Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the San Juan Mountains, Ridgway, Colorado, is a hidden gem that combines breathtaking natural beauty with a warm and welcoming community atmosphere. Perched at 6,985 ft above sea level, this charming town of a mere 1,207 people boasts a unique blend of stunning landscapes, vibrant local culture, and effortless access to the great outdoors. Ridgway is a true old-town Colorado paradise, offering an idyllic escape for both outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil retreat. If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a quaint and gorgeous mountain town, we’d like to offer you a glimpse of what it’s like to live in the precious little haven of Ridgway, Colorado!
Scenic Beauty: Where Nature and Its Wonders Take Center Stage
Ridgway is a paradise for nature lovers, with its awe-inspiring landscapes that change with the seasons. In the warmer months, the area comes alive with a tapestry of wildflowers, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams. The nearby Ridgway State Park beckons adventurers with its array of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and camping. The Ridgway Area Trails (RAT Trails) are a fabulous network of over 40 miles of biking & single-track trails just north of Ridgway. The expansive reservoir provides opportunities for boating and paddleboarding, making it a perfect spot for water enthusiasts. Even in shoulder seasons there’s plenty to do and explore.
Come wintertime, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, blanketed in snow. The San Juan Mountains offer ample opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, providing a peaceful escape into the heart of nature. Top of the Pines is a local enclave for some beautiful nordic skiing, and you’ll also find numerous of well-maintained snowshoeing trails in the surrounding area. For those that love downhill skiing, there’s also the renowned Telluride Ski Resort a mere 45 minutes away, and plenty of backcountry ski access right in Ridgway’s backyard. In nearby Ouray, dubbed the “Little Switzerland of America,” one can enjoy world-class ice climbing in winter and stunning natural hot springs open year round. There’s no doubt that the Ridgway area’s natural beauty is a photographer’s dream, offering breathtaking vistas and outdoor adventures to inspire and rejuvenate the soul.
Community Charm: Where Everyone is a Neighbor
One of Ridgway’s most enchanting qualities is its tight-knit community that exudes a genuine sense of warmth and friendliness. Filled with ranchers, artists, musicians, entrepreneurs and adventure-seekers of all sorts, Ridgway is home to people from all different backgrounds and experiences. Locals come together in harmony around a deep love of their town and a sense of shared identity. People do not stumble into Ridgway; they tend to end up there intentionally. Whether it’s choosing the lifestyle or a life outside the box (often both), people come because it is their dream.
The town’s small population fosters a strong connection among residents and visitors alike. A shared value system imparts a tremendous sense of community that is felt by even the most casual of visitors. As you stroll along Main Street, you’ll feel part of the heart and soul of the town. Locals call out to each other expressing greetings, and visitors are embraced like one of their own. Almost nothing will give you a better sense of what it’s like to live in Ridgway, Colorado, than getting to know its people—the heartbeat of this little town.
A Small Town with a Big Scene
Ridgway is ideally located in a private oasis, sheltered within the majestic beauty of the San Juan Mountains. Yet access to the wider world via the Montrose Regional Airport, a mere 40 minutes away, makes its location quite unique. Ridgway is truly a picturesque destination, and its small size doesn’t keep it down in the slightest—in fact, it is one of its defining characteristics. There’s always something to do in town, whether it’s an art walk, a mushroom walking tour, or an outdoor extravaganza, there’s much with which to keep busy.
Named a Creative District in 2013, Ridgway’s art scene is equally vibrant and eclectic. And fun fact: Ridgway is also the home of the fabricator of the Grammy Award trophies! In addition to this little-known legacy, galleries—such as the delightful Mountain Girl Gallery and 610 Arts Collective—showcase the works of local artists who draw inspiration from the natural surroundings. Venues like Sherbino Theater and the Weehawken Creative Arts studio are not to be missed. Community events, farmer’s markets, and music festivals provide opportunities to engage with the local culture and forge lasting connections with the people who call Ridgway home. From every corner of town, Ridgway’s somewhat spunky, western charm is inescapable.
This historic town plays host to abundant local businesses, eclectic boutiques, and eateries that reflect the authentic spirit of the region. Some favorites include Cimarron Coffee & Books, a precious community gathering place; Eatery 66, an adorable local cafe; Colorado Boy Pub & Brewery, a favorite local pizza place; and Provisions at the Barber Shop, which specializes in making gourmet food from fresh, local ingredients. Most uniquely, Ridgway’s iconic Main Street abuts its Town Park, a central hub for festivals, markets and gatherings of all sorts. Its preservation in such a prominent location is a true testament to Ridgway’s authentic spirit.
What It’s Like to Live in Ridgway, Colorado
Ridgway stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of natural beauty and community spirit that make Colorado so special. With its breathtaking landscapes, close-knit atmosphere, and seamless access to wilderness, Ridgway offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to escape the ordinary and reveal the extraordinary. Of course it’s also an amazing place to call home. Whether you’re drawn to the great outdoors or the camaraderie of a welcoming community, Ridgway truly has it all. We hope we’ve helped give you a sense of what it’s like to live in Ridgway, Colorado, one of the most beautiful places on the planet. It’s a destination that captures the heart and soul of Colorado; from its wild beauty to the welcoming embrace of its people.