Since its opening in November 1996, the Telluride/Mountain Village gondola has served as a one-of-a-kind transportation system, unique to its kind in North America.  The gondola provides FREE transportation between the towns of Telluride and Mountain Village and it serves both as a lift for skiers and snowboarders, but also as transportation for local and visitor pedestrians.  This scenic ride takes 15 minutes and can take you from Telluride to Mountain Village or vice-versa.

The convenience, novelty and opening hours of the gondola reduces the need to drive between Telluride and Mountain Village – and provides one of the most beautiful rides you’ll ever experience!  Skiers and snowboarders can easily access the ski mountain from either towns and parents can ride with their children to the Ski School that meets at the base of the gondola in Mountain Village. Locals also use the gondola daily to access both towns, go to school and work – or just to relax and enjoy the breathtaking views.

The gondola consists of 2 parts and 4 stations in total. The first part between Telluride and Mountain Village has an extra station on top of the mountain called St. Sophia station, where you can exit to enjoy the ski slopes or hiking trails or visit Allred’s restaurant. The second part is a short 5-minute ride within Mountain Village, from the Mountain Village core to the Mountain Village grocery store, post office and Town Hall.

The best part of the gondola however, is that it is always FREE – anytime of the year! The gondola is also handicap accessible, pet friendly (in certain cabins) and takes skis, snowboards and bikes. The gondola is open daily from 7am-midnight - even later during the main summer music festivals and is only closed for maintenance during our spring and fall off-seasons. Next time you are in Telluride – make sure you check out the gondola first-hand!