Ridgway/Telluride, CO + 4 Day Itinerary

Written By Molly Mehlsack

Wrapping Up Summer Season in the San Juan Mountains – 4-Day Road Trip from Fort Collins, CO

September 23rd – September 26th 2022 

I had been living in Colorado for just over 4 years with Telluride, CO sitting on my “Colorado Bucket-List” untouched since, quite literally, the day I moved to this state. It was September of 2022; I had recently lost my job but was on a high from my birthday trip to Santa Fe, NM. However, I was still in the thick of my grieving process and deciding what I wanted to do with my life going forward. All I knew is that I wanted to travel, and that the road was calling me. I spontaneously decided to spend some alone time in Southwestern Colorado – and finally check those San Juan Mountains off my bucket list. With a lot of very-focused last-minute planning, I whipped together this 4-Day Road Trip from Fort Collins, CO to Ridgway and Telluride, CO. I’ve already started planning my next trip back to the area… 

Telluride books up QUICKLY – pretty much year-round, as the former mining town is known for its world-renowned ski resort and is also home to some of the world’s best film, art, music, and yoga festivals. With the prices in Telluride, and my spur of the moment decision to head south solo, I opted to stay in the beautiful artsy mountain town of Ridgway, CO – 39 miles north of Telluride, CO. Ridgway is known as the “tiniest foodie town,” which plays on my heart strings; I am most certainly a foodie, and what I did eat in Ridgway was fabulous. 

“tiniest foodie town:” https://www.5280.com/ridgway-might-just-be-colorados-tiniest-foodie-town/

Where I Stayed: 

Basecamp 550 in Ridgway, CO 

https://basecamp550.com/

Basecamp 550 is a labor of love by Sam and Heather, who fell in love with each other as well as the western slope and created a unique camping resort for others to enjoy a mountain getaway. Basecamp 550 offers tents, tiny homes, and RV Camping to accommodate all lodging needs. There is a main clubhouse area, and all the amenities you could possibly want/need - (including Wi-Fi!). I had an incredibly relaxing stay in my Glamping Tent; the fireplace heater was so cozy on those chilly September nights, and the view from my porch was unmatched. I also loved the personalization and attention; upon arrival, there were libations and custom Basecamp 550 koozies left out for me.

Itinerary: 

Day 1: 

  • Leave Fort Collins, CO

  • Stop in Buena, Vista CO 

    • The Blend Buena Vista: https://www.theblendbv.com/

I trekked the 3 hours from Fort Collins, CO straight, to fuel my body and fill up my tank in one of my favorite little towns located in Chaffee County, CO. I haven’t explored much of the Upper Arkansas River Valley area, but I am familiar with Main Street in Buena Vista, CO. If you happen to pass through on your way to the mountains or after a day of exploring, make a point to stop at The Blend Buena Vista – a local family café, eatery, and juice bar. I never miss it if I’m in town. It’s worth the 3-hour drive for a smoothie bowl – and I’m serious about that! 

One of the places I did eat at in Ridgway, CO was GNAR; a gourmet taco shop that is mashing together different flavors from around the globe. I’m not sure I’ve tasted anything quite like these tacos before, and I was very pleasantly surprised. I recommend that you check this one out, and make sure you try the elk sausage. 

Do yourself a favor and enjoy at a meal at this European-style café and eatery. Specializing in creating dishes from locally sourced gourmet ingredients, whether you’re indulging in brunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong at Provisions. 

Day 2: 

*Parking in Telluride: Free all-day parking is located at the Carhenge Parking Lot – a 10-minute walk from downtown.

  • Breakfast in Telluride 

    • The Butcher and the Baker: http://butcherandbakercafe.com/

This is a crowd-favorite in the heart of Telluride, and I can clearly see why. This cozy bakery and café specializes in local cuisine and is owned by Telluride local Megan Ossola. They even have their own farm to bring their customers the highest quality home-grown food. If I had had more time in the area, I would have made a second trip back here for lunch for sure. 

This was 100% money well spent and some of the most fun I’ve ever had! If you want to get up close and personal with nature, explore the breathtaking San Juan Mountains, and hear the rich history of the area, booking a tour with Telluride Offroad Adventures should for sure be on your list of activities. I booked the Tomboy/Imogene Half-Day Tour as a solo traveler and was pleasantly surprised at how personal the tour experience was with only 2 other passengers and our guide.

Incredible Mexican and southwestern fare with an in-house juice bar. 

PURE Beauty & Wellness Spa in Telluride, CO has several luxurious body, health, wellness, and beauty services for you to choose from, however my specific interest in this downtown boutique spa was its distinctive salt therapy cave. 

Not far from Carhenge in Telluride, lies a tiny restaurant serving small plates that are boasting big flavor. I love the open space interactive concept, and the cocktails were absolutely on point. Reservations highly recommended. 

Day 3: 

  • Breakfast at Provisions at the Baber Shop

I simply had to come back to try their brunch.

I got super lucky with my timing, as the leaves were just starting to really change at the end of September. Do not miss this spectacular 13-minute (free) scenic ride! 

  • Dinner in Telluride

    • 221 South Oak: 

I will let Chef Eliza’s food speak for itself, but if you don’t visit the season 10 Top Chef contestant’s restaurant while in Telluride – you are doing yourself a disservice. 

I caught a show at the Telluride Transfer Warehouse on a whim and fell in love with the venue and its mission. This place has been a Telluride staple since 1971 and their commitment to the advancement of artists and their art has remained unchanged since its inception. 

Day 4: 

A cute local favorite serving food made with LOVE. 

Relax and rejuvenate your body surrounded by gorgeous scenery at Orvis Natural Hot Springs in Ridgway, CO. Note: This is a clothing optional resort. 

Molly Mehlsack
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Santa Fe, NM 3 Day Itinerary