Ridgway is the northern entrance of the scenic San Juan Skyway, which serves as a crossroad for commerce, transportation, history and scenery. The Skyway, one of the All-American Roads in the U.S., winds through unmatched scenery - a photographer's dream.
Nestled in the picturesque Uncompahgre Valley and surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks of the Cimarron and San Juan Mountains, Ridgway is the "Gateway to the San Juans." This "gateway" 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. The town was named for railroad superintendent Robert M. Ridgway who established the town in 1891.
Earlier, in 1875 miners discovered riches in the earth near Ouray;
hence that community saw its start. Historic mining roads, once only
accessible by foot, horse or mule train, now provide excellent jeeping
throughout Ouray County.
Now, only ranching remains and riches are still found, but in the beauty of the surroundings. Ranching continues to contribute to the economy while providing the wide open spaces, wildlife habitat and scenery that draw the tourist.
Relax and picnic under the shade of 100-year-old cottonwoods in Ridgway
Town Park, one of the prettiest anywhere. Ridgway's park and
surroundings were locations for the movies "True Grit", starring John
Wayne, and "How the West Was Won".
For a getaway with all the conveniences of today, but with the slower pace and charm of the Old West, experience...Ridgway!
www.ridgwaycolorado.com
EVENTS
Ridgway Hot Air Balloon Festival May 9-11, 2008
Love Your Valley Brewfest June 2008
Annual July Church in the Park & BBQ July 6, 2008
Annual Ridgway Arts 'n Crafts Rendezvous August 9-10, 2008
Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament August 2008
2nd Annual True Grit Days Festival September 6-7, 2008
Ouray County Railroad Days September 11-14, 2008
Ouray County Fair, Rodeo & Labor Day Celebration September 2008
Annual Savor The San Juans Wine Festival September 2008
Ridgway Autumn Festival October 2008
ATTRACTIONS
Natural Hot Springs
Ridgway is located in the Valley of the Hot Springs, and has one hot springs in town and two more in the area.
Hot Air Ballooning in the Rockies
See Ridgway and the majestic San Juan Mountains while up in the peaceful serenity of a hot air balloon. White Water Rafting & Fishing Come tackle the Uncompahgre River.
Horseback Riding
Come see the Rockies the way they should be seen… on horseback. We have horseback riding for any skill level, and various choices of riding scenery.
Mountain Biking
High altitude mountain biking, with views you will never forget!
FAST FACTS
1) The town was named for railroad superintendent Robert M. Ridgway who established the town in 1891.
2) Population runs 820 in town and surroundings.
3) The sun shines 300 days a year.
WEATHER
At 6,985 feet in elevation our summer days are in the 70s and 80s, while evening temperatures are generally in the 50s.
