Swimming in Telluride

Though it’s impossible to deny that Telluride has a short summer, or that temperatures are considerably cooler with low humidity, swimming in Telluride is still a popular activity. That’s an option, in several locations, even in a mountain town of only 2,000 people. And, swimming in Telluride is possible year-round because of the possibilities that exist. The Telluride Town Park boasts a swimming pool that offers open swimming as well as scheduled lessons for children and lap swimming for adults only during the summer months. While this pool has been reported to have cooler water temperatures, it is a heated pool.

However, the Telluride Town Council has scheduled improvements on this facility. These are set for 2014 and include an upgrade to the heating system. Other improvements are in the current discussion, and Telluride hopes to reveal the exact plans for the Town Park swimming pool soon. The Telluride town pool opens in early June and closes in late August. Admission has consistently been $4 for adults and $2 for seniors and children. Children under three years of age are free. Exact prices for 2014 have not been announced.

Day passes and season memberships are available through the Town Park office, located next to the pool. Family memberships are also an option. Life jackets are not provided. Just a short 13-minute Gondola ride to the Mountain Village will land one in the Village Core. The Peaks Hotel, with its spacious spa and extensive exercise programs and rooms, includes two different swimming pools. A heated lap pool indoors is available. Rarely crowded, swimmers can take advantage of uninterrupted breath strokes and backstrokes in the comforts of one of the largest spas in the state of Colorado. Towels are provided.

Outside, also at the Peaks Hotel, is an outdoor pool, also heated, that gets maximum sun in the summer months. Believe it or not, temperatures in the high 70s and early 80s can feel like much more in July and August in Telluride. At elevation, the mountain sun can really cook, and paid entry grants visitors pool privileges at the Peaks. A heated kiddie pool also exists outdoors on the patio in the same location. Spa staff monitors the outdoor pool. Cocktails are available. Lounge chairs and towels are provided on site.

Spa memberships can be purchased by locals and visitors that include swim benefits. Visitors staying in town have options depending on where they lodge. Short term rentals at destinations like the Viking Lodge also include the use of on-site swimming pool and hot tub.

Similarly, the Mountain Lodge at the Mountain Village offers a pool with spacious views of the Wilsons and Sunshine Peak and, just a quick, scenic drive to Ouray affords the use of the Ouray Hot Springs, as well as Orvis. These destinations are both natural hot springs, in a swim set, with the benefits of minerals for health. Admission is more expensive, but views won’t disappoint. It’s important to note that Ouray Hot Springs is very family-oriented. Orvis is a clothing-optional hot spring setting.