Telluride Calling: How to Get From San Francisco to This Mountain Paradise (Without Getting Lost...Hopefully)
Ah, Telluride. The name itself conjures images of snow-capped peaks, charming mountain towns, and maybe even a twinkle in Tom Cruise's eye (shoutout to all the "Vanilla Sky" fans out there). But for us mere mortals, the question remains: how do we, the San Francisco flatlanders, reach this Xanadu of winter sports and stunning scenery?fret not, intrepid traveler, for this guide will be your compass (or GPS, whichever floats your digital boat).
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| How To Get To Telluride From San Francisco |
Buckle Up, Buttercup: Flights are Your Friend
Let's be honest, San Francisco and Telluride aren't exactly next-door neighbors. Flying is by far the fastest option, whisking you away from the fog in a matter of hours. There's no direct flight, but most routes involve a quick layover in Denver or another major hub. Consider it a chance to stretch your legs and maybe snag a questionable airport Cinnabon (hey, judgement-free zone here).
Pro Tip: Booking in advance (especially during peak ski season) can save you some serious cash. Think of it as an investment in future hot cocoa by the fireplace.
Tip: Don’t overthink — just keep reading.
Land and Then...Land Again? The Montrose Shuffle
Alright, you've landed! But hold your horses (or should we say, rent your skis?), Telluride itself doesn't have a commercial airport. The closest one is actually in Montrose, Colorado, a cool little town about an hour away. Don't worry, shuttles run regularly between Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) and Telluride, so you'll be gliding down those slopes in no time.
Word to the Wise: Montrose Airport is smaller, which can sometimes mean slightly pricier flights. Weigh the cost difference against the potential convenience of a bigger hub.
Tip: Take a sip of water, then continue fresh.
Road Trip! Are You Feeling Adventurous?
For the truly intrepid (and car-savvy) traveler, there's always the epic road trip option. It's a chance to soak up the scenery, blast your favorite road trip tunes (queue up the Queen!), and make pitstops at quirky roadside attractions (world's largest ball of twine, anyone?). Just be sure to factor in driving time (it's a doozy) and pack plenty of snacks (hangovers hit different at altitude).
Heads Up: Mountain roads can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Make sure your car is up for the challenge and check weather conditions before you hit the gas.
Tip: Don’t just glance — focus.
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FAQ: Telluride on Your Mind?
How to score the cheapest flight? Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying into a larger hub airport even if it means a longer shuttle ride.
How long does the drive take? Buckle up for a 17-hour adventure (give or take) through some stunning landscapes.
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
How do I get around Telluride once I'm there? The free gondola system is a fantastic way to navigate the town and offers some pretty epic views along the way.
What if I'm flying in during the winter? Winter tires are a must for navigating those snowy mountain roads.
Is Telluride worth it? Absolutely! Just be prepared to fall in love with the mountains (and maybe even a celebrity or two...one can dream, right?).
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