15 FREE things to do in Telluride, Colorado

Whoever said nothing in life is free? If you're looking to experience Telluride this winter without skis, here are 15 FREE things to do in town - It will help your wallet stay happy!

1.       Gondola Ride - Catch a ride on the free Gondola that connects the towns of Telluride and Mountain Village. Open 275 days per year from 7am to Midnight, this scenic ride is a must do. The short, 11 minute ride will leave you speechless as you're surrounded by 13,000 foot peaks.

2.       Ice Skating in Mountain Village - Check out the frozen pond by Bootdoctor's in the core of Mountain Village. In no time you'll be skating like Oksana Baiul!

3.       RiverTrail walk - Located in the town of Telluride, the RiverTrail is a popular path for both locals and tourists trying to take the scenic route. Stretching along the San Miguel River, this is a beautiful trail that connects the East and West ends of town.

4.       Historic Walking Tour - Take this historic walk around town that helps explain how Telluride has grown from a booming mining industry into a world class ski resort. Placards located outside various Victorian style homes give insight to the rich history that helped build this town.

5.       Telluride's award winning Public Library - You will spend ALL day once you enter the doors of this library. This is a great way to rent books, magazines, DVD's, CD's, and more for your vacation. Also, use the FREE internet to change your flights (Because you'll never want to leave T-ride).

6.       Nordic Skiing - Take advantage of this large Nordic course that weaves through the protected land of the Valley Floor. Located on the west end of town, this is a great exercise to get the leg's burnin' and the heart pumpin' in a beautiful valley setting. Make sure you check out the Elk!

7.       Snowshoe - There are endless spots to snowshoe in Telluride if you've got the gear. A popular spot to snowshoe is Bear Creek Trail located on the east end of town. Check out the beautiful nature and backcountry ski terrain.

8.       Town Loop Bus - Take a ride on the free transportation provided by the Town of Telluride. This bus will circle around downtown Telluride (7am-Midnight) stopping at various spots to access restaurants, Post Office, and numerous lodging facilities. Catch the Galloping Goose!

9.       Wildlife Viewing - It would be extremely rare to vacation in Telluride and not see any wildlife. While you're driving into town, check out the wild elk herds that feed and rest on the Valley Floor. If you're lucky, you'll see the infamous (and surprisingly friendly) Porcupine while skiing near Prospect Bowl.

10.   Sledding - Town Park or Chair #7 are great places to sled after the slopes have closed for the day. Fun for the entire family!

11.   Guided Mountain Tour - Telluride Ski Resort offers a free tour of our beautiful "Unmatched" terrain with the purchase of a lift ticket. Take advantage of this tour if it's your first time visiting the ski area. Soon you'll be skiing like a local!

12.   Free Box - A "Telluride Tradition" located right off Main Street, the name says it all. The Free Box is a place to exchange clothes, small trinkets, books, and many other trash or treasures. Be sure to swing by the Free Box and see what you can find!

13.   Outdoor Fire Pit in Mountain Village - Located right in the core of Mountain Village, this is a great place to unbuckle the boots, grab a bite to eat, and relax. Enjoy "people watching" as you warm up your fingers and toes.

14.   Sporting Events - Check out the free sporting events happening all winter long such as the World Cup Snowboard Cross, Freeskiing World Tour, downhill races, regional hockey games and more.

15.   Colorado's Largest Waterfall - Check out Colorado's largest (365 ft.) freefalling waterfall at the end of the box canyon. This waterfall is rich in history (AC current was invented in the house perched on top) and absolutely breathtaking!