Telluride Winter Activities

Telluride is a high-elevation winter wonderland. Located in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride is famous for its spectacular ski resort, stunning vistas, deep powder snow, and passionate mountain culture. This is truly a world-class winter sports town, where visitors and residents enjoy exhilarating activities in the fresh Rocky Mountain air.

What is there to do in Telluride in the Winter?

When you visit Telluride in the winter, there are so many fun things to see and do. From skiing off of the top of Palmyra Peak to sledding on Firecracker Hill, Telluride has activities for all ages and groups. Families can ice skate together at the Telluride Town Park and accomplished ice-climbers can test their skills on Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall. Let’s take a look at some of our favorite Telluride winter activities.

Skiing and Snowboarding at Telluride Ski Resort

Averaging 330 inches of annual snowfall, Telluride Ski Resort has some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. Telluride Ski Resort, famous for its advanced terrain, has over 2,000 skiable acres. But you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the high-elevation slopes, 50% of the runs are beginner and intermediate.

Beginners can ride the Chondola and practice on Meadows run or explore the long mellow trails off of the Sunshine Express lift. Dew Drop, off of the Polar Express lift, is perfect for intermediate skiers and riders. When conditions are right, experts head for Gold Hill Chutes and Palmyra Peak, where they experience some of the best, inbounds extreme skiing in Colorado.

Nordic Skiing

Telluride has many superb nordic ski trails. Managed by the Telluride Nordic association, you can ski on groomed trails at Telluride Town Park, the Valley Floor, the golf course in Mountain Village, the top of Chair Ten (TopAten) on the ski resort, Trout Lake, and Priest Lake. If you don’t have gear, you can rent equipment at the Nordic Center in Telluride Town Park.

Ice Climbing

The San Juan Mountains are known for world-class ice climbing and Telluride is home to one of America’s most classic and difficult climbs. Bridal Veil Falls, located just a short distance from downtown, is a 365-foot standing waterfall that turns into a tower of ice.

Backcountry Skiing

Growing in popularity in recent years, backcountry skiing near Telluride is a spectacular way to enjoy the San Juan Mountains. From lift access “side-country’ terrain off of Telluride Ski Resort to Ski Mountaineering near Ophir, you could spend many lifetimes backcountry skiing around Telluride and still never ride it all.

Since backcountry skiing has many inherent dangers, including avalanche hazard, we recommend connecting with local experts before heading out. Consider a guide and be sure to check local weather and avalanche information.

Sledding

Everyone loves sledding. If the snow is good, head to Firecracker Hill, on the south side of Telluride Town park, for fun rides with your family and friends. You can rent sleds from the Nordic Center or buy them at the hardware store.

Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling through the San Juan Mountains is a special experience. And just outside of Telluride, there is an extensive network of groomed trails that are perfect for snowmobiling. If you’re looking to spend a day cruising the Colorado winter landscape, you can easily book a guided snowmobile tour.

Heli-Skiing

Looking for the ultimate powder skiing adventure? It’s time to go heli-skiing. Helitrax, operating since 1982, flies guests into the center of the San Juan Mountains. Guests experience stunning scenery and ride high-elevation, untracked powder. You can choose from day trips, multi-day outings, and custom tours.

See You in the Mighty San Juans

Thanks for checking out our favorite winter activities in Telluride. We look forward to hosting you in the might San Juan Mountains.