San Juan Mountains
The small town of Telluride sits in the heart of Colorado’s southwestern San Juan mountain range. Though most known for its winter Telluride ski resort, the town’s winter charm transitions to an adventure feeling come summertime. While often overshadowed by popular outdoor destinations on the eastern Colorado Front Range, southwestern Colorado has just as much scenery to offer (and maybe even more). With 2 National Parks (Black Canyon of the Gunnison has its own article), countless state parks and 14ers, there is a ton to see in this edge of the state.
At a base of almost 9,000 feet above sea level, Telluride is a great access point for the high peaks of the San Juan region. One of the most popular ways to explore the area, and its high elevation roads, is on a 4x4 trip. On my day in Telluride, I went on a half day trip through the Tomboy ghost town up to Imogene Pass, sitting at 13,114 feet. The trip begins in the north of town, at the entrance of Tomboy / K 68 Road. The road quickly climbs out of Telluride, offering stunning views of the box canyon below. As you ascend, the town’s charm fades into a rugged wilderness dominated by towering peaks and lush alpine meadows. The air grows thinner, the scenery more dramatic. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of Telluride’s mining history, including rusting machinery, dilapidated cabins, and the eerie remnants of the Tomboy ghost town. Once a bustling mining community in the late 1800s, Tomboy is now a silent testament to the area’s rich but grueling past.
The drive to Imogene Pass is not for the faint of heart or inexperienced drivers. The road narrows to a rocky path with hairpin turns that hug sheer cliff faces. A 4x4 vehicle with good clearance is a must, as the terrain is unforgiving, especially after rain or snowmelt. At 13,114 feet, Imogene Pass is one of the highest drivable passes in the United States. The views from the summit are supposed to be breathtaking, with a panorama of jagged peaks, deep valleys, and patches of snow. However, severe cloud cover made visibility no more than a few hundred feet. The adventure was worth it nonetheless!
For those seeking a less adrenaline-fueled experience, Telluride offers plenty of other outdoor adventures. Long downhill ski trails in the winter convert into endless hiking, biking and tram paths in the summer. The Telluride gondola is open during the summer months and leads to panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfall, is also a must-see. You can hike or drive to the base of the falls, where the cascading water creates a refreshing mist, or continue up the trail for a bird’s-eye view of the fall.
Visiting Telluride’s vibrant town center is also a must. Despite its small size, the town hosts a lively arts scene, excellent dining options, and a rich mining heritage. The historic downtown is a blend of Old West charm and modern amenities. In the summer, the town comes alive with festivals celebrating everything from bluegrass music to film and culinary arts. Whether you’re seeking high-altitude thrills or peaceful moments in nature, Telluride has something for everyone. This southwestern gem offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and small-town charm, making it a memorable destination.
