Best Things To Do Near Telluride Without the Crowds
Telluride is one of Colorado’s most iconic mountain destinations, famous for its stunning scenery, world-class skiing, festivals, and charming downtown. But during the summer months, popular attractions, trailheads, and scenic spots can become crowded.
If you’re looking for all the beauty and adventure of the San Juan Mountains without fighting the crowds, you’re in luck. Some of the best activities near Telluride are found just beyond the town limits, offering unforgettable experiences, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of room to explore.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a bucket-list Colorado adventure, here are some of the best things to do near Telluride without the crowds.
1. Explore the Alpine Loop on a Polaris RZR
When it comes to off roading rentals and tours near Telluride, nothing compares to exploring Colorado’s legendary Alpine Loop.
Located just over an hour from Telluride in the historic town of Silverton, the Alpine Loop is one of the most famous off-road trail systems in North America. This network of historic mountain roads climbs to nearly 13,000 feet, taking visitors through some of the most spectacular scenery in the San Juan Mountains.
Along the way, you’ll experience:
- Historic mining towns and ghost towns
- Waterfalls and alpine lakes
- High mountain passes
- Wildflower-filled meadows
- Panoramic mountain vistas
- Historic mining structures and landmarks
Whether you choose a guided adventure or a self-guided rental, exploring the Alpine Loop is one of the best family friendly adventures near Telluride.
Sunset tour with Pirate Backcountry Adventures near Silverton, Colorado
2. Visit Historic Silverton
Just a scenic drive from Telluride, Silverton offers visitors an authentic Colorado mountain town experience without the heavy tourist crowds.
Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Silverton is surrounded by towering peaks and rich mining history. Visitors can spend the day exploring:
- Historic downtown shops
- Local restaurants and breweries
- Museums and historic landmarks
- Scenic mountain viewpoints
- Family-owned businesses
Silverton serves as the perfect basecamp for outdoor adventures and offers a more relaxed atmosphere than many larger mountain destinations.
Silverton, Colorado
3. Ride the Historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
One of the most iconic experiences in Southwest Colorado is riding the historic steam train between Durango and Silverton.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad travels through remote mountain wilderness inaccessible by road, providing passengers with incredible views of rivers, canyons, waterfalls, and towering peaks.
This historic railroad offers visitors:
- Incredible mountain scenery
- A unique glimpse into Colorado’s mining history
- Family-friendly entertainment
- Unforgettable photo opportunities
- One of the most scenic train rides in North America
For families and history enthusiasts alike, this remains one of the top activities near Telluride.
Durango and Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad near Durango, Colorado
4. Explore the Ghost Town of Animas Forks
If you’re looking for a truly unique Colorado experience, a visit to Animas Forks Ghost Town should be at the top of your list.
Located high in the San Juan Mountains at over 11,000 feet, Animas Forks was once a thriving mining community during Colorado’s silver boom. Today, many of its historic buildings remain standing, offering visitors a fascinating look into the state’s mining history.
Walking through the preserved structures while surrounded by towering mountain peaks creates an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
It’s no surprise that Animas Forks has become one of the most photographed destinations in Southwest Colorado. You will need a high clearance, 4×4 vehicle to reach this ghost town. Many visitors end up renting a Polaris RZR or jeep to access this ghost town.
Animas Forks Ghost Town near Silverton, Colorado.
5. Chase Waterfalls Throughout the San Juan Mountains
Some of Colorado’s most beautiful waterfalls are located within easy driving distance of Telluride.
Popular waterfalls throughout the region include:
- Whitmore Falls
- Bridal Veil Falls
- Box Canyon Falls
- Bear Creek Falls
- South Mineral Creek waterfalls
Peak runoff season in June and early July transforms the mountains into a spectacular display of rushing water, making waterfall hunting one of the best family friendly adventures in the area.
Whitmore Falls Colorado
6. Relax in Natural Hot Springs at the Durango Hot Springs
After a day spent exploring the mountains, few experiences are more enjoyable than soaking in a natural hot spring.
The San Juan Mountains are home to several incredible hot spring destinations where visitors can relax while surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Hot springs offer:
- Relaxation after outdoor adventures
- Beautiful mountain views
- Family-friendly recreation
- A uniquely Colorado experience
Whether you’re traveling with family or enjoying a romantic getaway, hot springs provide the perfect way to unwind.
Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa in Durango, Colorado
7. Hike to Alpine Lakes and Wildflower Meadows
While some of Telluride’s most popular hiking trails can become crowded, the surrounding San Juan Mountains offer countless opportunities for peaceful alpine exploration.
Visitors can discover:
- Crystal-clear alpine lakes
- Wildflower-covered meadows
- Historic mining trails
- Scenic overlooks
- Remote mountain basins
Late July and early August bring some of Colorado’s most spectacular wildflower displays, making the region a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.
Handies Peak in the American Basin is a great trail to view wildflowers. If you plan to summit this 14er, start early, be prepared for varying weather, and bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you hydrated and fueled during your hike.
American Basin near Cinnamon Pass
8. Experience Guided Off-Road Adventures
If you’ve never explored Colorado’s high-country backroads, doing a privately guided off-road tour is one of the best ways to experience the San Juan Mountains.
Guided off roading rentals and tours allow visitors to:
- Explore safely and confidently
- Learn local history and mining stories
- Visit hidden viewpoints
- Navigate mountain terrain with experienced guides
- Enjoy a stress-free adventure
For many visitors, guided off-road experiences quickly become the highlight of their Colorado vacation. Pirate Backcountry Adventures in Silverton offers off road rentals and privately guided tours, where you can drive a state of the art Polaris RZR as a guide takes you through the incredible trails and history of the region.
Off roading with Pirate Backcountry Adventures near Silverton, Colorado
9. Take a Scenic Mountain Drive
Some of the best scenery in Colorado can be experienced simply by driving through the San Juan Mountains.
Scenic mountain roads near Telluride, Silverton, and Ouray offer visitors:
- Historic mountain passes
- Panoramic overlooks
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Historic mining sites
- Endless photography stops
Whether you’re exploring by car, Jeep, or Polaris RZR, the scenery throughout Southwest Colorado is truly unforgettable.
Escape the Crowds and Experience the Real San Juan Mountains
Telluride is famous for its beauty, but some of the best experiences in the San Juan Mountains happen just beyond the crowds.
From historic steam trains and ghost towns to alpine lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, and world-class off roading rentals and tours, Southwest Colorado offers endless opportunities for adventure.
Sometimes the best adventures happen where everyone else isn’t.
