Festival Awards

The great polar explorer Norman Vaughan was a friend to Mountainfilm whose motto was "Dream big and dare to fail." Funded by his widow Carolyn Muegge-Vaughan and Rick and Lindsey Silverman, this award is given to a film that shares Vaughan's same indomitable spirit.

The work of nonprofits often attract filmmakers as the struggles and strains of fighting the good fight provides thought-provoking material for a documentary. This $3,000 prize goes to a nonprofit featured in a film at the festival. Judges watch the nominated films and examine the mission of each nonprofit, considering its scope, impact and need; the quality of the film is not an important factor in the decision.

Past Award Winners

This award is chosen by Mountainfilm’s festival director.

Past Award Winners

Great documentaries start with a compelling story, but a narrative resonates even more when paired with stunning images. This juried award — sponsored by Felt Soul Media with a $1,000 cash prize — goes to the film with the most outstanding cinematography.

Past Award Winners

The brilliant alpinist Charlie Fowler was a Telluride local and mainstay of Mountainfilm for many years. We miss him terribly, but we find comfort knowing his presence is with us for this award. The judges try to discern which mountaineering or climbing film he would have liked most for a $1,000 award.

Past Award Winners

The Audience Award is chosen via secret ballot by attendees at the Closing Picnic & Awards Ceremony.

Past Award Winners