Telluride’s remote location makes it an exclusive getaway, but the variety of travel options ensures it is surprisingly accessible. In fact, getting to this idyllic mountain town can be a journey as scenic and enjoyable as the destination itself. You can arrive by air with just a short shuttle ride from the airport or by car with scenic stops along the way. Regardless of which path you choose, getting to Telluride is always straightforward and exciting.
Depending on where you're flying from, these airports offer a range of options for getting to Telluride, Colorado. Montrose and Grand Junction tend to be the most popular for commercial airline travelers due to the broader selection of flights. In contrast, those with private aircraft may prefer utilizing Telluride Regional Airport or Cortez Municipal Airport.
Located approximately 6 miles west of Telluride, Telluride Regional Airport is the closest airport to Telluride and Mountain Village. It accommodates smaller commercial and private aircraft, making it convenient for travelers looking to get to Telluride quickly.
Since this airport is very close to the town of Telluride and Mountain Village, visitors often use local taxi services or resort shuttles provided by hotels or rental agencies to get to their final destination. Many of these options are complimentary.
About 67 miles north of Telluride, Montrose Regional Airport is a larger facility that handles more significant commercial flights. It is widely used by travelers coming to Telluride and offers seasonal and year-round flights from various major cities
This airport also has the most robust selection of shuttle services due to its proximity to Telluride and popularity during the ski season. Multiple companies offer scheduled and charter shuttle services directly to Telluride, with options ranging from shared shuttle rides to private car services.
Located approximately 125 miles south of Telluride, this airport offers another viable option for travelers willing to drive further. The drive from Durango to Telluride is picturesque, making this airport an ideal choice for those who want to explore everything Western Colorado offers. Highway 145 brings travelers through the San Juan Mountains with stunning views of rugged peaks, lush valleys, and quaint mountain towns.
Shuttle services from Durango to Telluride can be arranged through private shuttle companies. These services are typically on a reservation basis and might be more cost-effective when arranged as part of a group.
About 134 miles north of Telluride, this airport also serves as a practical entry point for visitors coming to the area, especially from western states. Because Grand Junction Regional offers a reasonable number of flights from major airlines, it is a viable option for travelers from major cities like Phoenix, Salt Lake City, and Dallas.
Shuttles from Grand Junction to Telluride are available but are less frequent than from Montrose. Private shuttle services and car rentals are popular choices, providing the flexibility to schedule travel according to individual itineraries.
Roughly 75 miles to the south, though smaller and with fewer services, it provides another regional alternative. This airport is an excellent option for those who want to visit other notable attractions, like the Four Corners, Mesa Verde National Park, and the San Juan National Forest.
Due to its small size and lack of amenities in comparison to other regional airports, most people opt for a rental car when traveling to Telluride from Cortez Municipal Airport.
For those living within Colorado or neighboring states, it may be worthwhile to drive directly to Telluride.
Approximate Drive Time: 6 to 7 hours
Directions: Take I-70 West towards Grand Junction. Merge onto CO-91 S at Copper Mountain, leading to US-24 S. Follow US-24 S to Buena Vista, then take US-285 S to Poncha Springs. Merge onto US-50 W to Montrose, then take US-550 S to Ridgway, followed by CO-62 W and CO-145 S directly into Telluride.
Approximate Drive Time: 2.5 hours
Directions: Take US-50 S to Montrose. Continue on US-550 S to Ridgway, then take CO-62 W to Placerville and CO-145 S into Telluride.
Approximate Drive Time: 2.5 hours
Directions: Take US-160 W towards Cortez/Mancos, then turn right onto CO-184 N. Merge onto US-491 N to Dove Creek, then take a left onto CO-145 N towards Naturita and Norwood, continuing on CO-145 N all the way to Telluride.
Approximate Drive Time: 6 hours
Directions: Take I-15 S to Spanish Fork. Use the exit onto US-6 E towards Price/Helper. Follow US-191 S to Moab, then take US-491 S to Monticello and US-191 S again towards Bluff. Merge onto US-163 S, then turn left onto US-160 E in Kayenta, continue to Cortez, and take CO-145 N all the way to Telluride.
Approximate Drive Time: 6 hours
Directions: Take I-25 N towards Santa Fe, then US-84 W to Pagosa Springs. Merge onto US-160 W to Durango and follow the directions as listed from Durango.
