By Eric Saunders
Living in Telluride means world-class scenery and lifestyle are part of everyday life. One of the perks of owning property here is the number of incredible destinations just a few hours away. From historic mountain towns to quiet desert landscapes, there’s no shortage of places that feel completely different while still being easy to reach.
These weekend getaways from Telluride are part of what makes this area such a remarkable long-term home base.
Key Takeaways
- Crimson desert spires and high-end resort luxury at Gateway Canyons.
- High-desert aesthetic and boutique art scene in Santa Fe.
- Geothermal wonders and historic hot springs of the Dunton and Ouray corridors.
- Evaluate the long-term lifestyle equity of owning a home in a world-class travel hub.
Gateway Canyons
In a region defined by its dramatic verticality, the transition from the jagged peaks of Telluride to the sweeping red rock mesas of Gateway is one of the most visually stunning weekend getaways.
Why Gateway Canyons Defines the Seasonal Escape
- The Hendrix Automobile Museum showcases a world-class collection of classic American cars, adding intellectual and historical depth to your desert retreat.
- Proximity to the Unaweep Canyon allows for world-class rock climbing and hiking through some of the oldest exposed rock layers in the Colorado Plateau.
- Luxury Casita Accommodations offer private outdoor showers and rooftop stargazing decks that mirror the architectural integrity of our finest mountain estates.
Adventure programs at Gateway Canyons include helicopter tours over the Dolores River and guided off-road excursions for the active, high-net-worth traveler.
Santa Fe
A five-hour drive south brings you to the "City Different," where the high-desert light has inspired generations of legendary creators.
Premier Destinations for the Discerning Collector
- Canyon Road features over a hundred galleries and studios within a single walkable half-mile, offering everything from traditional pueblo pottery to contemporary abstract sculpture.
- The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum provides a deep dive into the work of the region's most iconic artist, housed in a sophisticated space that reflects her minimalist aesthetic.
- Bespoke Culinary Tours through the Plaza and the Railyard District allow you to engage directly with James Beard-winning chefs who are redefining Southwestern flavors.
Santa Fe is one of the most prestigious weekend getaways from Telluride for those who appreciate a high-energy gallery scene and a culinary landscape that blends indigenous traditions with modern global techniques.
Dunton and the Million Dollar Highway
The journey across the Million Dollar Highway toward Ouray or the secluded valley of Dunton Hot Springs offers some of the most spectacular driving in the world.
The Hallmark Features of Alpine Hot Springs
- Dunton Hot Springs is a restored 1800s ghost town turned ultra-luxury resort, offering private hand-hewn log cabins and exclusive access to mineral-rich waters.
- The Ouray Hot Springs Perimeter Trail provides a high-performance morning hike with panoramic views of the "Switzerland of America" before a soak in the therapeutic pools.
- The Wiesbaden Vapor Caves offer a unique subterranean sauna experience that harnesses natural geothermal steam for a high-intensity wellness treatment.
For many of our residents, the most crucial weekend getaways from Telluride are those that offer a deep, restorative connection to the natural geothermal resources of the San Juans.
FAQs
What are the best weekend getaways from Telluride for adventure seekers?
Moab, Utah, is a top choice for high-intensity adventure, located only three hours away. It offers world-class mountain biking on the Slickrock Trail and unparalleled hiking through Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, making it a perfect supplement to the Telluride lifestyle.
How do I prepare my mountain home for a weekend away?
I always make sure my clients use high-performance smart home systems to monitor internal temperatures and security. In 2026, most luxury estates in Telluride are equipped with automated systems that allow you to manage your home’s environmental controls from your mobile device while you are in Santa Fe or Denver.
Are there any luxury weekend getaways from Telluride accessible by private aircraft?
Absolutely. The Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) makes it incredibly convenient to fly to Aspen, Scottsdale, or Los Angeles in a matter of hours. For a closer escape, many of my clients use private charters to reach the exclusive ranch communities of Wyoming or the coastal retreats of the Pacific Northwest.
Contact Eric Saunders Today
Telluride offers an incredible daily lifestyle, but what often surprises buyers is how much more exists just beyond town limits. The range of weekend getaways from Telluride adds depth, flexibility, and long-term enjoyment to owning here. It’s one of the reasons many people choose to make Telluride their primary or secondary home.
Reach out to me,
Eric Saunders, and let’s explore how Telluride can support not just where you live, but how you live.
