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Telluride Do's and Don'ts
Summer
4WD vehicles, mountain bikes and horses can damage fragile alpine plants and cause erosion. Stay on established roads and trails and don't cut corners.
Slow down or stop to give hikers the right-of-way. Always yield to the hiker, biker, horseback rider or four-wheeler going uphill.
Be prepared for sudden weather changes in the high mountains. Bring warm clothing and rain gear, even on sunny days.
Bring plenty of drinking water.
Heed trail signs, closures and restrictions. Be aware that certain areas do not allow mountain bikes, motor vehicles, dogs or horses.
Flowers are enjoyed by more people and spread their seeds only when left on the plant.
Artifacts are a part of history. Their meaning and value is lost when removed from their sites.
Carving trees and rocks detracts from their beauty.
Avoid cutting corners and riding or walking on wet ground. These practices lead to erosion and potential closure of trails for revegetation.
Respect private property and land closures. Close gates, or leave them as you find them.
Take care not to disturb wildlife or livestock. Don't chase or let your dog chase wild or domestic animals.
Share the trails considerately with other recreationists. There's no such thing as "road rage" in the backcountry.
Purchase a Colorado Search and Rescue Card from Telluride Sports or Boot Doctors.
Winter
Share the trails considerately with other recreationists. Drivers of motorized vehicles, such as snowmobiles, should respect cross-country skiers' and snowshoers' needs for solitude and avoid those areas and trails most commonly used by these recreationists.
Skiers: If you use trails maintained for snowmobiles, donŐt be angered when you meet them on the trail.
If you are skiing any maintained and/or groomed tracks in the area, leave your dogs at home. They damage set tracks with paw prints and feces.
Backcountry skiers and boarders: Carry a shovel, avalanche beacon, self-rescue equipment and hiking certificate when you venture off-piste. Always journey with a partner and let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.
Respect private property and land closures. Close gates or leave them as you find them.
Take care not to disturb wildlife or livestock. Don't chase or let your dog chase wild or domestic animals.
Heed trail signs, closures and restrictions. Be aware that certain areas do not allow backcountry access for skiers, snowmobilers and/or ice climbers.
Remember, there is a third less oxygen here in the San Juan Mountains than at sea level. The air is also extremely dry. Take it easy and always bring plenty of water. Eating snow will not replenish the fluids your body needs, and doing so could result in unwanted intestinal problems!
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