Posted in Colorado
November 04, 2016
The Little Town In Colorado That Might Just Be The Most Unique Town In The World
Colorado is home to some pretty unforgettable locales. All the way from the Western Slope to the High Plains, Colorado is gushing with things to do and places to see.
But one town in the Centennial State could be deemed the most unique in all the land. Whether it’s the chunky boxed canyon in which Telluride sits, or the free gondola rides locals and visitors enjoy all year round, there are more than a handful of reasons this small town in Colorado is unlike any other place in the world. Take a look.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Called a "box canyon," the sunken rectangle in which the town of Telluride is situated is between two pairs of steep enscarpments that form a "box" around the town. Panoramic views yield something interesting in every direction, including Bridal Veil Falls at the head of the Canyon and the abandoned ruins of old mining operations along the hillsides.
The 365-foot waterfall is the tallest in the Centennial State and commands nothing short of awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping amazement to all who see her. It's a short 1.8-mile moderate hike to the trail head up there next to that large white building you see in this photo. That, by the way, is the power plant.
The simple fact that hills were once mined for silver and gold deposits makes this unique box canyon one of the few places in the world where you can stand on Main Street and be ensconced in a bowl laced with flecks of gold and silver.
According to Wikipedia, the name Telluride was derived from the mineral Telluride (a.k.a. Calaverite, or Gold Telluride). However, that mineral was never ever mined in the area now known as Telluride.
The stage at "Town Park" is host to a variety of legendary entertainers, including Neil Young who recently played two shows in this sunken outdoor amphitheater. Nestled in the bottom of the canyon with stellar views that include Bridal Veil Falls, this natural acoustic wonder is the perfect setting for outdoor concerts.
Perhaps the single-most thing that catapults Telluride to the front of the line for "Most Unique Town In The Land" is the signature people movers they use for public transportation. FREE public transportation.
Sure, in the winter she's all about snow adventures including the major ski resort at the top of the mountain. But this world-class resort town attracts visitors all year round.
Any day of the year, locals and visitors alike can use Telluride's Free Gondola to make their way between the town at the bottom of the valley and the Mountain Village up top.
...The free gondola will get you there and back in style, with an optional stop in between.
Telluride, Colorado just may be the most unique town in the world.
Have you been to Telluride, Colorado? We’d love to know and to see your photos on our Facebook page!
Want more information about Telluride’s Free Gondola? Telluride Mountain Village Gondola
Address: Telluride, CO 81435, USA
