mountianside inn

Do not stay at Mountainside Inn! 80 rooms and only 16 parking spaces. The narrow street to the Inn is closed for repair. Absolutely no help in how to navigate around the closed road, only told to contact the Town of Telluride for information on which streets are closed. Office closes at 8 pm.

The room was styled and decorated like a Federal minimum security prison. Room looked nothing like the photos. Totally and complete rip off.

It sounds like you had a very frustrating experience at the Mountainside Inn, and unfortunately your comments reflect issues that other travelers sometimes encounter with older lodging options in Telluride. Because Telluride is a small mountain town with limited space, parking can be tight, streets often undergo seasonal repairs, and older properties vary significantly in quality. Still, clear communication and accurate room descriptions should always be expected, and the concerns you raise are understandable.

If others are considering staying at Mountainside Inn, here is what to keep in mind based on your experience and common issues reported by travelers:

  • Parking is extremely limited — With roughly 80 rooms and about 16 parking spaces, guests should not assume on-site parking will be available. Overflow parking is possible in Telluride, but it often requires permits, walking long distances, or parking in designated areas.
  • Road closures can make access challenging — Mountain towns frequently close streets for construction, snow removal, or infrastructure work. If the inn did not provide clear directions or detours, that can make arrival stressful, especially for new visitors.
  • Rooms may not match marketing photos — Mountainside Inn is one of Telluride’s more budget-friendly accommodations, and the rooms vary widely in layout and renovation status. Some guests find their room outdated or simpler than expected.
  • Front desk hours are limited — Many smaller Telluride lodges close their offices early. If you arrive after hours or need assistance late in the evening, it can be difficult to get help.

If someone wants to avoid the types of issues you encountered but still stay relatively close to town, there are several alternatives that offer better communication, more consistent room quality, and improved amenities.

  • New Sheridan Hotel — Historic but well maintained, centrally located, with helpful front-desk service.
  • The Hotel Telluride — Comfortable rooms, good service, and generally reliable amenities. Parking is still somewhat limited but better managed.
  • Camel’s Garden Hotel — Excellent location at the base of the gondola, modern rooms, and better overall guest support.
  • Mountainside Lodge in Mountain Village — If you don’t mind staying in Mountain Village instead of downtown, you’ll often get newer accommodations and easier parking.

If staying at Mountainside Inn is still an option for some future travelers—perhaps due to price or availability—it's important to approach it with realistic expectations. It’s one of the more affordable properties in a very high-demand area, and many of the rooms are basic, older, and not uniform in appearance. The value can work for some guests who only need a simple place to sleep and plan to spend most of their time outdoors, but it’s not a property known for modern features, plentiful parking, or luxury touches.

Your feedback is helpful for others planning a stay in Telluride, especially during busy seasons when lodging options are limited. For the most stress-free experience, choosing a hotel with clearer communication, better parking, and more updated rooms can make a significant difference.


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