The Telluride Gondola: A Unique Transportation Experience

Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, the Telluride Gondola offers more than just a means of transport; it’s an unforgettable journey that combines convenience with breathtaking beauty. As you glide smoothly above the lush alpine landscapes, taking in panoramic views that stretch as far as Utah, you’ll quickly understand why this gondola is a cherished gem for both locals and visitors. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make the most of your gondola experience, from ride times and costs to stops and fun facts. So sit back, relax, and let us lift you up (pun intended) on this extraordinary adventure.

What is the Telluride Gondola?

Imagine a mode of transportation that not only whisks you from one charming town to another but also offers a visual feast of 360-degree mountain vistas. Welcome to the Telluride Gondola, the first and only free public transportation system of its kind in the United States. Opened in 1996, this gondola connects the historic town of Telluride with the modern Mountain Village, all while providing a scenic journey over the stunning San Juan Mountains. It is one of only three free gondolas in North America, making it a truly unique experience.

History of the Telluride Gondola

The Telluride Gondola officially began operations on December 20, 1996, with a mission to improve air quality and expand the ski area while offering a scenic and sustainable transport solution. Since then, it has evolved into a beloved attraction, ferrying over 2.25 million passengers annually and boasting more than 50 million rider exits since its inception. This visionary project, funded by both private and public investments, continues to set a high bar for sustainable transportation solutions.

Telluride Gondola Route, Stops, Info & FAQ

The gondola system features four main stations, each offering unique access points to the area’s many attractions:

• Telluride Station: Located in the heart of Telluride, this station provides easy access to the town’s shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
• San Sophia Station: Perched at the top of the mountain, this station is a gateway to hiking trails, the Nature Center, ski slopes, and the renowned Allred’s Restaurant.
• Mountain Village Station: Situated in Mountain Village’s vibrant core, this station is perfect for those looking to explore local dining, entertainment, and lodging options.
• Market Plaza Station: Offering additional access to shopping and dining in Mountain Village, this station ensures you’re never far from amenities.

Telluride Gondola Routes

• Mountain Village Center - Telluride Free Gondola
• Market Plaza - Mountain Village Center Free Gondola

Telluride Gondola Ride Time and Frequency

The journey between Telluride and Mountain Village takes approximately 12 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the stunning scenery. The gondola operates year-round, with hours varying by season:

• Gondola Hours of Operation: Seven days a week, 6:30 AM to Midnight daily during the winter and summer seasons. (Typically  May 23, 2024 - October 20, 2024 and November 15, 2024 - April 6, 2025)
• Extended Hours: Until 2:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays during the busy season, festivals, and special events.
• Off-Season: Bus service is provided when the gondola is closed. Hop on the Galloping Goose for a ride between the Town of Telluride and Town of Mountain Village

Without notice, the gondola may close temporarily due to weather conditions, a power outage, or other issues beyond control. When this occurs, a specific operating procedure is followed, including providing bus service for prolonged closures.

Cost

Remarkably, the Telluride Gondola is entirely free to ride, thanks to generous funding from the Town of Mountain Village, the Telluride Mountain Village Owners Association (TMVOA), and other local stakeholders. This ensures that everyone can enjoy this incredible journey without spending a dime.

Elevation and Length

The gondola covers a distance of 2.36 miles and reaches an impressive elevation of 10,540 feet at San Sophia Station, offering passengers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The Market Plaza - Mountain Village Center route also covers a significant elevation and offers equally stunning views.

Fun Facts

• Capacity: Each cabin can accommodate up to 8 passengers, with the system capable of transporting up to 1,000 people per hour in each direction.
• Pet-Friendly: Approximately 25% of the gondola cabins are pet-friendly, denoted by a paw print sticker on the outside of the cabin, allowing passengers to bring their leashed pets along for the ride.
• Accessibility: The gondola is fully accessible to people with disabilities, featuring handicap-accessible cabins and attendants ready to assist with loading strollers, wheelchairs, and more.
• Annual Riders: Approximately 2.25 million rider exits annually.
• Total Riders: Over 50 million rider exits since opening day.
• Speed: A cabin travels 11 miles per hour at full speed, covering over 52,000 miles per year.
• Environmental Savings: If the gondola relied on buses, it would take 18, 50-passenger buses to maintain the same capacity, leading to more road traffic and pollutants.  The gondola is powered by renewable energy sources, including wind and solar power, making it an eco-friendly transportation option.

Where to Park, Accessibility & Pets

If you are commuting by car to visit for the day, the best place to park for access to the gondola is the Gondola Parking Garage in Mountain Village. Day-time parking is free, allowing you to travel between Mountain Village and Telluride without the hassle of driving into Telluride and finding a parking space.

Best Practices for Riding the Gondola

• Plan Ahead: Check the operating hours and weather conditions before your trip.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear layers, as temperatures can vary, especially at higher elevations.
• Bring a Camera: The views are spectacular, and you’ll want to capture the moments.
• Be Prepared for Delays: Without notice, the gondola may close temporarily due to weather conditions, a power outage, or other issues beyond control. When this occurs, signs are erected, and a bus service runs to compensate for prolonged closures.
• Expect Long Lines: During peak times like festivals and special events, expect longer lines and extended hours. Patience is appreciated.
• Lost and Found: If you leave a personal item in a gondola cabin, call (970) 729-3435 to speak to a gondola operations supervisor. 
• Accessibility: Handicap-accessible cabins are available as well as pet cabins for leashed pets. Gondola attendants are standing by to help you load strollers, wheelchairs, etc. Gondolas are equipped with ski and snowboard racks in winter and bike racks in summer.

The Telluride Gondola Replacement Project

The Telluride Gondola is undergoing a long-term replacement project to ensure its continued operation and to enhance the overall experience for passengers. The project includes upgrading the current gondola system to improve safety, efficiency, and comfort. The new gondola cabins will feature modern amenities and better accessibility options. The project is slated to start in 2024 and aims to maintain the gondola's status as a premier transportation option while addressing the increasing demand and ensuring sustainability for future generations. 

Conclusion

The Telluride Gondola is more than just a transportation system; it’s a breathtaking journey that epitomizes the beauty and innovation of this remarkable region. With its stunning vistas, convenient access to both Telluride and Mountain Village, and commitment to sustainability, the gondola is an essential part of the Telluride experience. Whether you're here to explore the trails, hit the slopes, or simply take in the views, the Telluride Gondola promises an unforgettable adventure. So, plan your visit, pack your layers, and get ready to be mesmerized by one of the most unique public transportation systems in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much does it cost to ride the gondola in Telluride?

A: The Telluride Gondola is completely free to ride, thanks to local funding and support.

Q: Where does the Telluride gondola go?

A: The gondola connects the town of Telluride with Mountain Village, with stops at San Sophia Station and Market Plaza Station.

Q: Are there any free gondolas in Colorado?

A: The Telluride Gondola is the only free public transportation gondola in Colorado.

Q: Is the Telluride Gondola Heated?

A: While the gondola cabins are not heated, they do feature closable windows to shield passengers from the wind, ensuring a comfortable ride even during the colder months. For added warmth, blankets are provided at each station during winter.

Q: What time does the gondola open in Telluride?

A: The gondola operates daily with varying hours:

• Summer/Fall: 6:30 AM to Midnight (May 23, 2024 - October 20, 2024)
• Winter: 7:00 AM to Midnight (November 15, 2024 - April 6, 2025)
• Off-Season: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Q: Can you hike down from the gondola at Telluride?

A: Yes, there are several hiking trails accessible from the San Sophia Station that allow you to hike down to either Telluride or Mountain Village. Two popular trails include:

• Telluride Trail: This trail is about 2.6 miles long and descends 1,250 feet from San Sophia Station to the town of Telluride. It offers stunning views and a moderate hiking challenge.
• Ridge Trail: This trail is approximately 2.5 miles long and descends 1,000 feet from San Sophia Station to Mountain Village. It is a slightly easier hike compared to the Telluride Trail but still provides beautiful scenery and a rewarding experience.