Telluride Tips

The town of Telluride is located at 8750 feet above sea level, most likely much higher than where you live, work, and play and BREATHE every day. There is a phenomenon about our high altitude air most people call “thin air”, but let me give you some of the science behind it. Even though we have the same percentage of oxygen in our air as sea level (21%), there are less molecules per square meter (or square inch, or square foot….you get the picture). At sea level you have much more atmosphere pressing around and down on you. As you go up in altitude on the planet, the air gets less and less dense, or the air is “thinner”. It’s called Boyle’s Law and we can’t break this law. BE PREPARED!Begin to hydrate NOW. Start to increase your water intake to at least 4 to 5 quarts a day. Sip a quart an hour. Trying to drink a lot at one time does not work. Drink slowly and space it out over time.
Rest and get some good quality sleep while in your “thick” air. This can be difficult to do while preparing for a big vacation, but try to relax at the end of the day.
Even harder to do, decrease caffeine and avoid alcohol 2 days prior to departure.

No matter if you are coming in the winter or summer, pack your sunscreen! Because of all the science about the air in #1, it also means that there are less molecules of atmosphere “stuff” to protect you against the sun’s harmful rays. Telluride is blessed with many sunny days, enjoy it, but don’t overdo it.

Likewise, sunglasses or ski goggles are a must at this altitude! The sun glare from the snow will definitely make you run for your sunglasses. With the “thinner” air, the amount of light that gets to your eyes can be intense year round, sunny or cloudy. Protect your eyes. It also helps to protect from the sometimes drying wind and air.

WEATHER, you can expect any type of weather any month of the year. Yes, I have seen snow on the 4th of July (pictures to prove it!). Dress in layers. The evenings and mornings can be chilly, and the days can be in the 80’s in the summer (OK, I haven’t seen that temperature in the winter!). A local’s car will have every weight of jackets, a blanket, a couple of different shoes, and of course, a reusable water bottle just to be prepared.

Construction – As you journey into Telluride, we want to give you a warm mountain welcome — and a heads-up.

Our charming town is undergoing some important upgrades this season, including construction projects led by the Town of Telluride and private efforts to restore, build and revitalize Telluride.

We know it’s a little noisy right now, but just like our iconic Beaver Pond, this is all part of keeping Telluride thriving.

 The beavers work hard to shape their environment — carefully, thoughtfully, and with long-term vision.
We’re doing the same — building a better Telluride while keeping the magic alive.

What you can expect:

• Some detours or short delays in town
• Active construction zones in certain areas
• But still: breathtaking trails, serene alpine views, world-class dining, and all the charm you came for.

We thank you for your patience and for being part of Telluride’s evolving story. Nature, after all, is always a work in progress.