1. Introduction
Welcome to Ridgway, Colorado
Ridgway, Colorado sits between Ouray and Telluride. It offers mountain views, quiet lakes and fewer crowds. If you are planning a trip, this guide covers the best things to do in Ridgway, Colorado.
What makes Ridgway special is its warm welcome. This town suits nature lovers, history fans and quiet travellers. You can hike, relax in hot springs and enjoy local food. It is a place that stays with you after you leave.
Ridgway, Colorado is best known for Ridgway State Park, scenic drives, hiking and a relaxed small town feel.
Best Things to Do in Ridgway Colorado
Ridgway may be a small town but it offers a wide range of things to do. Nature lovers and quiet travellers will enjoy it here. From scenic lakes and outdoor adventures to charming local spots, you can slow down and enjoy Colorado beauty without the crowds.
2. Top Outdoor Activities in Ridgway
Ridgway is a great base for outdoor lovers. You will find tall peaks, winding rivers and many trails. Whether you love hiking, biking or scenic drives, there is something here for you.
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 was also a filming location for the 1969 film True Grit. Film fans will enjoy seeing the scenery from the movie in real life.
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 great place for water lovers. It has clear lakes, flowing rivers and good fishing spots. Whether you want to paddle on calm water or cast a line for trout, there is 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.
Orvis Hot Springs – A True Spa Experience
Orvis Hot Springs sits about one mile south of Ridgway. It is a peaceful retreat with seven soaking areas. The pools offer different temperatures and mountain views. It is a good place to relax after a day outdoors.
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 tells that story. It features restored train cars and engines. You can also explore exhibits on the railroad era in Colorado.
I have always loved old trains, so a visit was a must. The museum grounds give a clear sense of the railroad era. The exhibits show how trains shaped the region.
Art Galleries – Creativity in the Mountains
Ridgway is not just about history. It is also a hub for artists. The town art galleries display a range of works. You will 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. The mountains give the artists plenty to paint.
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 a highlight of the area. You can spend a day kayaking, swimming, fishing, or relaxing by the water. Mountain views surround the reservoir. It is especially peaceful in the early morning when the lake is calm.
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
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park makes a good day trip from Ridgway. The canyon is deep and steep. Its greatest depth at Warner Point is 2,722 feet. The views are striking.
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
Renting a Jeep is a good way to explore the backcountry around Ridgway. The San Juan Mountains have mountain trails and high passes. The views are wide and open. Check road conditions before you set out.
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.
Evenings Food and Film in Ridgway
Ridgway stays quiet after dark. You can enjoy a casual meal in town. Taco Del Gnar and Eatery 66 are local places to try. Floating Lotus Brewery is another local spot. On a clear night you can look up at dark skies above the town.
The Sherbino is the town theatre. It hosts theatre and music. It also hosts film and comedy. Speakers and literary arts are part of its programme too.
Film fans can follow True Grit tours. You can join a guided tour. You can also follow a tour on your own. The Ouray County Ranch History Museum tells the story of ranching in the area. In summer and fall you can visit the farmers market.
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 to May): Snowmelt fills rivers. Trails at lower elevations start to open. Some high passes may still have snow.
- Summer (June to August): Warm days suit hiking, paddling and fishing. Ridgway State Park is a good place for a full day by the water.
Recommended Safety Tips
Whenever you visit Ridgway, these safety tips will help you enjoy your trip.
- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ridgway, Colorado worth visiting?
Yes. Ridgway suits visitors who want mountain views and a quiet small town. It offers hiking, fishing, hot springs and scenic drives without large crowds.
What is Ridgway, Colorado known for?
Ridgway is best known for Ridgway State Park, scenic drives, hiking and a relaxed small town feel. It is also known as a filming location for the 1969 film True Grit.
What movie was filmed in Ridgway?
The 1969 film True Grit was filmed in and around Ridgway. Owl Creek Pass was one of its filming locations. Visitors can follow True Grit tours in town.
How far is Ridgway from Ouray and Telluride?
Ouray sits about 11 miles away. Telluride sits about 39 miles away. Both make easy day trips from Ridgway.
When is the best time to visit Ridgway?
It depends on what you want to do. September and October bring gold aspen trees. Winter is calm and suits hot springs in snow. Summer suits hiking, paddling and fishing.
Where can visitors soak in hot springs near Ridgway?
Orvis Hot Springs sits about one mile south of Ridgway. It has seven soaking areas with different temperatures and mountain views.
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. Ouray sits about 11 miles away. Telluride sits about 39 miles away. Both make easy day trips from Ridgway.
I still remember the first time I drove into Ridgway. The mountains rose high around the town. Sunset light shone on the reservoir. I knew I had found a place that felt quiet and wild.
