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Best Things to do and see in Montrose, CO

Top Things to do in Montrose, CO

1. ) Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

The crown-jewel attraction near Montrose, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers some of the most dramatic canyon scenery in Colorado — perfect for hiking, scenic drives, stargazing, and wildlife viewing.

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Why Visit: The park features sheer granite walls and precipitous drops carved over millennia by the Gunnison River. From overlooks along South Rim Road to challenging hikes and back-country routes, it’s a spectacular showcase of nature’s power and beauty.

What to Do: Drive South Rim Road (approx. 7 miles along the rim between Tomichi Point and High Point) for multiple scenic overlooks; hike one of the rim trails; for advanced visitors, obtain back-country permits to explore deeper canyon routes; in winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular when snow covers the rim.

Visitor Info: The South Rim Visitor Center (physical/gps address: 9800 Highway 347, Gunnison, CO 81230) is the main access point for Montrose travelers. Phone: 970-641-2337.

Getting There: From downtown Montrose, take US-50 east to the South Rim entrance — it’s less than a 30-minute drive.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping vistas, a peaceful hike, or a dramatic stargazing experience (the canyon is a recognized International Dark Sky Park), Black Canyon is simply unmissable on any Montrose itinerary. The entrance to the canyon is only 15 minutes rom The Bridges Clubhouse making it an ideal destination when  staying in Montrose, CO.

2.) Montrose Water Sports Park

For a fun, active, and family-friendly outing — or just a break from canyon- and mountain-heavy plans — the Montrose Water Sports Park delivers urban-style recreation on the Uncompahgre River.

What to Expect: Engineered rapids and features designed for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even surfing on a standing wave. For those not paddling, there are observation decks, walking paths, picnic areas, and green space — great for relaxing, people-watching, or enjoying a riverside lunch.

When to Go: Summer afternoons (especially weekends) are peak times for kayaking and water activity. It’s lively, vibrant, and often a social hub for locals and visitors alike.

Bonus: Whether you’re a paddler or not, the park’s mix of water, walking paths, and shaded spots makes it ideal for families or for those wanting a gentle outdoor outing without leaving town. The Montrose Water Sports Park is a great complement to canyon or mountain trips — easy to access and a fun way to experience Montrose’s outdoor lifestyle without venturing far.

3.) Ute Indian Museum

For a deeper connection to the history and heritage of the region, the Ute Indian Museum offers an enlightening look at the Native American roots of the area. Located on the former homestead of tribal leader Chief Ouray, the museum is a cultural cornerstone of Montrose.

What You’ll See: Exhibits on the history of the Ute tribe, artifacts, a native plants garden, and memorial sites including Chief Ouray Memorial Park and Chipeta’s Crypt. Together they provide a rich narrative of the Ute people’s legacy, culture, and connection to the land.

Why It Matters: The museum preserves the heritage of one of Colorado’s most significant Native American tribes. For travelers interested in history, culture, or anthropology, this offers a meaningful break from outdoor recreation and a chance to honor the region’s original inhabitants.

Location / Visiting Info: Address — 17253 Chipeta Road, Montrose, CO 81403. As a branch of History Colorado, the museum is open year-round and offers a thoughtful, accessible museum experience in a peaceful, reflective setting. Combining beautiful natural surroundings with cultural depth, a visit to the Ute Indian Museum adds a powerful, grounding dimension to your Montrose trip — and reminds you of the long history of human connection before modern development.

4.) Museum of the Mountain West

Step into the past with a visit to this open-air living history museum — a unique way to experience pioneer-era Colorado, old western architecture, and a slice of the rugged heritage that shaped Montrose and the surrounding region.

What You’ll Find: Historic log cabins, old western-town buildings and stores relocated to this site, exhibits on early Colorado life such as mining, ranching, and railroad history. The museum is listed on the Colorado state register of historic properties.

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Location & Access: Address — 68191 E. Miami Road, about 3.9 miles east of downtown Montrose (off U.S. Route 50). It’s an easy short drive from town — ideal for a half-day exploration if you also plan to visit other attractions.

Why It’s Worth It: Perfect for history buffs, families, or anyone curious about the region’s origins. It offers a hands-on, immersive history lesson — more engaging than a typical museum. It’s a great way to balance natural attractions with cultural and historical insight during your stay.

5.) Ridgway State Park

Experience the natural beauty of Colorado’s Western Slope with a visit to Ridgway State Park, one of the region’s most scenic outdoor destinations. Set along the shores of Ridgway Reservoir and framed by sweeping views of the San Juan Mountains, the park offers a peaceful escape for outdoor recreation, wildlife viewing, and mountain scenery just a short drive from Montrose.

What You’ll Find:

Miles of hiking and biking trails, lakeside beaches, fishing and boating access, picnic areas, campgrounds, and abundant wildlife including deer, elk, and a variety of bird species. The park is known for its crystal-clear water, open meadows, and panoramic mountain backdrops that make it ideal for photography, kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxed family outings.

Location & Access:  28555 U.S. Highway 550, Ridgway, CO.
From The Bridges Golf & Country Club, head west toward Montrose, then take US-550 North toward Ridgway. Continue approximately 25–30 minutes until you reach Ridgway State Park, clearly marked along the highway. The drive is straightforward and scenic, making it an easy half-day or full-day excursion for members and guests staying at The Bridges.

Why It’s Worth It:
Ridgway State Park offers the perfect balance to championship golf — fresh mountain air, wide-open spaces, and year-round outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a round, enjoy time with family, or explore the natural landscapes that make Montrose special, this park delivers an authentic Colorado experience that’s close, accessible, and unforgettable.

6.) Blue Mesa Reservoir



Discover the largest body of water in Colorado with a trip to Blue Mesa Reservoir, a breathtaking high-desert lake surrounded by rolling mesas, dramatic canyon walls, and endless open skies. Located within Curecanti National Recreation Area, Blue Mesa offers a striking contrast to Montrose’s mountain landscapes and provides an unforgettable outdoor experience for boating, fishing, and wide-open exploration.

What You’ll Find:
Over 20 miles of water ideal for boating, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing, along with some of Colorado’s best fishing for kokanee salmon, lake trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout. The area also features scenic overlooks, hiking trails, campgrounds, marinas, and designated swim beaches. Wildlife sightings are common, and sunsets over the reservoir are especially memorable.

Location & Access:
Address — Curecanti National Recreation Area, Blue Mesa Reservoir (near Gunnison, CO).
From The Bridges Golf & Country Club, head east toward Montrose and merge onto U.S. Highway 50 East toward Gunnison. Continue for approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, enjoying one of the most scenic drives in the region as you pass through the Black Canyon area. Blue Mesa Reservoir is well-marked along Highway 50 with multiple access points, marinas, and recreation areas.

Why It’s Worth It:
Blue Mesa Reservoir offers a truly expansive Colorado experience — perfect for those who enjoy water recreation, fishing, or simply soaking in the vast, rugged beauty of the Western Slope. It’s an ideal day trip from Montrose and a wonderful complement to life at The Bridges, pairing championship golf with unforgettable outdoor adventure just a short scenic drive away.

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