Nestled in a breathtaking box canyon surrounded by the rugged San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, is a historic gem that seamlessly blends Victorian-era charm with world-class outdoor adventure. Once a bustling silver mining town in the late 1800s, this National Historic Landmark District now captivates visitors with its colorful, well-preserved buildings and a vibrant cultural scene. With an elevation of 8,750 feet and a population of just over 2,500, Telluride boasts unparalleled access to skiing and snowboarding at the Telluride Ski Resort, alongside summer festivals like the renowned Telluride Film Festival and Bluegrass Festival. Whether hiking the scenic trails, exploring the free gondola connecting Telluride to Mountain Village, or soaking in the town’s laid-back yet sophisticated vibe, Telluride offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Rockies.
Activities in Telluride
1. Ski or Snowboard the Epic Slopes of Telluride Ski Resort: Dive into a
winter wonderland at the Telluride Ski Resort, where over 2,000 acres of diverse terrain await. From heart-pounding black diamond runs like the Plunge to gentle beginner slopes, skiers and snowboarders of all levels can carve through powdery snow with jaw-dropping views of the San Juan Mountains. With an average of 300 inches of snowfall annually and 300 days of sunshine, you’ll experience crisp, sunny descents down trails framed by rugged peaks, followed by a cozy après-ski scene in the vibrant Mountain Village.
2. Hike the Bear Creek Falls Trail: Lace up your boots for a scenic trek along 
the Bear Creek Falls Trail, a 4.8-mile round-trip adventure that immerses you in Telluride’s stunning alpine landscape. Starting from the heart of downtown, the moderately challenging trail winds through fragrant pine forests and wildflower-dotted meadows, culminating at a 30-foot waterfall cascading over rugged cliffs. The roar of the falls and panoramic views of the box canyon make this hike a perfect blend of tranquility and awe, especially in summer when the greenery is lush and vibrant.
3. Ride the Free Gondola for Stunning Aerial Views: Hop aboard
Telluride’s free gondola, a 13-minute ride connecting the historic town to the modern Mountain Village at 10,500 feet. As you glide above the rugged San Juan peaks, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and the charming town below. Operating year-round, the gondola offers a unique perspective—whether it’s the fiery autumn foliage, sparkling winter snowscapes, or summer’s emerald slopes—making it a must-do for soaking in Telluride’s dramatic beauty without breaking a sweat.
Places to Eat
1. 221 South Oak
– Ambiance: Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian home, 221 South Oak
offers an intimate and upscale bistro atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The dining area is adorned with local artwork, and two charming garden patios provide a serene outdoor option in warmer months. The cozy bar and elegant decor create a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe, enhanced by warm lighting and attentive service.
– Types of Food: This New American bistro, led by Top Chef alum Eliza Gavin, serves inventive dishes influenced by Creole, French, and Californian cuisines. Expect house-made everything, from sauces to pastries. Standout dishes include seared scallops with smoked sweet potato puree, buttermilk fried quail with spicy honey, and vegetarian options like braised kale with miso maple squash. The menu emphasizes local, sustainable ingredients, and an extensive wine list complements the food.
– Location: 221 S. Oak St., Telluride, CO 81435
2. Brown Dog Pizza
– Ambiance: A lively, casual sports pub on Telluride’s bustling Colorado Avenue,
Brown Dog Pizza is a local favorite with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. The interior features 10 TVs for sports fans, a bustling bar with local brews on tap, and picnic-style seating that encourages people-watching. It’s the kind of place where you can relax with a beer and a slice while soaking in the town’s energy.
– Types of Food: Famous for its award-winning Detroit-style pizza (first place at the 2015 Pizza World Championships in Parma, Italy), Brown Dog offers thick, crispy-edged pies like the Brooklyn Bridge, topped with signature red sauce, ricotta, pepperoni, and Italian sausage. The menu also includes classic American pizzas, gluten-free options, hot wings, sandwiches, and salads, paired with a robust selection of local craft beers.
– Location: 110 E. Colorado Ave., Telluride, CO 81435
3. Siam
– Ambiance: Siam offers a cozy, intimate setting in downtown Telluride, with a
warm and inviting atmosphere that balances rustic mountain charm with a touch of elegance. The dining room is small and softly lit, ideal for a relaxed meal after a day on the slopes. Its reputation as one of Colorado’s best Thai restaurants draws a steady crowd, so reservations are recommended.
– Types of Food: Specializing in authentic Thai cuisine, Siam’s menu features dishes crafted by Thailand-born chefs using local and organic ingredients. Highlights include king crab and lobster tempura, pineapple-and-red-curry mussels, and rich duck breast in banana curry. The restaurant also offers creative takes like short rib khao soi and vegetarian options, earning accolades from 5280 magazine for its bold, textured flavors.
– Location: 200 S. Davis St., Telluride, CO 81435
These restaurants showcase Telluride’s diverse culinary landscape, from upscale bistro fare to casual pizza joints and authentic international cuisine, all set against the town’s stunning mountain backdrop. Let me know if you’d like more options or specific details!
RV Parks Near Telluride
Telluride Town Park Campground
– Location: 500 E. Colorado Ave., Telluride, CO 81435 (right in downtown
Telluride)
– Description: Nestled in the heart of Telluride’s historic district, Telluride Town Park Campground is the only campground within town limits, offering unparalleled access to the town’s festivals, shops, and the free gondola to Mountain Village. Situated between the San Miguel River and Bear Creek, this campground is ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in Telluride’s vibrant culture while enjoying a scenic mountain setting. It’s open from mid-May to mid-October, with reservations required online due to limited availability. Note that RVs are restricted to 30 feet (including tow vehicle), and slide-outs are not recommended for all sites.
– Amenities:
– Basic Facilities: Flush toilets, showers, and drinking water available.
– Recreation: Access to Town Park’s pool, tennis courts, pond, and playground. Nearby hiking trails and river access for fishing or rafting.
– Other: Communal bear boxes for food storage, compostable pet waste bags, and a campground attendant on-site from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Generators are allowed only from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
– Limitations: No electrical hookups or on-site dump stations (nearest dump station is at the wastewater treatment plant at Society Turn). Limited parking, with no overflow or trailer parking available.
– Unique Features: Its prime location makes it perfect for festival-goers (e.g., Bluegrass or Film Festival), though blackout dates apply during major events. The campground’s proximity to downtown offers a rare blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, with stunning views of the box canyon.
2. Ouray Riverside Resort
– Location: 1804 Main St., Ouray, CO 81427 (approximately 45 minutes from Telluride, via CO-145 and US-550)
– Description: Located along the Uncompahgre River in downtown Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray Riverside Resort is a year-round RV park that serves as an excellent base for exploring Telluride, Ouray’s hot springs, and the Million Dollar Highway. The park offers a range of RV sites, from riverfront to pull-through, accommodating rigs up to 45 feet. Its well-maintained facilities and scenic views of Mount Abrams and Bridal Veil Falls (visible in summer) make it a favorite among RVers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
– Amenities:
– RV Sites: Full hookups with 50/30/20-amp electric, water, and sewer. Options include Premium Riverfront Sites (up to 45 ft), Pull-Thru Sites (80 ft deep), and Circle Sites (up to 40 ft) with communal fire pits.
– Facilities: High-speed Wi-Fi, private 24/7 laundromat (membership required), Trading Post for snacks and supplies, and community hot tubs.
– Recreation: Direct access to the Ouray Riverwalk for walking or fishing, proximity to hiking trails, Via Ferrata, and Jeep rentals on-site. The resort also has a Smokehouse Restaurant serving BBQ and local fare.
– Pet-Friendly: All sites are pet-friendly, with ample space for dogs to roam along the river.
– Unique Features: The resort’s riverfront deluxe cabins and bungalows add a glamping option, and its location near Ouray’s hot springs (a short walk) is a major draw. Guests praise the clean facilities and friendly staff, with a 4.4-star rating from 18 reviews on TheDyrt.com.
3. Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park
– Location: 27646 CO-145, Rico, CO 81332 (approximately 30 minutes south of
Telluride, along CO-145)
– Description: Tucked along the Dolores River, Priest Gulch Campground and RV Park is a privately owned retreat in a panoramic setting, 12 miles from Rico and 30 miles from Telluride. Surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, this campground offers a peaceful escape with easy access to hiking, fishing, and off-roading. Open from May to September, it caters to RVs, tents, and cabin rentals, with full-hookup sites for RVs up to 35 feet. Its lush, wooded environment and riverfront location make it ideal for nature lovers.
– Amenities:
– RV Sites: 27 campsites, 11 with full hookups (30/50-amp electric, water, sewer). Sites include picnic tables and fire pits.
– Facilities: Flush toilets, drinking water, showers, and a small store for basic supplies. Wi-Fi is available but may be limited due to the remote location.
– Recreation: Direct access to the Dolores River for trout fishing, nearby hiking trails (e.g., Lizard Head Wilderness), and off-road trails via Dunton Road. The campground also offers cabins and lodge rooms for non-RV campers.
– Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome, with open spaces for walking along the river.
– Unique Features: The campground’s proximity to the Lizard Head Wilderness and its serene riverside setting make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Reviewers on TheDyrt.com highlight the lovely walking paths and river access, making it a great family-friendly option. Reservations are strongly recommended due to its popularity in summer.
Telluride Reg. Waste Treatment Plant RV Dump
Ouray KOA Dump Station
1. Telluride Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant RV Dump Station
– Location: 12000 Highway 145, Telluride, CO 81435 (Society Roundabout, west of Telluride)
– Description: This is the primary RV dump station in Telluride, located at the wastewater treatment plant near the Society Roundabout. It offers a free dump site with potable and non-potable rinse water available. A long black hose attached to a faucet on the northeast corner of the building provides potable water. Payment, if required, can be made at the office or in a black letterbox on the fence beside the dump station. The site is in a parking lot with a manhole cover (labeled “SEWER”) that must be moved to access the dump, which can be awkward and messy due to its industrial design. Access may be limited on weekends, and the cost is reportedly $22-$30 for non-residents, though some reviews note it as free.
– Directions from Downtown Telluride (500 E. Colorado Ave.):
1. Head west on W. Colorado Ave. (CO-145) toward S. Pine St. (0.3 miles).
2. Continue straight onto CO-145 S, passing the Telluride Gondola Station.
3. After about 1.5 miles, you’ll reach the Society Roundabout.
4. The wastewater treatment plant is just off the roundabout, on the right (look for signs for the Animal Shelter, as the dump station is in the parking lot in front of it).
5. Park on the gravel access road near the manhole cover in the parking lot. The office is about 300 feet from the dump site if you need to pay or inquire about water.
– Note: The gate at the highway is typically open, but the site can be tricky to maneuver due to parked vehicles and the large manhole opening. Bring your own hose for potable water and exercise caution around the open sewer.
2. Ouray KOA Holiday RV Dump Station
– Location: 225 County Road 23, Ouray, CO 81427 (approximately 23 miles from Telluride)
– Description: Located at the Ouray KOA Holiday campground, this dump station is a convenient option for RVers traveling north from Telluride toward Ouray. It’s available for registered guests at no extra cost, but non-guests can use it for a fee (typically $10-$20, though you should call to confirm). The campground offers full hookups at some RV sites, potable water, and rinse water, with clean, well-maintained facilities. It’s big-rig friendly and situated along the Uncompahgre River, making it a scenic stop. The KOA also has amenities like a general store, laundry, and hot tubs, ideal if you need to restock or relax.
Directions:
1. Head west on W. Colorado Ave. (CO-145) toward S. Pine St.
2. Continue on CO-145 N for about 15 miles, passing through the town of Placerville.
3. At the junction, turn right onto CO-62 E toward Ridgway (7 miles).
4. In Ridgway, turn right onto US-550 S toward Ouray (9 miles).
5. Just before entering downtown Ouray, turn left onto County Road 23 (look for signs for Ouray KOA Holiday).
6. The campground entrance is on the right, and the dump station is near the office or RV sites (check with staff upon arrival).
– Note: Call ahead (970-325-4736) to confirm availability and fees for non-guests. The drive involves winding mountain roads, so take it slow, especially with larger RVs.
Books About Telluride
1. Telluride (CO) (Images of America) by Elizabeth Barbour and Telluride Historical Museum
– Summary: This 128-page pictorial history, published by Arcadia Publishing in
2006, vividly captures Telluride’s transformation from a rugged mining camp to a world-renowned resort town. Featuring over 200 vintage photographs from the Telluride Historical Museum’s archives—many previously unpublished—the book chronicles the town’s early days as a Ute hunting ground, its 1870s silver and gold boom, and its cultural renaissance in the 20th century. Author Elizabeth Barbour, who worked at the museum in the 1990s, complements the images with detailed captions that highlight key events, such as Butch Cassidy’s 1889 bank robbery, the introduction of alternating current power in 1891, and labor disputes in the early 1900s. The book also explores the town’s designation as a National Historic Landmark District in 1964 and its evolution into a skiing and festival hub. Reviewers praise its high-quality photo reproduction and accurate historical insights, making it an engaging resource for both locals and visitors. It’s particularly noted for bringing Telluride’s “haunting and enchanted” past to life, offering a visual journey through its mining camps, Victorian architecture, and modern cultural prominence.
2. A Quick History of Telluride: Colorado’s Boom-Bust-Boom Again Town by Rose Weber
– Summary: Published in 1974 by Western Reflections Publishing, this concise 52-
page book offers a compact yet richly illustrated overview of Telluride’s history, from its mining origins to its early 1970s revival. Written by Rose Weber, the book is a first-edition gem, measuring approximately 8.5” x 5.5” with a cardstock cover and high-quality paper that has withstood the test of time. It details Telluride’s founding in 1878 as Columbia, its renaming to Telluride in 1887, and its wild mining heyday, including the infamous 1889 San Miguel National Bank robbery by Butch Cassidy. The book also covers quirky historical anecdotes, such as a banker’s 1929 scheme that saved local depositors during the market crash. Vintage photographs of mines, businesses, and early town life enhance the narrative, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities of a mining town. While it focuses on the historical period up to 1974, it briefly discusses early plans for Telluride’s ski resort development. Reviewers commend its crisp printing, outstanding photo quality, and straightforward storytelling, noting its value for casual readers and those seeking to identify historic structures in Telluride. Its candid depiction of the era’s stereotypes reflects the unfiltered historical context of the time.
Final Thoughts for The Smart RVer
Telluride, Colorado, is a captivating blend of rugged history and modern allure, where the echoes of its silver-mining past resonate alongside the vibrant pulse of its present-day festivals, world-class skiing, and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in a dramatic box canyon, this National Historic Landmark District invites adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike to explore its charming Victorian streets, conquer the San Juan Mountains’ trails, or simply soak in the serene majesty of its alpine vistas. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of outdoor thrills, the rich tapestry of its storied past, or the warm hospitality of its tight-knit community, Telluride leaves an indelible mark—a timeless destination that effortlessly balances wild spirit with refined charm, ensuring every visitor departs with a piece of its magic.