9 Hidden Gems Near Ridgway: Unique Spots You Won’t Find in a Guidebook
There’s something magical about finding a place that isn’t swarming with tourists—a quiet spot where you can take in the majestic mountain views, hear the wind rustling through the aspens, and maybe even feel like you’ve uncovered a little secret.
If you're planning a trip to Ridgway, Colorado, you're probably already excited about the hot springs, the Million Dollar Highway, and those famous San Juan Mountain vistas. But if you’re looking to get off the beaten path, we’ve got you covered.
Here are some of the best hidden gems near Ridgway—places you won’t always find in the guidebooks but are absolutely worth exploring.
1. A Secret Overlook at Dallas Divide
📍 Location: Off Hwy 62, County Road 7 (approx. 15 minutes from Ridgway)
Most visitors heading west out of Ridgway stop at the Dallas Divide overlook for a classic photo of the Sneffels Range—and don’t get me wrong, it’s a beauty. But if you want a spot that’s just as stunning, without the crowds, take a detour onto County Road 7.
This gravel road winds through rolling ranchland, leading you to one of the most peaceful, panoramic views in the area. Bonus: If you go in the fall, the golden aspens are absolutely breathtaking.
2. A Hidden Waterfall on Weehawken Trail
📍 Location: Weehawken Trail #206, off Camp Bird Road (near Ouray)
If you love waterfalls but want to skip the crowds at Box Canyon, head over to the Weehawken Trail near Ouray. Most people hike this trail for its wildflower-filled alpine meadows, but if you keep an ear out, you’ll hear the sound of rushing water off to the side.
Take a little detour and—voilà—a beautiful, hidden waterfall. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot where you can dip your toes in the water and take a breather before continuing the hike.
3. A Trail With a View at Dennis Weaver Memorial Park
📍 Location: 51 Weaver Memorial Dr, Ridgway, CO
Locals love Dennis Weaver Memorial Park for its huge eagle sculpture and easy walking trails, but most visitors don’t realize there’s a secret trail that leads to one of the best views in Ridgway.
If you follow the narrow path up the hill behind the sculpture, you’ll find yourself on a bluff overlooking the entire valley. It’s a perfect sunset spot—and you’ll probably have it all to yourself.
4. Forgotten Mines of Brown Mountain
📍 Location: Near Red Mountain Pass, off US-550 (Million Dollar Highway)
If you love history (or just love a good ghost town vibe), take a drive up US-550 toward Red Mountain Pass. The well-known Yankee Girl Mine gets most of the attention, but if you’re willing to venture onto some Jeep roads, you’ll find some lesser-known, abandoned mine shafts and rusted equipment scattered throughout Brown Mountain.
Exploring these spots feels like stepping straight into the past—just be cautious and stay outside the structures, as they’ve been abandoned for over a century! Find out more
5. The “Other” Blue Lake in Sneffels Wilderness
📍 Location: Off Blaine Basin Trail, Yankee Boy Basin
Everyone raves about the Blue Lakes Trail, but did you know there’s another equally stunning blue lake tucked deep in the Sneffels Wilderness?
The hike is a bit more rugged, but if you start at Blaine Basin Trailhead and follow the trail toward Wrights Lake, you’ll find an alpine lake with the same crystal-clear turquoise waters—but almost zero foot traffic. It’s an incredible spot for a peaceful picnic.
6. Ridgway’s “Ghost Town” Homesteads
📍 Location: Near Owl Creek Pass (approx. 30 minutes from Ridgway)
While Owl Creek Pass is known for its gorgeous scenery (it was a filming location for True Grit), few people realize that hidden among the trees are remnants of old homesteads from the 1800s.
If you explore some of the backroads near the pass, you might stumble upon abandoned cabins and ranch houses, some of which still have wooden fences and relics from the past. It’s a fun little adventure for history lovers.
7. A Secret Swing Overlooking the Valley
📍 Location: Top of County Road 9 (Dave Wood Road)
There’s a handmade wooden swing at the top of a ridgeline outside of Ridgway, and it’s hands-down one of the best places to take in the mountain views.
To find it, take County Road 9 (Dave Wood Road) toward the Uncompahgre Plateau. When you reach the summit, keep an eye out for a hidden side trail leading to an overlook. It’s a great place for a photo op—or just to swing with the San Juans as your backdrop.
8. A Wildflower Meadow on Last Dollar Road
📍 Location: Last Dollar Road, near mile marker 10
Last Dollar Road is already a scenic gem, but most travelers never stop at mile marker 10, where a breathtaking wildflower meadow blooms in late spring and summer.
This spot is straight out of a postcard—with lupines, columbines, and Indian paintbrush covering the hillsides. It’s an amazing place to stretch your legs, take photos, or just enjoy the silence of the mountains.
9. A Secret Sunset Spot Near Hotel Palomino
📍 Location: Log Hill Mesa Overlook, County Road 1
If you want to catch one of the best sunsets in Colorado, drive 15 minutes from Hotel Palomino to Log Hill Mesa Overlook.
This spot offers a panoramic view of the San Juan Mountains, and because it’s not on most tourist maps, it’s usually quiet. Pack a thermos of hot chocolate (or a bottle of wine), and soak in the breathtaking golden hour as the sun dips behind the peaks.
Come Explore Ridgway’s Hidden Gems
Ridgway is full of surprises, from secluded waterfalls and historic ghost towns to secret overlooks with jaw-dropping mountain views. Whether you’re hiking through wildflower meadows, swinging above the valley, or watching the San Juans glow at sunset, these hidden spots offer unforgettable experiences.
Take the scenic route, explore off the beaten path, and discover the side of Ridgway that most travelers miss. The adventure is yours to create!
Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your stay at Hotel Palomino and start exploring. 😊
