How to Spend the Holidays in Telluride: The Ultimate Winter Guide

There’s nowhere quite like Telluride during the holidays — a place where snow-covered peaks rise above glowing streets, and the whole town feels alive with mountain energy. Holiday lights trace the canyon’s rim, torchlight parades streak down the slopes, and fires crackle inside historic bars as friends toast to another best day.

Telluride becomes a north pole snow globe that blends winter wonderland with holiday spirit — where luxury lodging meets true adventure. Families gather for sleigh rides and ice skating beneath the stars, wellness seekers find balance in yoga studios and cedar saunas, and outdoor enthusiasts trade chairlifts for snowshoes and skin tracks.

Even if you’re not skiing bell-to-bell, the off-slope scene runs deep: snowshoe hikes in Bear Creek, guided ice climbs, craft cocktails by the gondola, boutique shopping, après gatherings, and family-friendly events that make the most of the long winter nights.

This guide breaks down how to spend the holidays in Telluride like a local — from signature December events and non-ski itineraries to fitness, wellness, nightlife, and New Year’s celebrations. Whether your idea of the perfect winter day leans cozy, active, or a mix of both, Telluride delivers the rare blend of alpine elegance and authentic adventure.

What Makes Telluride the Perfect Winter Getaway

Telluride isn’t just another ski town — it’s a high-alpine outpost built for people who crave real winter. Framed by 13,000-foot peaks and a history steeped in grit, it’s the kind of place where snowstorms shut down Main Street, locals skin up for sunrise laps, and every night feels like you earned it.

What sets Telluride apart is its mix of wild terrain and refined comfort. You can ice climb frozen waterfalls in the morning, soak in a wood-fired hot tub by afternoon, and walk to world-class dining without ever moving your car. The holidays bring an extra charge — from torchlight parades and mountain fireworks to cozy nights in historic bars filled with live bluegrass and laughter.

For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s a rare balance: high adventure by day, small-town soul by night. Whether you’re here to move, relax, or just breathe the mountain air a little slower, Telluride delivers a winter that still feels untamed.

Family-Friendly & Off-the-Slope Adventures

Telluride might be known for its expert ski terrain, but when it comes to family-friendly winter fun, the real magic happens beyond the lifts. Here, snow becomes a playground for every age — and every pace.

Between outings, stroll Main Street for locally owned shops and cozy cafés with a stop at Elks Park to check out the Ski Tree. 

Telluride during the holidays strikes that perfect balance — active days, relaxed nights, and the kind of shared moments that stick long after the snow melts.

Outdoor Fitness & Wellness

Telluride attracts a particular kind of traveler — the one who doesn’t just watch the mountains, but moves through them. Here, fitness and wellness take on a raw, alpine edge. It’s about earning your turns, soaking your muscles, and finding peace in the elements.

For seasoned skiers, Telluride’s surrounding basins and high passes offer world-class backcountry ski touring — from mellow powder laps on Lizard Head Pass to full-day missions beyond the crowds. Hire a certified guide to learn safe travel techniques, assess snowpack, and chase untouched lines where solitude is guaranteed.

Prefer a more mellow backcountry adventure without the risk of avalanches? Set out on a classic cross-country ski tour — perfect for a low-impact cardio session surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery. Or embark on a Private Snowshoe Hike to explore nature in total silence. 

Top Non-Ski Experiences — The Must-Do List

Even if you never click into skis, Telluride delivers enough winter adventure to fill your holiday week. These experiences showcase the best of the San Juans — combining adrenaline, scenery, and mountain adventure.

Horse-Drawn Sleigh & Wagon Rides

For families and couples alike, experience an unforgettable ride through snow-covered meadows framed by 13,000-foot peaks. Expect cozy blankets, hot chocolate, and photo stops along the way. Most rides last 45–90 minutes, with private dinner options available for a more elevated evening under the stars.

Telluride Sleigh Rides

🕐 ~60 minutes | 📍 Schmid Ranch/Wilson Mesa (near Telluride) | ⭐ 5.0 (1 review) | All ages welcome.

Why you’ll love it: A horse‑drawn sleigh through a snowy ranch setting is the quintessential Colorado holiday moment—perfect for couples and families. Expect cozy blankets, hot chocolate, and photo stops along the way.

Snowmobiling Adventures — Scenic Routes Off the Beaten Track

Telluride’s backcountry was built for throttle-junkies and sightseers alike. Try a guided snowmobile tour cruising through alpine meadows, old mining roads, and untouched powder fields with access to alpine bowls, ghost towns, and untouched powder fields.  Half-day options are available, and no experience is required — just a sense of adventure and a warm base layer.

Telluride Half-Day Snowmobile Tour

🕐 4 hours | 📍 Telluride | ⭐ 5.0 (3 reviews) | Minimum age: 6+.

Why you’ll love it: Cover a lot of winter terrain quickly and experience alpine meadows and ridge lines — a thrilling way to see the high country paired with massive views of the Wilson Range.

Guided Snowshoe Hikes

Snowshoeing offers a quieter, more grounded way to explore the San Juans. Join a naturalist-led tour or rent gear and head up Bear Creek Trail for a self-paced climb to frozen waterfalls and panoramic canyon views. It’s accessible, family-friendly, and a perfect option for rest days between bigger missions.

Private Guided Snowshoe in Telluride.

🕐 3 hours | 📍 Telluride | Suitable for all ages.

Why you’ll love it: Explore snowy forest trails, track wildlife, and reach viewpoints at a comfortable pace. Guides handle route selection and safety, so it’s excellent for first‑timers.

Ice-Climbing Introduction Experiences

No experience necessary — just a willingness to try something few ever do. Experience a winter adventure like no other on frozen waterfalls near Ames or South Mineral Creek, learning basic technique, crampon use, and belay safety. It’s an empowering and surprisingly approachable way to test yourself against gravity in one of the sport’s legendary regions. 

Guided Ice Climbing in Telluride

🕐 5 hours | 📍 Telluride | Suitable for all beginners and kids age 10 and up

• Best for: adventurous guests, couples seeking a challenge, families
• Why you’ll love it: Guided full‑day access to frozen waterfalls and classic local ice routes. Guides tailor the route and instruction to your skill level and provide all technical gear, so you can focus on the climb and the views. This is an immersive, memorable alpine experience for anyone wanting a winter-filled day.
• Practical notes: Technical gear is provided; plan for a full day outdoors and dress in insulating layers. Must book 48 hours in advance.

Winter Fly Fishing

Quiet, focused, and remarkably peaceful — winter fly fishing on the Uncompaghre is one of the region's best-kept secrets. Guided trips provide all gear, waders, and local knowledge you’ll need. Expect solitude, active fish, and the meditative rhythm of casting in snow-covered landscapes. 

Winter Fly Fishing The Uncompahgre — Half Day

• Duration: ~240 minutes (4 hours)
• Best for: anglers of all levels, couples or small groups, guests who want a mellow half‑day guided outing
• Why you’ll love it: A relaxed half‑day on productive tailwaters guided by local experts. Equipment (waders/boots, flies, tackle) is included, and guides provide instruction for all skill levels. Winter fishing is peaceful and surprisingly productive—a great contrast to more adrenaline‑driven winter activities.
• Practical notes: The meeting point for this tour is 45 minutes from Telluride in Ridgway. Transportation to the meeting point is not included. Booking cutoff: typically 48 hours.

Fat Biking on the Valley Floor

Swap skis for wheels with a fat-tire bike ride across the Telluride Valley Floor, a mellow, scenic trail system groomed for wide-tire riding. Rent from Box Canyon Bicycles, and cruise beneath massive peaks while the ski lifts hum in the distance. 

Helicopter Scenic Flights

For the ultimate perspective, take to the sky. Telluride Helitrax offers scenic helicopter tours that reveal the vastness of the San Juans — from frozen alpine lakes to the rugged summits of Wilson Peak and Mount Sneffels. Flights typically last 20 minutes, and every passenger gets a front-row seat to Colorado’s most dramatic terrain.

Best Spa Experiences & Hot Springs Day Excursions

Balance your adventure with recovery. Here are the top wellness & spa experiences in Telluride — perfect for active adventurers, couples, or families wanting to balance movement with relaxation. Each combines luxury with mountain sensibility.

The Spa at The Peaks Resort

This is one of Colorado’s largest spa & fitness centers, located right in Mountain Village. The offerings are extensive: classic and European-inspired massages, body treatments, facials, a full-service salon, and even fitness/yoga/movement studios. Amenities include heated indoor-to-outdoor pools, hot tubs, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges. Great choice if you’re recharging after skiing, snowmobiling, or long hikes. Perfect option for the kids with an indoor waterslide. 

Madeline Spa & Salon (Auberge / Madeline Hotel & Residences)

If you want luxe wellness with modern mountain chic, this is it. Located around ~10,000 feet in Mountain Village, Madeline provides high-end treatments inspired by alpine surroundings. Think restorative therapies, in-room services, a full salon, and thoughtful touches that cater to someone who wants pampering but also authenticity. Perfect for couples or solo travelers wanting to reset after outdoor adventures.

PURE Beauty & Wellness Spa

Boutique, curated, and deeply relaxing, PURE Beauty & Wellness is right in downtown Telluride on Colorado Ave. Standouts include their Salt Cave, Infrared Sauna, Oxygen Lounge, and a range of signature treatments designed for recovery (massages, facials, body work). Great mid-trip rejuvenation: compact, high-quality, and easy to access.

Mangala Yoga Studios

Offering warm yoga classes (infrared heated vinyasa, slow flow). Ideal for those who appreciate heat, deep stretch, and healing, especially after cold days outside.

Day Trip to Ouray — The Hot Springs Capital of Colorado

Just over an hour’s drive from Telluride, the tiny mountain town of Ouray makes for a perfect winter day trip — especially if your idea of recovery involves natural mineral waters, snow-covered peaks, and total relaxation. Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray sits cradled by 13,000-foot summits and is home to three distinct soaking experiences, each with its own character and vibe.

Ouray Hot Springs Pool

The town’s signature spot, Ouray Hot Springs, is family-friendly, scenic, and easy to access right off Main Street. The facility features multiple geothermal pools ranging from 75°F to 104°F, a lap pool for exercise, and shallow zones perfect for kids. Surrounded by snow-capped cliffs, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a morning of snowshoeing or ice climbing in the nearby gorge. Locker rooms, towel rentals, and a snack bar make it convenient for travelers — just bring a swimsuit and flip-flops.

Orvis Hot Springs

For a quieter, more natural experience, head 10 minutes north to Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway. This adults-only retreat emphasizes tranquility — no chlorine, no cell phones, and optional clothing. The complex offers a mix of outdoor soaking pools, private indoor tubs, and a sauna, all fed by 100% natural mineral water. Temperatures range from warm to nearly steamy (up to 112°F). Orvis has a laid-back, restorative vibe that attracts both locals and wellness travelers. You can purchase a day pass or book overnight lodging if you’d like to extend the reset.

Weisbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings

Hidden in a quiet corner of Ouray, The Weisbaden blends history, healing, and old-world charm. The highlight is its vapor cave, a natural geothermal steam cavern beneath the property where you can alternate between mineral steam and cool showers — a true mountain spa experience. Outside, a small soaking pool surrounded by snow and pine trees completes the scene. The Weisbaden also offers massage therapy, body treatments, and overnight rooms for those wanting a full day (or night) of alpine restoration.

In Telluride, wellness isn’t separate from adventure — it’s built into the way you live the day.

Dining, Nightlife & Holiday Celebrations

When the sun drops behind Ajax Peak and the alpenglow fades, Telluride shifts gears — trading powder turns for live music, performing arts, whiskey glasses, and a holiday buzz that hums through the canyon. Nights here are equal parts mountain grit and high-country polish, with fires crackling in stone hearths and locals mingling with visitors who came for the snow but stayed for the scene.

Telluride's Après Done Right

In Telluride, après isn’t tied to the slopes — it’s a ritual. Telluride’s après-ski scene perfectly balances rustic mountain energy with refined alpine style — a reflection of the town itself. Whether you’ve been ski touring all day, snowshoeing on the Valley Floor, or just strolling through Main Street, there’s a spot to wind down that fits your vibe.

In Mountain Village, you will find the ski instructors' watering hole at Tracks Cafe and Bar. For the best holiday beverage, head to the Telluride Distilling Company for a Hot Cocoa and locally made peppermint Schnapps, known as Chairlift Warmer. Or check out a Hot Toddy with their in-house whiskey. For a luxury lodge vibe, head to the Timber Room at the Madeline Hotel for roaring fires, plush seating, and alpine cocktails that feel indulgent but earned. For a casual scene, Poacher’s Pub keeps things friendly with local brews and hearty comfort food.

Down in town, Oak (at the base of the gondola) is a local favorite for its hearty barbecue and casual patio scene that stays buzzing from late afternoon through sunset. If you’re after something more elevated, the New Sheridan Bar is a Telluride institution — think historic woodwork, stiff drinks, and an old-West atmosphere that draws skiers, guides, and visiting celebs alike. Or head down the street to There Bar, which serves creative small plates and craft cocktails in a cozy, modern setting perfect for couples or groups. Head down to The Grand for a Raw bar and craft drinks. 

Dining Highlights

Telluride’s dining scene walks a fine line — The National brings a contemporary twist to mountain fare.  Right in the heart of Main Street, Floradora Saloon blends Telluride’s Wild West history with elevated comfort food. It’s an ideal spot for families or groups — you’ll find juicy burgers, hearty salads, and homemade soups, plus a solid kids’ menu. Parents can enjoy a local beer or signature cocktail while kids color or play with the paper menus. The vibe is mountain-casual with just enough polish for a cozy holiday dinner without the formality.

If you’re looking for a lively scene that’s still welcoming for kids, Smuggler’s Brewpub hits the mark. Located just off the gondola, it’s one of Telluride’s original breweries with craft beers brewed in-house, generous portions, and a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere. Think burgers, ribs, mac and cheese, and fish tacos — plenty to keep everyone happy. It’s also spacious, so families don’t have to worry about crowding or noise.

A longtime Telluride staple, La Cocina de Luz is a warm, colorful Mexican restaurant serving organic, locally sourced Southwestern dishes. There’s a walk-up counter for ordering, making it easy for families, and kids love the quesadillas, tamales, and fresh-squeezed juices. Adults can enjoy a margarita or kombucha on tap, and the open seating makes it perfect for casual lunches or early dinners after a day outdoors.

Our Favorite Holiday Menus

For a holiday-inspired menu, make a reservation at Allred's, perched at 10,551 feet with views that make every toast feel earned. This multi-course dinner includes elevated starters (seafood bisque, lobster, seasonal vegetables), small bites, and upscale desserts. Great view, romantic setting. 221 South Oak's Chef Eliza Gavin is known for inventive, seasonal fare: fresh ingredients, bold flavor blending (New American with touches of Creole, French, southern, etc.), and game or seafood where available. Over the holidays, those seasonal touches matter — things like winter squash, root vegetables, possible specials around local game, or holiday-appropriate ingredients. 

Torchlight Parades & Fireworks

Nothing captures the spirit of the season like Telluride’s Torchlight Parade. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, local ski patrollers carve glowing lines down the ski runs to town, ending with a fireworks display that lights up the box canyon. For the best view, stand on Main Street near the Courthouse where the full run is visible. Bring a camera — the red torches against the snow make for one of the most iconic winter shots in Colorado.

Whether you’re chasing live music, mountain elegance, or a quiet night under the stars, Telluride’s nightlife during the holidays is about one thing — celebrating winter in good company, in a place that still feels wild and rare. 

🎄 2025 Telluride Holiday Events Calendar

Non-Ski Holiday Itineraries

You don’t need a lift ticket to feel Telluride’s magic. The best winter days here combine movement, great food, and a sense of stillness that’s hard to find anywhere else. Whether you’ve got a long weekend or a full week in the San Juans, these itineraries blend outdoor adventure, local culture, and just enough luxury to make it unforgettable.

3-Day Holiday Getaway — The Classic Telluride Winter Mix

Day 1: Settle into town and start slow. Take a snowshoe hike up Bear Creek Trail for a front-row view of the frozen canyon, then grab a late lunch at The Butcher & The Baker. As dusk falls, catch the gondola to Mountain Village for sunset drinks at the Timber Room, then linger by the fire as lights flicker across the valley.
Day 2: Warm up your legs with cross-country skiing on the Valley Floor or a guided ice-climbing lesson in Ames. Afternoon? Spa time — book a deep-tissue massage or sauna session at The Peaks Resort Spa. End the night with dinner at 221 South Oak, where local ingredients meet alpine comfort.
Day 3: Chase the horizon with a half-day snowmobile tour above Trout Lake, followed by après at There Bar. If the timing’s right, stick around for the Torchlight Parade or live music at the Sheridan Opera House — Telluride tradition at its finest.

5-Day Active & Wellness Retreat

Day 1: Arrive, unpack, and stretch your legs with a yoga or Pilates class at Telluride Yoga Center. Early dinner in town, then a quiet night adjusting to altitude.
Day 2: Head out with a guide for backcountry ski touring on Red Mountain Pass — a day of climbing, descending, and total immersion in wild snow. Recover that evening with a private soak and gourmet dinner at your lodge.
Day 3: Take a scenic drive to Ouray Hot Springs, where steaming mineral pools sit beneath snow-covered peaks. On the way back, stop in Ridgway for a casual dinner at Taco del Gnar.
Day 4: Explore Telluride’s boutique shops and art galleries, then spend the afternoon fly fishing the lower San Miguel River with a local outfitter.
Day 5: End your stay with one more mountain fix — a snowshoe trek at Trout Lake followed by brunch at The Phoenix Bean Café. Depart recharged, maybe a little sun-burned, definitely wanting to come back.

Holiday Insider Tip

The week between Christmas and New Year’s is peak season — for both crowds and energy. Book restaurants and guided trips early, and plan one or two “quiet days” to explore beyond the ski resort. That balance — motion and stillness, luxury and wild — is what makes a Telluride holiday feel different.

Shopping

Telluride might wear its ruggedness well, but beneath the snow and grit is a refined alpine culture built around good taste, craftsmanship, and a love for the high life — lived simply, but well.

Shopping in Town

Main Street feels like a mountain museum of style and skill. You’ll find independent boutiques, gear outfitters, and artisan galleries that reflect the town’s blend of adventure and artistry. Stop by Jagged Edge Mountain Gear for top-tier backcountry apparel and avalanche safety tools, or Telluride Naturals for locally made gifts, apothecary goods, and hand-poured candles. Fashion-forward travelers can browse Sublime Telluride or Two Skirts for mountain chic done right — fur-trimmed parkas, shearling boots, and sleek outerwear that transition seamlessly from gondola to dinner.

Art lovers shouldn’t miss Telluride Gallery of Fine Art or Lustre Gallery, both featuring Western-inspired work with modern flair. If you’re shopping for the holidays, local jewelers and leatherworkers offer one-of-a-kind keepsakes that capture the soul of the San Juans.

Practical Planning Guide — Bookings, Timing & What to Pack

Planning a Telluride holiday requires a mix of foresight and flexibility. The town fills fast during the holiday season, and the mountain weather can change on a dime. Here’s how to make the most of your trip.

What to Book in Advance

Between Christmas and New Year's, Telluride sells out, so early planning is essential for access to peak experiences. Make sure to reserve experiences weeks (or months) ahead. Priority bookings include:

• Guided Winter Tours
• Restaurant Reservations
• Transportation Services
• Spa Services
• Live Music Events, New Year’s Eve events, or special services such as catering pr private chefs. 

Transportation & Parking

Telluride’s free gondola connects Mountain Village and Town, eliminating the need to drive once you’re in the box canyon. Winter parking is limited, so check if your lodging includes reserved spots. For excursions, plan extra travel time — roads are plowed but icy, and some backcountry trailheads require 4x4 vehicles or guided shuttles.

Weather Expectations & Clothing Checklist

Winter temperatures fluctuate widely — from zero degrees at night to 30–40°F during the day. Layering is key:

• Base layer: moisture-wicking thermal
• Mid-layer: fleece or down
• Outer shell: waterproof and windproof
• Accessories: insulated gloves, balaclava, goggles, warm hat, and sturdy boots

Bring extra layers if you plan backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, or ice climbing, and always pack sunglasses and sunscreen for high-altitude sun exposure.

Accessibility & Family Considerations

Many activities are family-friendly, but some — heli flights, ice climbing, or backcountry skiing — have age, weight, or fitness restrictions. Plan shorter excursions for young children and ensure all participants have suitable winter gear. Ask operators about private or semi-private experiences to accommodate family groups.

Safety, Altitude & Health Notes

High-altitude holidays demand extra attention to health, acclimation, and safety, especially for non-ski adventures.

Altitude Sickness Awareness & Prevention

Telluride sits at 8,750 feet. Signs of altitude sickness include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Preventive measures:

• Hydrate consistently
• Limit alcohol in the first 24–48 hours
• Move slowly on the first day
• Consider over-the-counter remedies like acetazolamide after consulting a doctor

Winter Safety for Non-Ski Adventures

Even low-impact excursions require appropriate traction and gear:

• Microspikes or crampons for icy trails
• Warm, layered clothing and waterproof footwear
• Guide recommendations for snowshoe, snowmobile, or ice-climbing trips
• Always check weather, avalanche forecasts, and local trail conditions

Cancellation & Refund Tips for Holiday Bookings

Winter weather can force last-minute adjustments. Policies vary, but general tips include:

• Confirm cancellation windows and refund rules for all tours, sleigh rides, and heli flights
• Book through operators that offer flexible rescheduling during storm closures
• Keep travel insurance handy for high-value excursions