Uncompahgre Riverway Trail

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy and is suitable for a wide range of users, including families and beginners. Many sections feature paved surfaces or hard-packed gravel, and the Ouray segment is even accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. While mostly flat, some portions have small uphill climbs.

The terrain varies along the trail's different segments. You'll find paved surfaces and concrete sections, especially within Montrose and Ridgway. Other areas consist of hard-packed gravel, and some segments within Ridgway State Park may include single track. The trail largely follows the gentle gradient of the river, offering mostly flat stretches.

The trail offers diverse scenic views as it meanders along the Uncompahgre River, often crossing it. You'll pass through several parks like Cerise Park, Baldridge Park, and Ute Park in Montrose. Expect spectacular vistas of the San Juan Mountains, the Uncompahgre Plateau, Grand Mesa, and the Cimarron Ridge. The Ouray section provides views of Gold Hill with old mine buildings and waterfalls.

The trail boasts historical significance, utilizing parts of a former Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad line, with remnants like a restored railroad trestle. It connects various town amenities and parks, including Ridgway State Park. You can also find interpretive signs, especially along the Uncompahgre River Walk in Ouray, providing facts about local wildlife and mining history.

Yes, the Uncompahgre Riverway Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of local regulations, especially when passing through parks or populated areas. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. In winter, some sections are suitable for cross-country skiing, providing a unique experience. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Generally, no permit or fee is required to access the main segments of the Uncompahgre Riverway Trail. However, if your route takes you into Ridgway State Park, standard state park entrance fees may apply. It's advisable to check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for current state park fee information.

Parking is available at various points along the trail in Montrose, Ridgway, and Ouray. In Montrose, you can often find parking near the Community Recreation Center or other city parks that the trail connects. For the Ouray section, there are designated parking areas for the Uncompahgre River Walk loop.

Along the riverbanks, you might spot eagles fishing. The trail also traverses open fields and sagebrush, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife. The Dennis Weaver Memorial Park in Ridgway, which is part of the trail, is a 60-acre permanent wildlife preserve, increasing your chances of seeing various species.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Baldridge Park Path, Ogden, Dry Cedar Creek Trail, Rio Grande, Enchanted Forest Trail, Old Chipeta Trail, Rec Center Trail, Sunset Mesa Trail, Washout Trail, Old Fenceline, and Centennial Trail.

The Uncompahgre Riverway Trail is primarily a linear, multi-segment trail with a long-term vision to connect Delta to Ouray. However, specific sections, like the Uncompahgre River Walk in Ouray, are designed as loops. Many other segments can be hiked as out-and-back routes.