Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Telluride, CO
Telluride sits in a box canyon with access to the Telluride Ski Resort, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Telluride Historic District.
The Bridal Veil Falls and the gondola offer iconic Telluride experiences.
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or browse all12 destinations near Telluride
Sunset View
CO 81415, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (5.0 stars) · 1 hr 52 min from Telluride · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Red Canyon Overlook
Grand Junction, CO 81507
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 46 min from Telluride · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Colorado National Monument sign
Grand Junction, CO 81507
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.9 stars) · 2 hrs 32 min from Telluride · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cold Shivers Point Overlook
Grand Junction, CO 81507
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 41 min from Telluride · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Grand View
Grand Junction, CO 81507
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 55 min from Telluride · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Switzerland of America Lookout Point
Ouray, CO 81427
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 6 min from Telluride · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Box Cañon Falls Park
Ouray, CO 81427
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 7 min from Telluride · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Cascade Falls Park
Ouray, CO 81427
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 5 min from Telluride · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Uncompahgre National Forest
CO 81403, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.9k+ visitors) · 1 hr 48 min from Telluride · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Mesa Verde National Park
USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 10.6k+ visitors) · 1 hr 37 min from Telluride · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Bear Creek Falls
Ouray, CO 81427
Why this destination?
Recommended because: highly rated (4.8 by 0.4k+ visitors) · 1 hr 9 min from Telluride
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 5.7k+ visitors) · 1 hr 36 min from Telluride · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Telluride, CO?
The best day trips from Telluride include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Telluride?
Most great day trips from Telluride are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Telluride?
Many of the best day trips near Telluride are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Telluride?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Telluride, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Telluride?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Telluride make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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