If you’re planning 4th of July fun in Telluride, plan a getaway and celebrate independence at the same time, in a resort town like no other. Colorado hosts many cozy mountain towns that offer plenty of activities, attractions, and more including a few special ones for the holiday. Point your compass and pack your bags for a stay in beautiful Telluride with some extra red, white, and blue.
Red, White & Blues
Head to Mountain Village for plenty of patriotic fun this 4th of July. Mountain Village will be offering a fun, free, family-friendly event to celebrate the patriotic holiday. The town dresses up in its best red, white, and blue, then celebrates with food, music, and more. The event takes place July 3rd and 4th, but a complete schedule of events has not yet been released.
Rundola
Telluride is well-known for skiing and snowboarding down the mountains. This 4th of July, go up the mountain when you participate in the annual Rundola race, a foot race that starts at the base of the gondola (South Oak Gondola Station) in the town of Telluride and finishes at the top of the ridge. Participants climb up the Telluride Trail, a 4,600-foot long and 40-foot-wide trail with a 13% grade – and a great workout. There’s an elevation gain of 1,810 feet, so make sure you train and arrive a couple days before the event to get used to the thinner mountain air before participating. The event starts at 8 a.m. on July 4th and the finish line closes at 10 a.m. Age group categories include 13 and under, 14-18 years old, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60+. Register on-site and pick up packets July 3rd at Oak Street Plaza. Register online to secure your spot in the 750 available.
Telluride Art + Architecture
Extend your patriotic break to include the event, which celebrates Telluride’s unique art and architecture features. Events take place around the area, including a weekend tour where you can meet architects, designers, fine artists, chefs, and others at each location on the self-guided tour of all ten participating properties. The event takes place over a few days, so you’ll want to extend your trip to include the dates.
Gondola Rides
Take a ride up the route you’ll be running! The 13-minute ride is free all summer long, and you can make it a highlight of your 4th of July trip. Get access to hiking and biking trails – gondola cars are equipped with bike racks, or just enjoy the scenic ride. The gondola is open 6:30 a.m. – midnight daily.
Hiking
Get your exercise, explore Telluride’s natural beauty, or get ready for the Rundola. Wander along nature trails that take you places your rental car can’t. Make sure to pack trail essentials like water, sun protection, trail food, a first aid kit, and whatever else it is you need for a comfortable trek of any length. Make sure to schedule your hikes a few days after you arrive so you can get used to the thinner mountain air.
Historic Telluride
The historic area was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1964 due to its significant role in the history of the American West. Visit the town museum to learn about the town’s evolution from Ute tribe summer camp all the way to the ski mecca many enjoy today. Shop in the myriad of stores and boutiques, many of which are housed in some of the original buildings that date back to the 1800s.
Mountain Biking
The San Juan mountains surrounding Telluride offer a variety of terrain. Experienced bikers can explore challenging trails down old mining roads, through basins, and more. There are longer, moderate-skill level trails that link former railroad tracks throughout the valley and further west. No matter where you explore, take time to admire the breathtaking beauty of aspen groves, lush meadows, and picturesque scenery. If you prefer more level ground, stick closer to town at the Telluride Bike Park at the Telluride Ski Resort. The gondola’s San Sophia Station drops you at some of the best trails, and has access from both Mountain Village and Telluride, or get in a road ride along the scenic San Juan Skyway.
Celebrate 4th of July fun in Telluride
For the best experience throughout your adventure in Telluride this 4th of July, make sure to book a vacation rental home with Lodging in Telluride. Choose a cozy studio-style unit all the way up to a six-bedroom home for a 4th of July reunion in the mountains that includes the whole family. Our rentals are close to the many activities and attractions you came to experience and provide everything you need for the ultimate experience on your 4th of July retreat. Contact us today!