24 Apr TMVOA: Funding to Extend Fall Gondola Operations through 2026/2027!
The Telluride Mountain Village Owners Association (TMVOA) has approved funding to extend gondola operations by one additional week during the fall season in both 2026 and 2027, reinforcing its commitment to supporting local businesses, and strengthening long-term economic vitality.
Gondola image courtesy Town of Telluride.
Under the approved plan, gondola service will continue through Sunday, October 25, 2026, extending operations by one week. In addition, the TMVOA Board directed that the extended schedule be maintained again in fall 2027, allowing time for the initiative to gain traction and deliver an impact.
While the gondola is operated by the Town of Mountain Village, the extension is funded by TMVOA, representing a direct investment by the Association to support continued gondola operations and strengthen shoulder-season economic activity.
The decision builds on strong stakeholder support from local businesses and reflects a strategic, multi-year approach to activating lower season times and providing greater certainty to lodging partners, businesses, and group planners.
“The gondola will now close on the fourth Sunday in October as opposed to the third Sunday in October” said Patrick Latcham, Chief Operating Officer for TMVOA. “By committing to both 2026 and 2027, we’re giving our business partners the runway they need to plan, market, and ultimately grow visitation during a traditionally much quieter time of year.”
TMVOA Board Chairman, John Volponi added:
“Our board felt this would be a thoughtful investment in Mountain Village’s future. While the immediate financial return may be modest, the long-term benefit lies in building momentum, supporting our local economy, and positioning the fall season as a more vibrant and reliable time to visit.”
“Given increased visitation and activity in the fall, it is felt prudent to extend the gondola season for businesses, fall activities and extended visits. We appreciate our partnership with TMVOA to extend the gondola’s season for the next two years,” said Mountain Village Acting Town Manager, Michelle Bulson.
The extension is expected to support increased occupancy, drive incremental visitation, and encourage broader participation from local businesses. Feedback from lodging providers, retailers, and hospitality operators indicates strong alignment on the value of a predictable, extended fall season.
To maximize the impact, TMVOA will work closely with the Town of Mountain Village and community partners on coordinated efforts, including marketing initiatives, new potential fall programming, and encouraging lodger outreach to group and event planners.
This two-year commitment is intended to generate actionable data and insights to inform future decisions on gondola operations beyond 2027.
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