Picturesque views, world-class festivals, prime snow conditions, fantastic food, extensive mountain ranges, and world-class terrain – these are just a few things that sum up Telluride.
Famous as the ideal ski destination, Telluride is just as beautiful in summer as it is in winter, with many activities on offer. A part of the American Wild West, it has maintained its bohemian and unpretentious charm over the years.
You can enjoy this epic ski destination even if you don’t have a lot of money to spend. The key is finding suitable places to stay that are reasonably priced, and believe us the area has many! You just need to know where to look.
Hostels are the best option if you’re traveling on a budget. They’re economical, comfortable, and they’re the best places to meet other travelers.
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Telluride
- Overall Best Hostel in Telluride – The Bivvi Hostel Telluride
What to Expect from Hostels in Telluride
As a resort town, hostels in Telluride cost a bit more compared to other spots. That being said, they are still cheaper than hotels in the area! Mostly laid-back and for the adventure-seekers, a hostel is a great base for a fun escape where you can meet other travelers and save some cash.
HostelWorld is the best place to look for hostels in Telluride. Be sure to check the photos, read the descriptions and house rules, and scan the reviews to ensure it has everything you need. Also check out location on Google Maps – you don’t want to be too far from the local attractions.
When staying in a hostel, you can opt to pay the minimal fee by staying in a dorm, whether mixed, all-male, or all-female. However, if you would like the whole space to yourself, you should check for private rooms. They cost more, but you can’t put a price on privacy.
The average price of hostels can vary, but on average you can expect to pay –
- Dorms – $60
- Private rooms – $150
Best Hostels in Telluride
Eager to take out your snowboard and have an adventure? Hold your horses, and check out Telluride hostels first.
The Bivvi Hostel Telluride – Overall Best Hostel in Telluride
This boutique mountain lodge is the best hostel in Telluride for those who love adventures, travel, and the wonders of the outdoors. Located in the heart of the San Juan range in the Rocky Mountains, otherwise known as the Swiss Alps of the US, there are plenty of adventures to be had.
If you don’t want to head out with an empty stomach, a complimentary hot breakfast buffet is included in the daily rate. Those looking to see some action, whether skiing or snowboarding, can store their equipment on site without a worry.
The common areas, such as the outdoor terrace and living areas, are the best spots to relax and meet new people. They might just have a tip or two to share that will make your stay even more unforgettable. Want to wow them with your grill skills? There is a BBQ available.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Hot tub
- Outdoor terrace
- High-speed Wi-Fi
- Ski and board storage
Telluride is not only a winter destination. If you happen to be in the area in the summer, you can hike to the waterfalls, mountain bike, fly fish, and rock climb. Relish in all the adventurous activities with peace of mind and a cozy bed to return to. The mixed dorms feature large lockers that are big enough to secure all your things safely.
In the evening, you can enjoy the hostel’s full-service bar and catch up with other travelers over a drink. Unwind at the pool table, or in the hot tub. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property so you can always stay connected, whether for work, or for getting in touch with family and friends.
A book exchange is on the premises, too! The perfect way to get introduced to new reads or even reread a few classics. Don’t forget to inquire about the shuttle bus services with the staff.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!Other Budget Accommodation
Aside from hostels in Telluride, there are also other budget accommodations like motels and Airbnb rentals.
Let’s take a look at some of the best and the most reasonably priced.
Central Private Room Near Restaurants and Bars – Great Airbnb for Couples
This cozy but ample-sized studio is a haven for couples holidaying in Telluride. Located in a quiet part of town, the property is in close proximity to the bustling downtown and Gondola, which will take you across to the Town Mountain Village. There is also a free shuttle that runs into town every 10 minutes called the Galloping Goose!
The condo is within walking distance of numerous restaurants and bars. However, if you would rather eat in, the kitchenette has all the basics you will need to whip up a tasty meal.
Coin-operated laundry facilities are located next door, and free parking is available on a first-come first-serve basis.
The Victorian Inn – Ideal for Digital Nomads in Telluride
One of the best things about The Victorian Inn is its location. Less than five minutes’ walk from the Telluride gondola station, you can easily get from your hotel room to the ski slopes.
The inn has a sauna available during the winter months, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing and winter sports. Notable spots like San Miguel River, Sheridan Opera House, and Silverton Mountain are nearby.
A continental breakfast is included in the rate, as is fast Wi-Fi in all rooms. With a dedicated workspace, digital nomads can finish up the last few emails before heading out on the slopes.
Private Room Close to Ski Lifts – Best Room for Solo Travellers in Telluride
There’s a lot to see and do in Telluride, and this private room in a condo is the perfect base for adventure and exploration. The property is close to ski lifts and hiking trails making it easy to fill your days with activities. There is also public transport nearby, so you can easily hop on a bus to visit the nearby areas.
Grocery stores and restaurants are within easy reach for stocking up on snacks or treating yourself to a delicious feast. The condo has a full kitchen shared with the other guests if you fancy preparing something fresh.
The home also has a shared dining place, large deck and outdoor hot tub! If you are travelling solo, this is the best place to stay.
Centrally Located Studio, Close to Everything – Most Affordable Airbnb in Telluride
Located on the sunny side of Telluride, this room has plenty of natural light, and all the home comforts you need for an unforgettable stay. Just a few steps away from everything, you can spend time enjoying the area instead of figuring out how to get from one place to another.
The studio doesn’t have a conventional kitchen, but includes all the amenities you need to prepare a quick snack. With the grocery store just a short walk away, you can purchase snacks and ready-made meals to be heated up back home. We heard that the deli area has some excellent prepared foods!
A free bus runs a loop through town making it easy to get around. The nearest stop is just a block south of the condo. As if that wasn’t enough, Coonskin Lift is about seven minutes’ walk away from the property. If you’re on a budget, this a perfect place to stay!
What to Pack for your Telluride Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Product
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Telluride Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Telluride cost?
Hostels in Telluride are more costly compared to most places. Private rooms have an average price of $150 and dorms average $60 per bed.
What are the best hostels in Telluride for couples?
Known for it’s cozy atmosphere, The Bivvi Hostel Telluride is the best hostel for couples. The area around it is also popular for skiing and cycling.
What is the best hostel in Telluride near the airport?
The Victorian Inn is nearest to Telluride Regional Airport. It is only approximately six miles away, or 14 minutes drive.
Travel Safety Tips for Telluride
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts
Ski slope adventures, excellent food, and a glass of wine as you soak in a hot tub – that’s what an adventure to Telluride promises.
Memorable vacations don’t just happen by chance. They come with planning and research. This time, we have saved you the trouble and done the hard work for you.
If you are still undecided which Telluride hostel to go with, pick The Bivvi Hostel. They offer a free breakfast buffet! What more could you need?!
- Use our Where to Stay in Telluride guide to plan your adventure.
- Check out all the epic things to do in Colorado while you’re visiting.
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Colorado covered.
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking in the USA.
- Don’t forget the essentials with our in-depth backpacking packing list.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip around Colorado.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
