Montrose Travel Guide

Learn what to see and do in Montrose, Colorado, including cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Montrose

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Southwestern Colorado, Montrose is a gateway to some of nature’s most stunning attractions. With its mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder visitors from all over the world are drawn to this charming city.

In this comprehensive tour guide, we will explore the best things to see and do in Montrose, including cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more. So, let’s get started and discover this beautiful city together!

List of Places to Visit in Montrose

Montrose is home to a variety of attractions ranging from museums and historical landmarks to outdoor adventures and scenic views.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors to Montrose can immerse themselves in local history and culture with a visit to one of the many museums and historical sites throughout the city. These include:

  • Montrose County Historical Museum: This museum features exhibits on the history of Montrose County, including artifacts from the Ute Native Americans, early pioneers, and local businesses.

  • Ute Indian Museum: Learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Ute Indian Tribe at this museum, which also features a gift shop with authentic Ute-made goods.

  • Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: This park features stunning views of a 2,000-foot-deep canyon and is popular among hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.

Natural Attractions of Montrose: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Montrose is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and more. Some of the top natural attractions in the area include:

  • Colorado National Monument: This stunning monument features towering rock formations and breathtaking vistas, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Montrose.

  • Ouray Hot Springs: Soak in natural hot springs and enjoy the surrounding views at this popular attraction.

  • Black Canyon Anglers: Fish for trout on the Gunnison River with experienced guides.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Montrose

Montrose boasts some of the best hiking and biking trails in the Rockies. Here are a few popular routes to consider during your visit:

  • Black Canyon Trail: This 6-mile trail features stunning views of the Gunnison River and is perfect for intermediate hikers.

  • Little Cimarron Trail: Explore beautiful aspen groves, wildflowers, and waterfalls on this 6-mile hiking trail.

  • Tabeguache Trail: With an elevation gain of 3,300 feet, this challenging biking trail is recommended for experienced riders.

Best Things to Do in Montrose: Activities and Tours

From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do in Montrose. Here are some popular activities and tours to consider:

  • Montrose Farmer’s Market: Sample local produce and handmade goods at this weekly farmer’s market.

  • Montrose Brewery Tour: Get a taste of the local craft beer scene on a guided tour of the city’s breweries.

  • Rocky Mountain Jeep Tours: Explore the backcountry of the Rockies in a Jeep with knowledgeable guides.

Week-Long Itinerary for Montrose

For visitors planning to spend a week in Montrose, here is a sample itinerary to consider:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Montrose County Historical Museum
2 Hike the Black Canyon Trail
3 Take a guided tour of the Ute Indian Museum
4 Explore the Colorado National Monument
5 Enjoy a day of fishing with Black Canyon Anglers
6 Soak in the hot springs at Ouray
7 Bike the Tabeguache Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Montrose

Montrose is home to a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering local and international cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the most popular dishes in Montrose include:

  • Rocky Mountain Oysters: Breaded and deep-fried bull calf testicles, a local delicacy worth trying.

  • Colorado-style green chili: A savory stew made with roasted green chilies, pork, and spices.

  • Palisade peaches: Grown locally in Palisade, Colorado, these peaches are juicy, sweet, and perfect for summertime.

Local Beverages

Montrose is known for its craft beer scene, with several breweries and taprooms located throughout the city. Some of the top local brews to try include:

  • Colorado Boy Brewery: Sample a variety of beers, including their signature Golden Ale and Hefeweizen.

  • Horsefly Brewing Company: Try their popular Citizen Belgian-style Witbier or the Hop Strike IPA.

Where to Stay in Montrose: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Montrose offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and taste, from luxury hotels to rustic cabins. Here are a few top-rated options:

  • The Historic Western Hotel: Located in the heart of downtown Montrose, this historic hotel features elegant rooms with antique decor and modern amenities.

  • Black Canyon Motel: This family-owned motel offers clean and spacious rooms at affordable rates.

  • Bear Creek Cabins: Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies, this rustic retreat offers cozy cabins with beautiful mountain views.

What to Buy in Montrose: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can’t leave Montrose without picking up a few souvenirs to remember their trip. Some popular items to consider include:

  • Handmade Ute crafts: Purchase authentic Ute-made jewelry, pottery, and other crafts at the Ute Indian Museum gift shop.

  • Montrose Ale Works beer glasses: Bring home a unique souvenir from Montrose’s thriving craft beer scene.

  • Preserved wildflowers: Pick up a beautifully preserved bouquet of wildflowers from the Montrose Farmer’s Market.

Local Culture and Customs of Montrose

Montrose is a friendly and welcoming community, with a rich history and culture that locals are proud to share with visitors. Some customs and traditions to note include:

  • Respect for nature: Montrose residents have a deep affinity for the rugged beauty of their surroundings and go to great lengths to protect and preserve it.

  • Friendliness and hospitality: Visitors to Montrose can expect a warm welcome and friendly smiles from locals.

Best Time to Visit Montrose

The best time to visit Montrose is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities and attractions are in full swing. Fall (September to November) is also a great time to visit, as the trees turn to a golden hue and the air is crisp and cool. Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy, but it also offers opportunities for winter sports and holiday festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Montrose

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Montrose, here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Enjoy nature responsibly and practice Leave No Trace principles.

  • Support local businesses and artisans.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter behind in natural areas.

  • Take photos of local Ute tribe members without their permission.

Safety and Health

Montrose is a safe and healthy destination for travelers, but visitors should take precautions to avoid altitude sickness and protect against UV radiation.

Safety in Montrose

  • Stay aware of changing weather conditions and take appropriate safety measures when exploring natural areas.

  • Use caution when hiking or biking on steep or rocky terrain.

Health in Montrose

  • Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol to prevent altitude sickness.

  • Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to prevent sunburn.

Getting to Montrose: Transportation Options and Logistics

Montrose is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane, and is located just under six hours from Denver.

Airports Near Montrose

  • Montrose Regional Airport: Served by several major airlines, including United and American, and offers direct flights to several US cities.

  • Grand Junction Regional Airport: Located approximately 90 miles from Montrose and offers direct flights to several major US cities.

Bus Stations Near Montrose

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Offers service to Montrose from several locations throughout Colorado and other western US states.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Several rental car companies operate out of Montrose, including Avis, Budget, and Hertz.

  • Private Shuttle Services: Several private shuttle companies, such as Alpine Express and Telluride Express, offer transportation to and from Montrose.

How to Get Around in Montrose

Montrose is a relatively small city, and many of its attractions and amenities are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also rent bikes or cars to explore the city and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Montrose: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Montrose is a great jumping-off point for exploring other parts of Colorado and nearby states. Some destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • Telluride: This charming ski town is just a short drive from Montrose and offers world-class skiing, dining, and shopping.

  • Mesa Verde National Park: Explore the ancient ruins and cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people in this stunning national park.

  • Moab, Utah: Hop across the state line and explore the red rock formations and outdoor adventures of this popular destination.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply breathtaking scenery, Montrose has something for everyone. From the Ute Indian Museum to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, there’s no shortage of attractions to explore in this charming city. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty of Montrose, Colorado!