Telluride, Colorado is home to beautiful mountain scenery, exquisite dining and entertainment, and world-class skiing. While this makes it a stunning place to visit in the winter, there is just as much to do in the Spring and Summer. Here are four family-friendly hiking trails in the Telluride and Mountain Village areas that are worth traveling for.
1. Bear Creek Trail
A popular destination due to its moderate but manageable incline and rewarding end at a waterfall, Bear Creek Trail is a five-mile round-trip adventure. The trailhead is located in downtown Telluride and continues to a view of an 80-foot cascading waterfall. Dogs are welcome on leashes and this well-traveled path is manageable for young hikers. The elevation gain is 1,092 feet.
2. River Trail
This trail follows the San Miguel River and can be started and exited at multiple spots through Telluride. It is mostly flat and good for smaller children due to the flat terrain and ample waterfront fun. By heading in the direction toward the Legacy Trail, you will also find signs that educate hikers about Telluride’s history as a mining town. The overall distance is 6.6 miles out and back. It is dog-friendly (leashes required), and the elevation gain is 393 feet.
3. Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail
Hikers who enjoy a moderate route that they can pick up downtown will appreciate the Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail. This 3.1-mile loop features fantastic views of the valley, a beautiful waterfall, and a number of unique wildflowers and wildlife to experience. The trail’s difficulty is appropriate for moderate to advanced level hikers in warm months. Winter hiking boots, spikes, or poles may be needed in winter and spring, as some areas may have snow or ice. Dogs are welcome on leashes. The elevation gain is 1,213 feet.
4. Village Trail
The Village Trail connects Telluride to Mountain Village, and it can be hiked up or down from either town. There is also the option to ride the gondola up and hike down, or vice-versa, making it a good choice for those who love the views but like a shorter hike. Beautiful wildflowers are on display in the spring and summer, along with excellent chances to view wildlife. It is dog-friendly (leashes required) and best for families without very small children due to some steep steps. This moderate hike is 3.6 miles long and has an elevation gain of 180 feet.
Exploring nature and taking in new sights is just as enriching for children as it is for adults. Telluride has so many trails to discover, it would take years to hike them all. Luckily, Telluride is always here for you, and the properties at SilverStar are just waiting to welcome you. Browse at silverstartelluride.com/ for your new home away from home today.
What type of wildlife might one expect to see on trails in Telluride, Colorado?
Type of Wildlife: While the blog post does not specify the exact types of wildlife hikers might encounter, the area around Telluride is known for its diverse fauna. Hikers can typically expect to see animals such as mule deer, elk, and various bird species. In some cases, one might also spot foxes or even black bears, although such encounters are less common and require caution.
Are there any entrance or parking fees associated with these hiking trails in Telluride, Colorado?
Entrance or Parking Fees: The blog post does not mention any entrance or parking fees for the trails. However, it’s common for popular hiking areas to have parking fees or permits required for access. It would be best to check local resources or the official Telluride tourism website for specific fee details before planning a visit.
What are the best times of year to visit each of these trails for optimal hiking conditions in Telluride, Colorado?
Best Times of Year to Visit: Although not detailed in the blog, the best times to visit these trails would likely be late spring through early fall. This period avoids the snowy conditions of winter and early spring, making the trails more accessible and safer. Each trail might have its peak season depending on altitude and specific environmental conditions, so checking weather conditions and trail status ahead of time is advisable.