Colorado's 'Gateway To The San Juans' Is An Outdoor Haven With Scenic Mountain Views

Tucked into the northern edge of the infamous San Juan Mountains, the stunning small town of Ridgway, Colorado is a truly beautiful spot for outdoor lovers. Aptly nicknamed the "Gateway to the San Juans", this former railroad spot along the Uncompahgre River is a haven for hikers, skiers, and anyone looking to enjoy stunning mountain views. It makes the perfect base not only for enjoying a range of outdoor adventures, but also for exploring neighboring mountain towns, such as Ouray, located just a 15-minute drive away, and Telluride, just less than one-hour away.

Ridgway is also fairly convenient to get to. It sits around a 45-minute drive from Montrose Regional Airport for those flying in from close by, and just less than a two-hour drive from Grand Junction Regional Airport. From Montrose, visitors typically rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive south along U.S. Highway 550 (also known as the Million Dollar Highway), into Ridgway. This town is accessible by public transport, but if you plan on venturing into the nearby state park and surrounding areas, it's most convenient to rent a car.

For those who love spending time in the great outdoors, Ridgway has plenty to offer. One of the top must-see spots is Ridgway State Park, located just less than a 10-minute drive from the town. Famed for its stunning reservoir and picturesque backdrop of the San Juan mountains, it's the perfect spot for enjoying a great range of activities. Whether it's kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming during the hot summer months, there's plenty to do here. The park also boasts several miles of hiking and biking trails that range from fun, family-friendly adventures, to challenging climbs with panoramic mountain views. If you're an avid hiker, try the Blue Lakes Pass trail via Yankee Boy Basin, where you can enjoy stunning views of the clear lakes and towering peaks that surround you. Ridgway State Park is open all year round, and daily vehicle entry fees start at $10.

If this isn't enough of the outdoors, there's also a great range of other attractions to explore in the surrounding area. Ouray County is home to a range of natural hot springs, where visitors can relax in the geothermal waters, and this western U.S. town will make you feel like you're in the Swiss Alps. This is a great pastime, especially if you're visiting during the winter. Ouray Hotsprings are located just less than 20 minutes from Ridgway town center.

Back in town, there's plenty for visitors to explore if they're looking to immerse themselves in some culture and history. There are plenty of historical buildings, world-class museums such as the Ridgway Railroad Museum and the Ouray County Museum, a thriving arts community and a rich film history in the area. This is thanks to Ridgway serving as the backdrop for many classic Westerns, including "True Grit", "How the West Was Won", and "Tribute to a Bad Man". If you're a fan of classic Westerns, be sure to stop by the True Grit Cafe, an eatery specializing in quality comfort food that pays homage to this timeless movie.

Ridgway may be relatively small in size at just 1.85 square miles (or 4.79 square kilometers), but it offers a small selection of great spots to stay. Whether you're looking for a boutique hotel such as Hotel Palomino, a swanky resort such as Chipeta Lodge Resort & Spa, or a rustic cabin or campground such as Ridgway hut (one of the best backcountry cabins for those who want to avoid the crowded ski resorts), there's a huge selection of options available. 

Elk Ridge Campground in Ridgway State Park is a top choice for those looking to camp, and for those looking to stay at a hotel in town, Hotel Palomino is a great choice, with rooms starting at $140 per night. Staying in the center of town also gives you easy access to a range of great local restaurants, including Greenwood's where you can enjoy rustic southern comfort food.

The best time of year to visit Ridgway is between June and September. At this time of year, the weather is warm, with temperatures ranging between 49 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit, the trails are accessible, and everywhere seems to be sprinkled with wildflowers. Fall is also a great time of year to visit, with the golden aspen trees drawing in photographers and hikers alike. Winter is an excellent time for those interested in enjoying snowsports, with Ridgway Hut being one of the best ski lodges in the U.S. It's important to note that temperatures can drop as low as 19 degrees Fahrenheit in January, so it's good to be prepared with thick layers of clothing, and alternative plans in the event of road closures.