We left Mesa Verde headed north via Hwy. 145 to Ridgeway. We gained thousands of feet of altitude as we climbed out of the colorful butte-filled plateau country and entered the high mountains near Telluride. The view is beautifully transformed by 13,000 to 14,000-foot peaks, Wilson Peak and Mt. Wilson. A short spur leads into Telluride where we cruised to the end of town stopping at the base of Ingram Peak to view the intimidating Black Bear Pass. Visible from town, the road zigzags up what seems to be a vertical wall. On to Ridgway State Park where our reserved campsite overlooking a 1,000 acre reservoir awaits. The next morning we had a great breakfast in Ridgeway before heading east over the scenic Owl Creek Pass to Silver Jack Reservoir (photograph). After lunch, and a short rest, we continued on before eventually intersecting Hwy. 50 to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
At left, view from Silver Jack Reservoir.
View from Elk Ridge Campground of 1,000-acre reservoir. This is a great state park. Clean and well-run, water sports is the main attraction. Trout fishing is reported to be good. The extended drought had really lowered the lake level.
There are 268 first-class campsites spread out among three locations. There are showers, laundry facilities and RV hookups.
Our walk-in tentsite. On higher ground, these sites have the best views of the surrounding mountains. Request sites 154, 155, or 156.
San Juan Mountains Bakery and Cafe is THE PLACE to have breakfast.
Stretch break on Owl Creek Pass road.
The aspens are glorious!
Chimney Peak and Courthouse Mountain.
Obstructed view of the lake. At this overlook there are great views, toilet, and hiking trail access.
Overlook entrance.
