| Ridgway
is the northern entrance of the scenic San Juan Skyway, which serves
as a crossroad for commerce, transportation, history and scenery. The
Skyway, one of the All-American Roads in the U.S., winds through unmatched
scenery - a photographer's dream.
Nestled in the picturesque
Uncompahgre Valley and surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks of the
Cimarron and San Juan Mountains, Ridgway is the "Gateway to the San
Juans." This "gateway" position was recognized over 100 years ago when
the Rio Grande Southern established Ridgway as a railhead center servicing
the nearby mining towns of Ouray and Telluride. The town was named for
railroad superintendent Robert M. Ridgway who established the town in
1891.
Earlier, in 1875
miners discovered riches in the earth near Ouray; hence that community
saw its start. Historic mining roads, once only accessible by foot,
horse or mule train, now provide excellent jeeping throughout Ouray
County.
Now, only ranching
remains and riches are still found, but in the beauty of the surroundings.
Ranching continues to contribute to the economy while providing the
wide open spaces, wildlife habitat and scenery that draw the tourist.
Relax and picnic
under the shade of 100-year-old cottonwoods in Ridgway Town Park, one
of the prettiest anywhere. Ridgway's park and surroundings were locations
for the movies "True Grit", starring John Wayne, and "How the West Was
Won".
For a getaway with
all the conveniences of today, but with the slower pace and charm of
the Old West, experience...Ridgway!
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