Heritage & Culture

The rich heritage of the greater Telluride region is rooted in the majestic mountains that surround the area. From the early days, when the Ute Indians traveled to the valley in the summer season, the mountains provided protection from the elements and a wild environment that produced food and other necessities.

Centuries later, these mountains supplied the gold and silver that led to the mining boom in the late 19th century. At the same time, the mountains and their powerful waterfalls ignited the discovery of alternating current by L.L. Nunn at the turn of century.

Modern Mountains

It is these same mountains that provided the groundwork for the rise of alpine skiing and the creative culture that followed. In the past four decades, Telluride has experienced a cultural revolution, as the beauty and inspiration of the mountains has lured outdoor enthusiasts, artists, intellectuals, entrepreneurs and individuals from all walks of life.
 
Today, Telluride and Mountain Village share a legacy tied to the surrounding mountains.