by John Williams

The temperatures are cooling down and fall has arrived in Telluride. All signs are pointing to an early color change this year. The combination of cooling temperatures along with less sunlight creates a majesty of color during the fall as leaves stop creating chlorophyll and leaves turn shades of red, orange, and yellow. With all the beautiful outdoor destinations and scenery throughout the state of Colorado, Telluride is anything but ordinary. Here are the best spots to enjoy the outdoors during fall in Telluride.

THE GONDOLA

If you are looking for an overall view of the lovely fall colors in the area look no further than the Telluride Mountain Village Gondola. The opportunity to ride in the sky to see the expansive views of the area is one that shouldn’t be missed. The 13-minute ride up to the top will showcase the many deciduous trees in the area as well as give you a bird’s eye view of the mountains. The gondola is free to the public and carries over 2.5 million passengers each year. Make sure to call ahead during the fall as the gondola undergoes maintenance periodically.

BRIDAL VEIL FALLS

Check outBridal Vail Falls, the highest waterfall in Colorado, that is a whopping 365 feet tall located on the outskirts of Telluride. Visitors can either hike the rocky road that leads to the base of the falls or drive in a 4-wheel drive vehicle. The hike up the road is less than 2 miles and is flanked by some of the most beautiful aspen trees in the area. You’ll note the many areas of deciduous trees, including the bright yellow aspens, that will make this hike an enjoyable fall activity.

MAIN STREET

Telluride is a small town that is tucked away in the mountains making it a prime spot to view fall colors. Stroll down Main Street to take in all of the beauty that the area has to offer. You’ll note the surrounding hillsides of impressive evergreen trees mixed with bright yellow aspens that have started to prepare for a long winter’s nap. Check out the many historical buildings down Main Street as well as stop for a souvenir or lunch while enjoying the crisp fall air.

TOWN PARK

This impressive park is located along the San Miguel River and is a great stop for those families visiting with young children. There is a fun playground as well as plenty of space to run around. A large sports complex is included in the park as well as camping spots making this a busy spot year-round. Town Park is a great spot to enjoy the outdoors by playing a game of tennis, soccer, frisbee, or baseball while also being surrounded by both the changing trees in the park and the beautiful views of trees along the river and mountains.

BEAR CREEK FALLS

Start your day out right by taking a hike up to Bear Creek Falls. The trailhead is located at the edge of town making this an easily accessible trail for visitors. This moderate hike is great for those who want to a few hours of hiking. Bear Creek Falls is located close to Telluride and you can actually see the town from the trail making this a great spot to enjoy the fall colors. Pack a lunch and make your way up to the impressive waterfall. Enjoy a break at the falls and then your reward in walking down the trail while taking in all of the splendor of color with views of the surrounding area.

There are plenty of spots in Telluride to enjoy the beautiful changing of the seasons. Consider stopping at any or all of these places while visiting in order to fully enjoy the wonder of the changing leaves. From hikes to waterfalls, gondola trips, to strolling down Main Street you’ll find these and plenty of other amazing spots to enjoy the fall views while visiting Telluride.

John Williams is an outdoor living expert and explorer. When he’s not traveling to nature’s most well known beauty spots, he tends to the greenery surrounding his home.