Telluride, Colorado, is a town that feels like it came straight out of a painting. With its many visitors, it’s important to be familiar with the available parking options for your car or rental vehicle. For your vacation, almost all of our Telluride Vacation Rentals have a dedicated parking space for a vehicle.
Getting to Telluride
Welcome to Our Curated Parking and Transportation Guide for Telluride and Mountain Village
By Air
There are several options to reach Telluride by air. Airports in Durango, Cortez, Grand Junction, and Montrose often offer direct flights. From the moment you board the plane, the stunning views will immediately restore your peace of mind.
If you’re flying into international airports like Denver, Albuquerque, or Salt Lake City, you can arrange a transfer via Telluride Express. They offer shared, private, or custom transportation based on your needs.
Driving
Telluride offers many parking options, including free parking during events. Main streets and nearby areas have metered parking from 8 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Saturday, with free parking on Sundays.
Can’t find a spot in town? No worries! Head over to Mountain Village, where ample parking awaits. The Gondola Parking Garage, right off the main road, is a top pick. From there, hop on a free and scenic gondola ride straight into Telluride—perfect for festival-goers!
Parking in Telluride
Commuters are encouraged to use regional transit options like the SMART system, the Gondola, or carpool, with the Carhenge Parking Lot available for those without off-street parking at work.
- Parking Permits: Permits, managed by the Marshal's Department via the ToCite online system, allow residents and businesses outside the business district to park in two-hour zones without restrictions. Silverjack Parking Garage and "S" Zone Shandoka permits require application through the town’s website. available on the town's website.
- Metered Parking: Available in the business district, metered parking costs $2.00 per hour, with a three-hour limit.
- Silverjack Parking Garage: Located at 155 W. Pacific Avenue, this covered garage charges $2.00 per hour and $50 for overnight parking, with payment via QR code or text.
- Carhenge Parking Lot: Offers free all-day parking for commuters and visitors at 700 West Pacific Avenue, a 10-minute walk from downtown. The lot is serviced by the Galloping Goose transit loop, but overnight parking is prohibited. Galloping Goose Schedule (PDF)
Visitor parking is available throughout Telluride. Please check nearby signs for the latest information and be mindful of winter snow removal notices. Please note that vehicle camping is strictly prohibited within the Town of Telluride.
Parking in Mountain Village
Mountain Village offers various parking options across several locations, with rates effective from April 8, 2024, through November 14, 2024:
- Gondola Parking Garage: Offers 460 spaces with free daytime parking. Overnight parking is available for a fee, but oversized vehicles may face challenges, especially during winter.
- Heritage Parking Garage: Located under the Madeline Hotel, charges $2 per hour with a $48 daily max.
- North and South Village Center Parking: Charges $2 per hour, free after 6 p.m., with no overnight parking allowed.
- Market Plaza and Shirana Short-Term Parking: Offer free short-term parking with restrictions on overnight parking.
- Meadows Parking: Seasonal rates apply, with free daytime parking in summer and paid parking in winter.
- ParkMobile App: Parking garages are readily available in Mountain Village and payment can be completed on the Parkmobile app. Please be aware that parking is not allowed along any street or right-of-way, and any kind of vehicle camping is strictly prohibited in Mountain Village.
Overnight parking is available in select garages, with strict regulations on oversized vehicles. Various parking permits are offered to residents, commuters, and locals.
Getting Around Telluride and Mountain Village
Exploring Telluride and Mountain Village is a breeze once you’re settled in. Thanks to the town’s compact layout, walking is often the easiest way to get around, but there are plenty of convenient transit options if you’d prefer to ride.
Telluride’s free Galloping Goose shuttle loops through town every 20 minutes from 7 a.m. to midnight during festival weekends, making it easy to hop on and off as you explore. In Mountain Village, a complimentary shuttle service runs every half hour, and for those needing a lift outside regular shuttle hours, Dial-A-Ride is just a call away.
One of the best ways to get around? The Telluride to Mountain Village Gondola! This unique, free public transportation system offers more than just convenience—it provides some of the most breathtaking views around. Whether you’re heading to the festival or just soaking in the scenery, the gondola is a must-do.
If you’re driving, be sure to download the Park Mobile app—it’s a lifesaver when parking in the Town of Telluride and Mountain Village. Parking garages are readily available in Mountain Village and payment can be completed on the Parkmobile app. Please be aware that parking is not allowed along any street or right-of-way, and any kind of vehicle camping is strictly prohibited in Mountain Village.
One of the most iconic ways to travel? The Telluride to Mountain Village Gondola. This unique, free public transportation system offers more than just convenience—it’s a scenic experience in itself. Whether you’re heading to a festival or simply soaking in the stunning mountain views, the gondola is a must-try.