- Snowshoes can be the only way to access some of Telluride's best trails during the heavy snows of winter.
- There are trails in town, a short drive away and off of the ski resort.
- Alta Lakes is a rewarding five mile hike through the forest off of Highway 145.
Overview
Heavy winter snows make many mountain trails impassable, but with snowshoes the limits are endless. Trails leave Telluride in every direction and there’s also an expansive series of maintained trails midway up the ski resort.
Where to go Snowshoeing
TopATen
A play on the “top of lift ten,” TopATen is the name of 10 kilometers of snowshoe trails accessed at the top of ski lift ten in Mountain Village. The rolling trails are groomed daily and have great views of the Wilson Range, Alta Lakes and Palmyra Peak. The resort sells discounted tickets if visitors are using only the snowshoe trails, and there is a teepee warming hut and restrooms at the top of the lift.
Alta Lakes
The road to the Alta Lakes basin is submerged under a few feet of snow during the winter, but is a great day-hike with snowshoes. Head south on Highway 145 from Telluride and look for the sign to Alta on the left after six miles. Conditions will deem where the snowshoe trail begins. Expect to walk about five miles to the lakes.
Bear Creek Trail
The Bear Creek Trail begins at the south end of Pine Street and heads 2.5 miles to the beautiful Bear Creek Falls. The trail gains minimal elevation and is a good warm-up for more difficult hikes.
Guided Tours & Rentals
Outfitters listed below know the best routes in the area and what conditions are like, and many offer guides to make sure you find the trail you’re looking for.
