A Curated Guide by The Staff

Things To Do in Telluride

There is an abundance of year-round activities to do in Telluride. Those seeking adventure can partake in hiking, biking, fishing, golfing and of course, skiing and snowboarding. The world-renowned Telluride Ski Resort offers some of the most sought-after ski terrain in North America, which is perfect for beginners and experts alike. If you prefer to be part of a group activity or want to leave logistics to an expert, there are guides available for Jeep tours, rafting excursions, fly-fishing and climbing (rock and ice)! Two of the newest activities to try are paddling the San Miguel or high alpine lake on a SUP board and crossing the Via Ferrata, a path of iron rungs 200 feet off the ground! Whatever level of activity you desire, the Hotel Columbia staff is happy to assist.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    Cosmopolitan Restaurant

    On-Site Restaurant

    The Hotel Columbia is home to the COSMOpolitan restaurant and lounge, the #1 rated restaurant in Telluride. Located on the first floor of the Hotel Columbia, the COSMOpolitan gives guests of the hotel the convenience of having a delicious meal just steps from any room or suite.

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    • Dining

    Smuggler's Union

    Award-Winning Restaurant and Brewery

    Rustic-chic hub pairing house beers & craft cocktails with creative, locally sourced comfort food.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    The National

    Hip Eatery with Craft Cocktails

    The National arrived on the restaurant scene in late 2018, bringing a new level of swank to Telluride. The beautifully designed space and contemporary cuisine have quickly placed this eatery on the "go-to" list while in town. A creative mixologist, affectionally known as Diamond Dave, helms the bar, serving a variety of concoctions from the Campfire Old Fashioned to the Mountain Shrine.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    New Sheridan Chop House

    Bustling Social Scene

    The New Sheridan Chop House is a classic steakhouse that occupies the prime space of the Sheridan complex, which also includes a hotel, rooftop bar, saloon, parlor and coffee shop. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Chop House is always bustling and General Manager, Ray Farnsworth, keeps service standards high.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    Allred's Restaurant

    Those Views!

    Allred's has the best vantage point of any restaurant in the area. Perched atop the San Sophia Ridge, the best way to reach Allred's is to take a free Gondola ride from town or Mountain Village and exit at Station San Sophia. Come for happy hour and enjoy a drink in the bar, or snag a coveted seat by the windows.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    221 South Oak

    Intimate Atmosphere

    221 South Oak offers a fine dining experience in the heart of Telluride. Located in a historic home, the intimate restaurant is the perfect place for date night. In the summertime, those "in the know" head to the patio on weekends for one of the best brunches in town.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    Rustico Ristorante

    Gorgeous Italian Restaurant in Historic Building

    From the charming staff and crisp white linens to the exposed brick walls, Rustico appeals to those who desire a truly authentic Italian experience. In the winter, you can sit near the cozy fire while sipping a Barolo from the Piedmont region and in the summer, dine al fresco on the patio with a Pecorino, from the coastal area of Abruzzo.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    La Marmotte

    Oh La La

    Since 1988, La Marmotte has been serving excellent French food to Telluride locals and visitors alike. Warm and cozy, the restaurant is located in a former "Ice House" from the mining era. While perfect for couples and families, it does have a romantic vibe, which is great for date night.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    Siam

    Contemporary Thai Fusion

    Under new ownership, the interior of Siam has recently been given a makeover! More bar space and comfortable seating make this neighboorhood gem a favorite. The extensive menu includes traditional Thai dishes like pad seeeaw, khao pad, pad thai and a plethora of curries including masaman and both red and green panang.

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    • Dining

    Brown Dog Pizza

    Award-Winning Pizza

    Brown Dog is a local sports bar serving pizza, pasta, salads, and sandwiches. The restaurant is not big - so be prepared for a wait during high season or when a Patriots game is being broadcast. However, they will take your mobile number and give you a call when your table is ready, providing a great opportunity to browse shops nearby.

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    • Dining

    La Cocina De Luz

    "The Kitchen of Light"

    The English translation is a fitting one for this terrific Mexican restaurant on Colorado Avenue. The "abundance of light" both literally and metaphorically makes La Cocina de Luz a must-stop while visiting. Dishes are authentic and lovingly prepared. Menu staples include posole, flautas, tacos and enchiladas, all of which are accompanied by two sides - salad, roasted vegetables, beans or rice.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    The Butcher & Baker Cafe

    Charming Cafe

    The Butcher & Baker serves food mornings through evenings most weekdays as well as brunch on Sundays. All pastries and bread are homemade and the menu is made to order. A deli case worth perusing is where you can choose one, two or three scoops from a variety of salads.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Dining

    Tomboy Tavern

    An Hommage to Telluride's Mining Heritage

    Located in Mountain Village, Tomboy Tavern has a rustic feel with leather chairs and barstools complementing a zinc bar. Featured above the bar is a large bellow, a relic from the mining days. Booths line the sides of the restaurant with high-top tables in front.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Society Telluride

    We're Banking that You Will Love This Store

    Housed in a former bank, Telluride's newest boutique offers a twist on regular retail shopping. At Society Telluride, you are invited to enjoy a beverage and take your time browsing the store. The vibe is relaxed, and as you are on vacation, there is no need to feel rushed!

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Two Skirts

    The Grande Dame of Telluride Boutiques

    Two Skirts has been outfitting the well-heeled local and visitor alike since 2001. It's a staple for designer jeans, cashmere sweaters, flirty dresses, and high-end sneakers and boots. The shop girls are fashionistas, so don't be shy asking for help. These folks enjoy helping customers, whether it is to find an accent piece or an entire wardrobe.

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    • Shopping

    Sublime

    The Clothes and Service are Sublime

    Sublime offers cutting-edge fashion that is perfect for women of all ages. Sublime carries a curated selection of accessories, including Virgins Saints and Angels necklaces from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Baker + Fiorentini boots and shoes from Italy and NBRHD trucker hats from Laguna Beach.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Slate Gray Gallery

    A Gallery Filled with Fine Art, Jewelry and Home Decor

    Slate Gray is one of the newest additions to the ever-expanding gallery scene in downtown Telluride. Gallery owner, Beth McLaughlin, is a true art advocate and supports local arts organizations with the profits made from Slate Gray. Visitors are greeted by a space brimming with sculpture, paintings, photography, jewelry, and fiber arts, a true feast for the eye.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Mixx Projects + Atelier

    Committed to Bringing Elegance and Beauty to Everyday Living

    Mixx first arrived in Telluride in 2014 to provide a platform for like-minded designers and artists. It's equal-part gallery and shop with a focus on presenting fair-traded beautiful objects from around the globe.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Hook

    This Place Will Get You "Hooked"

    One can easily whittle away an hour in this store browsing through an assortment of trinkets, gourmet candy bars, funny cards and unique housewares. Aptly named Hook, there actually is a wall of one-of-a-kind hooks that are sure to capture your attention.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Telluride Sports

    Adventure Apparel and Gear

    Telluride Sports has six locations spread across Telluride and Mountain Village for maximum shopping convenience.

    While the smaller stores are more geared toward equipment rentals, the two flagship stores - one in Telluride on Colorado Avenue and the other in Mountain Village on the Gondola Plaza - offer a wider variety for all seasons.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Patagonia

    The Gucci of Mountain Wear

    Counter to widely-held beliefs, Telluride does, in fact, have a few chain stores. One of the original outdoor clothing manufacturers, Patagonia, is located at the corner of Colorado and Fir. Dubbed "Patagucchi", the brand has lately become a fashion fixation from Manhattanites to the college crowd.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Jagged Edge

    Born and Raised in Telluride

    Jagged Edge is an independent, family-owned retailer serving outdoor enthusiasts. Store purveyor, Erik Dalton, is ever-present in the community, marking trails in the backcountry for local mountain races, offering complimentary SUP board lessons and serving on the Telluride Ski and Snowboard Club Board of Directors.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Scarpe

    Providing the Necessary Goods for a Fashionable LIfe

    Scarpe is not just another women's boutique. Of course, it has the required selection of the latest women's brands, but it also carries items for the entire family.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Overland

    Leather Goods and Sheepskin Rugs

    A mountain town doesn't seem quite complete without some kind of leather store. In Telluride, family-owned Overland satisfies that need in spades. Visit this store on Colorado Avenue to peruse gorgeous coats, handcrafted purses, comfy shearling-lined suede slippers and an abundance of hats.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Shopping

    Heritage

    Chic Boutique in Mountain Village

    Hop on the Gondola across from Hotel Columbia to get ferried up and over San Sophia Station to Mountain Village. The Gondola Plaza is lined with ski shops, restaurants and food carts. Especially appealing is Heritage, an apparel and accessory store for both women and men.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Mountainfilm

    More Than Just a Movie Festival

    Named one of the coolest film festivals in the world, Mountainfilm uses the power of film, art and ideas to inspire attendees and create a better world. The festival, which has been held every Memorial Day since 1979, showcases exceptional documentaries, interactive talks, free community events, a gallery walk and so much more.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Balloon Festival

    Up, Up and Away!

    What’s prettier than the town of Telluride? Telluride adorned with dozens of colorful hot air balloons as they take flight for the Telluride Balloon Festival. Head to Town Park to watch the balloons take flight each morning and make a trip to Main Street as the balloons light up the town at night.

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    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Bluegrass Festival

    The Most Magical Time of the Year

    The Bluegrass Festival marks a stellar time of year in Telluride – the sun is out longer, flowers are popping up everywhere and you don’t have to travel far to take in the sounds of world-renowned musicians. Kick back with your pals and get ready to enjoy one of the best times of the year in Telluride.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Yoga Festival

    Find Your Center in Telluride

    Step away from it all (literally the nearest traffic light is 45 miles away) and find your center at Telluride’s Yoga Festival, which has been around since 2007. This inspirational gathering has over 100 different offerings throughout the four-day festival, including yoga, meditation, music, hiking, dining, stand-up paddleboarding yoga, social gatherings and much more.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    The Ride Festival

    Get Ready to Rock ‘n Roll

    The Ride Festival may be a newer fest on Telluride’s docket, but it is definitely making some noise amongst music-lovers. This festival is known for combining established bands with up-and-coming rock ‘n roll groups to create a unique atmosphere that caters to music and outdoor junkies alike. 5 intimate shows, 3 popular artists, 2 favorite Telluride venues, and one fun rock-n-roll party!

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Art + Architecture Weekend

    When Art and Architecture Collide

    Does it get any better than this? The Telluride Art and Architecture Weekend spans two days and covers some of the most amazing homes, artists, chefs, architects and designers in the Telluride area.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Jazz Festival

    “If this ain’t paradise, heaven can wait.” – Dizzy Gillespie

    For more than 40 years, the Telluride Jazz Festival has been bringing storied musicians to Telluride’s beloved stage in Town Park for an epic weekend of music. This destination jazz festival is three days with additional shows at historic venues around Telluride every night.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Mushroom Festival

    It’s Fungi Time!

    Since 1981, the Telluride Mushroom Festival has been celebrating all things mushroom! The four-day festival is a weekend full of mycology-related forays, special events, lectures and talks from experts in the field.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Film Festival

    Welcome to the Show

    Sundance, Cannes and Telluride. Telluride may be small, but it holds its own against some of the biggest and brightest film festivals in the entire world. The annual Telluride Film Fest celebration brings together cinema enthusiasts, filmmakers and artists to discover the best in world cinema in Telluride’s scenic box canyon.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Blues & Brews Festival

    The Ultimate Festival for Beer and Music Lovers

    What’s better than craft beer and a weekend full of blues music? Absolutely nothing. The Telluride Brews & Blues Festival brings blues, funk, indie, rock, gospel and soul to three different stages across three different days.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Festival of Cars & Colors

    Automobile Aficionados Rejoice!

    Telluride in the fall is a stunning view on its own, but when you add in exquisite cars, it takes it to a whole new level! This four-day Cars and Colors festival celebrates automobiles in the stunning scenery of Telluride, highlighting vintage, exotic and high-end restoration vehicles as well as vintage motorcycles and airplanes.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Original Thinkers Festival

    A New Breed of Festival

    Original Thinkers is a new and unique festival that is working to build a community by curating speakers, films and performance into a powerful four-day experience.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Fire Festival

    Watch Telluride Burn

    Okay, not really. Inspired by Burning Man, the Telluride Fire Festival is a celebration of fire guided by eight different principals. The weekend’s events include dynamic art performances, a Fire Ball, outdoor fire sculpture garden, workshops and much more.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Chocolate Lovers' Fling

    Sweet Tooth, Anyone?

    The annual Chocolate Lovers’ Fling is a delicious event thrown by the San Miguel Resource Center to help eliminate violence and sexual assault in San Miguel County. ach year, the fling has a different theme and features a wide variety of sweets from local chefs as well as a silent auction, raffle, music and plenty of dancing! Don’t forget to bring your sweet tooth!

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Telluride Comedy Festival

    Get Ready to Giggle!

    Since 1999, the Telluride Comedy Festival has been providing the box canyon with world-class comedy in a small, intimate venue. The Sheridan Opera House has hosted the event since the beginning and provides festival-goers with access to comedians like Jack MacBrayer, Jason Mantzoukas, Nick Kroll, Ed Helms, Paul Scheer and many more.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events

    Sheridan Opera House Spring Break Concert Series

    A Spring Break to Remember

    Looking to continue the fun after the mountain shuts down for the day? Each spring, the Sheridan Opera House hosts a Spring Break Concert Series to keep the party going long after the sun goes down.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Hiking at Bear Creek Falls

    Scenic views of the rugged cliffs

    Bear Creek Falls is a beloved local trail in Telluride. This popular trail is well-marked and begins right in the town of Telluride on South Pine Street. Follow the trail 2.5 miles (one-way) past meadows, forests and cairns to the spectacular waterfall!

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Hiking at Jud Wiebe

    One of the first hikes to become clear of snow

    The Jud Wiebe is another local favorite in Telluride! This hike is short but steep and provides panoramic views of Telluride all the way from Ajax Peak to the Valley Floor. It begins at North Aspen Street (there is also a short hike to Cornet Falls that departs from here) and is a 3-mile loop back to the beginning point. You can also begin the opposite way and hike counter-clockwise.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Hiking Sneffels Highline Trail

    12.4-mile out-and-back trail

    For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Sneffels Highline Trail is a great place to start. This 13-mile loop is an all-day hike that departs right from the Jud Wiebe Trailhead. Take the Wiebe until you see the signs for Deep Creek Trail and follow that trail to the Mill Creek mining ruins. There is a 3,520-foot gain on this difficult hike, but the views are definitely worth it!

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Biking at Mountain Village Bike Park

    Lift-served with a variety of interconnected trails

    The Mountain Village Bike Park is world-class! Located in Mountain Village off of the gondola, riders can descend the 1,000-foot drop or take in jumps, 30-plus berms and more! Plus, the newly-constructed bike park features 15 trails and 17 miles of terrain that will appeal to a variety of ages, skill and interests. Riders can access the new terrain via Lift 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily for a fee.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Biking at Valley Floor

    3 mile popular blue singletrack trail

    The Valley Floor is another great place to get some riding in. While not nearly as vertical as the Mountain Village Bike Park, it does offer some amazing scenery on a more casual ride. Watch out for our elk neighbors, who can often be spotted grazing!

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Jeep Tours

    Take an exciting trip on the edge!

    If you'd rather sit back, relax and enjoy the views of a Jeeping excursion, leave it to the experts in Telluride. We have teamed up with several local guided companies to give you the best Jeep tours around Telluride. The best part? Every guide is extremely knowledgable and will be able to tell you key parts of Telluride's storied mining history.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Rent Your Own 4x4 Vehicle

    A premier destination for four-wheel and ATV enthusiasts

    Sometimes you just want to get out there on your own. Instead of being led around by a tour guide all day, rent a Jeep or other 4x4 vehicle and explore on your own! We know the best companies in town to rent from, so don't hesitate to ask your Hotel Columbia concierge about booking a Jeep tour.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    SUPing at the San Miguel River

    Get out on the water!

    You don't have to go very far to enjoy paddleboarding in Telluride. The San Miguel River is a popular spot to float and paddle but also offers a few rushing rapids for an added adventure. Leave from the town of Telluride and disembark right before the roundabout for the best trip!

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    SUPing at Alpine Lakes

    Calm, scenic and relaxing

    SUPing in some of the nearby alpine lakes is both scenic and relaxing. These calm lakes make great spots for stand-up paddleboarding solo or with a group.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Fly Fishing

    Our Favorite Rivers

    • Uncompahgre River - This stunning river is dam-controlled with access eight miles north of Ridgway, or less than an hour from Telluride. This river has an impressive supply of Pale Morning Dun mayfly hatches and the lower sections have a healthy brown trout population.
    • Upper Dolores River - The start of the Dolores river lies just south of Telluride near Lizard Head Pass and the Wilson mountain range. This river is fed by plenty of cutthroat and brook trout streams, making the fishing quite special with plenty of variety.
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Via Ferrata & Rock Climbing

    A Legendary Experience in Telluride - the Via Ferrata

    Telluride's Via Ferrata is a must-do experience while in our beautiful box canyon. It's definitely not for anyone scared of heights or who doesn't love adventure - the most intense part of it will have you suspended 500 feet above the valley floor from iron rungs. If you're not feeling confident in your skills to do it alone, the Hotel Columbia concierge can assist in booking you a trip with a local guide.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Via Ferrata & Rock Climbing

    Rock Climbing in Telluride

    While Telluride's Via Ferrata gets a lot of love, there are plenty of other amazing rock climbing adventures in the area that are worth taking a look at. Some of our favorites include:

    • Ophir Wall - This is a classic area with multi-pitch traditional climbing with some bolder routes put in as well.
    • Bridal Veil Falls Walls - This area offers great single and multi-pitch bolted routes all from the same trail. Many moderate routes exist.
    • Pipeline Wall - Located under the Via Ferrata route, this offers bolt-protected conglomerate pulling that is mostly single pitch.
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Horseback Riding

    Giddy Up!

    Horseback riding in Telluride is a local favorite! With millions of acres of national forest surrounding Telluride, the opportunities to explore are endless! Embark on a trip with a local tour guide and spend a half day, full day or even an overnight trip alongside your horse.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Wagon Rides

    If you're looking to get aboard a horse in a different way, wagon rides are perfect! Telluride Sleighs and Wagons and Telluride Wranglers both offer wagon rides with stunning views just outside of town and the Hotel Columbia concierge would be more than happy to set up a ride for you. Whether you prefer a classic ride or an upscale ride to dinner on a historic sheep ranch, this is one experience you don't want to miss!

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Whitewater Rafting

    Our Favorite Places

    Telluride offers a variety of rafting in the immediate area. Whether you prefer a more low-key outing or something for more experienced river rats, there's something for everyone! Choose from half-day, full-day or multi-day trips with overnight stays along the waterways.

    • San Miguel River - Class II and III located just minutes from Telluride
    • Dolores River - Class II, III and IV near Telluride
    • Gunnison River - Class I-IV located 1.5 hours from Telluride
    • Upper Animas - Class II-V located near Silverton
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Summer activities

    Golfing

    A Course With a View

    This par-70 course is one of the highest in the world. Plus, the high altitude will help out your game - there is less resistance during flight, which leads to longer drives. First opened in 1992, the golf season in Telluride generally runs from the end of May to the beginning of October. Tee times are available to the public from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., which your concierge can arrange for you.

    Other nearby courses:

    • Divide Ranch and Club - Ridgway
    • Black Canyon Golf Club - Montrose
    • Bridges Golf and Country Club - Montrose
    • Cornerstone Club - Montrose
    • Conquistador Golf Course - Cortez
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Skiing & Snowboarding

    About the Telluride Ski Resort

    The Telluride Ski Resort has been named the #1 ski resort in North America by Condé Nast for six of the past seven years - and for good reason. Since it opened in 1972, the Telluride Ski Resort has expanded and become a world-renowned ski and snowboarding destination.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    The Terrain

    There is a wide range of terrain at the Telluride Ski Resort. Of the 148 total trails, 23% are beginner, 36% are intermediate and 41% are advanced or expert. There are 17 lifts that serve these trails, which have a maximum elevation of 13,150 feet. In addition to the trails, there is a ski school, terrain parks, and plenty of inbounds hike-to terrain to challenge yourself.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Ice Climbing

    Ice, Ice Baby

    Waterfalls aren't just for the summer anymore. During the winter, waterfalls in Telluride are great for ice climbing! There is a variety of terrain for all different skill levels, and there are also guides in town who can guide you on your icy adventures. Don't hesitate to ask the staff at the Hotel Columbia about booking a reservation with a local company or renting gear.

    Places to go:

    • Bear Creek Falls - difficult
    • Lower Ames - beginner
    • Ames Ice Hose - difficult
    • Bridal Veil Falls - difficult
    • Ingram Falls - difficult
    • Ouray Ice Park - all levels
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Snowmobiling

    Take a Day Off From Skiing

    A snowmobile tour of Telluride is the perfect way to spend a day off from skiing. Spend a half day or a full day exploring snow-covered meadows near Telluride or embark on a longer trip to Dunton Hot Springs. All skill levels are accommodated on snowmobile rides in Telluride and provide views of the Wilson Range, Dolores peaks, Little Cone, Lone Cone, the Sneffels Range and the La Sal Mountains of Utah.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Sleigh Ride

    Dashing Through the Snow

    You'll be talking about your sleigh ride in Telluride for days. Whether you choose a more traditional sleigh ride or a modern one complete with drinks and food, this adventure will be one for the memory books.

    • Telluride Sleighs and Wagons - Take a journey on the back of a sleigh to the historic Aldasoro Ranch, where you will get to enjoy cocktails and a delicious meal on an old sheep ranch.
    • Telluride Wranglers - Located just 20 minutes from Telluride, Telluride Wranglers offers horse-drawn sleigh rides for small and large groups on the Wilson Mesa.
    • Telluride Horseback Adventures - Owned by local cowboy Roudy Roudebush, this Norwood outfit offers a 10-person sleigh ride pulled by Clyde and Frank, two Belgian draft horses.
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Snowshoeing

    Trekking Through the Snow

    Whether you prefer to go backcountry snowshoeing or travel on some well-known groomed trails, it's always an adventure. The Hotel Columbia can help you book a guided trip (group or private) or help arrange snowshoe rentals to explore on your own.

    Our favorite places:

    • Mountain Village Nordic and Snowshoe Groomed Trails
    • Trout Lake and Priest Lake Groomed Trails
    • Top-A-Ten
    • Alta Lakes
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    • Winter Activities

    Dog Sledding

    Mush!

    There's only one dogsled tour in the Telluride area, making this trip a highly sought-after adventure throughout the winter. Wintermoon Sled Dog Adventures offer half-day, full-day and overnight adventures with their pups. Please let the concierge at the Hotel Columbia know in advance if you'd like to book a dogsledding tour so they can ensure you get a spot.

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    • Winter Activities

    Backcountry Skiing

    This Is What You've Been Waiting For

    Backcountry skiing can be extremely rewarding and absolutely dreamy, but it can also be dangerous. Telluride is known for its steep terrain and is very prone to avalanches, so it is recommended that all backcountry adventurers are comfortable skiing black diamonds. If you want to try it out but aren't sure about doing it on your own, hire a guide! Our Hotel Columbia concierge can direct you to the best ones in town to guarantee a safe and fabulous backcountry skiing experience.

    Places we like to backcountry ski:

    • Bear Creek - technically the "sidecountry", this area is accessed from the Telluride Ski Resort. It is prone to avalanches, so please be wary of conditions before venturing in this area.
    • Alta Lakes - Skiing is extremely diverse in this area and can be accessed from the Telluride Ski Resort's Prospect/Black Iron Bowl ridge.
    • Ophir - This is a popular spot for locals and requires skinning up the mountain to gain access to the epic runs.
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Ice Skating

    Fun For Everyone!

    Families of all ages can enjoy this winter pastime in Telluride. Whether you are looking for a day off from skiing or simply itching to zoom around the resurfaced ice, there are multiple places to choose from to ice skate in Telluride.

    Where to go:

    • Hanley Ice Rink - This is a full-size hockey rink located indoors in Town Park. It is only open in the winter and also is the home of the intramural ice hockey league. Rentals are available at the Telluride Nordic Center in Town Park.
    • Outdoor Town Park Rink - This outdoor rink is located in Town Park and also has a warming hut and bathrooms. It is generally open from mid-December to mid-February. Rentals are available at the Telluride Nordic Center.
    • Mountain Village Ice Rink - Located in the heart of Mountain Village, this outdoor ice rink is open daily during the winter season. Rentals are available onsite, and drinks and food are just steps away!
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Sledding

    Affordable and Fun!

    Sledding in Telluride is an affordable way to have fun in the winter! The best place to partake in the action is on Firecracker Hill, which is located on the southern side of Telluride's Town Park. The sledding hill is labeled with cones. Sleds can be rented at the Telluride Nordic Center or purchased at the Ace Hardware in town.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Fat Biking

    Take on the Snow!

    Fat bikes can handle pretty much anything wintertime can throw at you - from snow to mud, streams and more.

    Our favorite places:

    • Valley Floor - The Valley Floor makes for a great ride in the winter! Cruise down the trail while admiring the scenery around you.
    • Town of Telluride - Cruise around town on a fresh layer of snow with a fat bike! It's definitely more fun than walking.
    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Heliskiing

    Take Your Skiing to the Next Level

    Since 1992, Telluride Helitrax has been taking skiing trips to the next level. Trip styles can be customized by guests and may include anything from a day trip to a custom, multi-day package. Each day includes six runs, which total approximately 10,000-14,000 feet. The day generally begins with a safety meeting and ends with après ski! All equipment needed, including powder skis, poles, avalanche transceiver, food and water, are included

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Winter Activities

    Nordic Skiing

    For Skiers Who Love Horizontal Surfaces

    While not as adrenaline-inducing as skiing downhill, Nordic skiing can be a huge rush and a great way to get exercise. The Telluride Nordic Association takes great care of the Nordic skiing trails in Telluride, and also grooms and maintains the trail systems at Trout Lake and Priest Lake.

    • Hotel Columbia
    • Festivals & Events,
    • Holiday

    Noel Night

    The Beginning of the holiday Season

    Noel Night marks the beginning of the holiday season with the lighting of the ceremonial Ski Tree, and shopping at local retailers. Participating merchants will offer holiday discounts in store, many throughout the day. Please stay tuned for further details.

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    • Hotel Columbia
    • Holiday,
    • Festivals & Events

    New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade & Fireworks

    Celebrate the New Year Mountian-style!

    Watch as Telluride Ski and Snowboard School instructors meander down the mountain with torches to light up the mountainside while fireworks light up the sky above. Torchlight Parades are visible on both sides of the resort: Mountain Village and Telluride and both begin at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks begin shortly after the torchlight parades and are best viewed from the Mountain Village core.

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