Ridgway, Colorado

Ridgway is a gateway town to the San Juan Mountains, located about ten miles north of Ouray. It’s a scenic mountain town with a historic downtown of shops, restaurants, and accommodations.

Ridgway, Colorado is now known to be a hotspot for cultural and artistic events and activities. The natural sites around Ridgway have also been popular to both locals and tourists. Before it became the town of the makers of the Grammy Award, Ridgway was a part of Ouray County’s exciting mining era. It was the railroad town connecting Telluride and Ouray.

History

Dubbed as the “Gateway to the San Juans,” its proximity to the Rio Grande Southern Station was pivotal to the town’s rise in popularity. Their heritage dates back to the early 1880s just as the railroad, the Rio Grande Southern Railroad (R.G.S.), was gaining momentum. They also had silver mines above Telluride and Ouray. Ore is one of the minerals that had become a famous export from town.

Ridgway’s community thrived on ranching. Eventually, more miners traveled to Ridgway, developed beef, and grew the fertile valley at the foot of the San Juan Mountains. As the community grew, horseback riding and wagon transportation also helped the trade of local supplies. Schools started to erect and social events have become a Sunday norm.

In Mar. 4, 1891, the town’s article of incorporation was passed, and it became a reliable trade location for travelers. Now, the ranching heritage at Ridgway is still revered. Tourists can even revisit those cowboy days and also join in as participants of the annual spectator sports held in town.

Main Attractions

Ridgway State Park – This local park offers boating, fishing, hiking, camping, horseback riding, hunting and more.

Orvis Hot Springs – The local hot springs are a fantastic way to relax and unwind after a day of recreation in Ridgway.

Recreation

Dining:

Explore the thriving local food culture at Ridgway. From French-American fusion to fresh Mexican dishes, Ridgway’s culinary scene always makes an impression. Here are the top dining destinations in town:

Eatery 66: Farm-to-table type of restaurant that has a unique outdoor venue. Featuring a menu created by the hearty Chef Spencer Graves, the food can be described as simple, fun, and simply good.
Provisions Cafe: Another Ridgway gem that features European classics made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients from local farmers. The restaurant is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the morning, and 5-8:30 p.m. for the dinner serving.
Taco Del Gnar: Want to get some GNARLY tacos? Visit this lively space of taco non-conformist. Fresh ingredients, global taco fusion, great vibe!

Camping:

Nearby Ridgway State Park has over two hundred campsites, ranging from electrical and full hook-up to primitive walk-in tent camping.

Fishing:

Ridgway Reservoir allows boating and fishing.

Accommodations

Booking.com

Read about the Top 3 Cool Hotels in Ridgway.

Special Events

Sep – Ouray County Fair & Rodeo – Two day event celebrated over Labor Day Weekend in early September featuring a western heritage fair, rodeo, BBQ and parade, held at the Ouray County 4H Events Center & Fairgrounds.

Saloon.