Happy New Year from Telluride Adventures! We are welcoming 2021 whole-heartedly this month. What better way to celebrate a new beginning in our beloved mountain town than by taking a look back at Telluride’s history and how winter sports have evolved here?

Telluride’s History

For centuries, the Ute tribe inhabited the high-altitude land of Southwestern Colorado during the summer months.

In the 1700s, Spanish explorers named the region’s mountains the San Juans.

Gold was first discovered in the area in 1858.

In 1878, the existing mining camp became a town, founded under the name Columbia. Nine years later, its name was changed to Telluride.

By the 1890s, Telluride was booming. Many people came to seek their fortunes in the remote mining community and the population grew to over 5,000 residents (only 2,500 people live in Telluride today!).

In 1937, a simple rope tow was installed to serve local skiers which set the stage for Telluride’s modern-day resort.

Over time, Telluride’s mining industry dwindled as did its population. By the 1960s, Telluride was considered a ghost town with only 600 citizens.

Skiing in Telluride

skiing

During the 1970s, Telluride reinvented itself as a ski town. Snowcat skiing was first offered in 1970. In 1972, the Telluride Ski Resort officially opened with five lifts.

In 1987, Mountain Village was founded.

1996 brought the opening of the gondola, the only transportation system of its kind in North America.

Today, Telluride is known as a world-class ski resort featuring incredible snow, stunning scenery, and challenging terrain for all skill levels. Its rich history, impressive amenities, and charming ambiance make Telluride a destination not to be missed!

Other Winter Adventures

snowshoeing

Alpine skiing isn’t the only way to experience winter in Telluride. We offer a variety of outings for people of all ages and abilities. Here are some of our favorites:

Backcountry Nordic Skiing: go cross-country skiing off the beaten path.

Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding: experience untouched tracks with the safety of an expert mountain guide.

Fat Tire Bike Touring: explore gorgeous snowy terrain on a bicycle with five inch wide tires.

Ice Climbing: there is nothing quite like climbing a frozen waterfall. 

Snowshoe Tours: take-in the mountains while learning even more about the history of the Telluride region. We offer special excursions for kids too! 

No matter how you choose to explore Telluride this winter, we can’t wait to help you experience it! Contact us today to book your 2021 adventure!

COVID-19 Information

Your safety and wellbeing is of the utmost importance to us. Please review our COVID-19 Policies in advance of your booking. During this unprecedented time, we are unable to provide food or transportation for guests. Please bring a face covering and your own hand sanitizer on all excursions. We also request that you provide any applicable gear, if you have it. Your cooperation is appreciated as we navigate our way through these ever-changing circumstances. Please call us to discuss any questions or concerns. We look forward to adventuring with you!