Ridgway is located on the San Juan Skyway, cradled in the heart of the most photographed mountains in the world.

At the junction of U.S. 550, toward Ouray, and Colorado 62, heading to Telluride, Ridgway marks that moment when the San Juans begin to reveal their remarkable size and beauty. In the late 1800s, Ridgway was a link along the Rio Grande Southern Railroad's route to Durango, and later a miner's supply town and cattle ranching hub. In the 1970s the film True Grit was filmed in this classic Western spot.

Just two miles north of town is Ridgway State Park, which encompasses a 1,000-acre reservoir off the Uncompahgre River. Camping, boating, picnicking, hiking and fishing are all popular pursuits at the park. A visitor's center can point you in the right direction or offer a nature program.

At nearby Orvis Hot Springs, you take your pick from several soaking pools; some come in natural outdoor settings and one is inside. 

The City of Ridgway is a Home Rule Municipality in Ouray County, Colorado, in the United States. The population was 713 at the 2000 census.

The Uncompahgre River runs through the town, providing a source for trout fishing. The Ridgway State Park and Reservoir is just to the north of town.

There is a notable wildlife presence: mountain lions, badgers, deer, elk, bears, coyotes, and bald eagles are indigenous to the area.

Ridgway began as a railroad town, serving the nearby mining towns of Telluride and Ouray, pronounced yu-ray. The town site sits at the northern terminus of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad where it meets with Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad running between Montrose and Ouray. Ridgway was located about 3 miles (5 km) south of the existing town of Dallas. Articles of incorporation were filed on 22 May 1890 and granted on 4 March 1891. This "Gateway to the San Juan's" position was recognized over 100 years ago when the Rio Grande Southern established Ridgway as a railhead center servicing the nearby mining towns of Ouray and Telluride. The town was named for Denver and Rio Grande railroad superintendent Robert M. Ridgway, who established the town in 1891.

Ridgway is 37 miles east of the ski town of Telluride, and offers a wide variety of lodging to accommodate for the luxurious lifestyle found in this region.