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An Inspiring Destination All Year Long

Sunbeams over Hartwell Park - Trisha Oakland

Ridgway is the ideal basecamp for so many adventures. Our slogan is “Think Outside!” And you’ll see why as you experience the multifaceted nature, culture, food, activities, and attractions that surround you here. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, gourmand, history buff, or art lover, the Ridgway area has it all. Come and explore the diversity of what we offer!

Whether you’re looking for the exhilaration of outdoor recreation, the serenity of pristine alpine beauty, or the inspiration of cultural exploration, Ridgway, Colorado is your destination. Our smalltown hospitality is a blend of the spirit of the Old West, healthy lifestyles and laid-back, friendly folks.

We welcome you to explore and discover Ridgway in every season! Ridgway is a welcoming, rural community situated in a beautiful mountain valley in the Mountains & Mesas travel region of Colorado. Our population of nearly 1,000 residents shares a deep connection to the outdoors. We support learning, creativity, and culture. We are committed to being economically sustainable and ecologically responsible. Our town government supports water conservation, recycling, and non-motorized transit. We have free hookups for electric cars at our public parking lot, and the Ridgway Community Garden promotes local, sustainable food production.

Summer visitors should be sure to stop by the Ridgway Visitors Center, operated by the Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce, for great suggestions and answers to your questions about the area. Throughout the year, the chamber is dedicated to providing visitor information through the print and digital Visitors Guide, weekly eblasts, quarterly visitor newsletters, Facebook, Instagram, and other media channels.

To help guests feel welcome and informed, the Town of Ridgway has placed maps and historic photos around the central business district. Travelers of all ages will find it easy to get away from the crowds and enjoy the area’s many recreational options, accommodations, shops, galleries, restaurants, and entertainment. A unique selection of businesses and hospitality providers are ready to welcome you and invite you to explore year round.

Image of Space to Create

I love how our little burg has evolved into one of the most vibrant little towns in all of Colorado. We’ve got it all, really, but what I’d say I love most is just wandering down to Clinton Street almost any day of the year, and seeing folks hanging out, checking out the stores and restaurants, and soaking in the views. The energy is wonderful.
John, The MacDoktor and Ridgway Mayor


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How to Enjoy Ridgway Like a Local

Residents and businesses take great pride in our community and surrounding open spaces. We invite visitors to consider ways to minimize impacts and maximize local benefits. Traveling responsibly means educating yourself on outdoor recreation best practices, local ethics and community expectations.
  • Know Before You Go
    Be prepared and be informed about your destination.
  • Stick to the Trails
    Protect our natural land￾scapes by staying on the trails and roads.
  • Trash the Trash
    If you pack it in, pack it out.
  • Leave It as You Find It
    Camp in designated areas only.
  • Be Careful with Fire
    Follow seasonal restrictions, and keep campfires small and manageable.
  • Keep Wildlife Wild
    Leash your dogs, pack out waste, and don’t feed wildlife.
  • Share Our Parks & Trails
    Try out the lesser-known paths and sites, and minimize noise.

Be Prepared for Adventure

The San Juan Mountains are a rugged, steep mountain range rising to just over 14,000 feet. These beautiful public lands offer adventures year round. If you are interested in exploring the San Juans, be prepared for challenging terrain that sometimes requires technical expertise and knowledge of the area.

Come prepared by doing research online to find maps, rules and helpful guidance from public agencies and user-generated websites. Utilize local expertise when you get into town by stopping in at our local gear stores. We highly recommend working with our local guide services that employ experts who can help you achieve your goals for world-class recreation. You can also take a course in: backcountry skiing, avalanche safety, rock climbing, ice climbing, and other valuable outdoor skills.