Nestled in the heart of the majestic San Juan Mountains of Colorado, Telluride stands as a beacon for ski enthusiasts seeking adventure, breathtaking vistas, and pristine powder. Renowned for its amazing terrain, stunning scenery, and vibrant atmosphere, Telluride offers an unparalleled skiing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned expert craving steep pitches or a novice eager to carve your first turns, Telluride has ski runs and terrain for everyone. Here’s our guide to some of our favorite Telluride ski runs, sorted by difficulty, so that you can have a safe and fun time navigating the mountain!
Expert Ski Runs (Double Black Diamond)
46% of the terrain at Telluride is considered “Expert”
Top Picks:
- Gold Hill Express Lift and the Gold Hill Chutes
- Lower Plunge
- Black Iron Bowl
For those seeking a serious challenge, look no further. The Gold Hill Chutes are accessible only by hiking and riding the Gold Hill Express lift, these expert-only chutes offer steep, narrow descents, and plenty of excitement. Navigate the rocky terrain and steep drops for an unforgettable adventure. Be sure to check signage as these chutes are not always accessible.
Still looking for more? Head to Chair 9 and get ready for adventure. Lower Plunge is an adrenaline-fueled descent and one of Telluride’s most legendary runs. With a steep pitch and moguls aplenty, this trail is not for the faint of heart. Drop into Plunge and navigate its twists and turns as you test your mettle against the mountain.
We’d be remiss not to mention Black Iron Bowl. Expert skiers will find their paradise in Black Iron Bowl. Accessed via a short hike from the top of Prospect Express lift, this challenging terrain features steep pitches, tight trees, and plenty of powder. Test your skills and push your limits on this thrilling adventure.
Expert Ski Runs (Black Diamond)
Top Picks:
- Revelation Bowl
- Runs accessed from Chair 9
Prepare to be awestruck by the beauty of Revelation Bowl. Accessed from the Revelation Lift, this intermediate-to-advanced terrain offers wide-open bowls and exhilarating runs. Enjoy the freedom of carving fresh tracks through untouched powder as you explore this skier’s paradise. Generally free from crowds, this is a great area to check out.
Into bumps? Mogul seekers will find paradise in the runs here, including Bushwacker, Mammouth and Logpile to name a few.
Other Expert local favs include:
- Mountain Quail
- Dihedral Chute
- Genevieve
- Giant Steps
- Kant-Mak-M to Spiral Stairs to Lower Plunge
- Electra to Lower Dynamo
Intermediate Ski Runs (Blue Square)
36% of the terrain at Telluride is Intermediate
Top Picks:
- Prospect Bowl
- The Polar Queen Express
- See Forever, to name a few…
We love Prospect bowl because of the long runs and uncrowded terrain. Here you’ll find plenty of variety and a multitude of fantastic lines down the mountain.
Be sure to check out Magnolia and Sandia if you hit this area.
Intermediate skiers will also love the area around the Polar Queen Express. With over 10 blue runs to choose from, these scenic run wind their way down the mountain, offering a mix of open slopes and tree-lined trails. Take your time and savor every moment as you soak in the beauty of Telluride.
If you’re looking for one of the longest runs on the mountain then don’t miss See Forever. This beauty can be accessed from the top of the Gold Hill Express Lift, The Apex Lift or the Plunge Lift. Here you can soak in the jaw dropping views of entire Telluride region, including Mt. Wilson, Wilson Peak, Mt. Sneffels and on a clear day, the La Sal Mountains in Utah.
Local Favorites:
- Misty Maiden
- Dew Drop
Beginner Ski Runs (Green Circle)
23% of Telluride’s terrain is Rates Beginner.
Top Picks:
- Galloping Goose
- Ute Park
- Double Cabin
Beginners rejoice! Galloping Goose provides a gentle introduction to skiing with its wide, forgiving slopes and minimal obstacles. Perfect for first-timers or those looking to build confidence, this beginner-friendly run offers a fun and relaxed skiing experience.
Families and beginners will appreciate the gentle rollers and beginner terrain park in Ute Park. This beginner-friendly area offers wide-open runs and gentle terrain, perfect for honing your skills and enjoying a leisurely day on the mountain.
Another fantastic run for beginners is the Double Cabins Run. One of the highlights of skiing Double Cabins is the breathtaking scenery. As you make your way down the trail, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and the picturesque town of Telluride below.
Local favorites:
- Enchanted Forest
No matter your skill level or preferences, Telluride offers an abundance of ski runs to suit every taste. From steep chutes and challenging terrain to gentle slopes and breathtaking vistas, this mountain paradise truly has it all. So grab your gear, hit the slopes, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in Telluride.