Destination: Telluride

Winter In Telluride & Mountain Village: A Snowy escape with soul

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Tucked into the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Telluride and Mountain Village are the kind of places that make you believe in winter magic. With powdery slopes, cozy après spots, and a gondola that floats between two charming towns, this destination is equal parts adventure and charm.

Whether you're here for the skiing, the food, or just the views, this guide pulls together everything I love about winter in Telluride—starting from the moment you land.

Getting There: The Scenic Route Starts Early

Most travelers fly into Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), about 65 miles from Telluride. From there, it’s a 90-minute drive through winding mountain roads that build the anticipation with every mile. Be sure to check and see if your accommodations provide a car service from the airport- you won’t need a car once you get there. Pro tip: grab snacks before heading up—you’ll thank yourself later.

Where to Stay: Mountain Village

I always stay in Mountain Village, perched above Telluride and connected by a free gondola. It’s ski-in/ski-out, quieter than downtown, and has that cozy alpine village vibe. And at the heart of it is Mountain Village Square—a European-style plaza filled with cafés, gear shops, string lights, and fire pits. Whether you’re sipping coffee, catching a local musician, or just watching snowflakes drift down, the square has a way of pulling you in. We always stay at The Fairmont Heritage Place, but The Madeline Hotel, Inn at Lost Creek, or The Lumiere by Dunton are all just as breathtaking.

Where to Stay: Downtown Telluride


If you want to be in the heart of it all, downtown Telluride is where the magic happens. Tucked into a box canyon and framed by towering peaks, this historic mining town blends rugged charm with walkable convenience. You’re steps from local cafés, indie shops, and the free gondola that glides up to Mountain Village. Colorado Avenue hums with energy—especially in winter, when twinkling lights, torchlight parades, and cozy après-ski spots bring the season to life. Whether you’re grabbing a pastry at Ghost Town Coffee or strolling to the trailhead for Bear Creek Falls, downtown makes it easy to explore, unwind, and soak up the snowy scenery. Check out The Hotel Telluride, Camel’s Garden Hotel, or Dunton Town House to feel truly apart of this magical town.

What to Do When the Snow Falls

Telluride in winter is a little slice of alpine magic—whether you're chasing powder or just soaking up the snowy scenery from a coffee shop window. Start with the iconic Telluride Ski Resort, where over 2,000 acres of terrain cater to beginners, experts, and everyone in between. Not a skier? The free gondola ride between Mountain Village and downtown offers stunning views and a memorable way to get around.

For thrill-seekers, try ice climbing with local guides or snowmobiling to the eerily beautiful Alta Ghost Town. Prefer to keep things mellow? Glide through Mountain Village on one of its scenic ice rinks, or explore groomed Nordic trails via snowshoes or cross-country skis.

Looking for storybook charm? Dog sled rides and horse-drawn sleighs wind through snow-covered forests—just add a wool blanket and a cup of hot chocolate. After a day outside, warm up with a craft beer at Telluride Brewing Company or a signature Flatliner cocktail from the historic New Sheridan Bar. Bonus points if you end your day with a soak in nearby hot springs like Dunton or Orvis—steamy, scenic, and restorative.

Want to round it out with a little culture? Duck into the Telluride Historical Museum to learn about the town’s mining roots and ski history. However you roam, Telluride knows how to make winter feel downright magical.

Dining Highlights: Where to Eat & Warm Up

Casual Favorites

  • Baked in Telluride – Local staple since 1977. Stop by for breakfast burritos, Reubens, or a donut the size of your face.

  • Tomboy Tavern – Laid-back and slope-side in Mountain Village. Grab a burger, wings, or truffle fries by the fireplace or on the heated patio.

  • Tracks Café & Bar – Heritage Plaza go-to for coffee, breakfast burritos, rice bowls, and après drinks in a friendly setting.

  • Siam – Cozy and casual with bold Thai flavors that hit the spot after a cold day out.

  • There – Fun and flavorful small plates, craft cocktails, and a relaxed-but-lively scene. Perfect for mixing it up with something inventive.

  • Gorrono Ranch – Located mid-mountain on the Misty Maiden run, just below Lift 4, this historic lodge serves up burgers, BBQ, and Chuck’s Famous Chili with panoramic views of the Wilson Range. It’s got that laid-back, ski-day energy with a splash of island vibe—perfect for grabbing a drink, catching live music, and soaking up the sun on the outdoor deck or “Snow Beach.”

Upscale & Elevated Dining

  • The Chop House – Timeless steakhouse inside the historic New Sheridan Hotel. White tablecloths, great wine, and mountain-town charm.

  • Allred’s – Gondola-access fine dining perched at 10,551 feet. Come for the sunset, stay for the prix fixe menu and incredible wine list.

  • Alpino Vino – At nearly 12,000 feet, this alpine gem offers cozy lunches and unforgettable five-course Italian dinners (book the snowcat if you go at night!).

  • La Piazza del Villaggio – Tucked into Mountain Village Square, this romantic spot serves up refined Italian classics and a deep wine list.

  • Black Iron Kitchen + Bar – Elevated comfort food with fire tables and a cozy-modern vibe—great for après or a relaxed dinner with a twist.

Final Thoughts: Why I Keep Coming Back

Whether you're catching first chair or cozying up by a fire pit under string lights, winter in Telluride and Mountain Village is more than just a season—it’s a whole mood. With storybook streets, slope-side views, and moments that swing between adventure and total stillness, it's the kind of place that leaves snow in your boots and stars in your eyes. From scenic gondola rides to après cocktails and everything in between, this little corner of Colorado wraps winter in charm, comfort, and a hint of magic. Ready to get planning on your next winter vacation? Book everything from flights, to hotels, to adventures with Expedia.