October is a "Scary" good time in Southwest Colorado!
From scenic drives accross the Million Dollar Highway, to shopping to investigating one of the many ghost towns just miles from our front door, The Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs offers a lodging experience second to none in Ouray! Let us help you to create an adventure specifically suited to your personal wants and needs this October!
Friday, August 17, 2012 through November 17, 2012 - OCHS Otto Mears Exhibit
Visit the Ouray History Museum any time between 10:00 am to 4:30 pm to learn about the builder of the Million Dollar Highway, to name just one of the accomplishments of thiss historical figure.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012 - Movies at The Wright: The Well-Digger's Daughter
Join us at the Wright Opera house at 7:00pm for a viewing of The Well-Diggers Daughter, a French film based in World War I, about love, family and the seductive beauty of the Provençal countryside.
Friday, October 5, 2012 - Ridgway Farmers Market
From 11:00am to 4:00pm, Discover Fresh, Local, Naturally Grown Produce - Ridgway Farmer's Market is a small, sustainable operation which supplies high-quality, specialty vegetables, herbs, flowers and eggs from local farms, as well as a diverse assortment of arts and crafts, baked goods and other prepared foods.
Contact: Marietta Johnson, Market Manager
Email: johnsonmarietta@ymail.com
Phone: 970-765-6760
Friday, October 5, 2012 - Wrighteous Jazz/ Oktoberfest Celebration Michele Wilkinson Trio at the Wright Opera House in Ouray
Friday night, from 7:30pm to 9:00pm, celebrate Fall with this dynamic trio for a night of musical fun.
Saturday, October 6, 2012 - Oktoberfest & 48th Annual Jeep Raffle Drawing
Head on down to the Ouray Community center from 5:00pm to 10:00pm and enjoy an evening of great food, beer and music as you wait with everyone for the Grand Finale: the drawing for a brand new Jeep!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012 - Movies at The Wright: Sleepwalk With Me
Head to the Wright Opera House at 7:00 pm, and enjoy this Indy comedy as you follow a comedian struggling through all th usual life issues, and is a sleepwalker to add to the fun.
Friday, October 12, 2012 - Ridgway Farmers Market
From 11:00am to 4:00pm, Discover Fresh, Local, Naturally Grown Produce - Ridgway Farmer's Market is a small, sustainable operation which supplies high-quality, specialty vegetables, herbs, flowers and eggs from local farms, as well as a diverse assortment of arts and crafts, baked goods and other prepared foods.
Contact: Marietta Johnson, Market Manager
Email: johnsonmarietta@ymail.com
Phone: 970-765-6760
Saturday, October 13, 2012 - David Baker and friends at the Wright Opera House
From 7:00pm to 9:30pm, tap your feet to the sounds of this musical great in one of the most beautiful historic venues in Southwest Colorado.
Monday October 15 through Saturday, October 20, 2012 - Ouray Hot Springs Pool Closed
Every few months, the City of Ouray closes the city pool for a few days in order to provide maintenance they are unable to perform when the facility is in use. But don't let this dishearten you from a visit! There are still plenty of things to do in Ouray, and the tubs at the Box Canyon are still open for our guests.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012 - ROCC Talk: History of the Utes
Ever wonder about the Native Americans who once lauded the Ouray Hot Springs as sacred ground? Head down to Ridgway from 7:00pm to 8:00pm for an in depth talk by Roland McCook on the history of the first people to live in this valley.
Friday, October 19, 2012 - Ridgway Farmers Market
From 11:00am to 4:00pm, discover Fresh, Local, Naturally Grown Produce - Ridgway Farmer's Market is a small, sustainable operation which supplies high-quality, specialty vegetables, herbs, flowers and eggs from local farms, as well as a diverse assortment of arts and crafts, baked goods and other prepared foods.
Contact: Marietta Johnson, Market Manager
Email: johnsonmarietta@ymail.com
Phone: 970-765-6760
Friday, October 19, 2012 - Movies at the Wright: Rocky Horror Picture Show
Join your fellow classic movie fans for a showing of this cult classic. Follow Brad and Janet on screen and on stage as they brave the ridiculous in this musical extravaganza.
Saturday, October 20, 2012 - Movies at the Wright: Rocky Horror Picture Show
Join your fellow classic movie fans for a showing of this cult classic. Follow Brad and Janet on screen and on stage as they brave the ridiculous in this musical extravaganza.
Sunday, October 21, 2012 - Rhythm Run 10K/5K
Starting at 12:00pm to 2:00pm, head to Fellin Park to join in or root for your favorite atheletes in the final marathon of the season.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012 - Movies at the Wright: TBD
At 7:00pm, the Wright Opera House will again be presenting a fabulous independent film for movie enthusiasts.
Saturday, October 27, 2012 - 125th Anniversary Halloween Ball at the Beaumont Hotel
Pull out that favorite costume and head to the Grand Ballroom in the Beaumont for a hauntingly fabulous evening from 8:00pm to 12:00am. Sure to become a tradition, a Halloween ball in this beautiful setting is sure to get your blood flowing.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - HALLOWEEN!
Take the little ones out onto Main Street for Trick or Treating fun, then back to the Box canyon for a relaxing soak in the warm waters before digging into the goody bag!
Wednesday, October 31, 2012 - Halloween Bash with DJ Sunday Smith at O'Briens Pub
Once the little ones have had their fill of candy, and are safely sleeping, get your costumes back on and wander over to O'Briens Pub for a night of costume contests and dancing from 10:00pm to 1:00am.
October is prime time for visiting Ouray and the Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs. Let us help you create the most memorable vacation in one of the most beautiful areas in Colorado.
Experience the Vibrant Past of the San Juans!
The history of Ouray County is resonant with all of the elements of a good western novel. Settled in the 1800's, Ouray is one of very few towns boasting such spectacular original Victorian Architecture undamaged by natural disaster, and maintained with so much love. Until the early 1960's, Ouray was the booming center of a huge mining community, filled with miners, saloons, churches, hotels, entertainment of many sorts, and its own hospital.
The town is named for Chief Ouray, of the Ute Indian Tribe, and also has the prestige of reaching a peaceful settlement with the Native Americans in the area. With such a rich and engaging history, it is no wonder there are such wonderful museums, celebrating Ouray County with contagious passion.
Ouray County Museum
With the decline of the mining industry and the railroad closing, the population of Ouray County could no longer support a hospital, which depended primarily on the donations of the miners it worked to care for. The building remained empty for some years, until it was purchased by the Ouray County Historical Society and recreated into a 27 room museum filled with the early art, gems, photographs and memorabilia of Ouray and its vibrant history.
In addition to the exhibits within the museum, walking tours of the town and the Evenings in History lectures, take guests on colorful journeys into the past; mining, ranching, and so much more! Every month or so, a special exhibit featuring everything from the development of the Million Dollar Highway to the evolution of fashion serve to entrance visitors with the victories and defeats of the early settlers of Ouray.
Ouray County Historical Society
420 6th Avenue
P. O. Box 151, Ouray, CO 81427
Phone: 970-325-4576
Email: ochs@ouraynet.com
Ridgway Railroad Museum
Did you know that once the Denver Rio Grande Railroad travelled all the way to Ouray at least a couple of times a day? Transporting passengers and precious metals to and from the Rocky Mountains, the railroad was a large contribution to the revenue coming into and out of the San Juans.
For over fifty years, the Denver Rio Grande Railroad travelled the high country to Ouray, servicing travellers and transporting silver, gold and equipment to and from Ouray County. The town of Ridgway was actually created to accommodate the rail system, and has blossomed into a thriving community even after the derailment of the D&RGR.
Ridgway Railroad Museum transports each traveller back as The Denver & Rio Grande Railroad journeyed across the western states, changing the concept of transportation until it eventually was replaced in this area by highways and the automobile.
Explore the rise and fall of the rails in Southwest Colorado, through photographs, models, and historical documents as you are transported to the early days of mass transit and the trials and achievments of the Denver Rio Grande Railway.
This September, come on out to celebrate the railroad and its origins at the Ouray County Railroad Days Celebration. For thee days, enjoy guided hikes along several of the railroad routes through the San Juan Mountains, and explore the museum and all of the old rail cars and pictures of Ouray County's world-famous railroad heritage. From September 20 through the 23rd, immerse yourself in the colorful history of the rails!
The Ridgway Railroad Museum is located at the Junction of US Highway 550 and Colorado State Highway 62 in Ridgway, Colorado.
email: ridgwayrailroadmuseum@ouraynet.com
Mail: Ridgway Railroad Museum, PO Box 588, Ridgway, CO 81432
Ouray County Ranch History Museum
Images of the Old West are filled with movie images of John Wayne type ranchers and cowboys bustin broncos and battling with the railroads over land rights; stagecoaches travelling across plains, and homesteaders working the fields. Often, the image of Ouray County is one of mining towns and all of the adventure of toiling deep in the mountains to strike it rich. There was however a large number of families coming to the Rocky Mountains to create a more permanent living off of the land, providing crops and livestock to maintain the mining community.
North of Ouray, the land evens out into fields and meadows which have long held a reputation of rich, fertile soil, capable of producing some of the best crops of alfalfa in the state. As Ouray County became famous for its rich mineral deposits high in the mountains and began to grow, ranchers took over the low lands, raising cattle and sheep to sustain the many towns and communities working deep in the earth. Fields were alternated between grazing and raising crops to feed the herds through the long winter months.
The Ouray County Ranch Museum encompasses the image of life as a settler with a variety of exhibits from a sampling of furniture and tools, to photographs of some of the first rodeos that bring to life the trials and triumphs of the early ranchers in Southwest Colorado.
At the edge of Ouray County, in Colona, Colorado, this original museum in the old Colona School and Grange, The Ouray County Ranch History Museum is sure to transport you into another time for a little while to complete the picture of life at the turn of the century.
Ouray County Ranch History Museum
206 County Road 1, Colona, Colorado
970-626-5075
September 8, 2012, Athletes from Across the Country Continue a Years Old Tradition in Southwest Colorado.
In 1974, Rick Trujillo, a local working at the Campbird Mine, decided to finish his day off with a quick run over to Telluride. He was training for the Pikes Peak Marathon, and thought this would be a great run. The competitive nature of Southwest Colorado miners took over, and less than a month later, six men participated in the first annual "Imogene Pass Mountain Marathon".
Imogene Pass Run is a 17.1 mile course beginning in the center of Ouray, and travelling over a mountain pass which most people these days will only travel by four-wheel drive vehicles about three or four months out of the year. It is impossible to not admire the hardiness of the athletes who decide to run each year, averaging a time of two to three hours to run a trail that peaks at an elevation of 13,120 ft, an altitude most people find difficult to breath at just walking! Of course, this is also one of the most scenic races in Colorado. As racers traverse the steep terrain, they cannot help but take in the absolute majesty of the San Juan Mountain Range, climbing above timberline, and confronted with the sense of being on top of the world, surrounded by blue skies and mountain peaks as far as the eye can see.
September is an interesting time in the high country of the Rocky Mountains. You never know exactly what the weather is going to do - and often it will change numerous times as you travel higher. Regardless of whether it is a beautiful sunny day down here at 7800 ft, runners may experience every type of change as they climb the rugged peaks, and descend down into Telluride, a mere 8820 ft. It is not unheard of for the race to be cancelled due to snow (granted this doesn't happen often), and people have been treated for hypothermia (not since 2002 though). Because of the safety issues when runners are not properly prepared, the rules have been changed a bit since that first little race to accommodate the approximate 1500 runners who now compete in this demanding run.
The race of course is not only made up of runners. Every year, volunteers organize to provide food and water to competitors as they traverse the mountains. Six aid stations are scattered along the trail, and generous people bundle up against whatever the weather may offer, waiting to ensure a safe and exciting run.
The Box Canyon Lodge is an active supporter for the Imogene Pass Run, and is a perfect location for athletes participating in the race. Centrally located to some of the best trails in town, and convenient to the starting point of the Imogen Run, the Box Canyon also boasts four natural mineral hot spring tubs, a great place for runners to recover after the race.
Buses transport runners back to Ouray from Telluride for free until 2:30 on the day of the race, and registration began on June 1, 2012. For more information on how you can participate, go to: http://www.imogenerun.com/volunteer.htm
See you there!
Bicycle Time Trial in Ouray County Colorado
Calling all Bicyclists!
Bicyclists of all ages, sizes and tire preferences should start training now for the first-ever Log Hill Lungbuster Challenge, a time trial and fund raiser for the Ouray County Historical Society.
The event is slated for Sunday, September 16. This is a new kind of fundraiser for OCHS, one that capitalizes on the growing number of outdoor enthusiasts who both live and visit Southwest Colorado. The Ouray County Historical Society has long worked to uphold its Mission Statement: "Dedicated to preserve, protect, procure, exhibit, and interpret whatever relates to the natural, social, and cultural history of Ouray County and the adjacent San Juan Mountain Region of Colorado." The Lungbuster Challenge is yet another step in history, as locals are more and more involved in outdoor recreation. It is the hope of OCHS to make this an annual event, bringing people to Ouray County to compete year after year.
The competition route starts at the Old Schoolhouse Emporium on West Sherman Street in Ridgway, then follows a 15 mile course west out of town on Highway 62 and CR 24A. At CR 1, bikers will follow the road's steep serpentine ascent up Log Hill escarpment, ride around the various subdivisions of Log Hill, and finish at the Divide Ranch and Country Club.
Both mountain biking (fat tires) and road cycling (skinny tires) are popular in the area so they will both be welcome.
The Ridgway Lungbuster Challenge will be in the form of a time trial, in which contestants start at intervals of about one minute apart. Then each rider races against the clock. Best time awards will be given in both fat tire and skinny tire divisions and there will be subcategories for gender and ages.
Participants will receive a custom pair of wicking bicycling socks as well as a very colorful t-shirt with the Lungbuster logo on the front. This is in addition to the energy drinks, water and nourishment offered at the one supported "rest stop" at mile 6 as well as the fun and festivities at the finish line near the Divide Ranch and Club on Loghill Mesa.
While you are in Ouray County, be sure to check out some of the many other activities, shops and restaurants the area has to offer! From driving the Million Dollar Highway, to taking a tour of the sets of the original John Wayne film 'True Grit', hiking, jeeping, mountain biking, and long soothing soaks in the mineral hot springs scattered throughout the county, the list of fun goes on and on.
The race's $40 registration fee will benefit the Ouray County Historical Society. For further information and to register for the event, contact the Historical Society at (970) 325-4576 or visit their website at http://www.loghilllungbusterchallenge.com
Recapture a feel for the Old West in Southwest Colorado this year at the Ouray County 4-H Fair & Rodeo!
This year, the Ouray County Fair theme is "Living the Dream, the Ouray County Way", and that is just what participants are going to do this year!
Whether you are a full blown city dweller, or a complete outdoor enthusiast, most likely you played "Cowboys and Indians" at least once in your childhood. Something about a rodeo seems to recapture the excitement and innocence of a new country beginning to stand on its own two feet, something as American as Baseball and apple pie, which reminds me, don't miss the Pie Baking competition!
Kids from all over Ouray County bring animals from rabbits and chickens to pigs and steers, which they have raised and trained themselves, for judging and ultimately to sell at a livestock auction held on the last day. Having participated myself in 4-H, it is fun to see the club still running strong and teaching kids the importance of responsibility and hard work. At the end of the competitions, there is a Livestock Sale, which can be quite fun to watch, as the auctioneer entices the audience to bid higher. There are several classes of livestock to be judged, from market animals, to breeders, to horsemanship. There is also a dog show at 8:00am on Saturday, August 4, 2012.
There is a lot of debate as to where the first rodeo was held in the United States. Cities from Pecos, Texas to Deer Trail, Colorado vie for the distinction of home to the Rodeo. Regardless of where the event was first held, Rodeos across the country can all take pride in upholding the tradition and history of the American West. Ridgway does not try to pretend it was the first, only that it is one of the longest running and most famous. For decades, cowboys have travelled from all over the country to compete in this world class event.
Booths offering everything from hot dogs and beer to that special piece of memorabilia to commemorate a great weekend are scattered about the fair grounds, as well as fun activities for the kids, and animals every where! Watch the bull riding event, and enjoy the antics of the Rodeo Clowns as they work to keep competitors safe, and the crowds cheering.
The final schedule of events for this years rodeo has not yet been released, however it should be similar if not identical to the 2011 schedule. Keep checking in for an update, but for reference, 2011 events are below.
Aug. 31: Booth Set-Up, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sept. 1: Booth Set-Up, 10 a.m. to 12 noon., Horse Show, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fair Entries Open Class, 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Judging Begins at Exhibit Hall, 1 p.m. Tractor Pull, 6 p.m.
Sept. 2: Exhibit Hall Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Livestock Entries and Weigh-in, 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Poultry and Rabbit Judging, 12:30 p.m. Goats, Yaks and Bucket Calf Judging, 2 p.m. Swine Show, 5 p.m. Sheep Lead, 6 p.m. Livestock Carcass Contest Measuring, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Carcass Educational Seminar, 3:30 p.m.
Sept. 3: Exhibit Hall Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sheep and Beef Judging Begins, 9 a.m. Round Robin Showmanship and Best Fitted, 1:30 p.m. Parade of Champions, 3:15 p.m.
Livestock Sale (terms: cash), 3:30 p.m.
Contact: Susan Long
Email: slong@ouraycountyco.gov
Phone: 970-626-3306
Location Details
4-H Event Center
22739 Hwy 550
Ridgway Colorado 81432 Ouray
Magic, Music and Art make for Family Fun in Southwest Colorado this August!
The fun just keeps going in Southwest Colorado, with live music, bike races and marathons all culminating at the Park!
Weehawken Creative Arts Centers of Ouray County is a colorado Non-Profit organization dedicated to providing a broad variety of arts to the residents and visitors of Ouray County throughout the year. Offering classes in the arts ranging from the traditional to the unusual, Weehawken works within the community creating a broader awareness of the value of art in all forms.
Weehawken Creative Arts proudly presents the 28th Annual Ridgway Arts & Crafts Rendezvous August 11 and 12, 2012 at Hartwell Parkl in Ridgway, Colorado. With the splendor of the San Juans in the back ground, The Ridgway Rendezvous Arts and Crafts Festival is one of the funnest events in August.
This year, with the Mount Sneffels Marathon and Half Marathon both ending in Ridgway on August 11, 2012, the Arts and Crafts festival should be one of the best yet. Every year, thousands of people visit the booths of talented crafters and artists, enjoying a full day of live music, great food and childrens activities.
The bands begin at 9:00 am on Sturday, and the music continues into each evening with a variety of genres sure to please every musical taste. Each day, the field is full of kids enjoying train rides, face painting and sand art, just to mention a couple of the fun activities for the little ones! One of a kind treasures are everywhere, as over 100 artisits including George Coll and Mountain Mosaics display the best of their works in a juried art show. From hand crafted jewelry to one of a kind stoneware, to incredible paintings, you are sure to find something for that hard to shop for person in your life....and perhaps one or two things for yourself as well!
Every day of the Festival, don't miss the Magic Show on the live music stage by the True Grit restaurant from noon to 1:00pm, with toe tapping music both before and after. Gather at 2:00pm on Saturday to congratulate the winners of the Mt Sneffels Marathon, then off with the little ones for a big ball of cotton candy as more live music ensues.
The Festival is two days of great fun, but of course, there is so much to do and see in Ouray and Ridgway, don't feel tied down to this free event. Take a break from the festivities in the park for a soak in the mineral hot springs, a quick hike by the river, or a four wheel drive adventure! Then come on back for more of the celebratory feel of Art in so many forms in one of the most beautiful places in the country!
From Bronco Bustin to Live Music, Ouray County has what you are looking for this September!
September heralds the beginning of Fall in the San Juans. As the weather begins to cool, the leaves turn from brilliant green to an assortment of colors, from golden yellows and oranges to an assortment of reds. depending on when we get our first frost, most if not all of the four wheel drive roads are still open, offering a photographers dream of colors and scenery.
A soak in the mineral hot springs either before or after a day of adventuring or an evening of great dining and an assortment of evening entertainment is just the peak of the perfect September getaway!
September Events are as follows:
Friday, August 17, 2012 through November 17, 2012 - OCHS Otto Mears Exhibit
Visit the Ouray History Museum any time between 10:00 am to 4:30 pm to learn about the builder of the Million Dollar Highway, to name just one of the accomplishments of thiss historical figure.
Tuesday, August 21 through September 28, 2012 - OCHS Quilt Show
The annual Ouray County Historical Society Quilt show runs from August 21st to September 28th. The show features more than three dozen quilts which were either stiched or quilted prior to 1966.
Saturday, September 1, 2012 - Ouray County 4H Fair and Rodeo at the 4-HEvent Center, Ridgway, Co.
Come on out and support the 4-H Members and our great community!!!!
2012 Ouray County Fair Schedule TBD.
Saturday, September 1, 2012 - Summer Music Series at the Wright: David Wilcox from 7:30pm to 9:30pm
The last in the summer Music Series, this is definitely not a show to be missed!
Sunday, September 2, 2012 - Live Music-Acoustic Sunday on the Patio at O'Brien's Pub from 4:00pm to 6:00pm
Enjoy a fabulous Happy Hour and listen to great music by some of our most talented local musicians.
Friday, September 7, 2012 - Ridgway Farmers Market at Hartwell Park, Downtown Ridgway from 11am to 4pm
Discover Fresh, Local, Naturally Grown Produce - Ridgway Farmer's Market is a small, sustainable operation which supplies high-quality, specialty vegetables, herbs, flowers and eggs from local farms, as well as a diverse assortment of arts and crafts, baked goods and other prepared foods.
Friday, September 7, 2012 - Montrose Celebration of Art & Culture Downtown Montrose, Colorado from 5pm to 9pm
This event is held in Montrose but will feature Visual, culinary and performing arts from all over western Colorado
Saturday, September 8, 2012 - Imogene Pass Race Ouray to Telluride from 7am to 8am
Whether you are a seasoned marathon runner, or prefer to cheer these incredible athletes, The Imogene Pass Run is a true endurance race beginning in Ouray, and heading over Imogene Pass to Telluride for 27 miles of grueling terrain in one of the most beautiful settings in Colorado.
Saturday, September 8, 2012 - GOLF SCRAMBLE at the Divide Ranch Club from 8am to 3pm
4 Person Golf Scramble. Join the Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce for their Annual Golf Tournament at the Divide Ranch and Club. The 4 person "Golf Scramble" will begin with a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start. Check in will start at 8:00 a.m.
Cost: $65 per person or $260 per team.
Lunch will be hosted at the Clubhouse.
Sunday, September 9, 2012 - Wrighteous Jazz--Jeff Solon's 12 piece swing band with vocalist Joyce Simpson at the Wright Opera House in Ouray from 2pm to 5pm
Tap your feet and share the fun at the Wright as we welcome the Wright Opera House Jazz Season!
Thursday, September 13, 2012 through Saturday, September 15, 2012 - Jeep Jamboree
Annual Jeep Event. Bring your own Jeep and explore the high country 4 wheel drive trails of the San Juan Mountains with experienced guides and fellow Jeep enthusiasts.
Friday, September 14, 2012 - Ridgway Farmers Market at Hartwell Park, Downtown Ridgway from 11am to 4pm
Discover Fresh, Local, Naturally Grown Produce - Ridgway Farmer's Market is a small, sustainable operation which supplies high-quality, specialty vegetables, herbs, flowers and eggs from local farms, as well as a diverse assortment of arts and crafts, baked goods and other prepared foods.
Saturday, September 15, 2012 - David Baker and Friends at the Wright Opera House Main Street Ouray
Enjoy another talented artist in one of the most amazing historic venues in Colorado.
Sunday, September 16, 2012 - OCHS Lungbuster Log Hill Bike Challenge from 12pm to 4pm
The Ouray County Historical Societies First Annual Log Hill Lungbuster Bike Challenge. A 15 mile time trial race starting in the town of Ridgway and ending near the Divide Ranch and Country Club on Log Hill. Registration and entry fee of $40
Sunday, September 16, 2012 - ROCC Talk - History of the Utes from 7pm to 8pm at the Ridgway Community Center at Town Hall
Free ROCC Talk: HISTORY OF THE UTE PEOPLE - Roland McCook will speak about the history of the Ute People. He is a member of the Uncompahgre Band of the Ute Indian Tribe of Uintah and Ouray Reservation, Utah.
Thursday, September 20, 2012 through Saturday, September 22, 2012 Ouray County Railroad Days
Ouray County Railroad Days presents two days of hiking on the Silverton Railroad right-of-way on Thursday September 20th and Friday Sept 21st. Then on Saturday Sept 22nd we have rides on RGS Motor No 1 and RGS Goose No 4. There is a symposium of 30 minute talks on Saturday afternoon along with a major address on Saturday night. The symposium ends with Car Pool tours of the RGS from Ridgway to Lizard Head Pass and a car pool tour of the D&RGW Ouray Branch from Ridgway to Ouray. See the Ridgway Railroad Museum web site for more details:
Friday, September 21, 2012 - Ridgway Farmers Market at Hartwell Park, Downtown Ridgway from 11am to 4pm
Discover Fresh, Local, Naturally Grown Produce - Ridgway Farmer's Market is a small, sustainable operation which supplies high-quality, specialty vegetables, herbs, flowers and eggs from local farms, as well as a diverse assortment of arts and crafts, baked goods and other prepared foods.
Friday, September 21, 2012 - Gabriel Gladstar in Concert at the Wright Opera House 472 Main Street Ouray Co 7:30pm to 9:00pm
Saturday, September 22, 2012 - Weehawken Big Fundraising Event from 6pm to 10pm
Friday, September 28, 2012 - Ridgway Farmers Market at Hartwell Park, Downtown Ridgway from 11am to 4pm
Discover Fresh, Local, Naturally Grown Produce - Ridgway Farmer's Market is a small, sustainable operation which supplies high-quality, specialty vegetables, herbs, flowers and eggs from local farms, as well as a diverse assortment of arts and crafts, baked goods and other prepared foods.
Friday, September 28, 2012 - Quilter's Tea from 3pm to 5pm at Venue Roscoe Fox, 539 Main Street.
Victorian theme, “hats admired but not required.” Refreshments served $5 admission. The drawing for this year's Quilt Raffle will take place.
Saturday, September 29, 2012 - Ouray Trail Run from 10am to 2pm
Saturday, September 29, 2012 - Mt Sneffels Auction@4H Center from 6pm to 9pm
Running for a cause on a USATF certified course in Southwest Colorado!
Colorado boasts some of the most spectacular terrain for
marathon runners, and this year,
USATF, the National Governing Body for track and field, long-distance running and race walking in the United States is including the Mt.
Sneffels half marathon in one of seven events around Colorado that is part of the
USATF Colorado Grand
Prix. In addition to the usual awards in gender and age categories, $2000.00 in prize money will be awarded for the
USATF Colorado State Men's Half Marathon Championship. The awards ceremony for both the Half and Full Marathons will be held at the
Ridgway Town Park on the stage that has been erected for the
Ridgway Arts and Crafts Fair which will be going on all weekend.
The
Mt Sneffels Marathon and Half Marathon is actually a number of races all on the same day, and with the "Walker" category for the half marathon, more folks can come out and support the Mt.
Sneffels Education Foundation, and enjoy half price admission to the
Ouray Hot Springs Pool and an official race t-shirt.
Beginning at
Fellin Park, at the Hot Springs Pool in
Ouray, the half marathon meanders through the city of
Ouray, eventually taking racers northbound on first county road 17, then County Road 23 into the town of
Ridgway. Starting in the opposite direction, the full marathon travels the half marathon course backwards, returning the same way.
At 10:30 am, the Kids Fun Run starts in the soccer field south of town,next to the Marathon/Half Marathon finish line. This is a great way for the little ones to not only burn off some steam, but to also be involved in this great event.
The event schedule is as follows:
Start time:
Marathon: 6:30am
Half Marathon 7:30am
Entry fees include snacks at the finish line, half price admission to the Ouray Hot Springs Pool and an official race t-shirt:
$40 (Half) til July 7th $50 July7th-Aug 10th $60 @packet pick-up
$60 (Full) til July 7th $80 July 7th-Aug 10th ..no day of race registration
$10 (Kids Fun Run)
USATF members receive a $3 discount
Participants are strongly encouraged to pick up their packets at the Hot Springs Pool on Friday, August 10, 2012 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Starting at 6:00 am on the day of the race, packets for the Marathon will be available at the
Ridgway Soccer Field, and packets for the Half Marathon will be available on the day of the race in front of the
Ouray Pool starting at 6:30 am.
Throughout the morning (starting from approximately 10:30am), bus transportation will be provided from Solar Ranches park (
Ridgway) back to
Ouray Hot Springs/
Fellin Park. Participants who finish the marathon,and half marathon will be awarded finisher medals.
Whether you are a fan, interested in cheering the runners and walkers, or a seasoned athlete here to celebrate the beauty of a run in the San Juans, be sure to head on out to Ouray County on Saturday August 11, 2012!
The 1st Summer Music Series at the Wright in Ouray Presents Griffin House on August 11, 2012
When the Friends of the Wright formed to create a Board of Directors in 2007, they had a vision of restoring this historic venue to its former grandeur, rekindling the dreams of Ed and Letitia Wright who originally built the Wright Opera House in 1881. This years Summer Music Series is just one of the many steps these desicated volunteers have taken to realize their goals.
Each month this summer, at least one well known performer has filled the house, fans are amazed at the acoustics in this old theatre, and the experience of enjoying such talented musicians in such an intimate setting. This August brings a talented artist who has toured with the likes of John Mellencamp and the Cranberries, and been featured on the CBS Sunday Morning Show.
Originally from Springfield, Ohio, Griffin House has been reffered to as one of Nashvilles greatest treasures. Inspired by Bruce Springsteen, Woody Guthrie, and the Mermaid Avenue albums by Wilco and Billy Bragg, his music posesses heartfelt lyrics and guitar.
Signed by the Vancouver based label Nettwerk in 2004, he released his first album after only five days in the recording studio with his band, and has spent the majoriy of the last few years touring,recording several “direct-to-fan” releases, a pair of EPs (House of David Vol. 1 & 2) and the 2006 digital release Homecoming. In 2008, House released Flying Upside Down, produced by Jeff Trott and featuring Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench.
There is just one more concert in the series this summer, but don't worry! The Wright has a full Fall and Winter Schedule as well.
So, make it a point to enjoy a show in one of the most historic venues in the country, surrounded by the San Juan Mountains. Soak in the hot springs while you are here, or head on out to Main Street for a shopping experience you wont soon forget. A weekend in the Switzerland of America, with great music, and small town charm is an experience you will not soon forget.
And don't forget to ask us about our Summer Concert Series Special for this or any other show you want to come and see!
Artists and Art Lovers Gather for the Best Art Show in Southwest Colorado!
The Ouray County Arts Association works within Ouray County to provide support, participation, awards and awareness of local artists. the 52nd Annual Artists' Alpine Holiday is the longest running juried art show in Western Colorado. With a following of about 1500 people each year, this nine day exhibit has gained the reputation of being one of the finest art shows in Colorado.
This exhibit is open to all artists, and is known to attract work from talented artist all over the United States. Cash awards totaling $7200.00 are just the tip of the iceberg for artists, with Purchase Awards, Student scholarships, and of course, all works are available for sale to the public.
This year, the Photography juror is Kathleen Norris Cook. With over thirty years of photography experience and several publications, this award winning photographers most recent book, Spirit of the San Juans, is just one of many marvelous demonstrations of her talent.
The Fine Arts Juror, Jeanne MacKenzie, is one of the founding members of the Rocky Mountain Plein Air Painters. Her award winning art paintings are featured in several fine art galleries in Colorado and Arizona.
The schedule is as follows:
July 29 Agent Delivery of Artwork to the
Ouray Community Center
340 6th Ave. Noon - 4 PM
July 30 Individual Delivery of Artwork to the
Ouray Community Center
340 6th Ave. 10 AM - 4 PM
July 31 - Aug 1 Judging
Aug 1 Purchase Awards
Aug 2 Benefactor / Sponsor's Early Purchases.
General Reception 7 PM. Aug 3 - 4
Exhibition 10 AM - 9 PM
Aug 4 Quick Draw Challenge 10 AM
Quick Draw Art Auction 7 PM
Aug 5 - 10 Exhibition 10 AM - 7 PM
Aug 11 Exhibition 10 AM - 5 PM. Art cannot be removed early. No exceptions
Aug 12 Pick up Artwork Noon - 3 PM
There will be a $15 / day storage charge for art not picked up by 3 PM.
Whether you are an artist, or just enjoy viewing specatcular pieces of work from around the country, this show is definately on not to miss! And of course, there are so many other great things to do and see while visiting Ouray..... Take a jeep tour, hike one or two of our famous trails, explore an old mine, shop Main Street or explore an old gold mine before soaking the night away in our soothing mineral hot springs!
