Telluride in fall is absolutely magical. With golden aspens glowing under bright blue skies, crisp mountain air, and swoon drives, it’s a fabulous vacation destination. Autumn is my favorite time to visit this fun spot in Colorado, and after you experience it for yourself, I bet it’ll be yours too.
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Telluride in southwest Colorado is one of the most charming mountain towns in Colorado! But fall in Telluride = fire!!
From hiking to waterfalls to riding the free gondola, there’s so much to love about visiting this Colorado mountain town in the fall. If you’re planning a trip in late September or early October, you’re hitting prime fall color season.
Here are some tips for you as you plan your vacation: do’s and don’ts of Telluride in fall!
Telluride Colorado in the fall
There’s nothing like Telluride in the fall! Whether you’re hiking, shopping, or just soaking up the views, this guide has everything you need for a cozy autumn escape.
Let’s get to it.
Do: soak in the San Juan Mountains views (they’re EVERYWHERE)
One of the best things about visiting Telluride in the fall? You don’t even have to go far to see jaw-dropping views. The San Juan Mountains are all around, and they truly steal the show in late September and early October.
Whether you’re hiking, driving, shopping in town, or just sipping coffee while enjoying the cool mountain air, you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous peaks and bright fall colors. It’s peaceful, powerful, and so worth the trip.
My favorite places to enjoy the San Juan Mountains in and near Telluride were while hiking, on the gondola and driving the nearby highways.
Don’t: skip the free Telluride Gondola
One of the coolest things about Telluride any time of year is the free gondola that connects Telluride to Mountain Village.
But in the fall, the ride is a spectacular golden wonderland. It’s like floating above forests of yellow aspens with insane views of the San Juan Mountains.
Start at the town of Telluride at an elevation of 8,750. Up the mountain you’ll go over the peak and stop at the San Sophia Station, where the elevation is 10,540! Then next to Mountain Village, and you can even go to the final stop at the Market Plaza (which is basically just a grocery store and restaurant).
The gondola runs daily from 6:30 a.m. to midnight during the fall, and you can hop on right in town. It’s one of the best things to do in Telluride during the fall!
Mountain Village
While you could spend a whole day on activities from the gondola alone – like hiking or biking at San Sophia Station. However, I definitely recommend you enjoy some time at Mountain Village. A favorite spot for skiing in the winter, Mountain Village is lively in the fall as well.
With over 20 restaurants and vending carts, you’ll find plenty of options to eat at Mountain Village. You can also shop in one of the many stores, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the spa, or enjoy one of the many outdoor activities that start near the village.
Do: spend time shopping in town (cutest boutiques ever!)
Downtown Telluride is the kind of place where you could spend hours just walking around. From cozy bookstores and quirky souvenir shops to outdoor gear and handmade jewelry, there’s something for everyone.
I’m not a big shopper when I travel, but I always love to look at handmade soaps and jewelry. My kids love finding books, clothing and other trinkets too!
Don’t: wait too long to book your accommodations
Learn from my mistake! I planned my trip to Telluride in the fall quite last minute, and the Telluride accommodation options were sparse and expensive.
Honestly, I ended up going to Portugal a few weeks after Telluride, and I actually spend less on that week-long trip than I did in Southwestern Colorado!
Anyway, I’d highly recommend to book as far in advance as possible. And keep an open mind if you’re on a budget!
More tips for visiting Telluride in the fall
Here are more things to know before your visit to this spot in Southwest Colorado and it’s incredible scenery!
Do: hike to Bridal Veil Falls (you have to see it in person)
At 365 feet, Bridal Veil Falls is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado, and it’s seriously impressive. In the fall, the surrounding cliffs and trees light up in yellow and orange, making it even more stunning.
The hike is about 1.8 miles one way and is mostly uphill to the falls, but it’s totally worth it. Wear good hiking shoes, bring water, and get your camera ready: this is a classic Telluride photo op with the stunning fall colors in the background.
It was also one of my favorite places to fly my drone while I was in Telluride, since it’s so scenic here!
👉Interested in drone photography? Learn how to take amazing drone photos and videos!
Don’t: forget to hydrate
Every time I’m in Colorado, I’m always surprised at just how dry it is. That, coupled with the elevation, can be very dehydrating. Drink a ton of water during your time in Telluride!
Bring a reusable water bottle (or multiple) and fill it up at restaurants or your accommodations often. There’s even a few water bottle refilling stations in town.
Do: act like a foodie and enjoy it
Okay, so I consider myself a bit of a foodie. (Along with a beach lover, drone pilot, mom – we all have vast personalities!) Anyhow, the food scene in Telluride did not disappoint. I was a bit skeptical since the town is so small, but they definitely got food right!
From empanadas to ice cream, steaks or salmon salads, there are plenty of food options in Telluride!
And if you’re in Telluride on a Friday, don’t miss the Telluride Farmers’ Market. It runs until early October and features everything from fresh produce and handmade soaps to local honey, flowers and snacks.
It’s a great way to pick up fresh food if you’re renting a space with a kitchen, while supporting local vendors and get a real feel for the community.
Don’t: overpack your schedule
Yes, it might be tempting to do alllll the things when you’re visiting Telluride in fall. Biking, hiking, scenic highways, shopping, gondola – even catching a show at the Sheridan Opera House.
Not to mention the local events and festivals, like the Fine Arts Festival or the Telluride Autumn Classic. BUT be sure to take some time to soak in the beauty of this place. Have an extended meal outside, enjoy sitting in the quiet over coffee or anything else that brings you joy.
It’s truly a spectacular destination to enjoy in the fall!
Do: take the time to drive the San Juan Skyway (scenic views on scenic views)
The San Juan Skyway is one of the best scenic drives in the entire country – and it gets even more spectacular in the fall!
This 233-mile loop goes through mountain passes, cute towns like Ouray and Silverton, and forests that explode in color this time of year!
You don’t have to do the full loop if you don’t want to make the time. Just driving from Telluride to Ridgway or over to Dolores gives you a taste of the views. Pack road trip snacks, cue up your favorite road trip playlist and prepare to stop at almost every turnout – because it’s simply impossible not to!
Related: Epic Colorado Drone Photos That Will Make You Want to Pack a Bag
Final thoughts: Telluride in fall is simply incredible
Fall in Telluride is seriously an amazing fall foliage destination. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, leaf peeping, or just wandering through town with ice cream in hand, it’s the kind of place that stays with you.
So if you’re thinking about a fall foliage trip – go to Telluride. And I hope you have the best time!!
Related content you might like:
15 Charming Colorado Mountain Towns You’ll Absolutely Love
Perfect Colorado Road Trip Itinerary: 22 Stops You Need to See
16 Epic Colorado Drone Photos That Will Make You Want to Pack a Bag
27 Incredible Colorado Bucket List Ideas You’ll Love
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