Mountainfilm 2025: A Celebration of Adventure, Activism, and the Indomitable Human Spirit
Every Memorial Day weekend, the town of Telluride, Colorado, transforms into a global stage for documentary storytelling. Now in its 47th year, Mountainfilm 2025 promises to be one of the most dynamic editions yet, featuring over 100 films that spotlight outdoor adventure, environmental activism, social justice, and human resilience. With more than 80 premieres and a powerful lineup of speakers, panels, and guest appearances, this year’s festival reinforces Mountainfilm’s status as one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking cultural events in the world.
What is Mountainfilm?
A Festival Rooted in Purpose
Founded in 1979, Mountainfilm is not just a film festival — it’s a movement. The festival seeks to educate and inspire audiences through stories that connect humanity to nature, and adventure to activism. Attendees leave not only entertained, but empowered to take action.
Where It Happens: Telluride, Colorado
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride offers the perfect setting for this immersive experience. Visit TD Smith Real Estate to learn more about Telluride’s charm and real estate opportunities for festivalgoers who never want to leave.
2025 Festival Highlights
Over 100 Films Across Genres
This year’s lineup features a robust offering of short and feature-length documentaries, including:
- “Mountain Joy” – Celebrating the legacy of Telluride locals Dave and Sherry Farny.
- “Center Punch: San Juan Splitboarding” – A high-energy ride through Telluride’s backcountry.
- “The Changebaker” – A touching look at immigrant resilience through the lens of a Southern bakery.
- “Desert Angel” – Following Rafael Larraenza Hernandez’s brave efforts to find missing migrants in the desert.
World Premieres
Five major feature films will make their world debut at Mountainfilm 2025:
1. Girl Climber
Directed by Jon Glassberg, this film tracks climber Emily Harrington as she attempts to free climb El Capitan in under 24 hours.
2. Old Man Lightning
A deeply personal documentary from Dawn Kish about climber-turned-bird photographer John “Verm” Sherman.
3. Trango
A gripping adventure showcasing the first ski descent of the 20,623-foot Great Trango Tower.
4. Cecil
Exploring conflicting views around the life and legacy of Zimbabwe’s most famous lion.
5. The Last Place on Earth
An urgent call to action, highlighting wildlife activists protecting Sumatra’s Leuser rainforest from the palm oil industry.
Local Stories Take Center Stage at Mountainfilm
A Love Letter to Telluride
Many films this year draw from the rich culture and landscape of Telluride itself. From the Farnys’ contribution to outdoor education in “Mountain Joy” to the thrilling snowboard adventures of Harry Kearney and friends in “Center Punch”, this year’s program is a testament to the town’s outsized impact on outdoor sports and conservation.
Adrenaline Shorts Program at Mountainfilm
For thrill-seekers, the Adrenaline Shorts Program screens for free on Saturday night at the Base Camp Theater in Telluride Town Park. Other shorts include:
- “GOOCHIE” – Following adaptive mountain biker Cole Bernier at Whistler.
- “The Everyday Rider” – Celebrating the joy and soul of snowboarding.
- “Pastrana” – Featuring the fearless downhill skateboarder Melissa Brogni.
A Focus on Activism and Inclusion in Mountainfilm
A New Era of Conservation
Kicking off the weekend is Friday’s symposium titled “A New Era of Conservation: How Indigenous Leadership is Reshaping What We Thought We Knew About Land Management.”
Featured Speakers:
- Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) – Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and current New Mexico gubernatorial candidate.
- Ernest House Jr. (Ute Mountain Ute) – Senior Policy Director at the Keystone Policy Center.
- Konwanahktotha Alvera Sargent (Mohawk Nation) – Co-director of “The Opening Address.”
This panel explores the vital contributions of Indigenous knowledge to modern conservation practices, reinforcing Mountainfilm’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and decolonization.
Honoring Ancestral Lands
Mountainfilm respectfully acknowledges that it takes place on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded homelands of the Nuchu (Ute) and Pueblo peoples.
Star Power and Stories That Matter at Mountainfilm
Sophia Bush Named Guest Director
Actress and activist Sophia Bush will guide this year’s programming, focusing on women’s rights, climate action, and the power of collective voice.
“It is an annual journey that brings us home to a community… to better protect this planet,” Bush said of Mountainfilm.
Portrait of a Pioneer: “SALLY”
Filmmaker Cristina Costantini returns with “SALLY,” a long-form documentary about Sally Ride — the first American woman and the first LGBTQ astronaut to travel to space.
Why Attend Mountainfilm?
More Than a Movie Night
Mountainfilm isn’t just about what’s on screen. It’s about community, connection, and the inspiration to create real-world change. Whether you’re a filmmaker, activist, outdoor enthusiast, or first-time visitor, the experience is immersive and transformative.
Opportunities for Engagement at Mountainfilm
Almost every film features a Q&A session with directors, subjects, or producers, giving audiences an intimate look at the stories behind the lens.
Plan Your Visit
Festival Passes
Passes for Mountainfilm 2025 are on sale now at Mountainfilm.org, with several tiered options depending on your schedule and interests.
Where to Stay
If you’re considering extending your stay, browse available accommodations or consider exploring long-term investment opportunities in Telluride. TD Smith offers expert insight into luxury real estate throughout the region.
Local Attractions
- Hiking and biking trails from Town Park to Bear Creek Falls
- Dining and nightlife in Historic Downtown Telluride
- Summer gondola rides to Mountain Village
Final Thoughts: Let the Stories Move You
Mountainfilm 2025 is more than a festival — it’s a call to action. The films and conversations you’ll encounter during this immersive weekend in Telluride are designed to awaken, challenge, and inspire. With a focus on environmental protection, Indigenous leadership, gender equity, and the shared human journey, this year’s lineup carries forward Mountainfilm’s legacy of storytelling with purpose.
Join us this Memorial Day Weekend and experience the power of film to change the world.