Telluride, Colorado, a breathtaking mountain town nestled in a box canyon, attracts visitors from around the globe. Its stunning scenery and world-class skiing draw adventurers year-round. However, Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) is a small airport with limited flight options. This often leaves travelers wondering about the best alternative airports nearby. Choosing the right airport depends on your priorities: convenience, cost, and the type of transportation you prefer after landing. This guide will help you navigate your options and find the perfect gateway to your Telluride adventure.
What are the closest airports to Telluride?
Telluride's unique location presents some challenges for air travel. While TEX exists, its limited service often means travelers need to consider regional airports further away. The three main alternatives are Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO), and Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT). Each airport offers a different travel experience and requires varying transfer times to Telluride.
Which airport is closest to Telluride?
Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) is the closest, geographically. However, the limited flight options often make it less convenient, leading many to opt for the larger airports further afield. Its proximity is undeniably its biggest advantage, reducing overall travel time once you're on the ground.
What is the best airport to fly into for Telluride?
Determining the best airport depends entirely on your individual needs and preferences. There's no single "best" airport; rather, the optimal choice varies depending on your budget and willingness to invest time in ground transportation. Let's explore each airport in more detail to help you make an informed decision:
Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)
MTJ is generally considered the most convenient airport for Telluride. It's frequently cited as the best option because of its shorter ground transfer time to Telluride compared to Durango or Grand Junction. Several shuttle services and private car companies offer convenient and efficient transfers. The flight options are typically more diverse than TEX, offering more flight choices and potentially better prices, depending on the season and booking time.
Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO)
DRO offers a broader range of flight options compared to MTJ, sometimes at more competitive prices. However, the trade-off is a longer ground transfer to Telluride. This often involves a scenic but longer drive, increasing travel time overall. The drive can be stunning, but it's a factor to consider when prioritizing speed and efficiency.
Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT)
GJT is the furthest option but often presents the most budget-friendly airfare. The significant drawback is the extended travel time to Telluride. This usually involves a considerably longer drive, often requiring a rental car or a pre-booked shuttle service. While economical on airfare, this option sacrifices convenience.
How far is each airport from Telluride?
- TEX (Telluride): Essentially, zero miles.
- MTJ (Montrose): Approximately 65 miles (1 hour 15 minutes - 1 hour 45 minutes driving time).
- DRO (Durango): Approximately 75 miles (1 hour 30 minutes - 2 hours driving time).
- GJT (Grand Junction): Approximately 140 miles (2 hours 30 minutes - 3 hours driving time). Driving times are estimates and can vary depending on road conditions.
What is the best way to get from each airport to Telluride?
Regardless of the airport you choose, several ground transportation options are available:
- Shuttle Services: Many reputable shuttle companies offer convenient door-to-door service from all three airports to Telluride. This is often the easiest and most hassle-free option.
- Private Car Services: For a more luxurious and personalized experience, consider hiring a private car or SUV.
- Rental Cars: Renting a car provides flexibility but requires navigating mountain roads, which can be challenging for inexperienced drivers. Four-wheel drive is highly recommended in winter.
Choosing the right airport for your Telluride trip involves weighing convenience against cost and travel time. Consider your budget, comfort level with mountain driving, and available flight options to make the best choice for your unique travel needs.
