If you’re looking for a place that includes four-seasons fun and a variety of activities for your next getaway, you’ll want to make sure Colorado makes your list of potential vacation destinations. After deciding on the Centennial State, you’ll have to figure out just where you want to spend your time. Zero in on the cozy mountain sanctuary of Telluride. It’s a historic small town with plenty of charm for your unique vacation experience. Read on to learn about the History of Telluride!
Beginnings
The town is a former silver mining camp. When the Smuggler gold vein above the town and the Placer gold in the San Miguel River were discovered in 1875, people flooded the area in search of their take. The town stayed small due to its isolated location inside a box canyon.
Growth
Telluride finally began to see some growth when Otto Mears opened a toll road in 1881. The road was big enough for wagons to pass, increasing the number of people who could access the area. Another boom followed the arrival of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad in 1891. A two-stall engine house, water facilities, a section house and bunk house, sidings, and a depot created an unprecedented but brief boom.
Panic of 1893
The economic depression ran until 1897, and deeply affected every sector of the economy. It was followed by political upheaval leading to the political realignment of 1896 and the presidency of William McKinley. Shipping by maritime as well as rail – an ever-growing practice in Telluride, were two major areas hit by the events.
Skiing
The economic landscape of Telluride only included mining until 1972. At that time, a ski lift was installed by Joseph T. Zoline, founder of the Telluride Ski Resort. It brought on a new population with the 1960s “hippie” point of view and drove old mining families to places like Moab, Utah where they could continue their employment. The change of industry brought on activities like hang gliding, mountain climbing, kayaking, festivals, and other activities that attracted tourists.
Today
Today, the town of Telluride is known as a resort town for winter sports and summer festivals. The town has embraced the tourist trade while also staying true to its small town, historic roots.
The Interesting History of Telluride Colorado
You came to the Telluride area to explore and experience a fun, relaxing getaway with loved ones. Make sure to learn a little about the place while you’re here, too. Book a studio unit for your sweetheart getaway, all the way up to a six-bedroom unit and invite the whole family. Make a meal in the fully equipped kitchen, enjoy private outdoor spaces like a balcony or patio, or reserve a ski-in/ski-out unit to access ski lifts and other areas to explore with ease.
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