Summer Activities in Telluride, Colorado
Much like Telluride’s hiking opportunites, there’s a plethora of running trails each with its own unique characteristics and sights. The altitude is a wonderful challenge for athletes in training as are our inclines. For leisure runners, there are trails that wind through meadows and forests, trails that lead out to waterfalls, or you can run on the paved bike path.
A popular trail for runners, hikers, and bikers is our Bridal Veil Falls mostly because of the 365 feet waterfalls but also the 1.8-mile trail leading up to it. You’ll gain 1,200 feet of elevation on a rocky terrain. You can continue down to the bottom of the falls to enjoy a refreshing mist before hitting the trail back to your starting point.
An easy trail and local favorite is the San Miguel River Trail which runs alongside the river through Telluride. The trail is 4.25 miles one way and you’ll often encounter other runners or walkers as well as dogs jumping into the dog-friendly swimming hole.
Another popular trail with the locals and visitors alike is the Bear Creek Trail, a 2.5-mile one way trip to Bear Creek Falls. This trail takes you through the 325-acre Bear Creek Preserve and connects to the Wasatch Trail and Bridal Veil Basin.
For the serious runners, try Prospect Trail which is 10 miles across the Mountain Village ski area. You’ll run under lifts toward Prospect Basin and then you can connect with the Boomerang Trail for a longer run where you’ll end up in Alta Ghost Town to enjoy the view of Alta Lakes.
Runners can really challenge themselves with the Sneffels Highline trail which is noted as difficult and is a 14-mile loop. You’ll gain 3,520 feet in elevation as you climb from the Jud Weibe trail off of Aspen Street to the highline above the timberline.
As with any outdoor adventure in Telluride, it’s important to plan for rapidly changing mountain weather as well as staying hydrated. Pack extra water or energy snacks for these runs and pay attention to trail markers to avoid running off the trail.
