Denver To Telluride: The Ultimate Summer Mountain Road Trip
A Denver to Telluride road trip is a day-long drive through stunning mountain passes and lush, far-reaching fields. While the views are a highlight of the journey, there are several stops you won't want to miss along the way. Please enjoy our Ultimate Toys guide for a fun road trip from Denver to Telluride, CO, via Highway 285 and Highway 50.
Stop for a Bite To Eat in Pine or Bailey
Depending on what time you leave, treat yourself to a hearty breakfast or lunch to keep your energy up for the road ahead. For something quick in the morning, try out Coffee Bean N Bakery in Pine, CO. If you'd rather stop for lunch, we recommend Aspen Peak Cellars for a more premium culinary experience in Bailey, CO. Both options are located along Route 285.
Take a Detour and See Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area
Route 285 cuts through multiple national parks and forests, so there is always something beautiful to see. Crank up the tunes in your Ultimate Toys van and admire the view on your way to the Russell Lakes State Wildlife Area, about 148 miles from Aspen Peak Cellars. This tranquil spot off Route 285 offers exquisite views of mountains in the distance.
Catch a Spectacular View at Monarch Pass
Head back the way you came and turn left on Highway 50, then continue until you get to Monarch Pass. This stopping point not only offers a breathtaking mountain view, but also a gift shop and restaurant.
Explore the Great Outdoors at Curecanti National Recreation Area
About 58 miles west of Monarch Pass on Highway 50, you will reach Curecanti National Recreation Area. This trio of alpine reservoirs offers plenty of recreational activities, from canoeing to fishing to hiking. You can pull off for a picnic or to admire the meadows and waterfront views.
Don't Miss Scenic Trails at Black Canyon
As you continue to travel along Highway 50, you will run into the iconic Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. If you're looking for picturesque hiking, Black Canyon is the place to go. It is considered one of the wildest and most rugged canyons in the United States, and just a quick stop is enough to understand how it earned this reputation.
Relax at the End of Your Journey at Ouray Hot Springs
After all the sightseeing and fresh air, relax and unwind at Ouray Hot Springs, located about an hour from Telluride. Upon leaving Black Canyon, get on Highway 550 heading south. After Portland, you should see signs for Ouray Hot Springs.
Experience the Gorgeous City of Telluride
Once you're done luxuriating in hot springs, find your way back to Highway 550 and travel north until you hit State Highway 62, then turn left. Take this to State Highway 145, turn left, and keep going until you arrive in Telluride, a mining town turned luxury destination.
Here, you can golf, explore historical landmarks, or relish one of Telluride's high-end restaurants. We recommend Communion Wine Bar, Alpino Vino, and Allred's Restaurant. There are plenty of places to shop on Colorado Avenue, and one of our favorite attractions is the 12-minute gondola ride that brings you to Mountain Village. Explore the area, then conveniently take the gondola back.
Take a Denver to Telluride Road Trip in Style in an Ultimate Toys Van
Venture on your summer road trips in Colorado in style with an Ultimate Toys conversion van. For those hoping to shower right off the hiking trail, our Ultimate Weekender model offers a full dry bath. This premium van also boasts convertible fold-out sofas and a well-equipped kitchenette for extra self-reliance on your road trip. While the route from Denver to Telluride can be traveled in less than a day, our Ultimate Freedom is a great choice for road trippers planning to stop at a luxury RV park. You can find an array of top-tier resorts nearby, often including amenities like pools, pickleball courts, on-site laundry, and Wi-Fi. Although it bears mentioning that Ultimate Toys vans come with Wi-Fi built in, making them ideal for digital nomads.
When you buy an Ultimate Toys Sprinter van, you also get to enjoy Ultimate Gold Seal Advantage perks, such as these:
- Free fuel for one year 1
- Nationwide warranty coverage 2
- Lifetime customer support
1For a duration of one year from the delivery date, you can enjoy complimentary fuel based on an annual mileage of 10,000, calculated at 20 miles per gallon, and reimbursed at a rate of $4.00 per gallon. The maximum payout within this period is $2000. To claim reimbursement, fuel receipts along with a picture of your current mileage must be submitted. Reimbursements will be issued quarterly starting from July 1st, 2025. Receipts must be submitted no later than 20 days after the end of each quarter to accounting@www.ultimatetoys.com. The payout dates are scheduled as follows: July 1st, 2025; October 1st, 2025; January 1st, 2026; and April 1st, 2026. 2. Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Contact our dealership for complete details.
2Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
