Depending on the year and the elevation, leaves in the Ridgway area start turning yellow, orange and red in early September and last through late October. Of course, the leaves turn brown and drop earlier the closer you get to mountaintops, while the colors arrive later and stay later down in the valley. The multi-hued displays curated by Mother Nature can end earlier when cold weather comes sooner. But, the white and silver skeletons of trees without their foliage can also create stunning landscapes and photos.
Eatery 66
Eatery 66's menu is based on creative inspiration, seasonal tides, local availability and our community’s desires. Daily specials allow for variety and provide a unique experience everyday. Almost all of the dishes are created in house and from scratch.
- Open Friday through Monday for lunch and dinner (hours & days may vary by season so contact the business to check)
- 520 Sherman St., Ridgway; 970-626-5901; http://www.eatery66.com/
Hike or Bike through Cottonwoods
The Uncompahgre River Trail is a well-maintained concrete trail that is 5.1 miles one way so will be a 10.2 mile round trip (about 3.5 hours by foot or 70 minutes by bike). Crossing through Dennis Weaver Memorial Park, a 60-acre permanent wildlife preserve with a picnic area and sculptures, the trail ends in Ridgway State Park's Dallas Creek area with more trails, the Ridgway Reservoir, picnic areas and prime fishing spots. Along this path you'll enjoy the changing colors of the cottonwoods and river shrubbery.
True Grit Cafe
''Where Comfort Food Meets True West''. Serving locals and visitors for over 30 years. Known for our local beef and pork!
- Open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
- 123 North Lena St., Ridgway; 970-626-8739; www.truegritcafe.com
Chipeta Solar Springs Resort and Spa
Where relaxation meets adventure, enjoyed from your classically designed adobe suite. The resort includes a pool, hot tub and sauna as well as various spa treatments. Dining and drinks are also available on site at the Four Corner's Restaurant and rooftop Sky Bar.
- 304 S. Lena St., Ridgway; 970-626-3737; https://chipeta.com/
Scenic Drive in the Cimarrons
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.
Thai Paradise
Authentic Thai cuisine for lunch and dinner. Great for families, outdoor seating, walk-ins welcome.
- Open daily 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (hours & days may vary by season so contact the business to check)
- 146 N. Cora St., Ridgway; 970-626-2742; https://www.facebook.com/thaiparadiserestaurantRidgway/
Orvis Hot Springs
Your destination for relaxation, we invite you to our clothing-optional, natural hot springs resort at the base of the San Juan Mountains. Here, you’ll enjoy fresh mountain air and spectacular scenery views of the colorful trees along the valley and mountain slopes, while soaking in our ten unique pools and ponds.
- Open daily, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- 1585 County Rd. 3, Ridgway, CO 81432; 970-626-5324; https://orvishotsprings.com/
Colorado Boy Pub & Brewery
Local crafted ales, wine, salads and artisan pizzas. Growlers and kegs to go.
- Open 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for patio dining and take out.
- 602 Clinton St., Ridgway; 970-626-5333; www.coloradoboy.com
Catch a Show
The Courtyard at 610 was designed to be a small, intimate venue for events such as live music, storytelling, films and more.
- The Courtyard at 610, 610 Clinton St, Ridgway, CO 81432; https://the-sherbino.square.site/
Chipeta Solar Springs Resort and Spa
Where relaxation meets adventure, enjoyed from your classically designed adobe suite. The resort includes a pool, hot tub and sauna as well as various spa treatments. Dining and drinks are also available on site at the Four Corner's Restaurant and rooftop Sky Bar.
- 304 S. Lena St., Ridgway; 970-626-3737; https://chipeta.com/
Scenic Drive up Dallas Divide
Drive west out of Ridgway going on Highwy 62 to reach Dallas Divide – one of the most photographed locations in Colorado! Not only are the Aspens and scrub oak leaves on fire (not literally) during autumn, but they can be photographed against the backdrop of ranches, wildlife and historic buildings.