Best Things To Do This Summer in Telluride

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Tucked away in the magnificent Rocky Mountain range lies a summer utopia known as Telluride, Colorado. When the winter snows melt away, they reveal a paradise that brims with vibrant wildflowers, inviting hiking trails, and breathtaking natural beauty. Each season in Telluride offers its unique charm, but the magic of summer is something truly special. This blog will guide you through the most unforgettable activities to make your summer in Telluride a memorable one.

What To Do In Summer in Telluride, Colorado

Summer in Telluride is like walking into a postcard. The grand San Juan Mountains cradle this charming town, and when the summer sun shines, the whole area sparkles with life. Telluride transforms from a renowned winter sports destination into an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, boasting activities from hiking and horseback riding to relaxing in natural hot springs. Culinary adventures and history exploration add to the versatile allure of summer in Telluride.

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Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is one of the most authentic ways to explore the wild, untouched terrains of Telluride. The gentle clip-clop of the horse's hooves against the trail is a soothing rhythm that echoes against the magnificent San Juan Mountains' backdrop, creating a mesmerizing symphony of nature. You can almost imagine the bygone era of cowboys and pioneers, traveling across these terrains under the vast Colorado sky.

Telluride Sleighs and Wagons

Telluride Sleighs and Wagons offers a unique horseback riding experience that blends the charm of yesteryears with the scenic beauty of today's Telluride. Run by the ever-welcoming Aldasoro family, native to the area, every ride promises fascinating stories about the local history and culture, wrapped in the warmth of their hospitality. As you trot through the vibrant green meadows, wildflower-strewn trails, and dense aspen groves, you'll find yourself falling in love with the landscape and the lore.

Deb’s Livery Stable

Deb’s Livery Stable offers a variety of horseback riding experiences, including peaceful trail rides, thrilling gallops, and serene sunset rides. Each journey traverses beautiful landscapes adorned with wildflowers, and the clear skies overhead offer panoramic views of the iconic Wilson Peak. Trained guides ensure a safe, engaging ride, making it an ideal adventure for both experienced riders and novices.

Roudy’s Telluride Horseback Adventures

Roudy’s Horseback Adventures promises an off-the-beaten-path experience, exploring Colorado's untouched backcountry. Their horseback rides lead you through sun-drenched aspen groves, along the rhythmically flowing San Miguel River, and atop hills offering sweeping views of the valley below. With experienced guides sharing fascinating stories about Telluride’s rich ecology and vibrant history, it becomes more than a ride; it's an enlightening journey through time and terrain.

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Hike the San Juan Mountains

The San Juan Mountains come alive during summer, revealing a hiker's paradise adorned with lush valleys, trickling streams, and awe-inspiring peaks. Their dense forest canopies echo with the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds, a calming soundtrack to your adventurous hike.

Bear Creek Trail

Bear Creek Trail, a local favorite, offers a moderate hike through lush forests, leading to the magnificent Bear Creek Falls. As you ascend the winding trail, you'll encounter stunning vistas of the valley below and eventually reach the crescendo - a thundering waterfall cascading down the rugged cliffside. The misty spray and the soothing sound of crashing water provide a refreshing respite before your journey back.

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls, home to Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfall, is a must-visit trail for any hiker. The journey takes you through scenic woodlands, past remnants of Telluride's mining past, until you reach the thundering waterfall that seems to pour straight from the heavens. The sight of the roaring water cascading down into the valley below is an awe-inspiring spectacle that epitomizes the raw, untamed beauty of Telluride.

Hope Lake Trail

The Hope Lake Trail invites you to a serene alpine lake, hidden amidst towering peaks and pine forests. As you hike along the well-marked trail, you'll encounter wildflower-filled meadows, babbling brooks, and a rich array of wildlife. Once at the lake, the pristine, glassy waters reflecting the azure sky and the surrounding grandeur provide a picture-perfect spot to rest and rejuvenate.

Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail

Named after a beloved local forest ranger, the Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail is a short, intense hike with a rewarding payoff. As you ascend the switchback trail, you'll witness breathtaking views of the town of Telluride and the stunning box canyon. Every season paints the trail with its unique palette - vibrant wildflowers in the summer, changing leaves in the fall - making each hike a unique experience.

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Soak in Hot Springs

After days filled with exploration and adventure, relaxation is crucial, and Telluride's hot springs are the perfect place for that. Warmed by the earth's natural heat, these geothermal wonders offer a soothing escape where you can rejuvenate and absorb the serene surroundings.

Dunton Hot Springs

Dunton Hot Springs is an idyllic wellness retreat nestled in a picturesque Alpine valley. It features various indoor and outdoor hot springs, each offering a unique experience. From the source-fed bathhouse to the outdoor springs surrounded by River Knives, the experience marries rustic charm with therapeutic relaxation. Its idyllic setting amongst aspens and evergreens heightens the serenity, making each soak a memorable one.

Orvis Hot Springs

Orvis Hot Springs is a naturist's paradise. Located in Ridgway, it features seven soaking areas, each providing a unique experience, from the Lobster Pot's intense heat to the peaceful tranquility of the Island Pond. The clothing-optional environment encourages a deep connection with nature, enhancing your relaxation. At Orvis, you're not just soaking; you're immersing yourself in nature's nurturing embrace.

Ouray Hot Springs

A short drive from Telluride brings you to the Ouray Hot Springs Pool, a family-friendly attraction. With a variety of pools, each with different temperatures, it caters to everyone, from those seeking a relaxing soak to kids ready for aquatic fun. Set against the backdrop of the majestic San Juan Mountains, this is a place where wellness, entertainment, and scenic beauty converge.

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Telluride Historical Museum

Telluride's history is as rich and varied as its landscapes, and the Telluride Historical Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into its storied past. This former hospital, dating back to 1896, houses exhibits that narrate the town's evolution, from its mining roots to its current status as a popular tourist destination. With interactive displays, insightful tours, and captivating artifacts, a visit here deepens your understanding and appreciation of Telluride.

Shop Downtown

Telluride's downtown is a vibrant hub of activity, boasting unique boutiques and local businesses. You'll find a treasure trove of artisan crafts, gourmet foods, local artwork, and mountain gear. Each purchase you make supports the local community, so you're not just shopping; you're becoming a part of Telluride's social fabric. And every item you take home becomes a keepsake, a tangible memory of your summer in Telluride.

Ride the Gondola

No visit to Telluride is complete without a ride on the free gondola, one of the town's most beloved features. It's not just a mode of transportation between Telluride and Mountain Village; it's an aerial adventure that offers unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes. As you ascend, watch as the town shrinks below, the valley expands in front, and the peaks rise beside you. At the top, take a moment to revel in the grandeur of Telluride from a bird's eye view.

Private Chef Dining Experience

After a day of exploration and adventure, nothing beats the luxury of a private dining experience with INTUEAT. We bring a gourmet dining experience to your doorstep, customized to your preferences. Indulge in a gastronomic journey featuring locally sourced ingredients and unique flavors, all set against the stunning backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. This is a culinary indulgence that delights not just your palate but all your senses.

Summer in Telluride, Colorado, promises a blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure, serene relaxation, enriching cultural insights, and tantalizing culinary experiences. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, each summer here unfolds a new chapter, inviting you to immerse yourself in the enchanting symphony of Telluride's wilderness, history, and charm. And with every experience you partake in, you'll weave your own tale of summer in Telluride, etching unforgettable memories in the heart of Colorado.

Jennifer Rives

This article is about my personal profile as a writer. It includes the genres I write in, the style I write in, and advice I have for new writers.

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