Summer fun in Telluride

Pedal-pushing over mountain trails vs. quietly casting a line in a serene stretch of the San Miguel River? Or perhaps taking a ride on a water bronco…in the shape of a giant inflatable raft has more appeal? In Telluride, the choice doesn’t have to be either/or. Visitors to this southwestern Colorado mountain town can do it all. They can experience high altitude biking that rewards cyclists with interesting trails and “best of the West” views and the next day join a professionally guided group or book an individual fly fishing expedition to little-known stretches of river that deliver challenge and excitement to novices and the most finessed fans of the sport. Thrill seekers can take a rowdy ride through running rapids for an exhilarating experience similar to what the West’s first river runners encountered as they mapped and explored the new territory. And rounding out any active week or weekend are jeep tours, horseback rides, hot air balloon rides, and fun camps for kids.
With all this action available, it is no surprise that Telluride has retained its authentic western heritage and it’s reputation for pulse-pounding moments — one that was established more than a century ago when Butch Cassidy robbed his first bank here. However, today’s wild times emphasize the outdoors instead of outlaws.
Modern day adventurers can rustle up their own brand of action by visiting the newly renovated Adventure Desk at Telluride Sports on Main Street in the center of town. The experienced staff has a bead on the best activities — from mild to wild. Whether saddling up for a ride on a two-wheeled steed (aka mountain bike), picking up needed or forgotten camping gear, or prepping for a trip to the river for either fly fishing or floating, all the necessary equipment, clothing and accessories are available at this single location.
The rivers and streams around Telluride offer plenty of water recreation. Rafting and fly fishing trips can be booked with San Miguel Anglers right inside Telluride Sports. Half- and full-day raft trips range from the mild to the wild with sections of the San Miguel River delivering anywhere from Class I to Class III rapids and cost $80 to $125 for a half day depending on the section of the river or $145 to $175 for a full day. Fly fishing trips have space for both novices and experienced casters. Expert guides know where the best spots are for catching Rainbow, Cutthroat, Brooke, and Brown trout as well as techniques to tie the perfect fly, recommending lures, and providing tips for improving an angler’s cast. Half-day trips are $230 for one person, $270 for two people, or $350 for three anglers. Full day trips that include lunch are $300 for an individual, $400 for two people, and $450 for three anglers. Prices include use of a top-of-the-line Orvis rod and reel, lightweight waders, and all the needed tackle.
Another water sport attracting more fans because of the ability to captain their own craft is personal kayaking. With the help of the Adventure Desk, individual and family instruction and trips can be arranged with the Telluride Kayak School.
Mountain biking is one of Telluride’s most popular activities and for good reason. Trail options range from easy to most difficult and the views are dazzling from just about every route and vantage point. Telluride Sports has a full fleet of mountain bikes for rent with front and full suspension. They also rent “tag-alongs” for younger children, tow behind carriages, and baby joggers for $25 day. In addition to their downtown location, bike rentals also can be picked up in Mountain Village at Telluride Sports in Gondola Plaza or Neve Sports. Take a free ride up on the gondola to Mountain Village, rent a bike, and then with the expertise of the guides from Telluride Outside, take a guided tour down the single-track trails of this famous resort and back to town.
Need more? The Adventure Desk can set up a four-wheeling jeep jaunt with Telluride Outside, a Jules Verne-style adventure in a hot air balloon with San Juan Adventures, organize an introduction to rock climbing with the San Juan Outdoor School, book an old-fashioned, four-legged horseback ride with Circle K Ranch, or get the kids enrolled in the Kids Day Camp to explore their own brand of fun with the San Juan Outdoor School. For a more sedate pace, they can schedule visitors for a European style trek on tours run by Rider-Walker Adventures. All the activity got you beat? The Adventure Desk also can book a spa service at the Peaks Resort.
For mountain bike rentals and reservations, visit www.telluridesports.com, or call (970) 728-3134. For information on fishing, rafting, horseback rides, jeep tours, rock climbing or Kids Camp, call (970) 728-4477, Ext. 211 or for water-based adventures, check out San Miguel Anglers at www.sanmiguelanglers.com or call (970) 728-4477, Ext. 211.