Fall Colors, Hot Springs & Quiet Mountain Towns

3 days

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.

Sustainability Activity

How to Give Back to These Special Places:

Donate or volunteer with the Ouray Trails Group, our local nonprofit dedicated to the preservation and safe public use of Ouray County's trails.

Day 1

Activity

Take a Scenic Drive

Website

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.

COTREX

Map the Trail

Lunch

Eatery 66

Website

Please join us for some old time favorites, delicious seasonal specials, craft beers and kombucha on tap, and delicious cocktails and drinks. We can't wait to share our passion for "farm to trailer... Read More

Activity

Rent Bikes at Ridgway Adventure Sports

Website

Take a leisurely bike ride on the Uncompahgre Riverway, a paved trail to the Ridgway Reservoir.

COTREX

Map the Trail

Dinner

Thai Paradise

Website

Authentic Thai cuisine for lunch and dinner. Great for families, outdoor seating, walk-ins welcome. Read More

Activity

Chipeta Solar Springs Resort

Website

Chipeta Solar Springs Resort and Spa - Where relaxation meets adventure. Enjoy the solitude and beautiful San Juan Gateway views from your classically designed adobe suite. Then venture out and... Read More

Insider's Tip

Stay the Night: After your soak, book a classically designed adobe suite at Chipeta Solar Springs Resort for your overnight stay.

Day 2

Breakfast

Crumb Bakery and Cafe

Website

Bakery, cafe and market in Ridgway. Frittatas, bagels, potato pancakes, scones, artisan breads and much more.

Activity

Immerse Yourself in Fall Colors

Website

Take another scenic drive up the 2WD section of Camp Bird Road, CR 361 and hike the Weehawken Trail.

COTREX

Map the Trail

Lunch

Red Mountain Brewing

Website

With indoor and outdoor seating options, RMB has the space to suit your preferred dining experience. Enjoy a beer or cocktail from our bar, (which features the most impressive whiskey selection... Read More

Activity

Ouray Hot Springs Swimming Pool

Website

Nearly one million gallons of clear hot springs water, without the sulfur smell common in many hot springs. There are 3 pools ranging from 80 to 105 degree, plus lap lanes and a Wibit obstacle... Read More

Dinner

Brickhouse 737

Website

BrickHouse737 is a gathering place that focuses on community, farm fresh ingredients, hospitality & travel inspired dishes. Read More

Activity

Go for an Evening Stroll

Website

In downtown Ouray, follow the historic walking tour and discover a wide variety of local shops.

Lodging

Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs

Website

Enjoy comfort, luxury and many amenities! Indoor and outdoor hot springs, free full breakfast, air-conditioned rooms and jeep rentals available. Suites and family rooms.

Day 3

Breakfast

Ouray Cafe & Steakhouse

Website

Ouray Cafe and Steakhouse serves all the great meals you would expect. Prime rib, omlets and the Super Nacho Platter are some of the really yummy ones. Read More

Activity

Ironton Ghost Town

Website

Explore the ghost town of Ironton surrounded by aspen groves and the San Juan Mountains.

Lunch

Artisan Bakery

Website

Come enjoy breakfast, lunch, or just a pastry and coffee, in a cozy little restaurant on main street, Ouray CO. Located at the south side of town, right on Main Street, in the old Wright Opera... Read More

Activity

Peak Mountain Guides

Website

Peak offers guided rock, ice, and alpine climbing and backcountry ski touring with AMGA certified guides and instructors. We are a company build around connecting clients with most talented and... Read More

Dinner

Provisions at the Barbershop

Website

A European-style cafe specializing in simple, delicious food made with fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers when possible and distributors of gourmet products. We offer craft cocktails,... Read More

Activity

Orvis Hot Springs

Website

Orvis Hot Springs is a clothing-optional natural hot springs resort. Our natural lithium water, never heated nor treated in any way, enhances relaxation and rejuvenation. Ten indoor and outdoor... Read More

Lodging

Basecamp 550

Website

Basecamp 550 is a Glampground for the modern gypsy, weekend jetsetter or outdoor adventure seeker looking for a comfortable and convenient place to enjoy the San Juan Mountains. Nothing too... Read More