby parks and several local hiking/biking trails. We didn’t have to get in the car to drive anywhere. Everything we needed was within a few blocks radius. It was fantastic! www.vacationtelluride.com

What to Do

Our family loves outdoor activities, specifically mountain biking and hiking, so we chose one activity for each day.

Mountain Biking

First, we rented mountain bikes from Telluride Sports – Camel’s Garden. They were professional and knowledgeable. They even make it fun by assigning pop culture names to every bike. We got to ride Kurt Cobain, Han Solo, Roger Waters and Cher (www. telluridesports.com). Don’t miss this: Get 20% off when you make your bike reservation online.

We chose to do two trails. The first was an easy ride along the San Miguel River. This trail is great for all ages and skill levels. It offers breathtaking views of the canyon and its surrounding mountains, large grassy meadows where you can stop to sip water and have a snack, and a small, winding river to follow. The San Miguel River Trail is 4.5 miles one way, so you can make your ride as short or as long as you like.

The second trail was a bit more challenging. We rode the gondola to Mountain Village (our bikes fit easily on the external racks) and from there we met at the trailhead for Jurassic Trail. I have to say, bring a map. My husband had us riding in circles before we finally found the trailhead. It wasn’t an easy trail, so I don’t recommend it for children under the age of 10. It has narrow pathways that hug the mountainside with several steep areas. However, if you are up for a challenge this trail doesn’t disappoint. From there, we followed Meadows Trail and Galloping Goose Trail, which takes you back into Telluride. These were a bit easier with wider trails and open spaces. Watch out for elk!

Hiking

The second day we wanted to hike, so we chose Bear Creek Trail, which is an easy to moderate hike.  Kids of all ages can easily do this 4.5-mile round trip summit. Bring a jacket, because once at the top, the cool, fresh mist from the waterfall will give you a bit of a chill. This is a beautiful hike with river views, tall trees, surrounding snow-capped mountains, an open meadow with rock cairns of all shapes and sizes by the creek, and, of course, the waterfall. Don’t forget plenty of snacks and water. (http://hikingwalking.com/destinations/co/co_sw/telluride/bear_creek_tel/bear_creek_tel_detail)

Scenic Sunset

The third day we wanted to watch the sunset at the top of Telluride Ski Resort. A quick ride on the gondola and some patience at the top proved to be the highlight of our trip. It was a clear day with a truly majestic view. Don’t miss this: Get to the top a bit early and grab a beverage at Allred’s Restaurant while you wait for the sunset. It’s an unforgettable experience.

Where to Eat

We really enjoyed two local pizza places, Brown Dog Pizza www.browndogpizza.com and High Pie www.highpiepizzeria.com on Colorado Avenue (a.k.a. Main Street). Both are family friendly with games, TV’s, local beer on tap and pretty good pies. Don’t miss this: Swing by Baked In Telluride in the morning for a homemade doughnut or pastry and locally brewed coffee. www.bakedintel.com

Other things to do

There are so many things to do in Telluride like summer festivals ranging from arts and music to outdoor pursuits. Events such as the Mountain Film Festival, Telluride Film Festival and the Bluegrass Festival and Jazz Festival are known to draw the best filmmakers and musicians from around the world. Locals claim that Blues & Brews, which is scheduled the third weekend of September, is their best event because it marks the start of fall with changing leaves and the excitement of the coming ski season. The Mushroom Festival and the Imogene Pass Run are a couple more eclectic Telluride offerings. For a complete list of events this summer, check out www.visittelluride.com. Don’t miss this: There is a local Farmer’s Market that runs 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. daily June 23 – October 13.

Here’s a detailed legend of Telluride, courtesy of www.mappery.com

Article & Images by Megan Wahl, M Marketing+PR, www.browndogpizza.com