Discover the Magic of Ridgway with our Travel Guide!
Join us at 7,048 ft for breathtaking views, witty banter, and endless opportunities to learn with a creative community.
Acclimation to Elevation
Don't Wait. Hydrate!
Our bodies lose water and salt faster at higher altitudes, so drink plenty of liquids so that you can make the most of your time here.
Limit Alcohol
The oxygen deprivation and dehydrating effects of alcohol are exacerabated at elevation. We recommend that you wait to indulge and be prepared to consume less than usual.
Nutritional Nudges
A higher calorie diet can help your body sustain the effort of acclimation. Foods high in potassium are particularly helpful.
Slow & Steady
Ascend gradually to allow yourself time to adjust. Make sure you prioritize sleep and ease into exercise.
Shade & Sunscreen
Seek out protection from the sun via sunscreen, sunshirts, hats, sunglasses, and chapstick with UV protection.
Keep Breathing
Exhale slowly and gently through pursed lips, making the exhalation longer than the inhalation. You can try this regularly, especially during physical activity or when you experience altitude sickness symptoms.
Consult Physician
If you have pre-existing medical conditions, like heart or lung disease, diabetes, sickle cell anemia, or severe pulmonary hypertension, you should talk with a doctor before traveling to high elevation. You can also consider taking preventive medications, such as Ibprofen.
Lodging
Meals
Transportation
Explore & Connect
San Juan Potters' Guild
The San Juan Potters’ Guild is located right when you get into the main stretch of Ouray from the North. You can take pottery lessons and find a variety of local artwork for sale. It has a cozy and calm vibe that is perfect for promoting creativity.
FUSE Creative Directory
Ridgway is part of Ouray County’s Creative District. FUSE’s page hosts a directory of our local artists, businesses and regular social hours for artists and entrepreneurs. One of their contributions to the community is the Decker Community Room which offers exhibits and events.
610 Arts Collective
The result of two passionate arts organizations (Sherbino & Weehawken) working together to create a shared vision of bring arts, enrichment, and Chautauqua style learning to the area. It serves as an exhibition space for local and visiting artists, and a classroom space for programs.
Minerva West Theatre Company
Nick often graces the stages of these performances. He also works behind the scenes with the costumes. It’s worth checking out their schedule.
The Sherbino
The Sherbino hosts a variety of shows, talks and opportunities to expand your perspective. They have a selection of refreshments available.
The Wright Opera House
The Wright Opera House is the place to go in Ouray for entertainment. Options include movie nights, music performances and more!
Basecamp Ouray
Bouldering Gym, Via Ferrata, Rock Climbing and Ice Climbing opportunities in the middle of Ouray. They also have a work space for remote workers!
Second Chance
Volunteer to walk dogs at the local humane society! They have trails, ponds and a variety of fenced in yards to explore with a furry friend or two.
Canyoneering Colorado
Only about 15 minutes South of Ridgway, Canyoneering Colorado provides an opportunity to stay cool while exploring various nooks of the San Juan Mountains.
Ridgway Railroad Museum
The exhibited rail equipment is available for public viewing at all times. It is operated on Fridays and Saturdays during Spring, Summer & Fall 10am-2pm.
Ranch History Museum
Programs aim to increase awareness and appreciation of Ouray County’s past and present rural lifestyles and cultural heritage while helping to facilitate open land conservation.
Museum in Ouray
Through archives, exhibits, programs, and events, The Ouray County Historical Society educates the public about our recent history and the people who shaped it.
Ute History Museum in Montrose
Exhibits focus on the Ute peoples’ history of adaptation and persistence, and unfold around a central theme of geography, highlighting significant locations in Ute history. Exploration of the local history is not complete without learning about its original inhabitants and how they have been impacted by the introduction of new people.