Looking for a true Rocky Mountain adventure beyond Telluride? Just an hour’s scenic drive over breathtaking passes lies Silverton, Colorado — one of the best places in the country to experience side-by-side ATV and UTV adventures. This historic mining town is surrounded by rugged peaks, high-alpine passes, and a labyrinth of old mining roads that now serve as some of the most thrilling off-road trails in the San Juans.

A Silverton side-by-side outing makes for an unforgettable day excursion from Telluride. In a single trip, you can climb above tree line, ride through ghost towns, and soak in views that stretch across the mountains in every direction. Whether you’re behind the wheel of your own UTV or following the lead of an experienced guide, this is a chance to leave the crowds behind and explore the raw beauty of Colorado’s high country.

Why Add Silverton to Your Telluride Trip?

Telluride offers world-class beauty, but the San Juans are vast — and Silverton opens the door to even wilder terrain. Unlike a Jeep, a side-by-side gives you a more open-air, immersive connection to the mountains. You’ll feel the crisp alpine air, hear the crunch of tires on rock, and have unobstructed views in every direction.

Silverton’s ATV and UTV trails are legendary, connecting remote valleys, hidden lakes, and passes that soar above 12,000 feet. For Telluride visitors, it’s an easy way to expand your vacation without giving up an entire weekend. Guided tours, half-day outings, and full-day rentals make it simple to fit this adventure into your travel plans.

The Terrain: San Juan Majesty

Silverton sits at over 9,000 feet, ringed by the dramatic peaks of the San Juan Mountains. Trails lead out in every direction, many of them following routes carved during the area’s mining boom in the late 1800s. Today, these dirt roads provide off-road access to some of the most stunning landscapes in Colorado.

One minute you’ll be winding through aspen groves, the next you’ll crest a pass above tree line with views stretching for miles. Along the way, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and remnants of abandoned mining towns create constant variety. For photographers and adventurers alike, it’s an endless playground.

Popular Side-by-Side Routes

The Alpine Loop

This iconic route links Silverton with Ouray and Lake City, climbing over both Cinnamon and Engineer Passes. It’s a full-day epic with nonstop views, historic ghost towns, and plenty of technical terrain.

California & Corkscrew Pass

A half-day favorite, this loop delivers colorful red rock, tight switchbacks, and sweeping overlooks. It’s one of the most photogenic rides near Silverton.

Animas Forks Ghost Town

History comes alive on the ride to Animas Forks, one of the region’s best-preserved mining towns. Explore old cabins, a saloon, and the iconic “Bay Window House.”

Maggie Gulch & Stony Pass

Quieter and less traveled, these routes provide solitude and stunning high-alpine scenery, perfect for those looking for a more remote experience.

Tours vs. Rentals

Guided Tours
Guided ATV and UTV tours are perfect for travelers new to off-roading or anyone who wants to get the most out of their day. Local guides handle navigation, share stories of Silverton’s mining history, and adjust the pace to your comfort level.

Rentals
Renting a side-by-side gives you total freedom. Choose from a quick 2-hour outing, a half-day adventure, or a full-day exploration of the Alpine Loop. With maps and suggested routes, you can create your own backcountry journey.

With Silverton just a short drive away, there’s no better way to expand your Telluride adventure. This is Colorado off-roading at its best — raw, rugged, and unforgettable.