Top 5 Off-Season Activities in Telluride
Twice a year (spring and fall), Telluride and Mountain Village shut down for shoulder season. Many restaurants, shops and the gondola are closed. But off-season is actually one of the best times to visit Telluride if you're looking for a relaxing, quiet trip. You'll likely have Main Street all to yourself! Here are a few of our favorite activities to enjoy while the off-season is in full swing.
5. Eat!
While there may not be many restaurants open, there are a handful of delicious places to grab a snack! Locals stick behind and work through the off-season to keep these restaurants open, so swing by and visit and show them some love. Typically, Cornerhouse, Smuggler's, Esperanza's, La Cocina de Luz and Crazy Elk stay open. Click here for a full list of open restaurants.
4. Walk the River Trail in Telluride or Boulevard Trail in Mountain Village
There's nothing like a scenic stroll while soaking in the views of the San Juans. The River Trail in Telluride is a flat, easy walk that spans the entire valley floor and offers views of Ajax Peak, Beaver Pond, San Miguel River and the town of Telluride. The Boulevard Trail in Mountain Village has rolling hills and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, including the San Sophia ridgeline. When dry, both of these trails are ideal for biking as well!
3. Take a Scenic Drive
Telluride is situated amongst some of the most stunning 14,000-foot peaks along the epic San Juan Skyway (includes the Million Dollar Highway), one of the most beautiful drives in the country. Spend a day traversing the road, which will take you through Ouray, Silverton, Durango, Dolores, Cortez, Rico and many other stops. Plan on this trip taking an entire day - it typically takes around 7 hours with no stops. If you're more of a desert person, The Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic Byway connects Placerville to Grand Junction and features the Hanging Flume, Gateway Canyon and so many stunning views along the river. The trip takes 3 hours one-way, so plan on 6+ hours round-trip.
2. Hike
Depending on the snowpack, hiking can be a great option in the off-season. While snow at higher elevations doesn't typically melt until June or later, lower elevation hikes, such as the Jud Wiebe or Bear Creek Falls are typically clear earlier in the season. If there's still too much snow, snowshoeing in the area is a great option instead!
1. Enjoy the Peace and Quiet
The shoulder seasons are the most chill Telluride ever gets, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the peace and quiet.
