Overview
The Cimarron Ridge sits above the broad Cimarron Valley southeast of Ridgway, a high volcanic spine that looks south toward the concentrated mass of the San Juan peaks. The 8-mile out-and-back gains 1,800 feet and reaches the crest of the ridge, where the views open in both directions, north into the Uncompahgre Valley and south toward the high peaks of the Uncompahgre Wilderness and the Sneffels Range.
This is not a trail that appears on most "best hikes" lists for the area. The Sneffels route gets the attention, the Uncompahgre Peak summit gets the peak-baggers, and the Grand Mesa routes get the casual day hikers. Cimarron Ridge occupies the space between all of them, a moderate-to-hard ridge hike with real altitude and real views, set in a part of Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest that sees a fraction of the traffic of the better-known destinations.
The volcanic geology visible on the ridge is the same material that characterizes much of the Uncompahgre section. The dark basalt and lighter ash layers in the exposed rock tell a history of volcanic activity that shaped the entire region.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.5: Lower Forest Climb
The trail begins in mixed conifer forest and climbs toward the ridge on a steady but manageable grade. The first 2.5 miles gain roughly 1,000 feet through forested terrain. The trail can be muddy after rain or during early season snowmelt. Small streams may cross the path in the lower section.
Miles 2.5 to 4.0: Open Ridge
Above treeline, the trail continues on the open ridge with the views that define the route. The San Juan peaks are visible to the south on clear days, along with the Uncompahgre Plateau extending to the northwest. The trail surface is rocky in this section. Cairns mark the route across sections where the trail is less distinct.
Mile 4.0: Ridge Turnaround
The turnaround is at the highest point of the standard route. From here, the full panorama is available before the return to the trailhead.
When to Visit
July through September. The ridge is snow-covered until mid-July in heavy snow years. September is a strong option for stable weather and fewer crowds.
Afternoon thunderstorms are a risk on the exposed upper ridge. Start early enough to be off the ridgeline before noon if weather is building. See checking conditions before your trip.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry:
- 2 liters of water (no reliable sources on the ridge)
- Wind and rain layer for the exposed crest
- Trekking poles for the rocky upper terrain
Practical Details
No restroom facilities at the trailhead. Pack out all waste. Cell service absent. Free parking. Campfire permits required for overnight camping (self-issue). Review Leave No Trace principles.
Getting There
From Ridgway, take CO-62 east approximately 3 miles to CR 10 (Owl Creek Pass Road), then turn south and follow the road east toward Owl Creek Pass. The Cimarron Ridge Trailhead is located off CR 858 before the pass summit. The road is gravel and rough in sections; consult the Uncompahgre Ranger District for current road conditions before your trip.