Bridal Veil Powerhouse [Suggest Edits]

Description

The Bridal Veil Powerhouse, officially known as the Smuggler-Union Hydroelectric Power Plant, is perched atop Bridal Veil Falls and a 400 foot cliff. The building is clearly visible from downtown Telluride, leaving those visiting town for the first time to wonder what on earth a building is doing up there on the edge of a cliff!

The powerhouse is still active today, and actually produces a good portion of Telluride's electricity. It was built in 1907 and supplied power for the Smuggler-Union Mines until the 1950s.

Since the powerhouse is privately owned and still in operation, it is off limits to visitors. Thankfully one can still get a great view of the powerhouse from many places. To explore up close begin by parking at the main area for the waterfall and hiking the Bridal Veil Falls Trail up. This leads to the base of the impressive waterfall where you'll see the powerhouse looming above. Continue hiking up the 4x4 road until you reach the top of the waterfall and can look down on the powerhouse. Please respect the private property and do not attempt to go in or near the powerhouse.

Short Hike: It is possible to drive very near the powerhouse, but a 4x4 vehicle is required and there is no parking allowed. Most commonly people will park at the large trailhead below, hike the Bridal Veil Falls Trail to the base of the falls, then follow the 4x4 road to the powerhouse.

Family Friendly: The full hike up to the waterfall and powerhouse may be a bit much for very young kids.

Gem Type: Historic Site