Once a rugged mining town tucked away in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Telluride was built on silver booms, steep canyon walls, and frontier grit. In the late 1800s, it was a bustling hub for miners and fortune seekers, and in 1889, Butch Cassidy famously robbed his first bank right on Colorado Avenue, Telluride’s main street. As mining declined, the town reinvented itself as a world-class ski destination, and a beloved hub for hikers, adventurers, and creatives drawn to its jaw-dropping beauty and small-town community.
At Ryder-Walker, Telluride isn’t just another pin on the map, it’s home. This is where our founder, Peter Walker, lives and our global headquarters is located. It’s where we’ve retreated after exploring Europe, and beyond, to create some of the most inspiring hiking itineraries in the world. The geography here is unmatched, think jagged ridgelines, Caribbean-blue alpine lakes, wildflower-strewn trails, and the highest concentration of 14,000-foot peaks in all of Colorado. Trails are well maintained, vary in difficulty, and are deeply rewarding. Whether you’re wandering beneath golden aspens in the fall or trekking through vibrant green basins in the summer, it’s some of the most scenic hiking in the lower 48; and we know every corner of it!
Telluride-Based Hiking Trips
For those looking to experience the magic of Telluride on foot, we offer several unforgettable routes:
- Aspen to Telluride (Guided): A dramatic, high-alpine journey that links two of Colorado’s most iconic mountain towns.
- Telluride Trek (Self-Guided): A flexible and immersive route that lets you explore the best trails at your own pace.
- Telluride Mini Trek: A condensed adventure that’s perfect for a long weekend escape or as part of a broader Colorado trip.
Seasonal Hiking Highlights
- Spring: Vibrant green aspen trees, warming weather, quieter trails.
- Summer: Wildflowers, long days, warm weather, festivals and events.
- Fall: Stunning aspen foliage mid-September to mid-October.
The Perfect Meal in Telluride
Start your morning with a stop at Butcher & Baker, a cozy spot known for its fresh-baked pastries and light breakfast options. If you’re on the go, grab a coffee from Coffee Cowboy—an iconic local stand where you can sip and watch the morning come alive at the base of the ski resort. For a heartier breakfast, head to Floradora, a longtime favorite for classic brunch dishes served in a lively, friendly atmosphere.
Midday, recharge with a massive burrito or fresh tacos at La Cocina, where the organic ingredients and homemade salsas hit the spot after a hike. If you’re looking for something quick and easy to take with you, Lunch Money offers sandwiches and bowls packed with flavor, while Butcher & Baker is also a great sit-down option for lunch—don’t skip the desserts.
After a long day on the trail, the après scene is low-key but full of character. Oak, The New Fat Alley, serves casual fare and local beers with a patio that’s perfect for people-watching. For views with your cocktail, head to the rooftop of the Last Dollar Saloon or the Sheridan Hotel. The Last Dollar Saloon offers great vantage points of Ajax Peak and the historic buildings that line Colorado Avenue.
When it’s time for dinner, The Grand offers elevated American cuisine in a stylish, newly remodeled space. The National is known for Mediterranean flavors and handmade pasta, and the Sheridan Chop House delivers traditional steak and seafood in a classic setting.
More Than Just Hiking
There’s more to Telluride than just its trails. Rent a mountain bike from Box Canyon Bicycles and cruise the Valley Floor to Telluride Brewery or tackle the singletrack on Prospect Trail. On warmer days, rent a paddleboard and float down the San Miguel River from town to the gas station—an easy, 4-mile refreshing ride. Or take it slow: browse the boutique shops along main street, book a massage, and let the views do the rest.
Be sure to ride the free gondola up to San Sophia Station—it’s one of the most scenic commutes in the country. From the top, you’ll see sweeping views back down into the box canyon of Telluride and westward toward the iconic Wilson range. And, in the Town of Telluride, don’t miss the short hike to the base of Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall and a picture-perfect reward for a mellow morning walk.
Traveling to / from Telluride
Telluride may feel like a hidden gem, but getting here is easier than you’d think. Most travelers fly into Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), about 90 minutes away, with direct flights from major cities. From Montrose, it’s an easy drive or shuttle into town. You can also fly directly into Telluride Regional Airport (TEX), just 10 minutes from downtown, with limited service from Denver and Phoenix.
Come Hike With Us
Telluride’s sense of community, dramatic setting, and unbeatable hiking have shaped who we are at Ryder-Walker. We live here. We love it. And we’d be thrilled to share it with you on a guided trek, a self-guided adventure, or a mini-escape. Come see why this little town at the end of the road inspires so many to lace up their boots and wander a little further.
Comments are closed.