The 3 Best Full-Day Tours in Telluride
Telluride isn’t just a ski town in winter; it’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Its stunning mountain scenery, red rock formations, and vibrant rivers make it an ideal place for full-day adventures that go beyond the usual sightseeing. Whether you’re craving the rush of whitewater rapids, the challenge of ice climbing, or just want to soak in breathtaking landscapes, Telluride offers options that showcase its rugged beauty with expert guides and top-notch gear. These tours are perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their time in this Colorado mountain town, combining excitement with authentic scenery.
If you’re wondering which full-day tour matches your interests and fitness level, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up three of the very best, each offering a distinctly different experience—whether that’s paddling through roaring rapids, conquering icy walls, or enjoying a scenic river float. Keep reading to see which adventure suits your style, and get ready to book early—these popular trips fill up fast.
Quick Overview
Our list includes two rafting experiences that combine adrenaline with scenic beauty, and an ice climbing adventure at the renowned Ouray Ice Park. Each tour provides a full day of outdoor fun, with expert guides, all necessary equipment, and opportunities to learn new skills or simply have a blast.
- Telluride 1 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch – San Miguel River is a 7-hour whitewater adventure through Class II and III rapids with a riverside lunch.
- Full-Day Ice Climbing – Ouray Ice Park offers a full day of ice climbing instruction suitable for all skill levels, led by AMGA-certified guides.
- Telluride 1 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch – San Miguel River is another excellent rafting option, providing a slightly shorter but equally exciting 6-hour trip with quality gear and a scenic mid-river lunch.
Now, let’s explore what makes each of these tours stand out.
1. Telluride 1 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch – San Miguel River
This full-day rafting trip near Telluride offers nearly 6 hours of whitewater fun on the San Miguel River. It’s a top choice for those wanting a combination of adventure and scenery. The tour includes paddling through Class II and III rapids, which are lively enough to get your adrenaline pumping but manageable for most paddlers with some instruction. Your experienced guide will navigate the narrow canyon lined with red rock walls and pine trees, making the scenery as memorable as the splashy rapids.
One of the big selling points here is the included lunch on the riverbank, a welcome break amid the excitement. The tour is priced at $233.17 per person and has a stellar 5-star rating based on 50 reviews, which speaks to its quality and safety standards. The guides are well-trained, exceeding state requirements, and the boats are custom self-bailing with foot cups—so you stay comfortably in your seat even when the water gets lively.
This tour is ideal for active travelers looking for a full day of whitewater excitement combined with stunning natural surroundings. It’s a good fit for families or groups who want a mix of thrill and relaxation.
Bottom Line: A well-rated, scenic, and energetic rafting trip with guaranteed fun and a nice riverside lunch at a fair price.
2. Full-Day Ice Climbing – Ouray Ice Park
For those looking to challenge themselves or learn a new skill, the full-day ice climbing experience at Ouray Ice Park is hard to beat. Since 1973, guides here have been leading climbers of all skill levels through the park’s famous ice formations. This tour is perfect whether you’re a first-timer or have some experience, with guides tailored to your comfort and ability level.
All technical gear, including crampons, ice axes, and harnesses, is provided—so you don’t need to worry about the logistics of equipment. The guides are AMGA certified or trained, ensuring a safe, professional experience. During the day, you’ll master essential techniques like tackling steep ice, resting safely, and even some mixed climbing skills if you’re feeling ambitious. The tour lasts about 8 hours and is priced at $389, reflecting the expert instruction and high-quality gear.
Reviewers highlight the personal attention from experienced guides and the thrill of conquering ice walls that are “absolutely breathtaking.” This trip is best suited for those comfortable with physical activity and eager to learn something new. It offers a rare chance to climb in a world-class setting, making it a memorable highlight of any winter visit.
Bottom Line: An exceptional full-day adventure for anyone interested in ice climbing, with expert guides and all equipment included.
3. Telluride 1 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch – San Miguel River
The second rafting option on our list offers a slightly different but equally engaging experience on the San Miguel River. Lasting about 6 hours, this trip takes you through Class II and III rapids with a focus on fun and relaxation. The guides are Class III certified and highly trained, providing a safe environment for all paddlers.
What sets this trip apart is its custom self-bailing rafts with foot cups, which help you stay in the boat comfortably. The trip also includes quality wetsuits available for rent, perfect for the snowmelt waters. The adventure is complemented by a delicious lunch during a midway stop, giving you a chance to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Rated 4.8 based on reviews, this tour is praised for its mix of excitement and chill time. It’s an excellent option for groups or families who want a full day of whitewater without the intensity of more extreme trips. The price of $233 per person offers good value considering the quality guides, gear, and scenery.
Bottom Line: A balanced whitewater trip with great rafting gear, scenic views, and a tasty lunch—ideal for those who want lively rapids without overdoing it.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
When picking between these adventures, consider your fitness level, thirst for adrenaline, and interests. For a scenic yet lively day on the water, the Telluride rafting trips deliver excellent value, with options to combine excitement with a relaxing riverside lunch. If you’re looking for something completely different, the ice climbing tour offers a challenging and memorable experience that turns frozen water into a playground—perfect for adventurous souls.
Budget-wise, the rafting trips are similarly priced, but the ice climbing adventure’s higher cost reflects the specialized instruction and gear. Think about your physical condition and interest in learning new skills. Also, check availability early, especially for popular trips like ice climbing, which can fill quickly during peak seasons.
To sum up, Telluride offers a variety of full-day outdoor activities that showcase its rugged beauty and adventurous spirit. Whether you choose the adrenaline rush of rafting or the challenge of ice climbing, these tours promise memorable experiences with professional guides and top-quality equipment. For a thrilling splash on the river, the rafting trips stand out. If scaling icy walls sounds more your speed, the ice climbing tour will deliver a unique, rewarding challenge. Whatever you pick, booking early is advisable to secure your spot in these popular adventures.