Nestled in a secluded box canyon with panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains, Telluride has held on to enough of its heritage — old mining claims, Victorian cottages, false-front storefronts — to stand out among Colorado’s famous ski destinations. Its downtown became a National Historic Landmark District in 1961, and 13 years later, the Telluride Film Festival made its home here. Outdoor pursuits are the big draw year-round, made even easier by Mountain Village’s ski-in/ski-out hotels and quick gondola access. There’s enough here to fill an entire season, but this is how I’d spend one summer day in my favorite Colorado town. Since I had my dog with me on my most recent visit, I’ve included a few pooch-friendly ideas.

Morning

After breakfast at your Mountain Village hotel — either Lumière by Dunton or the Madeline Hotel & Residences — take the free gondola to downtown Telluride. It runs from 6:30 a.m. to midnight, and four-legged friends are welcome to ride it too. Disembark on Oak Street, and if you need more caffeination, grab a latte at the Cowboy Coffee truck, known as “the Cart,” at the foot of the gondola (you can also walk east to the corner of Pacific and Willow and get a full breakfast at its brick-and-mortar location).

Adventurous types may want to spend the morning taking a (slightly harrowing) 4x4 tour to Imogene Pass or picturesque Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall. Jeep tours begin near the gondola and offer a range of off-road excursions, from two-hour-to-half-day trips. They’re enjoyable as long as you aren’t afraid of heights, don’t mind bumpy rides and don’t have a kid in tow. Book in advance, but keep in mind that while most trails are accessible from June through September, conditions can change quickly. (Dogs can accompany their owners on many of these tours, but I highly recommend leaving them home.)