Fall is the perfect time to visit the San Juan Mountains and quiet Colorado mountain towns of Ouray and Ridgway. Situated at the base of the northern San Juans and just 11 miles apart, Ridgway and Ouray are your long-weekend escape.
Donate or volunteer with the Ouray Trails Group, our local nonprofit dedicated to the preservation and safe public use of Ouray County's trails.
Get an early start and drive up to the Cimarron Mountains just east of Ridgway. The drive up to Owl Creek Pass is 18 miles on a 2WD gravel road. Enjoy the views of the aspens on your way up. Hiking trails can easily be accessed off this road.
Take a leisurely bike ride on the Uncompahgre Riverway, a paved trail to the Ridgway Reservoir.
After your soak, book a classically designed adobe suite at Chipeta Solar Springs Resort for your overnight stay.
Take another scenic drive up the 2WD section of Camp Bird Road, CR 361 and hike the Weehawken Trail.
In downtown Ouray, follow the historic walking tour and discover a wide variety of local shops.
Explore the ghost town of Ironton surrounded by aspen groves and the San Juan Mountains.
