Nearby Colorado Ski Resorts
Montrose is the gateway to three of Colorado's best ski resorts:
- Crested Butte
Crested Butte is a Great Colorado Ski Town and a true winter paradise. Skiers and snowboarders will revel on the Mountain’s thousand plus acres of terrain ranging from beginner groomers to extreme gladed steeps. Fifteen chair lifts service 2,700 feet of vertical relief. The terrain park and new Superpipe offer innovative options for aspiring and experienced freestylers.
- Telluride
Telluride is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, but that's not all there is to do here. Whether you're a non-skier or you are taking a day off from the slopes there is plenty to keep you occupied in the San Juans. From snowshoeing to soaking at the spa to soaring through the sky in a glider, there's something for everyone.
- Powderhorn
Nestled on the edge of the Grand Mesa, 35 minutes from Grand Junction, Colorado, Powderhorn has exceptional valley views and a family-friendly atmosphere. Climb 4,000 feet above the Grand Valley floor to the slopes of Powderhorn. Enjoy the groomed "corduroy," challenging bumps and glade skiing. Powder stashes can be found all day and you won't spend your time waiting in lift lines.
- Cerro Summit Recreation Area
For winter recreation Cerro Summit, located just ten miles from downtown Montrose, offers an excellent opportunity for sledding, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park:
Here you will see some of the most spectacular sights in the area…and it is located just minutes from downtown Montrose.
Gunnison Gorge:
Below the Black Canyon, east of Montrose, the gorge is full of natural wonders and diverse recreational opportunities.
Ouray Colorado:
Ouray has the nickname of "Switzerland of America because of the alpine peaks surrounding the mountain town. Ouray was founded in 1876 (the same year Colorado became a state) as a mining town and still maintains the flavor of late 19th Century architecture. Ouray is also home to Ouray Hot Springs where you can relax in the geothermal waters of the surrounding mountains.
Ridgway State Park:
Ridgway State Park is located about 25 minutes south of Montrose on US Hwy 550. It is a state operated park with boating, campgrounds, swimming, fishing, and hiking available. Since its grand opening in 1989, Ridgway State Park has become one of Southwest Colorado's recreation hot spots. Located just 20 miles south of Montrose, Ridgway's modern facilities and view of the bordering San Juan Mountains make this park ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and sightseers alike. Ridgway is one of the best equipped and most beautiful parks in the region. In addition, it is one of the most accessible recreation areas for the physically challenged in the Untied States.
At the Park, anglers can catch rainbow and brown trout that the reservoir is stocked with annually. Others enjoy boating, or Jet Skiing. You can soak in the sun at the swimming beach area, which has amenities like grass areas, barbecue pits, picnic tables, a playground area, and sand volleyball court. There are 25 sites open for winter camping at Ridgway State Park where electrical hookups are available. Laundry and shower facilities are available through the summer months and drinking water is available year round. No matter what the season, Ridgway State Park has something for everyone in one of the most scenic areas of the state.
Grand Mesa National Forest:
Grand Mesa is located about 45 minutes north of Montrose. It is the largest flattop mountain in the United States with innumerable lakes for fishing, many hiking, cross country skiing, snow shoeing and snowmobile trails as well as campgrounds and Powderhorn Ski Area.
Balloon Affair!
During the 4th of July holiday, Montrose becomes the center for balloonist from all over the country. The clear cool mornings make Montrose an ideal spot for such an event.
Owl Creek Pass:
An easy 85 mile round trip from Montrose; this is a magnificent area to spend some time. This pass accesses Hwy 550 just north of Ridgway and Hwy 50 just east of Cimarron.
Curecanti National Recreation Area:
Visit Colorado's largest reservoir (Blue Mesa Reservoir), the Cimarron Visitors Center, and experience some magnificent mountain vistas.
Mesa Verde National Park:
Mesa Verde National Park is located at the very southwestern tip of Colorado and is a wonderful cultural destination.
Uncompahgre National Forest:
Over a million acres comprise some of the most spectacular views. Located south of Montrose.
Boating Tours:
Morrow Point boating tours leave from Pine Creek Boat Dock daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For information and rates call Elk Creek Visitor's Center, (970) 641-2337.
Fishing:
Yellow perch, large mouth bass, Kokanee salmon and some of the best stretches of blue ribbon trout fishing await. For information and hunting and fishing licenses contact the Visitor's Center located in the Ute Museum, or call the Montrose Public Lands Center at (970) 240-5300.
Golfing:
Black Canyon Golf Course, 18 holes, open to the public. 1350 Birch, (970) 249-4653.
The Links at Cobble Creek features 18 holes, a driving range and restaurant. 699 Cobble Drive. (970) 240-9542.
MINIATURE GOLF: Cedar Creek RV Park. 126 Rose Lane. (970) 249-3884 (seasonal)
Hiking:
The 360 degree views surrounding Montrose show visitors a range of beautiful hiking terrain. Contact the Montrose Public Lands Center at (970) 240-5300.
Horseback Riding:
Located twelve miles south of Montrose. Enjoy the great open spaces where you can ride all day. (970) 626-5587 or (970) 209-8966.
Hunting Information:
The Montrose area is well known for it's expansive hunting areas as well as for the quality of the game available to hunters, including trophy Elk, wild turkeys, antelope, deer, and other wild fowl. For information on current regulations and licensing requirements, contact the Colorado Division of Wildlife at (970) 249-3431. For a free list of hunting guides and outfitters in Montrose, call 800-873-0244.
Mountain Bike Trails:
Hundreds of miles of jeep trails ideally suited for mountain biking can be found on the Uncompahgre Plateau, west of Montrose. Trail maps are available at the Visitor's Center, Chamber of Commerce and City Hall. |
