17 Of The Best Day Trips From Telluride, Colorado

Telluride is surrounded by outstanding natural beauty, I’d go as far as saying it’s one of the prettiest mountain towns in Colorado.

Its perfect location, tucked into a remote box canyon, makes for stunning 360-degree views. This location does make it a bit difficult to access though, and consequently, it limits day trip options.

Having said that, there are still some good day trips from Telluride, they may just take some effort to reach.

As a Colorado resident, I’ve visited this region a handful of times, it constantly blows me away. These are some of the best day trips from Telluride, Colorado.

Best Day Trips From Telluride 

Mesa Verde National Park 

Distance From Telluride: 1 hour, 40 minutes (80 miles)

This unique national park makes a great day trip from Telluride. 

Mesa Verde is not only a national park, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest archaeological preserve in the United States. The park is is comprised of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and archeological sites dating back to 550 AD.

Most park sites can only be viewed from a distance unless you join a ranger-led tour, which I highly recommend! The tours are immersive and unique, providing a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Pueblo people.

Cliff dwelling tours are most readily available in the warmer months, but the park is open year-round.

Silverton

Distance From Telluride: 1 hour, 50 minutes (75 miles)

Silverton is located in a remote valley surrounded by 13 and 14,000 foot peaks. The entirety of the picturesque town is designated a National Historic Landmark thanks to its well-preserved mining era buildings and remnants. 

Summer visitors will love the town’s hiking opportunities, mine tours, and 4×4 adventures. Winter visitors can enjoy heli-skiing and lift access backcountry skiing at Silverton Mountain and Kendall Mountain ski resorts. Be warned though, these are some of the most challenging ski resorts in Colorado and the roads to get here are dangerous when snowy.

For lots more information, check out my Day Trip To Silverton Guide.

Cortez

Distance From Telluride: 1 hour, 35 minutes (75 miles)

Cortez is one of the state’s many hidden gems. Whether exploring the area’s archaeological sites or visiting the Sunflower Theatre for local entertainment, you’ll love a day trip to this small city.

During your visit, browse the shops downtown and hit a brewery or vineyard, visit Crow Canyon Archaeological Center, or enjoy water activities at McPhee Reservoir.

Ouray

Distance From Telluride: 1 hour (50 miles)

Ouray is known for excellent hiking, pretty views, historic architecture, and beautiful hot springs. The town is only 7 or 8 miles from Telluride, as far as the crow flies, but thanks to an imposing mountain range you’ll have to drive 50 miles to reach Ouray.

It’s worth the effort though!

During summer, hike Box Canyon Falls, see Lower Cascade Falls, browse the shops downtown, and soak in the hot springs. Winter visitors must see the Ouray Ice Park and spend an afternoon warming up in the hot springs.

For more information, check out my guide: Ouray One Day Itinerary.

Ridgway

Distance From Telluride: 50 minutes (40 miles)

Located between Telluride and Ouray is Ridgway, nicknamed the ‘Gateway to the San Juan Mountains.’ 

This small city is a popular base camp to the towering peaks that lie thousands of feet above.

For those just passing through for a day, relax at Orvis Hot Springs, browse the shops downtown, and enjoying water activities like boating and swimming at Ridgway State Park.

Ridgway State Park

Distance From Telluride: 55 minutes (45 miles)

Looking to enjoy a lake day near Telluride? Check out Ridgway State Park. Known for its spectacular views, wildlife, and access to abundant water activities, it should not be missed when planning a day trip from Telluride.

Spend the day swimming, kayaking, beach lounging and fishing during summer at this large lake. Winter visitors, plan for snowshoeing, ice fishing, or simply taking in the views of the surrounding Uncompahgre River Valley.

Drive The Million Dollar Highway 

Starting Point Distance From Telluride: 1 hour (50 miles)

The Million Dollar Highway is considered one of the most scenic drives in the United States, with the famed portion of this route stretching 25 miles along US 550 between the previously mentioned cities of Ouray and Silverton.

The highway is characterized by hairpin turns and steep drop-offs with no guardrails. Nonetheless, it’s extremely popular, which is a testament to its incredible views.

As a day trip from Telluride, follow this itinerary:

• Head to Ouray and explore the city for an hour or two. Plan to walk around the downtown area, see Box Canyon Falls, or go for a quick hike.
• Then hit the road to Silverton, leave plenty of time for stops — there are some spectacular views along this drive.
• Once in Silverton, walk around town, go for a mine tour, and grab a bite to eat before returning to Telluride.

For more information and tips regarding where to stop along the highway, check out Driving The Million Dollar Highway: The Best Stops.

Be sure to have an experienced driver comfortable with heights and double check that the forecast is clear of rain or snow before heading out. Snow is common from October – early June, making this excursion most suitable late June through September. Check out road conditions at Colorado Department of Transportation.

Alta Ghost Town

Distance From Telluride: 40 minutes (12 miles)

Alta Ghost Town is located just outside town and houses the remnants of an old mining town active from 1877 to 1948. After gold was discovered, about 100 or so people settled in Alta before a fire to the mine’s mill closed the operation and sent everyone packing.

Today, a few wooden buildings are left behind, some of which are surprisingly well-intact. The artifacts, combined with impressive mountain backdrops at this gorgeous 11,800 foot site, makes this worth a quick visit from Telluride.

The deserted town sits just over 10 miles from Telluride on Alta Lakes Road, the last bit of the drive requires traversing a dirt road. Once you’ve arrived, the ghost town is just a short walk from the road.

After exploring the ghost town, you can continue another mile up the road to Alta Lake. This is a pretty spot popular for camping, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding.

McPhee Reservoir

Distance From Telluride: 1 hours, 30 minutes (70 miles)

Another great lake day spot near Telluride is McPhee Reservoir, one of the largest lakes in Colorado.

Again, those looking to swim, beach lounge, kayak, canoe, or go boating will love this gorgeous setting. For land-based pursuits, there are also ample hiking and biking trails surrounding the lake.

McPhee Reservoir is located just outside Cortez, visiting the two in one go is a popular day trip from Telluride.

Durango

Distance From Telluride: 2 hours, 15 minutes (111 miles)

Durango is by far the largest city in the region. It’s got a traditional mountain town feel with quick access to hiking and skiing, plus excellent whitewater rafting, but it’s also home to tons of restaurants and breweries. Not to mention, some really great annual events like the Durango Farmers Market, Animas City Night Bazaar, and multiple summer concert series.

The town is 2 hours from Telluride, and since there’s so much to do here, it’s best explored across a few days (with extra time, you could even ride the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway!). But if a day is all you have, I say it’s still worth the effort.

For more ideas and info, head over to One Day In Durango: Day Trip Itinerary.

Gateway, Colorado

Distance From Telluride: 2 hours, 15 minutes (100 miles)

You’ll be amazed at how dramatically different the terrain is just a few hours from Telluride. While rather remote, Gateway is where you’ll find stunning desert landscapes and unique red rock canyons.

In Gateway, plan to do some off-roading or hiking, explore the Gateway Auto Museum, see the Dolores River Canyon, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy a spa day at the famous Gateway Canyons Resort, the town’s main feature.

It’s a trek from Telluride, yes, but if you’re seeking a completely different landscape, you don’t want to miss this small town on the border of Colorado and Utah.

San Juan Skyway

Total Driving Distance: approx. 230 miles

The San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway is a 230+ mile loop connecting a series of popular San Juan towns such as Ridgway, Telluride, Cortez, Durango, Silverton, and Ouray.

Popular destinations along this route have already been mentioned, but if your idea of a fun day trip is going for a long drive, consider tackling the entire scenic byway. Just be warned, the drive alone requires about 6 hours without stops.

If you just want to drive a portion close to town, follow the western portion of this scenic loop. Highway 145 winds along the Dolores River, with spectacular views of the surrounding 14ers and green mountain valleys. Take some time to stop in historic mining towns like Ophir, Ames, and Rico. 

Montrose 

Distance From Telluride: 1 hour, 20 minutes (65 miles)

Montrose’s rich history as both a former railroading and agricultural hub have created a thriving town today that boasts ample outdoor recreation opportunities.

During summer in Montrose, visit the Montrose Farmers Market, hike, or go golfing. Of course, you’ll also want to visit Montrose’s neighboring national park, Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Winter visitors will enjoy snowshoeing and browsing the town’s museums and galleries.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Distance From Telluride: 1 hour, 40 minutes (80 miles)

Right next to Montrose is Black Canyon of the Gunnison, one of Colorado’s four national parks. This is among the deepest, steepest, and most narrow canyons in the United States. It’s so narrow in fact, parts of the canyon floor only see a few minutes of sunlight per day, giving the valley its name: Black Canyon.

In summer, visitors can enjoy a multitude of jaw-dropping viewpoints from Rim Drive Road and even hike into the canyon (permits required for the latter). No matter the season, Black Canyon is quiet considering its national park status, but particularly so in winter. If visiting in the cold weather months, plan to check out the few viewpoints that remain open year-round and snowshoe above the canyon rim.

For a complete itinerary, check out Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park One Day Itinerary.

Mancos State Park

Distance From Telluride: 1 hour, 50 minutes (90 miles)

Mancos State Park is paradise for all types of outdoor adventurers. Land-based pursuits include hiking, horseback riding, or biking. Those who prefer to be out on the water, you’ll find plenty to do on Jackson Gulch Reservoir. Kayaking, canoeing, and sailboats are all permitted without wake and swimming is allowed. 

While this is a great destination year-round, it’s most popular in summer when visitors can enjoy the park’s water activities.

Canyons Of The Ancients National Monument

Distance From Telluride: 2 hours (90 miles)

The Canyons of the Ancients is one of the greatest monuments to Native American culture in the entire country. Its home to the highest known density of archaeological sites in the entire United States. Spanning hundreds of thousands of acres, there are nearly 10,000 artifacts unveiling life for at least the last 10,000 years. This is one of the true treasures of state and should not be missed. 

While here, stop by the visitor center and museum, do some hiking, and view the monuments.

Canyons of the Ancients is only a few miles from Mesa Verde National Park, so the two destinations can be visited together. However, both parks are large, so this may not be practical for those who want to thoroughly explore both. 

Any time of year is a good one for this excursion, but know that summer can be quite hot.

Arches National Park

Distance From Telluride: 2 hours, 50 minutes (140 miles)

An ambitious day trip from Telluride is Arches National Park. Not only is the park entrance 3 hours from Telluride, but the park itself is quite large and has tons to see.

For some it’ll be worth it though. Arches National Park is one of the most unique attractions in the United States. It’s home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches — the densest concentration of such in the world! — not to mention, countless incredible rock formations.

Hike Delicate Arch, see Balanced Rock, and explore the incredible arches in the park’s Window Section during your visit.

You can find tons more information about the best things to do in Arches in my One Day In Arches National Park Guide.

As you can see, there are so many great day trips from Telluride. I hope you’ve found this helpful in planning your trip and have the best time.

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Telluride and Colorado guides!

More Information For Your Trip To Telluride:

• Summer In Telluride: Top Things To Do
• Top Hotels In Telluride, Colorado
• Best Breweries In Telluride, Colorado
• What To Wear During Winter In Colorado

More Information For You Visit To Southwest Colorado:

• Ouray, Colorado Guides
• Silverton, Colorado Guides
• Durango, Colorado Guides
• Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park Guides
• Million Dollar Highway Stops: Everywhere I Stopped Along This Scenic Drive

More Information For Your Colorado Vacation:

• Best Colorado Mountain Towns For First-Time Visitors
• Colorado Travel Guide (everything to know for planning your trip!)
• All Colorado Guides