Ridgway State Park - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

The park offers several different activities for visitors to enjoy, including camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. There are also several miles of trails that wind through the park, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In addition, the park is home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors can also take advantage of the park's two very popular hot springs.  In the winter, the park transforms into a playground for snow sports lovers, with cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing all on offer. 

Ridgway State Park is a state park in Ouray County, Colorado. The park is named after the town of Ridgway, which is located nearby. The park was established in 1969 and covers an area of 1,872 acres. The park includes the Kendall Mountain Recreation Area, which offers hiking, biking, and camping opportunities. The recreation area is also home to a number of historical sites, including the remains of an old mining town. 

The railroad helped to spur economic development in the region, and by the mid-20th century, farming and ranching were major industries in Ouray County. In 1965, the Army Corps of Engineers proposed damming the Ridgway Canal to create a reservoir for flood control and water storage. The project was completed in 1992, and Ridgway State Park was established soon thereafter. Today, the park is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The best time to visit Ridgway State Park is during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the trails and enjoying the amenities the park has to offer. 

1. pack light. Remember, you'll be hiking and camping in the backcountry, so it's important to travel light. Bring only essential items and leave your cumbersome luggage at home.

2. bring a map. The terrain at Ridgway State Park can be challenging, so it's important to have a map with you at all times. If you're not an experienced hiker, consider hiring a guide to help you navigate the trails.

3. pack plenty of food and water. There are no restaurants or convenience stores in the park, so you'll need to bring enough food and water to last throughout your stay.

4. stay on designated trails. Help protect the park's fragile ecosystems by staying on designated trails at all times. Do not shortcut switchbacks or blaze new trails.

5. wildlife watching is another popular activity at Ridgway State Park. Mule deer, elk, and bighorn sheep are just some of the animals that call the park home.

6. If you're planning on visiting during the winter months, make sure to bring your snowshoes or cross-country skis as there are several trails that are perfect for exploring in the snow.
    

1. The park covers an area of 1, UAE miles (1,234 ha), and includes the Ridgway Reservoir.
2. The reservoir has a capacity of 44,200 acre-feet (54,000,000 m3), and is used for irrigation and recreation.
3. A variety of birds can also be found in the park, including eagles, hawks, and owls. 
4. The park is named after Colonel John D. Ridgway, who was instrumental in the development of the state park system in Colorado.
5. The park experiences all four seasons, with temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter to over 100 degrees in summer.
6.  In addition to its natural attractions, Ridgway State Park also features a number of man-made amenities, including a visitor center, campgrounds, and picnic areas.
    

So how much time should you plan to spend in the park? That depends on your interests, but a good rule of thumb is to allow at least two days for exploring. With so much to see and do, you won't want to miss a thing!

There are plenty of ways to reach Ridgway State Park in Ouray County, Colorado. The most direct route would be to take Highway 550 North from Montrose for about 28 miles. As you get closer to the town of Ridgway, you will see signs for the park. Another option would be to take Highway 62 West towards Olathe. After about 10 miles, turn onto Highway 3 heading north. This scenic route will take you along the Uncompahgre River before reaching the park. If you are coming from Durango, you can take Highway 550 South for about an hour until you reach the park entrance. 

Entrance to the park is free for all visitors. However, there is a charge for overnight camping, which starts at $20 per night for a basic campsite. In addition, some of the park's amenities, such as boat rentals and interpretive programs, come with a small fee.

Ridgway State Park is open year-round, with different hours in winter and summer. In winter, the park is open from 8:00AM to 4:30 PM, while in summer the park is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, the hours may be subject to change due to weather conditions. So be sure to check the website or call ahead before planning your visit.