Posted in Colorado August 20, 2020 by

Off The Beaten Path In Ridgway State Park, You’ll Find A Breathtaking Colorado Overlook That Lets You See For Miles

There is no lack of beautiful views in Colorado, but here’s one tucked away on the Western Slope that you might not have seen yet…and if you haven’t, you need to. It’s a little-known overlook with stunning views that simply don’t get enough attention.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The San Juan Mountains of Ouray County are one of the most incredible sights in the country.
Ridgway State Park - Colorado State Parks/Facebook
We might be a little biased, but we're definitely not the only ones to think so: this range is frequently featured on calendars marketed around the nation.
And arguably one of the best places to view these majestic mountains is from the vantage point of a little state park tucked away off Highway 550: Ridgway State Park.
michaelschober/iStock via Getty Images Plus
The park features multiple overlooks, all with excellent views. Start at the one behind the visitors center, where you can take in Ridgway Reservoir against the backdrop of the San Juans and the Cimarrons.
Jenny Conine Murley/Tripadvisor
There's no wrong time of year to visit this park: each season brings its own kind of beauty.
Matt Feige/Google Maps
In the winter, though you may have to park closer to the highway and walk in due to snow, you'll be treated to snow-capped majesty.
Amanda/Google Maps
In the spring, the mountains will still be white, but you'll catch the early wildflowers and the reservoir brimming with fresh snowmelt.
In the summer, the dry, pinion-pine forest will provide a stunning contrast to the deep blue of the mountains and sky.
D D/Tripadvisor
And in the fall, you'll get bursts of yellow aspen and orange scrub oak on the slopes.
After you've soaked in the view from the Visitor's Center overlook, make sure to take time to visit the other areas of the park as well, including Dallas Creek and Pa-Co-Chu-Puk.
Cathryn O/Tripadvisor
There's also a paved trail that runs south out of the park along the Uncompahgre River all the way to the town of Ridgway.
So whether you're just making a quick stop on your way to your ultimate destination or the Ridgway area is your place to stay and play awhile, savor the moments you spend at this out of the way overlook, taking in the view from your vantage point in the shadow of the San Juan Mountains.
Ridgway State Park - Colorado State Parks/Facebook

Learn more about Ridgway State Park at their website. And don’t miss exploring the town of Ridgway itself since you’re this close!

Address: 28555 US-550, Ridgway, CO 81432, USA