See and touch real fossils on one of the tours. World-Class Bowl And Amazing Views At Ridgway Skate Park. 115. 604 Clinton Street, Ridgway, Colorado 81432, Phone: 970-318-0892. The average household size was 2.29 and the average family size was 2.82. Right?! The Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce promotes business and community development in the Town of Ridgway and the surrounding area. Since the Sherbino opened, folks have gathered to enjoy Chautauqua-style entertainment such as orchestra performances, melodramas, plays, traveling troupes, and educational events. National League's Elias Daz, of the Colorado Rockies, holds up his MVP trophy after the National League defeated the American League 3-2 in the MLB All-Star . Whatever your Rocky Mountain outdoor sports needs are, you can bet your bottom dollar that the San Juan Hut System can help you plane very single detail out. Finding True Grit in Ridgway - J. Dawg Journeys View Google Map for locations near Ridgway : Ouray, Colona, Camp Bird, Telluride, Pandora. Last Dollar Road 124 National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum is one of the most popular museums in town and you can learn some interesting history here. The final destination on this scenic route is Mesa Verde National Park. Posted on Published: May 25, 2022- Last updated: June 21, 2023. In Nederland, be sure to visit the towns main attraction, the Carousel of Happiness. A free gondola connects the town with its companion town, Mountain Village, Colorado, at the base of the ski area. So grab your gear and hit the road. After all, sometimes the best vacations and road trips are exploring underrated destinations. Seeing the cliff dwellings up close provides a different experience, and helps put the size and detail into perspective. From there, take Highway 72 to Nederland, CO. Then take Highway 119 and end at I-70 after Black Hawk. Visiting Pikes Peak and Colorado Springs is one of the best places to visit in August, making late summer a great time of year to visit. Travelers looking for memorable recreational activities can stop by locations like the Dennis Weaver Memorial Park and the Orvis Springs. Ridgway is proud to be a part of the Colorado Creative Corridor. Welcome to Ridgway Colorado Gateway to the San Juan Mountains of Southwestern Colorado Outdoor Adventure From deep canyon pools to high country lakes and magnificent reservoirs, roam. Next hop on Highway 91 south to Leadville. Leadville to Aspen is one of the most popular Colorado scenic byways that takes you over Independence Pass with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. [18]. With so many incredible adventure across the state, theres no shortage of things to do and see in Colorado. [5] Four different outdoor pools are all fed by natural lithium hot springs. Whether youre looking for an adventure or just a leisurely drive through some of the most beautiful scenery in the west, the Flat Tops Trail Scenic Byway in Colorado is a must! Next, drive toward the Independence Pass where youll want to make a couple of stops to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and take some photos. Narrow your results to famous, Non-Cemetery Burials, memorials with or without grave photos and more. The article went on to mention there was seating for 300, running hot and cold water, and toilets! Ridgway is a small town with more going on than you might think. Get to know Ridgway and learn about all the wonder things to do in our area of Colorado. Recommended by me Nikki of Inspired Routes, Distance: 200 milesEstimated time: 8+ hoursRoute open: year round. The eponymous Mt. We'll explain how these gorgeous alpine lakes got their name and what else makes them special. Enjoy one of the best places to visit in Colorado that has become renowned for its ski resorts and year-round outdoor opportunities. These next 2 scenic routes in Colorado are leaving from Colorado Springs. Probably one of the shortest on this list of scenic drives Colorado, but it sure packs a punch! Full of recreation opportunities, its a great spot for biking, kayaking, hiking, boating and so much more. When you arrive in Aspen youll see why its one of the best mountain towns in Colorado. By now youve likely found a scenic route in Colorado to discover (or even more than one!) After a long day of adventures, theres no better way to end your day than soaking in natural hot springs. Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut follow on Pinterest, Distance: 55 milesEstimated time: 4+ hoursRoute open: Ouray to BCGNP is open year round, but expect some park closures during winter. The Diamond Turf style made popular by Prime back . From downtown Ridgway, hike or bike along the historic railroad bed of the former Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad corridor. Its an awesome spot for canoeing, kayaking and fishing, if have time to spend an afternoon there. Each Thursday in July, Rid Ridgway is proud to be a part of the Colorado Creative Corridor. Its the most urban of the scenic byways in Colorado, but still offers plenty of nature opportunities. Make tour reservations in advance and be prepared for a lot of hiking! I'm Nikki. Get more help from our Help Center. . We are an important town on the San Juan Scenic Highway, the most beautiful and popular tourist route in Colorado. Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce has prepared a visitor information and resource guide to help you travel like a local throughout our community. The hot springs also feature two private tubs and an indoor pool. Lets go over a few essentials to make the best experiences for your adventures! The park is also home to a beautiful lake and is equipped with a marina for long term stays, boat docs, and even has a swimming beach for those who want to cool off during the summer. The Sherbino/Cherbeneau/Charbonneau family have been a part of Ridgway since before Ridgway was even incorporated. The full-service Chipeta Spa features a gift shop, two solar heated outdoor pools, scheduled yoga classes, steam room, cedar dry sauna, and four treatment rooms. The name given to the river comes from the Ute word Uncompaghre, which loosely translates to "dirty water" or "red water spring" and is likely a reference to the many hot springs in the vicinity of Ouray. Together, the chamber and its member base help create a vibrant and thriving business environment. The Ridgway Concert Series is the newest FREE outdoor concert series on the Western Slope. Looking for one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Colorado of all time? 28.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. Ridgway State Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2023) Climate Normals Quick Access Station: Ridgway, CO", "NOAA Online Weather Data NWS Grand Junction", "Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Ridgway,_Colorado&oldid=1161957029, This page was last edited on 26 June 2023, at 03:02. On the way there, be sure to stop by Echo Lake and Summit Lake. Note: because of its popularity, youll need a timed entry reservation through the NPS. Summers are usually warm to hot while winter days are cold with nighttime temperatures dropping close to zero. View sitemap. Love a road trip. Next, drive the famous Million Dollar Highway to Ouray. Things to Do in Ridgway, Colorado: Chipeta Spa. The Ridgway Creative District was awarded Prospective Creative District status in 2012 under the State of Colorado legislation, House Bill 11-1031, signed into law by Governor Hickenlooper in 2011. Ouray County offers something for every history buff, from easy access to ghost towns to scenic ranches and world-class museums. This list of Colorado drives includes a bit of everything alpine lakes, jagged cliffs, winding roads, sand dunes, frozen tundras and of course, some of the best drives for fall foliage in the USA. 124 Hiking Trails Ridgway State Park 221 State Parks Dennis Weaver Memorial Park 95 Nature & Wildlife Areas Owl Creek Pass and Silver Jack Reservoir 34 Scenic Drives, Points of Interest & Landmarks Ridgway Railroad Museum 38 Speciality Museums Orvis Hot Springs 301 Spas Ouray County Ranch History Museum 2 History Museums, Speciality Museums Stay Many of the trails are short and you can drive through the park starting at the South Rim Visitor Center, which is open daily throughout the summer and most days of the week the rest of the year. Steep forested mountains and cliffs surround it, with Bridal Veil Falls situated at the canyon's head. After parking at the Mount Evans summit, theres a short hike (0.25 miles) to reach the highest spot you can go 14,271 feet in elevation. The largest of the outdoor pools is The Pond at 5 feet deep and 40 feet across. Check the show schedule or stop by for a view of the cool theatre with the Rocky Mountain background. You will cross over a picturesque, restored railroad trestle (bridge . Its one of the top tourist attractions for paleontologists and dinosaur lovers across the US. [12], Ridgway has a humid continental climate (Koppen: Dfb) with four distinct seasons. You can plan a day in Estes Park and a day in Grand Lake, with endless things to do in either city! Next, take the incredibly scenic drive along Highway 160 west towards Mesa Verde National Park. It's a tributary of the Gunnison River and is used as irrigation for the Uncompahgre Valley. If youre looking for a place where you can eat delicious food without having to worry about what youre putting into your body, then Kates Place is definitely one place in Ridgway to try out. In the winter there is skiing, ice climbing and ice skating. Burrowed in the southwestern part of the state, about 10 miles north of Ouray and 39 miles from Telluride, the town is home to just 924 people one of whom happens to be Ralph Lauren. Heres a map of the scenic drives from Colorado Springs. Ridgway Accommodations in Colorado | Colorado.com Further along Highway 160 is Durango, which is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat. Cross-Country Skiing Climbing & Canyoning Enjoy Dark Skies Explore Outdoor Adventure Culinary Experiences TELLURIDE, RIDGWAY & OURAY Colorado THREE DAY Travel Guide - YouTube Or, if you want to really take your time, you can depart from Denver, stay overnight in a town along the route then return to Denver. Ridgway has long been known for being the birthplace of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad, and it is the Ridgway Railroad Museum that is dedicated to preserving and sharing that history with all those who visit. Free (real) Train Rides at the Ridgway Railroad Museum (directly across from the Arts Festival). More day trips from Denver, 321 Sherman St, Ridgway, CO 81432, 970-316-1085. About 3.2% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.9% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over. Louis, who was born in Canada but was working in the timber mills in Michigan, moved to Lake City, then Rico, then Colona and finally Ridgway in the late 1800s. True Grit was certainly one of the most famous Westerns ever made. Its also a unique national park and is much fun to visit. Ridgway is located at the junction of Highways 550 and 62, in Southwest Colorado, Gateway to the beautiful San Juan Mountains. You absolutely should make a trip ASAP - it's an incredible state to visit with tons to see and do! Take the 6 mile drive to get there, and walk to Soda Canyon Overlook Trail to see the largest archeological site within the park. Weekday correspondence via email or phone is most-reasonable. A 1975 decision to put the dam further downstream kept the town above-water, and residents coined their own nickname, "The Town that Refused to Die. When youre done with all 18 holes, wind down at the Golf Club, which features its own variety of fun recreational activities like fishing and nature watching. Weekday correspondence via email or phone is most-reasonable. Colorado has been on my list for some time and I just flew over it on my way home wetting my appetite again. Sights & Landmarks Boat Tours & Water Sports Fun & Games Traveler rating & up Good for Good for Couples Budget-friendly Good for Kids Hidden Gems 25 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. Ridgway, Colorado 3 MILES // 5 MINUTE DRIVE. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Montrose - Tripadvisor We are known for one of the most picturesque locations for booth set-up and for shoppers in our spacious town park and for successful sales for our vendors. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.7 males. This includes sharing the stories of early settlers in the area from the middle of the 1800s through present day. These all look stunning! Threads: Everything to know about Instagram's app to rival Twitter And if youre looking for unique views of the canyon, try your turn at white water rafting. Colorado is home to 4 national parks and 11 national forests, so you know this scenery is going to be amazing! One of the best scenic drives near Denver, the Lariat Loop is a National Scenic Byway thats just bite-sized for an afternoon adventure! Prior to the mining era of the 1860s to 1950s, Ouray was inhabitated by the native Utes. Along the way, theres beautiful scenery and hiking without the crowds! That said, Ridgway itself has some good restaurants, a great skatepark, and is up and coming, so if you just want an affordable place to stay while visiting town, this is a good option. This quaint town offers mountain biking, hiking and 4WD off-road trails in the summer. The visitor center is closed as of October 1st and will reopen Memorial Day weekend. [11] To the east of the town also lies the smaller but equally-grand Cimarron Range, with Uncompahgre Peak at 14,309 feet (4,361m). The Uncompahgre River runs through the town and flows into the Ridgway State Park and Reservoir, to the north. The organizers offer live musical entertainment all day both days of the show and several attractions are geared specifically to children. Ridgway: Explore, Restore & Recreate Away From the Crowds - Colorado.com Distance: 55 milesEstimated time: 2 4 hoursRoute open: year-round. In fact, its one of my favorites on this list of west coast road trips USA. Thissecluded area is chock-full of hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing and other opportunities to enjoy nature. One of the best scenic drives in Colorado is from Ouray into the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, passing through the Uncompahgre National Forest and the San Juan Mountain range. This "Gateway to the San Juans" position was recognized over 100 years ago when the Rio Grande Southern established Ridgway as a railhead center servicing the nearby mining towns of Ouray and Telluride. Youll definitely want to spend more time seeing the incredible sights along the way. Choosing an area with good school rating consistency is important. Rendezvous staff ISWeehawken AND Sherbinostaff, which means that they are juggling over 500 programs a year in 3 communities. 2023 MLB All-Star Game highlights - New York Daily News Your first stop is at Dinosaur Ridge. Whether it's outdoor adventure or the creative arts, Ridgway and Ouray County are full of incredible opportunities to explore. The dam for that reservoir, the Ridgway Dam, was proposed in 1957 as part of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's Dallas Creek Project, and its original location would have inundated Ridgway. Ridgway and the surrounding area have featured prominently in pop culture. The Rio Grande Southern filed for abandonment on April 24, 1952 and the Denver and Rio Grande Western abandoned the line between Ridgway and Ouray on March 21, 1953. Bars & Clubs. Because while this road is open all year long, it may close if driving conditions prove to be unsafe. It flows northwest past Ouray, Ridgway, Montrose, and Olathe and joins the Gunnison at Confluence Park in Delta. You can also hike anywhere on the dunes, as there are no official trails on the sand. The visitor center is closed as of October 1st and will reopen Memorial Day weekend. Most notably the area is the setting of John Wayne's western movie True Grit, and others including How the West Was Won and Tribute to a Bad Man. Sanders has agreed to relaunch his iconic line with the top athletic brand. But of course the main attraction on this scenic drive near Colorado Springs is the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Whether youre looking for adventure and excitement or the serenity of pristine alpine beauty, once you get to Ridgway youll want to stay awhile! Home to Evergreen Lake, its the perfect spot for kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding in the summer, or ice skating in the winter! Rendezvous staff ISWeehawken AND Sherbinostaff, which means that they are juggling over 500 programs a year in 3 communities. Each trail offers incredible views of the mountain and the river and are relatively easy to navigate. The captivating beauty of Ridgway, Ouray and surrounding areas has attracted a number of production companies making movies, documentarie Ridgways ranching heritage dates back to the late 1880s and the arrival of the railroad, which opened up the land for legal homesteading. Driving Trial Ridge Road really only takes 1.5 hours if youre going straight through. The event is fun for the whole family and there is no admission charge. In 2011, in collaboration with Ouray County and the City of Ouray through numerous public meetings and pursuant to a request from the State of Colorado for a "Bottom Up" Economic Development Plan, a county-wide economic development plan was created. Some of the popular towns are Durango, Silverton, Ouray and Telluride. A bit more challenging at 5.5 miles is the Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass Trail, offering stunning views! The Ridgway Visitor Center, located at 150 Racecourse Road, Ridgway, Colorado 81432 (across from Citizens Bank off of HWY 62), The visitor center is closed as of October 1st and will reopen Memorial Day weekend. It's referred to as the gateway to the San Juan Mountains. Love Colorado. by Linda Wommack 5/8/2023 5/8/2023 A highlight for visitors to the Ridgway Railroad Museum is a ride around the grounds on Galloping Goose No. Rediscover the spirit of the Old West and visit historic landmarks and museums. Ridgway, Colorado map with satellite view - World Time Clock & Map Years of ideas, inspirations, dreams and culinary tradition have resulted in Eatery 66s amazing menu, which features best-sellers like the Shala Love, the Local Grass Fed Beef Chili, the French Onion Crock and their Me and My Uncle Sandwich. Ridgway State Park is located within a day's drive of many national parks and monuments, including Mesa Verde National Park , Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park , Curecanti National Recreation Area , Colorado National Monument , Arches National Park , Canyonlands National Park , Dinosaur National Park and Rocky . The museum chronicles the railroad history of the entire Ouray County, as well as the surrounding areas, through photographs, artifacts, books and preserved railroad equipment. Our small town hospitality is a blend of the spirit of the Old West, healthy lifestyles and laid-back, friendly folks. In it's 38th year, the Ridgway Rendezvous offers both artists and patrons a well organized, quality show. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Ridgway - Tripadvisor Read more. Be safe while driving! It now has a population of approximately 924 people and concentrates on creativity and culture and a connection to the outdoors. Pro tip: plan to be at the Great Sand Dunes National Park during a spring vacation in the Southwest, or early in the day in the summertime, because sand temperatures reach well over 100 degrees and it can be very uncomfortable. One of the best scenic drives in Colorado is fromOuray into the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, passing through the Uncompahgre National Forest and the San Juan Mountain range. Or, if you just want to stretch your legs after the drive, take the walking path around the lake. Stay for the fine dining, relaxing amenities and rich historical cultural. Rachael you absolutely should! The 10 Best Ridgway Hotels (From $232) - Booking.com Please be sure to review our region's COVID practices and policies. The South Rim Road beyond Gunnison Point is closed to vehicles in winter. Enjoy the onsite . Plan Your Trip to Ridgway Colorado Owl Creek Pass and Silver Jack Reservoir, 5. Through ranch-oriented programs and events, tours, hands-on demonstrations, historical exhibits, education, and more, the Ouray County Ranch History Museum aims to increase appreciation and awareness of the past and present cultural heritage and rural lifestyles of Ouray County. Often called Gateway to the San Juans, Ridgway offers beautiful vistas in every direction.Starting out as a railroad town it served as a supply po. Uncover Colorado | Sitemap | Advertise, Ouray County Ranch History Museum Facebook. Quintessential mountain lodge located in the heart of Ridgway, Colorado at the base of the San Juans. Basecamp 550. Save the map offline before you head out in case you dont have reception as you drive. Its one of the premier music venues in all of the US! The majority of the byway is closed during winter. Scenic Attractions Shopping Summer Activities Travel Information & Services Water Activities Arts & Culture History & Heritage Local Food, Wine & Beer A yurt at Ridgway Lake State Park in Ridgway Mount Sneffels Boats at Ridgway State Park The town site is at the northern terminus of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad where it meets with Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad running between Montrose and Ouray. It will enable you to enjoy sweeping views from atop a 14,000-foot mountain and all without breaking a sweat on one of the most strenuousColorado Springs hikesof them all. The Uncompahgre River runs through the park, though the main attraction is the Ridgway Reservoir. There were 511 housing units at an average density of 255.5 per square mile (98.6/km2). By kmauk59. The first time I visited Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) it was July and we saw tons of snow and needed coats! FUNDRAISER for the Ridgway Fire Department: PANCAKE BREAKFAST, 2023 by Rendezvous Arts Proudly created with. Sounds like it's time to plan a trip :). By VacationIdea Staff on June 15, 2023 - Updated. Canyons of the Ancients National Monument is along the nextleg of the journey. Additionally, guests are asked to limit their time at the top to just 30-minutes so that everyone can enjoy the stunning views. Walk around for shopping and dining. Colorado truthfully has to be one of the most stunning states in the USA! And their local legacy The Sherbino still plays a major role in downtown Ridgway today. From deep canyon pools to high country lakes and magnificent reservoirs, roam Ridgway residents thrive on fabulous food, which makes our town a great place Ouray County offers something for every history buff, from easy access to gho Ridgway is a hub for wellness professionals and services. The town is a former railroad stop on the Uncompahgre River in the northern San Juan Mountains. Hey! This is really one-of-a-kind experience, so take your time enjoying the drive! A picnic area is available down by the river along with public-use restrooms and benches. Ridgway is a small town with a population of 932 people. Colorado football coach Deion Sanders is rejoining Nike, per reports. Ridgway offers something for every history buff, from easy access to ghost towns to scenic ranches and world-class museums. Further down Highway 91 is Leadville. One of the best scenic drives in Colorado and full of tons of things to do, youll love the route from the Great Sand Dunes National Park to Mesa Verde National Park. Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce has prepared a visitor information and resource guide to help you travel like a local throughout our community. Its situated on the Continental Divide and has over 50 lakes and 133 miles of hiking. Thank you for sharing! Produce is sourced from local growers when possible, while the eggs at Kates are all from chickens that are fed an exclusively vegetarian, hormone and steroid-free diet. Experience the Best of Golf and Disc Golf in Ridgway. Ridgway. Known for being the filming locations of films like True Grit and How the West Was Won, the Owl Creek Pass and Silver Jack Reservoir boast of breathtaking beauty and sheer magnificence. Youll also want to downshift on the way down so that you dont ruin your breaks. For more of a challenge, hike Cougars Shadow and Blackmer Loop, which is considered moderate hike at 3.6 miles. Passing through the southern side of the San Juan National Forest is breathtaking! With the support of many local residents, The Ridgway Chautauqua Society (RCS, a Colorado non-profit 501c3) is now a proud owner and steward of two of Ridgway's remaining historic structures - the remodeled Sherbino at 604 Clinton Street, and The 610 Arts Collective at 610 Clinton Street, next door. Its the highest paved road in North America and one of the greatest Colorado drives on this list! 970.626.5181. History & Heritage - Things to do in Ridgway - Ridgway Colorado Just dont forget to explore Santas Village at the start and then inhale a donut at the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center once you make it to the summit. The incredible Rocky Mountains are in the heart of the state, and the dramatic landscapes create the best road trips! P.O. Ridgway is located at the junction of Highways 550 and 62, in Southwest Colorado, Gateway to the beautiful San Juan Mountains. It's a scenic mountain town with a historic downtown of shops, restaurants, and accommodations. This part of the route takes you through 3 mountain passes and offers incredible views! Login; Register; Distance: 40 milesEstimated time: 2 4 hoursRoute open: year-round. The satellite view will help you to navigate your way through foreign places with more precise image of the location. Ridgway Colorado is a small town of about 1000 residents situated at a junction of valleys on the Uncompahre River in Ouray County southwestern Colorado. FUNDRAISER for the Ridgway Fire Department: PANCAKE BREAKFAST ($10 adults, $5 Children, $25 family) both Saturday AND Sunday at the Firehouse. Begin your road trip in Leadville, the highest town in North America by elevation that sits at 10,152 feet and is a former silver mining camp. And of course, lake activities like kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding are the areas main draw. Stunning Avalanche Lake Trail: Gem in Glacier National Park (Hiking Guide), Laurel Falls Trail Smoky Mountains: How to Get There, What to Expect & More. Theres so much to do and see in the area. From group tours to private tours, theres no doubt that youll get your moneys worth. Sneffels at 14,150 feet followed by a soak in the world famous Orvis Hot Springs. Please be sure to review our region's COVID practices and policies. The median age was 43.7 years. Gah! Skiing, snow boarding, snow tubing, ice skating and more theres so much to do here! Its strongly recommended to get used to the altitude in Denver or the surrounding area for a few days before doing the Mount Evans Scenic Byway adventure. Ridgway is part of Colorado's Bustang network. If you're an avid climber or canyoneer looking for your next adventure, look no further than Ridgway, Colorado. Because theres 12 awesome scenic routes on this list and the map only allows 10, Ive created a map for scenic drives Denver and scenic drives Colorado Springs in the sections below, too. With 5 or 6 ales on tap regularly, theres always something new to try at the brewery too. Theres also shopping and dining in Nederland, which could be perfect depending on the time you make it through town.