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Ridgway Railroad Museum: A Tribute to the Rio Grande Southern

Explore the history of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad at the Ridgway Railroad Museum in the heart of the San Juan Mountains.

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The Ridgway Railroad Museum in Ridgway, Colorado, preserves the history of railroading in the surrounding areas. It focuses on the Rio Grande Southern Railroad, which connected Ridgway to Durango. The museum features exhibits, rolling stock, and a demonstration loop.

A brief summary to Ridgway Railroad Museum

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on a Saturday during the summer for rides on Motor No. 1 and Goose No. 4.
  • The outdoor exhibits are open year-round for self-guided tours.
  • Check the museum's website for information on special events like Railroad Days and work sessions.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Ridgway Railroad Museum is located at 200 N Railroad St in Ridgway. From most points in downtown Ridgway, it is easily accessible on foot. From the intersection of US-550 and CO-62 (Sherman Street and Lena Street), walk north on Lena Street, then turn right onto Railroad Street. The museum will be on your left. The walk is generally flat and takes approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    The All Points Transit's OurWay route provides public transport to Ridgway from Montrose and Ouray. From the OurWay stop in Ridgway, the museum is a short walk north on Railroad Street. Check the All Points Transit website for schedules and fare information. A one-way fare on OurWay is typically around $3-$5.

  • Driving

    The Ridgway Railroad Museum is located at 200 N Railroad St, easily accessible by car. From US-550, turn onto CO-62 (Sherman Street) and then turn onto Railroad Street. Limited parking is available on Railroad Street near the museum. Parking is free.

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Discover more about Ridgway Railroad Museum

The Ridgway Railroad Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and significance of railroads in Ouray County and the surrounding San Juan Mountain region. The museum's primary focus is the Rio Grande Southern Railroad (RGS), founded by Otto Mears, which operated from 1891 to 1951, linking Ridgway with Durango. The museum sits in Ridgway, a town established as the headquarters and operations center for the RGS. Today, the museum spans 16 acres and includes a half-mile loop track. Visitors can explore a collection of rolling stock, including the famed Galloping Goose, a unique motor railcar. The museum also houses exhibits, an extensive research library, and archives. The museum's collection includes both original and replica Galloping Geese. These railcars were developed in the 1930s to carry mail, freight, and passengers. The museum offers rides on its demonstration loop, providing visitors with a taste of railroad history. The outdoor exhibits are open daily, and guided tours can be scheduled.

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