Things To Do
Colorado National Monument
It may be too hot to visit in the summer, but if the weather cooperates, highly recommend checking out the amazing red rock canyons and impressive rock formations.
Ouray
Ouray is also known as “The Switzerland of America”. It is one of Kristin’s favorite mountain towns. Things to check out/do: Box Canyon, multiple hot springs, Ouray brewery, hiking, climbing, via ferrata, and off roading.
Telluride
Telluride is an amazing tucked away ski town. There is a free gondola in town that has incredible views. Highly recommend the award winning Brown Dog pizza on Main Street. There is a beautiful waterfall close to town as well as a via ferrata. Trout lake is our favorite lake in the area where you can fish, kayak, or paddle board. And of course there’s a brewery in town called Telluride Brewing.
Crested Butte
Crested Butte is also an incredible mountain ski town. There are lots of good places to eat, drink, and shop in town as well as amazing hikes in the area. There is actually a wildflower festival every summer- that’s how incredibly beautiful this area is.
Ridgway
Ridgway is a small town that you pass through to get to Telluride and Ouray. There is a reservoir here that people will swim in with a small beach as well as paddle/kayak. There are some amazing hikes in the area including one of Kristin’s favorites- Blaine Basin. Also home to the blue lakes trail which will be permit only in 2026. It’s some of the bluest water you will ever see! Also worthwhile to stop shortly after Ridgway for a great view of the San Juan mountain range.
Grand Mesa
The Grand Mesa is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world. There are many lakes and trails to check out. Make sure to bring some mosquito repellent though!
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The Black Canyon is right outside of Montrose and you can hit all the major view points in just a couple of hours or less driving. It is quite hot during the summer so would recommend going early or later in the day. There are several breweries and distilleries in Montrose as well as some restaurants we can recommend if you’re stopping in. Montrose is also Kristin’s hometown.