Facts about Telluride, Colorado
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Posted on April 20, 2010 by hart - Comments
Here are some neat facts that make Telluride, Colorado so unique:
- Telluride has the only free gondola public transportation system of its kind in North America.
- At 9,078 feet above sea level, the Telluride Regional Airport is the highest commercial airport in North America.
- At the east end of Telluride, Bridal Veil Falls is Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfall at 365 feet.
- Ski Magazine rates Telluride Ski Resort in the Top 10 ski resorts in North America.
- Telluride Helitrax is Colorado's only helicopter ski company and has been in operation since 1982.
- Telluride was the first city in the world to have electric streetlights. Once called the “City of Lights,” the world's first alternating current (AC) power plant was built here.
- Butch Cassidy robbed his first bank in Telluride on June 24, 1889, walking away with over $24,000.
- The Galloping Goose's oldest bus, #101, runs on non-toxic, biodegradable, vegetable oil-based biodiesel fuel.
- There are no chain restaurants or shops in Telluride.
- The nearest stoplight is 45 miles away.
- The Town of Telluride sits at 8,750 feet above sea level and the Town of Mountain Village sits at 9,545 feet.
Where are Telluride and Mountain Village?
Telluride and Montrose are located in the Southwest corner of Colorado. 67 miles south of Montrose, 127 miles south of Grand Junction, 7 hours from Denver, 8 hours from Phoenix, and 125 northwest of Durango. The historic town of Telluride sits at 8,750 feet above sea level and is connected to Mountain Village (9,500 feet above sea level) via a free Gondola ride.
How's the weather in Telluride?
Telluride has a wide array of weather depending on the season. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, summers are warm during the daytime and cool at night. Winters are fairly mild in comparison to other ski resorts with lots of snow :)
What's the altitude like?
Telluride sits at 8,750 and Mountain Village at 9,500 feet above sea level... so the altitude can become a factor. Honestly, if you drink a lot of water (3-4 quarts per day) you can become acclimated in 48 hours or less. Once you add alcohol, caffeine, and outdoor activities, the time to become acclimated might increase. Stay hydrated but of course, if you feel headache, fatigue, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention.
Is Telluride Dog-Friendly?
There are almost more dogs than year round residences... not really, but your dog will absolutely love Telluride! Whether your hiking or just wandering around, he/or she will be in doggy heaven! We have pet-friendly hotels, condos, and private homes available for rent!
