Colorado is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and one of the best ways to experience its natural beauty is by exploring some of the scenic byways near Montrose. These routes offer travelers a chance to immerse themselves in the state’s diverse environments, from towering mountain peaks to serene valleys. Among these, the byways around Montrose stand out for their unique charm and historical significance. Here are a few to peruse:
Exploring the Scenic Byways near Montrose: A Journey Through Colorado
Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway – A 65-mile loop taking you through some of Colorado’s most rugged and picturesque terrain. It features narrow glacial valleys and peaks that soar over 12,000 feet. You’ll encounter remnants of the mining boom of the 1800’s, including well-preserved ghost towns and historic tramways. This route is perfect for adventure as well as offering opportunities to hike, fish or off-road.
Unaweep-Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway – An unparalleled journey through history and geology. This 133-mile route winds through the Unaweep Canyon, showcasing striated cliffs and ancient geological formations. The byway also highlights the region’s mining history, including sites where uranium was processed. The vast, open landscapes and the rich history make this byway a fascinating drive.
Owl Creek Pass and Silver Jack Reservoir – This route offers a more intimate experience with nature. The drive takes you through the Uncompahgre National Forest, providing stunning views of the Cimarron Ridge and the San Juan Mountains. The area is known for its vibrant fall colors, making it a popular destination for leaf-peeping. The Silver Jack Reservoir is a serene spot for picnicking, fishing and photography.
Grand Mesa Scenic Byway – This “playground in the sky” route climbs from the Plateau Canyon floor to the cool evergreen forests of the Grand Mesa, which stands at 11,000 feet. The byway features hundreds of sparkling lakes, wildflower meadows, and aspen groves. A side trip to Lands-End Overlook offers panoramic views of the Grand Valley.
Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, the scenic byways around Montrose have something to offer. Each route provides a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and rich history of the region. So pack your bags, fill up your tank, and set out on an unforgettable journey through Montrose, Colorado’s scenic byways.
November Arts, Festivals and Events
ECSTATIC DANCE – Ridgway – 8th – Enjoy a night of expression and movement at the Sherbino. Move and groove to the high vibe music in a sacred space, and conscious community.
CIGARETTES @ SUNSET – Telluride – 8th – Hailing from the mountains of North Carolina, the band mixes country with punk. The old time, indie rock sound will get your toes tapping at the Alibi.
RIDGWAY INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL – Ridgway – 14-17th – Enjoy the eclectic program of films from around the world. Four days of films, events, workshops and panels hosted at the Sherbino.
MURDER MYSTERY DINNER PARTY – Ouray – 15th – The Wright Opera House presents a high stakes dinner party full of intrigue and fun. Enjoy a tasty three-course meal as you hear the tale and try to figure out the mystery.
TETON GRAVITY RESEARCH: BEYOND THE FANTASY – Telluride – 23rd – Enjoy this 29th annual ski and snowboard film. This year’s film delves into the athletes and their attempts to turn whimsical images into reality.
Montrose Arts and Events
JOURNEY WITH GARUDA – 511 E Main St – 7th – Enjoy this documentary film which takes an animated journey into the depths of the human mind. It is a journey to the edge of consciousness.
MAGIC CIRCLE PLAYERS: A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER – 420 S 12th St – 2-23th various nights – This Tony nominated play is a hilarious romp filled with unforgettable music and non-stop laughs. It is set in London in 1907.
ZIKR DANCE ENSEMBLE PRESENTS “SECRETS” – Montrose Pavilion – 17th – Enjoy the exciting dances set to the score of Dune by Hans Zimmer.
WATERCOLOR TECHNIQUES AND STRATEGIES: ‘SNOWY WOODS‘ – Weehawken – 19th – Learn to paint with watercolors. This class is recommended for beginners and intermediate artists.
CHRISTMAS WREATHS – Mosaic – 21st – Design and decorate your own wreath at this Christmas Wreath Workshop. All materials are included along with an adult beverage or soft drinks and Christmas cookies.
CRAB CRACK – Montrose Pavilion – 22nd – 10th Annual Fundraiser for Black Canyon Boys & Girls Club serving a family style seafood dinner. The event also includes a silent auction, dancing and more.
HOLIDAY WINE BASKET WORKSHOP – LaNoue DuBois – 23rd – Make a special holiday wine basket. The materials needed to design and build a basket are included and LaNoue will offer a discount on hand-painted wine glasses and a selection of wines. You will enjoy a small snack. Charcuterie trays are available at the wine bar.
BASEMENT BOUTIQUE 49TH ANNUAL CRAFT SHOW – 2655 Virginia Ln – The 49th annual craft fair showcasing a variety of artists/crafters from around the area.
CITY TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY – Montrose Visitor Center – 29th – The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony is in front of the Montrose Visitor Center. Join us for hot chocolate and carols while waiting for Santa to come out and light up the big spruce tree.
Cobble Creek Community Activities
Cobble Creek is a resort-style golf course community located in Montrose, Colorado. Homes at Cobble Creek features new home construction as well as move-in ready homes. These active living retirement homes offer not only premium living and conveniences but also a beautiful Colorado mountain setting. Our carefully planned neighborhood with resort-style amenities offers a variety of recreational activities, in addition to an 18-hole golf course. There are pickleball and tennis courts, and walking trails in addition to nearby fishing, hiking and skiing. With the “lock and leave” options, Spruce Point Patio Homes are perfect for those with an active lifestyle. The advantages of downsizing with retiring should include Spruce Point Patio Homes, a perfect solution.
HAPPY HOUR – Fridays 5-7 pm
TACO TUESDAYS– 5-7 pm – Enjoy tacos with your friends. Selection includes Beef, Shrimp, Carnitas or Taco Salad, Chips & Queso or Salsa. This week’s special is Chicken Street Corn and Carne Asada.
PICKLEBALL – Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays
OTHER ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE:
Bible Study; Book Club
Golf – Fit for Golf; Golfer Yoga
Hiking Club; Women’s Walking Group
Ladies’ night Blackjack; Mahjong; Bunco; Poker; Dominoes
Men’s Coffee; Women’s Coffee
About Homes at Cobble Creek in Montrose. Colorado Golf Course Homes for an Authentic Mountain Lifestyle.
Nestled at the base of the beautiful San Juan Mountains of Colorado, our residents enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities. Start your day biking Gunnison Gorge Conservation Area coupled with an afternoon of hiking Black Canyon National Park. In winter, ski Telluride or Crested Butte resorts and the following summer fish the local rivers after the snow melts. You can also take off and enjoy a scenic byway drive near Montrose. An ideal choice as a Montrose retirement community, residents walk easily to the Clubhouse for Happy Hour or dinner. Members can participate in parties and parades in addition to enjoying the fitness center or joining one of many clubs. With Montrose vibrant arts community five minutes away participation in a multitude of art activities is simple.
At Spruce Point Patio Homes in the Cobble Creek Golf Community, you will find homes for sale in as well as homes in the planning stages. We offer a streamlined design process to help you configure your new house. There are a variety of home options, as well as styles, and prices to fit your vision and needs. Come visit us today and learn more about the exciting active-living lifestyle options available at Homes at Cobble Creek. Contact Madison about Spruce Point Patio Homes at 970-275-0662 or complete the Contact Us form.
