1. Introduction
Welcome to Ridgway, Colorado
Ridgway, Colorado, is a hidden gem in the San Juan Mountains. Many travelers miss it. It offers stunning scenery, outdoor fun, and a friendly community. Ridgway sits in southwestern Colorado. It is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and clear rivers.
But what makes Ridgway truly special is its welcoming spirit. This town has something for everyone. Whether you love nature, enjoy history, or seek a quiet getaway, you’ll find it here. Ridgway has it all. You can hike, relax in hot springs, and enjoy tasty local food. It’s a place that stays in your heart even after you go.
2. Top Outdoor Activities in Ridgway
Ridgway, Colorado, is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Nature shines in this place. You’ll find towering peaks, winding rivers, and endless trails. Whether you love hiking, biking, or scenic drives, there’s something here for everyone.
Hiking Trails
Dennis Weaver Memorial Park – A Peaceful Escape
For a gentler, family-friendly hike, Dennis Weaver Memorial Park is perfect. This park is named after Dennis Weaver, an actor and environmentalist. It honors his love for nature.
I enjoyed a calm morning walk along the Uncompahgre River. It flowed past smooth, round boulders. Along the way, I saw deer grazing in the grass and hawks soaring overhead. The park also has a giant eagle statue, a powerful symbol of freedom and connection to nature.
With well-marked trails and stunning views, it’s a great spot for a quiet hike, a picnic, or just a moment of reflection.
Biking Adventures
If you prefer two wheels over two feet, Ridgway offers some of the best biking trails in Colorado. The Ridgway Area Trails (RAT) system has miles of singletrack for all skill levels.
I’m not an expert mountain biker, but I decided to try the RAT trails one summer. I started on an easy loop, weaving through juniper trees and sagebrush. As I grew more confident, I faced a tricky section. I felt excited as I navigated the twists and turns.
Highway 62 offers road bikers a beautiful ride to Dallas Divide. The mountain views there are simply unmatched. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, Ridgway’s biking trails offer pure adventure.
Scenic Drives
Owl Creek Pass – A Drive into the Wilderness
If you love dramatic landscapes, the drive through Owl Creek Pass is unforgettable. This gravel road leads deep into the San Juan Mountains. You’ll see tall rock formations, thick forests, and beautiful alpine meadows.
Owl Creek Pass is also famous for being a filming location for True Grit. If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll recognize the stunning scenery right away.
Silver Jack Reservoir – A Hidden Gem
A stunning drive brings you to Silver Jack Reservoir. This peaceful lake is nestled among tall pine trees and sharp mountain peaks. Unlike the more touristy areas, this spot feels remote and peaceful.
I packed a picnic and spent the afternoon here. I watched the water reflect the tall cliffs above. The drive was as lovely as the destination. Aspen trees lined the road, and wildflowers dotted the hillsides.
3. Water-Based Activities in Ridgway
Ridgway is a paradise for water lovers. It has clear lakes, flowing rivers, and top-notch fishing spots. Whether you want to paddle on calm waters, cast a line for trout, or ride the rapids, there’s an adventure waiting for you.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking – A Peaceful Escape on the Water
Ridgway State Park is the go-to spot for paddleboarding and kayaking. The Ridgway Reservoir sits amid the San Juan Mountains. Its calm waters are ideal for a relaxing day on the lake.
Fly Fishing at RIGS Fly Shop – A True Colorado Experience
Ridgway offers some of the best fly fishing in Colorado. The Uncompahgre River is a great spot to cast your line. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, RIGS Fly Shop can help you find the best spots.
I had never fly-fished before, so I signed up for a guided trip with RIGS. My guide, a seasoned fisherman who knew every bend in the river, handed me a rod and showed me how to cast. It took me a few tries to get it right, but when I finally saw a trout rise to the surface, I felt an instant rush of excitement.
4. Hot Springs and Relaxation in Ridgway
After a long day of hiking, biking, or exploring, there’s nothing better than soaking in a natural hot spring. Ridgway is home to some of the most peaceful and rejuvenating hot springs in Colorado. These hidden gems have mineral-rich waters and great mountain views. They are perfect for relaxing.
Eternal Hot Springs – A Secret Soak in Nature
Eternal Hot Springs is one of Ridgway’s best-kept secrets. This hot spring feels natural and untouched. It’s a steaming pool, with trees and smooth river stones all around.
I first heard about Eternal Hot Springs from a local while grabbing coffee in town. With no official signs or tourist crowds, it felt like something only the lucky few knew about. One crisp morning, I decided to find it. After a short hike through the trees, I spotted the steam rising from the water.
Orvis Hot Springs – A True Spa Experience
For those looking for a more traditional hot spring experience, Orvis Hot Springs is the place to be. Just a few minutes from Ridgway, this peaceful retreat has several pools. Each pool features different temperatures and is surrounded by stunning mountain views.
The first time I visited Orvis, I arrived just before sunset. I stepped into one of the larger pools, letting the mineral-rich water ease my tired muscles. As the sun set behind the mountains, the sky glowed pink and orange. This warm light spread over the valley.
5. Cultural and Historical Attractions in Ridgway
Ridgway is famous for outdoor adventures, but it also has a rich culture and history. The town is rich in stories. It has old railroad history, classic Western films, and vibrant art galleries. There’s so much to explore!
Ridgway Railroad Museum – A Journey Through Time
Before Ridgway became an outdoor spot, it was a key stop on the Rio Grande Southern Railroad. The Ridgway Railroad Museum makes history come alive. It features restored train cars and engines. You can also explore exhibits on Colorado’s railroad era.
I’ve always been fascinated by old trains, so I couldn’t pass up the chance to visit. The moment I stepped onto the museum grounds, I felt like I had traveled back in time. Many volunteers were former railroad workers. They shared stories about how trains shaped the region.
Art Galleries – Creativity in the Mountains
Ridgway isn’t just about history—it’s also a hub for artists. The town’s art galleries display a range of works. You’ll find landscape paintings and handcrafted pottery. Each piece is inspired by the beauty of the San Juan Mountains.
I walked into the Ridgway Gallery. Local artists showed beautiful paintings. They featured alpine lakes, wildflowers, and wildlife. One artist, who had lived in Ridgway for over 20 years, told me that the mountains never stop inspiring new work.
6. State Parks and Natural Wonders in Ridgway
Ridgway is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Colorado. Nature lovers can explore endless beauty, from peaceful lakes to dramatic canyons. Two amazing places are Ridgway State Park and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Both offer unique outdoor adventures.
Ridgway State Park – A Playground for Nature Lovers
Ridgway State Park is one of the most beautiful state parks in Colorado. It has a large reservoir, sandy beaches, and plenty of trails. This makes it perfect for camping, boating, fishing, and wildlife watching.
I first visited Ridgway State Park on a hot summer day. The turquoise water of the Ridgway Reservoir shimmered under the sun, and I couldn’t wait to jump in. I took a kayak from the marina and paddled to the lake’s center. There, I enjoyed a stunning view of the towering San Juan Mountains.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park – A Hidden Wonder
Just an hour from Ridgway, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is truly stunning. The canyon’s walls plunge about 2,000 feet to the Gunnison River. This creates a striking and slightly eerie beauty.
I’ll never forget my first visit. Standing at Pulpit Rock Overlook, I felt excitement and disbelief. How could such a massive sight be hidden in western Colorado? The sheer cliffs, some of the steepest in North America, seemed to swallow the river below.
7. Adventure Tours and Rentals in Ridgway
Ridgway is the perfect place for adventure seekers. You can drive rugged mountain trails in a Jeep, race through backcountry roads in an RZR, or go fly fishing. There’s plenty of excitement to be had! These guided tours and rentals allow you to discover Colorado’s wild beauty in a fun and thrilling way.
Jeep Rentals – Exploring the San Juan Mountains
One of the best ways to experience Ridgway’s backcountry is by renting a Jeep. The San Juan Mountains have amazing off-road trails. They take you to high passes, ghost towns, and stunning views.
I rented a Rubicon Jeep from a local outfitter and set off on Last Dollar Road, one of Colorado’s most scenic drives. The dirt road wound through golden aspen trees. It passed old ranches and climbed toward stunning mountain views. With each turn, the views got better. I paused at a ridge and sat down. The view of the tall peaks before me was stunning.
Guided Fly Fishing – A True Colorado Experience
Ridgway is a fly fishing paradise, and the best way to experience it is with a guided trip. The Uncompahgre River and nearby streams have wild rainbow and brown trout. This makes them some of the best fishing spots in the state.
Adventure Awaits in Ridgway
Ridgway is full of adventure. You can off-road in a Jeep or RZR. You can also cast a line in clear mountain waters. You can explore Colorado’s stunning landscapes at your own pace or join a guided tour.
8. Best Time to Visit Ridgway
Ridgway is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.
- Fall (September – October): This is my favorite time to visit. The aspen trees turn gold, creating some of the most stunning landscapes in Colorado. The weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds on the trails.
- Winter (December – March): Ridgway is calm. It’s great for skiing and snowboarding at Telluride Ski Resort. If you love soaking in hot springs while surrounded by snow, this is the season for you.
- Spring (April – May): Snowmelt fills rivers. This makes it the best time for whitewater rafting. Trails in the lower elevations start to open up, but some high-altitude passes may still have snow.
Recommended Safety Tips
Whenever you visit Ridgway, these safety tips will help you enjoy your trip.
Safety Tips
- Altitude awareness: Ridgway is at 6,985 feet, and climbing the mountains can cause altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. If you’re not used to high elevations, drink plenty of water and take it slow.
- Wildlife precautions: Never feed or approach wildlife. Store food properly when camping, and stay alert on trails.
9. Ridgway: Colorado’s Best-Kept Secret
Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, Ridgway is a place that stays with you long after you leave. This town has something special for everyone. You can soak in natural hot springs, drive scenic mountain roads, or cast a line in the Uncompahgre River.
I still remember the first time I drove into Ridgway. The mountains seemed to rise from the earth like giants, their peaks dusted with snow even in late summer. The golden light of sunset reflected off the reservoir, and I knew I had found a place that felt untouched and wild. I felt that excitement grow as I hiked Dallas Creek.
