Day Trips Near Telluride

The town of Telluride, Colorado, is one of the most  beautiful and historic in the country and an excellent place to visit no matter  what time of year. A former silver mining camp, the city is on the San Miguel  River and surrounded by the breathtaking San Juan Mountains. Though it’s highly  unlikely that you’ll run out of things to do and see in the town of Telluride  with its many festivals, dining options, and ski resorts, many people enjoy  taking day trips to destinations nearby. Here are some of the most popular.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 

A true northwest Colorado experience, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge  Railroad once had trains that carried $300 million in gold and silver between Durango and Silverton. If you want to take a historic train ride through some of the most beautiful country in the US, you need to take this one. Trips leave daily from both Silverton and Durango. 

Black Canyon National Park

An hour and a half drive from Telluride, Black Canyon National Park has plenty to do, including rock climbing, horseback riding, and sightseeing. Whether you plan on camping, hiking, or just learning the history of the park, your family will have a full day at Black Canyon.

Arches National Park

Ready for some breathtaking scenery? Visit Arches National Park, which preserves over two thousand natural sandstone arches including the famous Delicate Arch. View millions of years of geologic history, including fins and pinnacles, balanced rocks, and a startling array of colors, textures, and landforms. Just two hours from Telluride, Arches National Park is well worth the drive. 

Silverton

A two-hour drive from Telluride, Silverton, Colorado, is another mining town that has an amazing history and plenty of activities for the family. Horseback riding, fishing and camping are popular in the summer months, while skiing, snowmobiling and ice climbing attract visitors in the winter. 

Ouray

Just an hour’s drive away, Ouray, Colorado, features the relaxing Ouray Hot Springs, where families can play, dive, and swim after a long day of activities. Ouray  features plenty of historical walking and four-wheeling trails as well as rafting and climbing opportunities. In the winter, check out the Ouray Ice Park and the famous Ouray Ice Festival in January.

Mesa Verde National Park

An hour and a half from Telluride lies Mesa Verde National Park. If you are interested in the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people, this is the day trip for you. With five different cliff dwellings, plenty of tours, and tons of prehistory, this national park leaves a big impression.

Telluride in fall is a beautiful place to visit, though you may want to come back during the summer or winter months for even more activities and sightseeing opportunities. Though there is plenty to do in Telluride itself, a few day trips to these attractions can make your family vacation even more memorable. 

SilverStar Luxury Properties offers holiday rentals with concierge services to make your stay in Telluride convenient, comfortable and even more memorable. For availability and answers to your questions
about planning the perfect Colorado trip, please visit our website.