South Western Colorado is one of the most scenic parts of the state. I could spend the rest of my days exploring the San Juan mountains and never find an end to my adventures.
I've made two trips to this area this past year, staying in the town of Ouray and working a great deal out of Ridgeway. Ouray is a photographers Meca, and one can find a number of fine photographers and studios in this small and historic town. North of Ouray is the small town of Ridgeway, the gateway to the San Juans when traveling south out of Denver. This area was the primary location for the 1969 John Wayne movie "True Grit." After seeing the beautiful scenery this part of the country has to offer, it is no wonder why the producers elected to film the movie there.
If you are traveling to Colorado, this area is a must. The best times of year to plan your photography is in the Spring around the last week of May through the first week of June. During spring time, you can find the mountains still covered with snow with bright green trees, fields and plants beginning their bloom.
If you are interested in Autumn color, the best time of year is the last week of September through the first week of October. Photography is a little more elusive in the Autumn though, as some areas will turn color before others. Plan several days and be prepared to inquire with the locals and for traveling long distances to find those remote and beautiful scenes. You won't regret it.
Here are a few of my favorite shots from a recent photographic trip to Ouray, Colorado.
