Telluride
Telluride Overview
Telluride in Colorado is a premium ski destination offering more than 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, uncrowded slopes, and world-class service. Surrounded by towering peaks in a dramatic box canyon, this former mining town blends historic charm with modern luxury. With ski-in, ski-out accommodation in Mountain Village and boutique stays in Downtown Telluride, there’s something here for every traveller. Telluride is part of the Epic Pass, and thanks to reliable snowfall and bluebird days, it’s one of North America’s best-kept ski secrets.
Where is Telluride
Telluride is located in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains in the southwestern part of the state.
For Australian travellers, the easiest way to reach Telluride is by flying from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane to Los Angeles, Denver or Dallas, then connecting to Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ). From Montrose, Telluride is just over an hour’s drive by pre-booked transfer or rental car.
Once in-resort, getting around is easy, there is a free gondola that connects Downtown Telluride and Mountain Village, from 7am – 12am (midnight) daily. Everything is very walkable, or in Mountain Village, you can ski or snowboard between some dining options and hotels.
Where to Stay in Telluride
Telluride offers two main areas to stay:
Mountain Village: Located at the base of the slopes, perfect for ski-in, ski-out convenience. Ideal for families and those wanting direct lift access.
Downtown Telluride: A charming historic area with more dining, shopping, and après-ski options. Access to the ski area is via gondola or chairlift.
What are the best luxury hotels in Telluride?
Madeline Hotel & Residences (Mountain Village): A refined, five-star hotel with slope-side access, heated outdoor pool and on-site dining.
Element 52 (Downtown Telluride): Ultra-luxury, ski-in accommodation with private chef services and premium amenities in the heart of town.
What are the best hotels for Families in Telluride?
Mountain Lodge Telluride (Mountain Village): Is an amazing, with ski-in, ski-out access (via green runs) the property has self-contained condo’s and then large 3 –6 bedroom log cabins with full kitchen facilities, living areas, and lots of space, ideal for families. Mountain Lodge also has all the normal hotel facilities, shuttle, hot tub, swimming pool and an onsite restaurant if you don’t feel like cooking.
The Hotel Telluride (Downtown Telluride): A welcoming, boutique-style property in the heart of town with spacious rooms, a relaxed atmosphere, and easy access to shops, dining, and the gondola. Families will love the complimentary shuttle, on-site restaurant, and proximity to beginner-friendly terrain.
Our team’s top hotels in Telluride:
Loz: I loved the Madeline Hotel, the location was incredible, rooms are large with excellent amenities, the hotel great restaurants and bars and the rooftop pool and hot tub had the best view, especially at sunset.
Jono: Fairmont Franz Klammer in Telluride was awesome, great location, and large apartment-style rooms, which are great for families.
Emily P: Element 52 was excellent, highly recommended for anyone wanting to stay in the town of Telluride.
Dan: My family stayed at Mountain Lodge, it was perfect for our group, especially because some of the group weren’t skiing. The hotel has amazing cabins and facilities for kids, the free gondola means non-skiers can still get around and enjoy everything on offer.
Where to Ski in Telluride
Telluride Ski Resort averages 300 inches of snow each season, with 300 days of sunshine throughout the year. The resort caters to all levels with a balanced mix of beginner (23%), intermediate (36%) and advanced/expert (41%) terrain. Lift lines are short, even in peak season.
Beginners: The Sunshine Express area offers wide, gentle slopes perfect for learning.
Intermediates: See Forever and Polar Queen Express serve long groomers with spectacular views.
Experts: Try the legendary Plunge or Revelation Bowl for steep descents and powder stashes.
Our team’s fave ski runs:
Emily A: Milk Run in Telluride was my fave run, I decked it hard, so it has a special place in my memories (ha ha). Telluride made me feel cool; it made me push myself and my ability.
Emily P: Misty Maiden run, after everyone has finished at après at Gorrono Ranch was hilarious to watch!
Is Telluride Good for Non-Skiers?
Yes, Telluride is fantastic for non-skiers and mixed groups. The historic town of Telluride and the Mountain Village are linked by a free gondola service, which is the only transportation system of its kind in North America. The 13-minute ride eliminates the 13km drive between the two towns & means that non-skiers can still enjoy the mountain.
Non-skiing activities include:
• Snowshoeing and fat biking trails
• Dog sledding and snowmobiling
• Spa treatments at luxury hotels
• Art galleries, boutique shopping, and guided historic tours
• Free scenic gondola rides between town and Mountain Village
Our team’s top things to do in Telluride:
Emily P: Snowmobiling at sunset was amazing, it was such a thrill, and the views are out of this world.
Emily A: Après at Gorrono Ranch was a vibe! The DJ took requests, the drinks menu had variety, people were dancing in ski boots, and a shot ski. Plus the opportunity to ski out with your friends at the end of the day as the sun sets along the mountains (when you've had a beverage and feel like you can descend Everest on your skis).
Loz: Telluride is stunning! After a day on the slopes, enjoy a dusk drink by the fire in the mountain village, overlooking the Hotel Madeline ice rink.
Telluride FAQs
How do you get to Telluride from Australia?
Fly to Los Angeles or Dallas, then connect to Montrose Airport. From there it’s about 1.5 hours to Telluride by car or transfer.
Is Telluride good for beginners?
Yes, there are designated beginner areas with wide groomed runs and access to ski school.
What Epic Pass do I need for Telluride?
Telluride access is included with the full Epic Pass or Epic Day Pass with Telluride add-on.
Can you ski between Telluride and Mountain Village?
Yes, the entire resort is lift-connected, and a free gondola connects the two towns.
When is the best time to ski Telluride?
Mid-January to March offers the best snow conditions. The resort is open from late November to early April.
What’s the après scene like in Telluride?
There are cosy bars and live music venues in both Mountain Village and Downtown. Dining ranges from casual to high-end. If you’re heading up or down the gondola from your hotel for the night, don’t forget it closes at midnight; it’s a chilly walk home if you miss the last ride.
TL;DR Telluride
Telluride is a scenic, uncrowded Colorado ski resort with terrain for all levels and two distinct areas to stay—Mountain Village for ski-in, ski-out convenience and Downtown for historic charm. It offers epic powder, minimal lift lines, and plenty for non-skiers too. Easy to reach via Montrose Airport with connections from Australia through major US hubs. Part of the Epic Pass network.
