GJT to Ridgway- Best places for outdoor guy? (Grand Junction, Durango: rental, homes)

[headenwest]

Background-I am moving back to Co. after a few years stuck in the midwest. I not want to return to the front range due to the extreme buildup of the area(at least to me). I have worked and traveled the western slope but you just don't get a feel like you do when you live there. I have virtually no area constraints. I have no kids, I am bringing my job with me the only difference is I will fly out of a different airport. I literally can be from JGT to Ridgway.

I would appreciate a little help to narrow my search before I get there next week. I am looking for a rental until I know the places better but still want to land in a nice area. In particular are there areas to avoid- pollution, mine tailings, well problems, crime, etc. Basically if you could live where you wanted on the western slope and you biked, hiked and fished where would it be? THANK YOU in advance.

[Sally123]

I do a lot of mtn biking and skiing. I would choose to live in Crested Butte or Steamboat, but if you don't care about skiing so much Salida and Buena Vista are great small towns for biking and hiking. Durango is also a great spot for mix of small town, still stuff going on to do, and lots of outdoors activities. The mtn biking there is fantastic. I don't really know anything about fishing spots.

[HappyMontrose]

Montrose is a great town and much less in price than Ridgeway..It still is a buyers market throughout this area so there is a good supply of homes to pick from..
It is much cooler in Montrose and the views beat Grand Junction but GJ is a larger town .

HM

[headenwest]

Thanks for the input. Salida and BV is a great area. I looked at those when I lived in Monument but they make getting to an airport(a requirement for me) a bit too much.

I still ski but more XC than downhill. Was trying to avoid the ski towns for the expense as much as anything. Durango is great, love that rec center pool when you can't get out.

Cedaredge has always looked inviting but I have only driven through on the way somewhere. Close to the Mesa for XC, fishing, biking etc.

thanks again.

[amy0143]

Hi from Ridgway, I live here and think it is in the middle of everything from skiing to fishing on the Gunnison, we also have a lake for boating. It is a little pricey but T-ride is untouchable but still good to be by.