Cimarron Mountains and Owl Creek Pass
Considered one of the most scenic drives in the U.S.A., this pass travels through jagged cliffs, babbling brooks, sites of Western movie sets, and has great opportunities for wildlife viewing and fishing. This route, laced with stands of aspen, is especially beautiful in the fall. This adventurous day trip will take you into the heart of the magnificent Cimarron Mountains. The peaks of Chimney Rock and Courthouse Mountain will watch over you as you drive along a dirt road, which once was a cattle drive trail.
Million Dollar Highway and San Juan Skyway
A trip to Ouray County isn’t complete without a ride along the Million Dollar Highway, the section of Highway 550 between Ouray and Silverton with many historic buidings and mines. Extend this to cover the entire San Juan Skyway Scenic and Historic Byway, a 233-mile loop to meander through Ouray, Ridgway, Telluride, Rico, Dolores, Cortez, Durango, and Silverton. The drive is stunning in any season: spring offers hundreds of waterfalls along the route, summer brings fields of wildflowers, fall provides iconic golden-colored vistas, and winter gives you a high-contrast trip with robin’s egg blue skies and endless white powder fields.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Located just an hour's drive from Ridgway, Colorado, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a must-see destination for any nature enthusiast. With its stunning 2,700-foot-deep canyon walls, the park offers incredible views and an unforgettable experience. Visitors can explore the park's diverse landscape by hiking, camping, or even rock climbing. The South Rim Drive, which offers several overlooks with breathtaking views of the canyon, is a popular route for scenic drives. With plenty of picnic areas and campsites, the park is perfect for a day trip or an extended stay. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor adventurer or just looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a great addition to your day trip itinerary.
Telluride
If you're looking to escape to a charming mountain town, Telluride is a great day trip destination from Ridgway, Colorado. Nestled in a box canyon surrounded by stunning peaks, the town offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the charming Victorian-era downtown, which is lined with quaint shops and restaurants. The town also offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as hiking, biking, and fly fishing in the summer. A ride on the free gondola, which connects the town with the nearby Mountain Village, offers unparalleled views of the San Juan Mountains. For those interested in the arts, the Telluride Film Festival and Telluride Bluegrass Festival are not to be missed. With its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural offerings, Telluride is a perfect day trip destination for any traveler.
Silver Thread Scenic Byway
Silver Thread Scenic Byway is a must-see destination. This 117-mile route winds through the San Juan Mountains and along the headwaters of the Rio Grande, showcasing the rugged beauty of the region. The byway passes through charming towns like Lake City and Creede, where visitors can stop for a bite to eat or browse local shops. Along the way, be sure to stop at the North Clear Creek Falls viewpoint for a stunning view of the 100-foot waterfall. The byway also offers access to a number of hiking trails, including the Wheeler Geologic Area trail, which leads to an otherworldly landscape of volcanic formations. Whether you're a seasoned road-tripper or just looking for a scenic drive, the Silver Thread Scenic Byway is a perfect day trip from Ridgway, Colorado.
Silver Thread Scenic Byway
For a breathtaking drive through some of the most beautiful scenery in Colorado, the Silver Thread Scenic Byway is a must-see destination. This 117-mile route winds through the San Juan Mountains and along the headwaters of the Rio Grande, showcasing the rugged beauty of the region. The byway passes through charming towns like Lake City and Creede, where visitors can stop for a bite to eat or browse local shops. Along the way, be sure to stop at the North Clear Creek Falls viewpoint for a stunning view of the 100-foot waterfall. The byway also offers access to a number of hiking trails, including the Wheeler Geologic Area trail, which leads to an otherworldly landscape of volcanic formations. Whether you're a seasoned road-tripper or just looking for a scenic drive, the Silver Thread Scenic Byway is a perfect day trip from Ridgway, Colorado.
Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway
The Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway is a must-see for those who love scenic drives. This route takes you through some of the most breathtaking and diverse landscapes in Colorado. Starting in the charming town of Ridgway, the byway winds through Unaweep Canyon and over the top of the Uncompahgre Plateau. You'll see towering cliffs, jagged peaks, and stunning rock formations as you make your way along this 133-mile stretch of road. Be sure to stop at the numerous pull-offs and scenic overlooks to take in the views and snap some photos. Along the way, you can also visit the historic Hanging Flume, a remarkable engineering feat from the 19th century, and explore the small communities of Placerville and Naturita. Whether you're a seasoned road tripper or just looking for a leisurely drive with plenty of stunning scenery, the Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway won't disappoint.
Trail of the Ancients
The Trail of the Ancients is a breathtaking scenic drive that winds through some of the most significant cultural and archaeological sites in the American Southwest. The route encompasses over 480 miles of scenic highways and byways, including parts of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah. Travelers on this route will encounter magnificent landscapes, fascinating history, and unique cultures that have thrived in the region for thousands of years. Along the way, visitors can explore ancient ruins, petroglyphs, and rock art sites, including the famous Mesa Verde National Park, Hovenweep National Monument, and Canyon de Chelly National Monument. The Trail of the Ancients is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and the natural beauty of the American Southwest.
