Telluride, CO

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Nestled among the majestic peaks of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride beckons adventurers of all ages with its breathtaking scenery, charming streets, and boundless outdoor pursuits. The town is surrounded by 13,000 and 14,000-foot peaks and is actually just eight blocks wide and twelve blocks long. It’s stunningly beautiful, yet unlike Aspen and Vail, it’s very unpretentious. A true paradise for anyone looking for laid-back vibes mixed with family-friendly adventures.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Arrive in Telluride and let the adventure begin! Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic Telluride downtown, where colorful Victorian buildings house eclectic shops, quaint cafes, and galleries brimming with local art. Let your little ones lead the way as you explore the charming streets, stopping to admire murals, snap photos, (Main Street with the mountains behind it is the dreamiest) and perhaps indulge in a sweet treat or two. We always stay in Mountain Village because everything you need is within walking distance. We take the gondola 10 minutes down to town which the kids could do over and over all day long.

After lunch, embark on a scenic gondola ride from Telluride to Mountain Village—a journey that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, much to the delight of young and old alike. Once in Mountain Village, set out on a family-friendly hike along one of the many trails accessible from the gondola station, such as the Meadows Trail or Village Trail, where wildflowers bloom and wildlife sightings abound. Our personal favorite is the Ridge Trail. This is a short, two-mile trail that starts at the top of the Gondola at the San Sophia Station. Exit the gondola at San Sophia and take a left. The trail starts just past the gondola overlooking the town. It’s an easy hike for kids, as it’s mostly all downhill, less than 2 miles, and only takes about an hour or so depending on how fast or slow you go.

As evening descends upon the mountains, treat your family to a delicious dinner at one of Mountain Village’s family-friendly restaurants, where locally sourced ingredients and creative cuisine take center stage. My favorite place is the Black Iron Kitchen. There’s no better ambiance than relaxing at a fire table, and the Elk chili and Waygu burger are to die for. 10/10 recommend. I can’t go to Telluride without eating there at least once! Afterward, unwind with a leisurely stroll under the starlit sky, basking in the serene beauty of this mountain paradise.

Telluride, CO

Day 2: outdoor adventures

Rise and shine—it’s time for a day of outdoor exploration in the heart of nature! Start your morning with a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway, where awe-inspiring vistas, cascading waterfalls, and hidden gems await around every bend. Pack a picnic lunch (take the gondola before you leave from mountain village to the grocery store for yummy sandwiches) and venture to one of Telluride’s scenic spots, such as Bridal Veil Falls or Bear Creek Falls, for a family picnic amidst nature’s splendor.

This summer, since they will be a bit older, we plan to teach the boys fly fishing. We will use Telluride Fly Fishers, which is a guide service, locally owned and operated that offers half-day and full-day walk/wade trips in surrounding rivers, streams, creeks, ponds, and lakes to accommodate everyone from children to adults and from first-time anglers to very experienced fishermen.

In the afternoon, embark on a family-friendly adventure such as horseback riding, river rafting, or exploring the Telluride Town Park, where playgrounds, open fields, and the meandering San Miguel River provide endless opportunities for outdoor fun. For those seeking a thrill, consider taking a ride on the Telluride Alpine Slide—a winding track that offers adrenaline-pumping twists and turns with breathtaking mountain views as your backdrop. Or try your hand at the Via Ferrata (I’d suggest using a guide company) as it can be very dangerous and you need helmets, climbing harnesses, etc.

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, return to Telluride for a well-deserved dinner at one of the town’s family-friendly eateries, where hearty fare and warm hospitality await. End your day with a leisurely stroll through Telluride’s enchanting streets, soaking in the magical ambiance of this mountain town illuminated by the soft glow of dusk.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration and Departure

On your final day in Telluride, immerse your family in the rich cultural tapestry of the region with a visit to the Telluride Historical Museum, where exhibits and artifacts offer insight into the town’s fascinating history and heritage. Afterwards, embark on a scenic drive to nearby historic towns like Ouray or Silverton (we have taken The Narrow Gauge Railroad from Silverton to Durango and had an AMAZING time) but you can also explore old mines, visit charming shops, and soak in the rich history of the region.

As the day draws to a close, bid farewell to Telluride with hearts full of cherished memories and spirits rejuvenated by the beauty of nature. Reflect on the adventures shared, the bonds strengthened, and the magic of family travel experienced amidst the towering peaks and pristine landscapes of this mountain paradise.

A weekend in Telluride with children in the summertime promises an unforgettable journey filled with outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, (or both) and countless opportunities for family fun. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and embark on a family escapade to this enchanting mountain town—a destination where memories are made and adventures await around every corner.

Top 5 places to eat

Black Iron Kitchen (mountain village)
Brown Dog Pizza
221 South Oak
Siam (if you like Asian/Thai)
La Piazza del Villaggio Ristorante (also in mountain village-and our FAVE place to get authentic Italian pizza and gelato)

Top 3 favorite places to stay (all located in Mountain Village)