It’s time to start planning… If you’re in Ridgway, Colorado, this summer, don’t miss out on these summer activities!

Go Jeeping

Read for some adventuring and exploring of the high country? Time to go Jeeping! With magnificent mountain views, wildflower meadows, crystal clear mountain streams, and beautiful wildlife, this is one of the summer activities you don’t want to miss.

If you want to sit back and relax, choose a guided tour and enjoy the scenery as a guide takes you around the mountains. If you want to take your adventure into your own hands, there are plenty of rentals available in Ouray (just down the road from Ridgway). Some popular places you may want to check out:

• Imogene Pass – This is the second-highest road in Colorado, and at 13,114 feet, you’ll get tremendous views of Telluride and the surrounding mountain peaks. This road connected the mining districts between Ouray and Telluride in the 1800s. Now, it provides “top of the world” views and an opportunity to see vintage mining structures. This road can be a little technical, so we recommend experienced drivers tackle it. But if you’re looking for stunning views, wildflowers, and old mining equipment, this is a fun drive.
• Yankee Boy Basin – this is considered the gateway to the Sneffels’ Mountain Range. While it’s a mild road, it’s not boring in the slightest. This has dramatic views, ghost towns, double waterfalls, and frequent wildlife. Not to mention this is the spot for wildflower enthusiasts!
• Alta Lakes – Located near Telluride, this short trip is an easy road that goes through Alta Lakes Ghost Town. If that’s not enough of a pull, at the end of the road, you’ll end up at Alta Lakes, a set of three gorgeous alpine lakes. Park your Jeep, have some lunch, and dip your toes in the lake (careful – it’ll be cold!).

Head to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of Colorado’s hidden gems. Since this colorful state has so much to offer, it can get overlooked – so that’s why we’re adding it to this list. Black Canyon is well worth the visit!

This river-carved canyon near Montrose is Colorado’s version of the Grand Canyon. It’s a sight to behold as after two billion years of work, the Gunnison River, along with forces of weathering, has sculpted this vertical wilderness of rock. While you’re here, you can enjoy hiking trails, scenic drives, fishing, wildlife watching, and even some night sky viewing.

Cast a Line and Go Fishing

Ridgway has miles and miles of waterways, so if you’re looking to fish, you’re in luck! The Uncompahgre River offers fly fishing with plenty of brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. For the best fishing, head to where the Uncompahgre River empties into the main body of the Ridgway Reservoir.

Speaking of the Reservoir, for boat fishing, the Ridgway Reservoir has a marina and several access points to get out on the water and catch some rainbow and native brown trout. Just remember a fishing license is required to fish in Colorado waterways!

Relax at the Orvis Hot Springs & Spa

If you’re ready to relax, the Orvis Hot Springs & Spa is ready to help you soak your troubles away! This natural hot spring resort has multiple tubs in a range of temperatures for you to enjoy. We spent time going over this spot in our winter activities blog post (this place is great year-round!), so if you want to learn more about this resort, be sure to read about it there.

Go Whitewater Rafting

Just down the way from Ridgway is Telluride – a wonderful place for great skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. But don’t think that Telluride is only good for a winter visit! Thrill seekers won’t want to miss the opportunity to enjoy whitewater rafting on the San Miguel River in the summertime. Take a half-day trip with a guide and experience class II-III whitewater on the Lower River, or class III-III+ whitewater on the Upper River.

Take a Hike

Did you really visit Ridgway if you didn’t go hiking? This is one of the quintessential Colorado summer activities, and whether you’re a once-in-a-blue-moon hiker, or a die-hard, long-distance trailblazer, there’s something for everyone to experience in the Ridgway area. Whichever route you decide to follow, you’re nearly guaranteed to see post-card-perfect backdrops and incredible views.

Some popular hiking trails in the area include the Blain Basin Trail, Wetterhorn Basin Trail, and Enchanted Mesa Trail. If you’re with your kids and want to do some family-friendly hikes, we have some recommendations for you!

Time to Book Your Stay at MTN Lodge Ridgway

Book your stay at the MTN Lodge Ridgway and get ready to enjoy these summer activities around Ridgway, Colorado! We’re the perfect base camp for all your mountain adventures. We have comfortable rooms and incredible mountain views. Let’s make your stay a memorable one.