Things to Do in Telluride with Kids

Telluride isn’t just a destination for skiing and summer festivals—it’s packed with family-friendly activities that make it a perfect destination for families with kids of all ages. From outdoor adventures to hands-on arts & culture experiences, there’s no shortage of activities to explore, no matter the season. Keep reading for a complete Telluride activity guide for children — and don’t forget, if you’re looking for lodging for the whole family, Curate Telluride has a wide range of options to accommodate every budget, from cozy condos to spacious mountain lodges.

Adventures in Town

Telluride is well known for its outdoor experiences — but there are a number of ways to get outside and stay active right outside your door, whether you’re staying in the town of Telluride or in the Mountain Village. From disc golf to skateboarding, Telluride’s public parks are truly unmatched.

Photo Credit: Visit Telluride

The Mountain Village Disc Golf Course is a free, par-three, 18-hole course that operates daily from sunrise to sunset in the summer months. The layout winds through rolling greens and open areas with beautiful mountain views, providing just the right amount of challenge for kids. Scorecards are provided at the start, along with picnic tables and restrooms, making it easy for families to plan a half-day outing. Access is easy via the Boulevard Trail or a quick gondola ride.

Photo Credit: Town of Telluride

For the shredders in your family, the Telluride Town Park Skate Park is a local favorite for skateboarders, scooter riders, and BMX bikers. Camps for kids and teens, such as those offered by the Drop Boardshop, provide structured learning for beginners and intermediates, while open skate sessions let kids practice tricks, gain confidence, and burn off energy.

Photo Credit: telluride-co.gov

No matter the season, Telluride Town Park has something to offer. In the summer, there’s a public outdoor pool, mixed-use tennis and pickleball courts, athletic fields, sand volleyball, basketball courts, a fishing pond, and the Imagination Station, a kid-designed playground that’s a hub for children of all ages. In the winter, the Pavilion becomes a full-size indoor ice risk, and the courts become outdoor ice rinks.

Together, disc golf and skateboarding make Telluride’s parks lively centers for family activity. Parents can relax on benches or picnic tables while keeping an eye on kids who are learning, playing, and enjoying the outdoors.

Swimming, Tubing, & Fishing

If your kids love the water, Telluride has plenty to offer — from swimming in heated pools to fishing in ponds and lakes. Families can enjoy a mix of calm-water activities and managed swimming areas that make the most of Telluride’s mountain setting.

Photo Credit: Visit Telluride

The Town Park Pool offers a classic summer experience for kids, with open swimming hours and scheduled lessons for different age groups. The pool is heated, which is especially helpful in the cooler mountain climate, and there are areas suitable for splashing, playing, and learning proper swimming strokes.

Photo Credit: Visit Telluride

Families looking for calm-water adventures can also enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding in Mountain Village. Elk Lake is a mellow, beginner-friendly spot where kids can practice paddling in a controlled environment with no river current. In summer, visitors can rent gear nearby or bring their own, making it an easy way for families to spend an afternoon on the water surrounded by mountain views. It’s a perfect option for kids who want a taste of adventure without the unpredictability of river conditions.

Photo Credit: Visit Telluride

The San Miguel River offers a more adventurous water experience with family-friendly tubing. You can put in at Town Park and drift downstream through town (the float commonly ends near the Carhenge/town-end area), but plan on walking or arranging your own return—there’s no regular shuttle service. Tubes are available for rental or purchase on Main Street (Timberline Ace, Black Tie and other outfitters will sell/inflate tubes)— make sure to check local outfitters for current safety conditions before you go.

Photo Credit: Visit Telluride

Fishing is another activity that’s beloved by all ages. Elk Lake in Mountain Village is a catch-and-release pond perfect for young anglers. Families can spend hours fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the calm lake environment. For families seeking longer excursions, guided trips along the San Miguel or Dolores Rivers offer more extensive fishing adventures, letting kids experience Colorado’s rivers and possibly catch trout while learning about the local ecosystem.

Hiking and Outdoor Exploration

Telluride is a hiker’s paradise, and its trails are designed to accommodate families of all ages. Many hikes start right in town, making them convenient for day trips or half-day adventures.

Photo Credit: gjhikes.com

The River Trail to the Valley Floor is mostly flat and perfect for younger children. It follows the San Miguel River, providing gentle scenery, wildlife sightings, and several bridges to cross. You can even extend the hike to the Valley Floor or connect to the Idarado Legacy Trail for a longer journey. Along the way, interpretive signs give insight into Telluride’s mining history and local ecology, adding educational value to the adventure.

Photo Credit: Visit Telluride

Cornet Creek Trail is a short, half-mile route that leads to the beautiful Cornet Falls, making it a popular option for families. While the distance is easy, the trail includes loose rock, narrow sections, and some light scrambling, so it’s best suited for older children or younger kids with hiking experience. The payoff at the falls is fantastic — just be sure everyone has sturdy shoes and you take your time on the final approach.

Photo Credit: gjhikes.com

The Ridge Trail in Mountain Village is a two-mile intermediate route with switchbacks through an aspen forest. Families can begin at Station St. Sophia, explore the Nature Center, and hike down toward Mountain Village, stopping at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants along the way. Alternatively, starting from Mountain Village allows families to hike up to Station St. Sophia and then take the gondola down, offering both a physical challenge and a fun ride for kids who might be tired from the climb.

Photo Credit: Visit Telluride

Bear Creek Trail is a scenic four-mile round-trip hike that ends at the dramatic Bear Creek Falls. The trail climbs steadily through a forested canyon and includes rocky sections, making it a better fit for older kids and teens rather than very young children. Families who are comfortable with a moderate hike will enjoy the waterfalls, canyon walls, and wide open views along the way — it’s one of Telluride’s classic outings for adventurous hikers.

Hiking in Telluride blends adventure, education, and scenery, allowing families to discover wildlife, alpine meadows, and the historical remnants of Telluride’s mining history along the way.

Summer and Winter-Specific Activities

Telluride’s activities shift with the seasons, offering unique experiences for families year-round.

Photo Credit: Telluride Ski Resort

In summer, kids can explore mountain biking trails suitable for beginners, ride ziplines, or take part in one of Telluride’s many adventure activities. The Telluride Adventure Center offers a thrilling day among treetops, with ziplines, aerial bridges, and rappelling under the supervision of trained guides. Height and weight requirements make this experience best for older children, but it’s unforgettable for families seeking a little adrenaline. Local bike shops provide rentals and guided tours on green-level trails for younger riders, making mountain biking accessible and safe.

Winter brings snow-based adventures. Ski and snowboard lessons for children cater to all skill levels, and the free gondola provides easy transportation between town and Mountain Village.

Ice skating at the Town Park rink is a classic winter activity, and snowshoeing allows families to explore snowy trails without prior skiing experience. Even toddlers can enjoy gentle snowy walks or supervised play in the snow, making Telluride a versatile winter destination.

Arts and Culture

Telluride’s cultural offerings are surprisingly engaging for children. The Ah Haa School for the Arts provides workshops and classes for all ages, covering everything from painting to bookbinding. Summer programs, visiting artist events, and open studios give children the opportunity to explore creativity in a hands-on way. Exhibitions, lectures, and seasonal events also allow kids to engage with art in an educational and interactive setting.

Photo Credit: Ah Haa School for the Arts

Local galleries frequently host family-friendly events or art days, letting children see their own work displayed and interact with the community. These activities complement outdoor adventures, offering a creative outlet and a chance to learn new skills in a structured, supportive environment.

Telluride: A Kid-Friendly Paradise

With so many activities spanning parks, rivers, trails, and cultural centers, Telluride offers a rich mix of experiences for families. Families staying with Curate Telluride will find lodging that fits any budget, from convenient town-center condos to spacious multi-bedroom homes perfect for larger groups. Each day brings new adventures and lasting memories, making Telluride a destination where kids stay active, engaged, and inspired.

FAQ: Planning a Family Trip to Telluride

What should my kids wear in Telluride?
Layered clothing is essential. Mountain weather changes quickly, and temperatures can swing dramatically throughout the day — even in summer.

What footwear is best for kids?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes for trails, water shoes or sandals for lake activities, and warm, waterproof boots for winter. Good grip is especially important on rocky or uneven terrain.

Are there age or height restrictions for activities?
Yes. Activities like ziplining, adventure courses, and ski lessons have specific age, height, and sometimes weight requirements. Check guidelines in advance so your kids can participate safely.

Are all activities available year-round?
No — many offerings are seasonal. Pools, zipline tours, the adventure park, and certain outdoor programs operate only in summer. Always confirm seasonal hours before planning.

Can we rent gear instead of packing everything?
Definitely. Telluride has plentiful rentals for bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, fishing gear, skis, snowboards, and winter accessories. It’s easy to travel light.

How should we plan our family itinerary?
A mix of half-day and full-day activities works best. Pair outdoor adventures with creative or cultural experiences to keep kids engaged without overtiring them.