NOT JUST SKIING: WHY TELLURIDE (& ITS VIEWS) ARE THE PERFECT FEBRUARY DESTINATION

Telluride is a winter wonderland whose reputation for great skiing makes it a top tourist destination for travelers who love hitting the slopes—but there’s so much more to this Colorado mountain town than just its picturesque powder and epic trails.

A hip, bustling town brimming with historical charm awaits visitors willing to brave February’s chill temperatures and make the trek to trendy Telluride. Outdoors, a wintry world awaits: full of epic adventures set amid the stunning San Juan Mountains, the chances for cold weather recreation are nearly endless. Meanwhile, those who want to escape the February air have their pick of exciting attractions—and it all starts in Telluride’s historic district with its myriad of hip eateries, cozy stays, fun events, and chances for both indoor and outdoor adventures.

February In Telluride

There’s always something to do in Telluride—and these fab February events are a must-add to any traveler’s winter vacation itinerary.

• Telluride Comedy Festival February 16-19 @ Historic Sheridan Opera House
• Telluride Gay Ski Week February 25-March 4
• TAB Fashion Show February 24-26 @ Telluride Conference Center
• Chamber Music Happy Hour February 22 @ Telluride Arts HQ Gallery

RELATED: Rocky Mountain Road Trip: Best Things To See And Do From Denver To Telluride

Telluride Historic Haunts

Telluride’s downtown district showcases the mountain town’s rich heritage, historic buildings, and Main Street charm—all set to the stunning natural backdrop the area is famous for. Designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1964, today, visitors can stroll Telluride’s quaint (yet bustling) streets to truly appreciate the town’s distinctive natural beauty while also getting an in-depth look at its storied past. And while the brisk February air is perfect for a bundled-up Telluride Walking Tour, there’s something special about exploring the historic streets that have a surprise around every corner.

• Telluride Historic Museum
• Lone Tree Cemetery
• Old Town Jail
• Rio Grande Southern Railway Depot

More Than Just Skiing

Telluride is famed for being one of the best skiing destinations in the U.S.—but there’s so much more to this mountain town than just hitting the slopes. Winter in Telluride means a parade of fun activities just waiting for guests who want to experience the great outdoors at its snowy Colorado best.

• Catch some of the area’s best views with a ride on the famous Gondola that connects Telluride and Mountain Village.
• Explore the Telluride backcountry with a dogsledding adventure
• Telluride has plenty of opportunities for fun on two wheels: whether it's a ride on the paved path along Highway 145 or by renting a fat bike on a half or full-day tour
• There’s more to Telluride’s winter sports menu than skiing: ice skating, sledding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, fly-fishing, and winter hiking are all popular cold-weather pastimes
• See the forests and meadows of the San Juan Mountains with a scenic horseback ride, or tour in comfort with a cozy sleigh ride

RELATED: The Telluride Via Ferrata Is For Experienced Climbers Only, And This Is Why

A Hot Springs Haven

There’s nothing better than a relaxing soak after spending time outdoors in the chill Telluride air. Luckily, there are plenty of cozy hot springs in the area where visitors can cap off a day of brisk February adventures with some well-deserved R&R.

• Dunton Hot Springs An alpine valley gem and ghost town setting just a short drive from Telluride 8532 Road 38, Rico, CO.
• Durango Hot Springs A fun day trip just over two hours from Telluride; while visiting, guests can also check out the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 6475 County Road 203, Durango, CO.
• Wiesbaden Hot Springs Scenic San Juan Mountains beauty awaits visitors at this luxe spa and hot springs just an hour from Telluride 625 5th Street, Ouray, CO.

Eat, Drink, And Be Merry

While Telluride is known as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s no secret that it’s home to an amazing cuisine scene, too. From casual aprés-style bars and local haunts to upscale, creative eateries with a view, Telluride’s restaurants give February visitors a very good reason to come in and get cozy.

• Last Dollar Saloon This local fave is also known as “Telluride’s Favorite Watering Hole.” 100 East Colorado Avenue
• Telluride Brewing Co Brew Pub Known for serving up the best local suds, this tasty brewery now has a pub locale serving delish casual fare, to 568 Mountain Village Blvd, Suite 136
• Alpino Vino Winter-only dining at almost 12,000 feet makes this Telluride spot a cold-weather winner Telluride Ski Resort.
• The National Elegant, upscale, sumptuous dining with big Telluride vibes 100 East Colorado Avenue, Suite B
• Wood Ear Whiskey is An eclectic (and amazing!) mashup of whiskey lounge/noodle bar/Texas smokehouse in Telluride’s historic downtown 135 East Colorado Avenue

RELATED: Not Just Skiing: The Ultimate Guide To Aspen & Things To Do

Cozy Mountain Stays

Telluride is known for its epic winter vibes that make it a great place to visit when the temperature drops. However, there’s something special about spending a day basking in February’s chill air, then returning to cozy lodgings that are as warm and welcoming as the city itself—and these are some of the best.

• The Hotel Telluride 199 Cornet Lane
• The Mountain Lodge 457 Mountain Village Blvd
• Hotel Columbia 301 W San Juan Ave
• Victorian Inn 401 W Pacific Ave

Telluride is famed for its spectacular skiing, which makes it a top-rated vacation destination for winter sports enthusiasts. However, the scenic mountain town offers so much more than a chance to hit the slopes—a historic haven bustling with cozy charm; even in the heart of winter Telluride is abuzz with fun activities, events, and attractions just waiting to welcome visitors looking for the perfect February retreat.

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