Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, is a vibrant and picturesque mountain town renowned for its outdoorsy lifestyle, adventurous spirit, cultural festivals, and incredible recreation activities. As summer descends upon this enchanting town, locals and visitors alike immerse themselves in the scenic beauty and lively atmosphere that define this tight-knit community. So come along and join us for a day of living like a local in Telluride, Colorado and experience a slice of what’s it’s like to call one of the most adorable towns in the entire country home.
Wake Up to a Sunny Day in the Mountains and Hit the Gondola to Telluride
As the first rays of sunlight paint the rugged peaks with a golden glow, waking up to start your day in Telluride is a rejuvenating experience. Stretching and packing some bags for the day, locals often kick things off with a crisp jaunt over to the free Gondola to town for a scenic and memorable commute. The Gondola transports riders from Mountain Village up and over the San Sophia Ridge into the heart of Telluride. This 13-minute ride offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead.
Grab a Cup of Coffee and a Baked Good on Main Street
Once in town, locals head to cozy spots like Bruno Cafe at Between the Covers Bookstore or the Coffee Cowboy, a unique coffee shop housed in an antique horse trailer on Oak Street. Both spots offer delicious coffee and freshly baked goods to kickstart the day’s adventures. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Telluride on a cozy summer morning!
Take a Morning Hike from the Town of Telluride
Telluride is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and locals make the most of it by starting their days off with a bit of exercise in the alpine. They often bring their furry pups along, so you’ll see them out on the trails getting some playtime in as the day gets going. Several trailheads begin right from the center of town, providing easy access to breathtaking nature via some of the best hiking trails in Telluride. Whether it’s the iconic Jud Wiebe Trail on the sunny side of the valley, the popular Bear Creek Trail leading to Bear Creek Falls, or a leisurely hike along the Valley Floor, surrounded by herds of Elk and the winding San Miguel River, there’s a trail for every preference and skill level.
Enjoy Lunch in Telluride at the Butcher & the Baker
As midday approaches, locals gather on Main Street at The Butcher & The Baker, a favorite cafe known for its creative dishes made from organic ingredients. They soak up the sun while savoring delectable snacks and engaging in friendly conversations with the familiar faces that pass by. There’s no question leaning back for a cool drink and a hearty sandwich on Main Street will get you feeling like a part of Telluride’s deep sense of community in no time.
Float Along the San Miguel River
The afternoon calls for water adventures, so if you’re really looking to be living life like a local in Telluride, Colorado then it’s off to the San Miguel River for a refreshing float! Starting at the Shandoka Apartments and ending at Lawson Hill, a serene and scenic stretch awaits. Some opt for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP boards) while others choose to tube along the gentle currents. Water safety knowledge and basic paddleboarding skills ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. You can rent all you need from BootDoctors right in town. For those seeking still water, a casual float at the nearby Trout Lake is another idyllic choice.
Catch Live Music in Mountain Village
As the evening approaches, locals venture up to Mountain Village, where live music fills the air with colorful melodies. Sunset concerts, social mixers and outdoor movie nights provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow residents. A cold drink in hand, people from all walks of life sway to the music and embrace the vibrant spirit of Telluride.
End the Day with Delectable Dining
As the sun sets, it’s time to indulge in Telluride’s culinary delights. For a world-famous treat, locals head to Brown Dog Pizza for mouthwatering deep-dish pizza and a lively sports bar experience. If they’re craving even more outdoors time, it’s always a win to gather with friends at Town Park, grill out with some yard games, and reminisce about the day’s adventures under the starlit sky.
Living like a local in Telluride, Colorado during the summer offers a perfect blend of outdoor escapades, cultural richness, and immersion into a tight-knit community. Whether it’s hiking at sunrise, paddling along the river, enjoying live music, or savoring delicious meals, each moment in Telluride is cherished with enthusiasm. To fully understand the magic of this mountain town, it must be experienced firsthand. So pack your bags, embrace the outdoorsy lifestyle, and plunge yourself into the unique and quirky energy that defines Telluride. An unforgettable summer adventure awaits you!