Telluride’s reputation as a world-class ski destination is well-deserved. With legendary runs, pristine powder, and stunning scenery, it’s a skier’s dream. But for those seeking winter adventures beyond the slopes—or simply looking to mix up their mountain itinerary—Telluride offers an abundance of snowy activities that are just as enchanting.
From serene snowshoe trails and lively ice skating rinks to exhilarating sleigh rides and hot springs escapes, winter in Telluride is full of opportunities to connect with nature, enjoy the town’s charm, and create unforgettable memories.
Here’s your guide to enjoying Telluride in winter, beyond skiing and snowboarding.
Snowshoeing: Peaceful Exploration in a Winter Wonderland
For a quieter way to explore Telluride’s breathtaking alpine terrain, snowshoeing offers a peaceful and invigorating alternative. With hundreds of miles of trails winding through snow-draped forests and valleys, there’s something for every skill level and pace.
Top Snowshoeing Trails in Telluride
- Bear Creek Trail: Starting right in town, this popular trail leads you into the beautiful Bear Creek Preserve. It's a moderate route with spectacular views, frozen waterfalls, and frequent wildlife sightings. Snowshoeing here offers an immersive nature experience just minutes from downtown.
- Jud Wiebe Trail: A steeper, more challenging loop, this trail rewards your efforts with panoramic views of Telluride and the surrounding peaks. In the winter, it’s less trafficked and ideal for a quiet morning workout.
- Valley Floor: If you’re new to snowshoeing or looking for a flatter, family-friendly route, the Valley Floor offers open terrain with scenic views of the San Miguel River and surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for wildlife photography and leisurely exploration.
Several local outfitters, including Telluride Outside and BootDoctors, offer snowshoe rentals and guided tours, making it easy to gear up and go.
Ice Skating: Timeless Winter Fun for All Ages
Few winter activities feel as nostalgic and joyful as ice skating, and Telluride provides beautiful venues to enjoy this timeless pastime. Whether you’re gliding hand-in-hand with loved ones or watching kids spin and stumble with laughter, skating brings a sense of community and celebration to the winter months.
Telluride Town Park Ice Rink
Located in the heart of town, the outdoor rink at Town Park offers a picturesque setting for skating, surrounded by snow-covered trees and majestic peaks. The rink is open to the public and features rentals, warming huts, and evening skating under twinkling lights.
Hanley Rink (Indoor)
Also part of Telluride Town Park, the Hanley Ice Rink is an indoor facility ideal for figure skating, hockey, and recreational use on colder or stormier days. With regular open skate sessions and community events, it’s a great place to stay active and enjoy winter fun indoors.
Mountain Village Ice Rink
Located in the heart of Mountain Village, this smaller rink provides a charming alpine atmosphere perfect for après-ski skating or family outings. Surrounded by restaurants, shops, and the illuminated village plaza, it’s a magical spot for evening recreation.
Sleigh Rides: A Whimsical Journey Through Snowy Forests
For a truly enchanting winter experience, bundle up under a blanket and climb aboard a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Telluride’s snowy meadows and forests. Several local operators offer sleigh rides, complete with hot cocoa, stories of the region, and panoramic views.
Telluride Sleighs and Wagons offers a unique experience on Aldasoro Ranch, where guests are transported back in time with dinner sleigh rides, complete with warm fires and home-cooked meals in a rustic mountain lodge setting.
Sleigh rides are an excellent choice for romantic evenings, family outings, or a special holiday celebration.
Nordic Skiing: Glide Through Scenic Winter Terrain
Nordic skiing is another great way to explore Telluride’s winter landscape at your own pace. Whether you prefer classic or skate skiing, the region features well-groomed trails that wind through serene valleys and stunning alpine meadows.
Telluride Nordic Association maintains over 30 kilometers of groomed trails in the region, including:
- Valley Floor Nordic Trails: Easily accessible from town, these flat and wide-open trails are ideal for beginners and those looking for a relaxed outing.
- Mountain Village Nordic Trails: Offering more elevation and varied terrain, these trails are suitable for more experienced skiers and those seeking a workout with a view.
- TopATen Trails: Located at the top of Lift 10, this area provides a more remote and peaceful Nordic experience, perfect for seasoned skiers.
Local shops like BootDoctors and Telluride Nordic Center offer rentals, lessons, and maps to get you started.
Hot Springs Escapes: Soak Away the Winter Chill
After a day filled with outdoor adventures, there’s nothing more rejuvenating than soaking in natural hot springs. While Telluride doesn’t have springs within the town itself, a short drive brings you to some of the most scenic and soothing spots in the region.
Orvis Hot Springs (Ridgway, CO)
Just a 45-minute drive from Telluride, Orvis Hot Springs offers a tranquil, clothing-optional retreat with beautifully landscaped pools fed by all-natural geothermal waters. Surrounded by snow-covered trees and mountain views, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and restore sore muscles.
Ouray Hot Springs
Located an hour away in the charming town of Ouray, this family-friendly hot springs complex features multiple pools of varying temperatures, waterslides, and incredible views of the surrounding canyon walls. It’s ideal for both relaxation and fun for all ages.
Winter Festivals and Events: Celebrate the Season in Style
Telluride’s community spirit truly shines during its winter festivals. From cultural celebrations to adrenaline-filled competitions, the town offers something special for every winter visitor.
- Telluride Fire Festival: Held in January, this fiery arts event combines pyrotechnics, interactive installations, and performance art to light up the coldest nights of the year.
- Mountainfilm Winter Fest: This smaller, winter edition of Telluride’s famous documentary film festival brings inspiring stories and lively discussions to the snowy season.
- Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade: One of Telluride’s most iconic winter traditions, this festive parade sees skiers carrying torches down the mountain at dusk, illuminating the slopes with a magical glow.
Make Telluride Your Winter Wonderland—With the JW Group
Whether you come for the snowshoeing, ice skating, sleigh rides, or simply the snow-covered serenity, one thing is clear—Telluride in winter is nothing short of magical. And while it’s a fantastic place to visit, it’s an even more rewarding place to call home.
The JW Group specializes in Telluride real estate, helping clients find their dream properties in one of the most beautiful mountain towns in North America. Whether you're looking for a ski-in/ski-out condo, a luxury home with alpine views, or a cozy mountain retreat, the JW Group combines deep local knowledge with exceptional client service to guide your journey from start to finish.
Let the JW Group help you find a home that captures the spirit of Telluride in every season.
Contact the team today!
