There is lots to do around Ridgway, Colorado, that doesn’t involve the slopes! If you aren’t a skier or snowboarder or just want to take a break from the ski resort crowds, here are some winter activities you need to do.

Head to the Orvis Hot Springs & Spa

Looking for a winter activity where you can soak all your troubles away? The Orvis Hot Springs & Spa is a place you’ll want to make a pit stop at!

The Orvis Hot Springs is a natural hot springs resort where nature takes over. The hot springs water is not artificially heated or treated in any way and naturally contains lithium. Researchers speculate that lithium promotes the health, growth, and resilience of neurons. While that may be speculated, the safe and relaxing way you’ll feel as you slip into the water at these hot springs is confirmed!

There are ten soaking areas to enjoy, ranging in temperature from a mild 65 degrees up to a hot 112 degrees. Seven of the soaking areas are outside, where you can enjoy the gorgeous Colorado sun or star-filled evening sky. There’s also an indoor pool and two private tubs in case of inclement weather.

Go Ice Climbing

If you’re looking for a unique activity, gather up some climbing gear and head to the Ouray Ice Park for some ice climbing.

The Ouray Ice Park is a human-made ice climbing park built and operated in an incredible natural gorge. Beginning in November, Ice Farmers begin spraying down the canyon walls of the Uncompahgre Gorge with overflow water from the City of Ouray. The result? The creation of awe-inspiring walls of ice.

It’s a free public park that is home to more than 150 man-made ice and mixed routes spanning almost two miles of the Uncompahgre Gorge. Because it’s free, the majority of their funding comes from their biggest event of the year, the annual Ouray Ice Festival and Competition. It’s three days and four nights full of fun activities like movie screenings, competitions, and presentations. If you’re looking for winter activities to do in January, don’t miss this event!

If you have experience ice climbing, grab some gear and head into the park for some fun climbing time. And if you’re a first-timer and want some guidance, The Ouray Ice Park website has a list of guide services permitted to operate in the park and will show you a great time you won’t forget.

Take a Snowmobile Tour

Mountains of fun await you with a guided snowmobile tour! Snowmobile tours are a great way to experience some full-throttle adventure while taking in the beauty of the San Juan Mountains. There are many snowmobile tour guides out there, but our favorites are the Silverton Ice Pirates and Telluride Outfitters.

The Silverton Ice Pirates are ready to offer exciting experiences for families and adventurers of all kinds. They offer 2-hour, 3-hour, full-day, backcountry, and private/custom snowmobile tours. No matter which tour you choose, you’ll want to bring your camera to document the spectacular views and fantastic memories.

At Telluride Outfitters, their mission is to provide clients with safe, fun, educational, and comfortable outdoor experiences. They offer some exciting tours, including a two-hour Atla Lakes Ghost Town tour, a backcountry tour to Dunton Hot Springs, and tours that navigate ungroomed terrain that allows for free play and hill climbing opportunities for those more proficient at snowmobiling.

Go Cross-Country Skiing or Snowshoeing

Still want to get skiing in but don’t want to deal with the crowded slopes? Consider cross-country skiing at Top of the Pines or Ouray County Nordic Council trails. Both are passionate about preserving and protecting the natural beauty of the area and offer beautifully groomed trails. If you decide to go cross-country skiing at either Top of Pines or Ouray Country Nordic Council, be sure to follow their trail guidelines.

Snowshoeing is another option for non-skier or snowboarder types. You can hike through the San Juans and become the winter explorer you’ve been dreaming of. Just make sure you dress warm and bring your camera to capture the beautiful winter landscape.

Spend Your Day at Ridgway State Park

There are plenty of winter activities to take part in at the Ridgway State Park! The solitude you’ll experience in the winter is a peaceful change of pace from the busy summer season. Depending on snow conditions, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, sledding, and ice fishing may be possible.

If you want an activity that’s not so active, wildlife viewing is far superior in the winter. Wintertime means animals venture about in the park more because there are fewer crowds. Birds, mule deer, elk, and big horn sheep, among other animals, can occasionally be spotted in the park. So, if you’re interested in seeing wildlife, dress warm, bring your camera, and be patient!

Time to Book Your Stay at MTN Lodge Ridgway

Ready to enjoy these winter activities in Ridgway, Colorado? All that’s left is to book your stay at MTN Lodge Ridgway! We’re the perfect base camp for all your mountain adventures. We have comfortable rooms, onsite dining, and incredible mountain views. Let’s make your stay a memorable one.