The gondola, the first and only free public transportation of its kind in the United States, officially opened on December 20, 1996, and was originally built to help improve air quality while expanding the ski area. Since then, it has become a popular attraction for residents and visitors alike, giving them stunning, 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains and access to hiking, mountain biking, and ski trails, as well as shops and restaurants.

Operating Dates - Winter: November 17, 2023 to April 7, 2024; Summer/Fall: May 23, 2024 - October 20, 2024

Operating Hours - 6:30 a.m. to midnight, open until 2 a.m. during winter

Station Locations - Oak Street Plaza in Telluride, two stations in Mountain Village: Market Plaza (next to the Village Market) and the Mountain Village Center (up the stairs from the bottom of Chair 4)

Routes - There are two routes: Mountain Village Center to the town of Telluride and Mountain Village Center to the Market Plaza 

Gondola hours are extended at various times throughout the year, usually for a special event or holiday. Do expect long lines during peak times. As always, we appreciate your patience.

During the months when the gondola is closed, a Free Bus Service is provided to and from the towns of Mountain Village and Telluride. If you accidentally leave a personal item in a gondola cabin, please call (970) 729-3435 to speak to a gondola operations supervisor. Our procedure for handling lost items can be accessed via the Lost & Found Web Page.

For more information please visit https://townofmountainvillage.com/explore/getting-around/gondola-chondola/