Paradox Valley - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

There are plenty of options for entertainment and recreation in this beautiful area. For instance, you could go hiking or mountain biking in the Uncompahgre National Forest. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you could try your hand at rock climbing or whitewater rafting. There are also several scenic drives and outlooks where you can enjoy the amazing views of the valley. And don't forget to visit the historic town of Fort Uncompahgre, where you can learn about the area's rich history. 

The history of Paradox Valley is a long and storied one. The valley gets its name from the paradoxical geology that is found there - two rivers that flow in opposite directions! Early settlers to the area were drawn to the bountiful hunting and fishing opportunities that the valley presented. They also found rich deposits of copper, silver, and gold, which led to a boom in mining activity in the late 1800s. Today, the Paradox Valley is still home to a variety of minerals and fossils, making it a popular destination for rock hounds and amateur archaeologists. Today, Paradox Valley is a popular recreation destination, with visitors flocking to the area for hiking, camping, and rafting. 

The best time to visit Paradox Valley is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thin. During this time, visitors can take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails in the area, or simply relax in one of the hot springs.

1. Plan your visit in advance. Although Paradox Valley is a relatively small town, there are a few things to do and see. To make the most of your visit, take some time to research what attractions and activities are available.
2. Bring plenty of food and water. There are a limited number of restaurants and convenience stores in Paradox Valley, so it’s important to come prepared with enough food and water for your entire trip.
3. Fill up on gas before you arrive. The nearest gas station is about 30 miles away, so be sure to fill up your tank before you enter Paradox Valley.
4. Be prepared for a long drive. The nearest major city is about four hours away, so be prepared for a long drive if you’re coming from an urban area.
5. Enjoy the night sky. One of the best things about Paradox Valley is its dark skies. If you’re lucky enough to visit on a clear night, take some time to enjoy the stars.
6. Visit the Ute Indian Museum. The Ute Indian Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Ute people. It’s a great place to learn more about the area’s history and culture.
7. .Before leaving Paradox Valley, take a scenic drive on one of the long dirt roads that crisscross the area. 
8. In the morning, take a 4x4 drive through Mushroom Rock State Park to see some of the unique rock formations up close. 

1. The valley gets its name from the strange topography caused by the San Juan Fault, which runs through the area. 
2. The fault line is responsible for the abundance of hot springs and geothermal features in the valley. 
3. Paradox Valley is home to the only natural geyser in Colorado, which is located at Orvis Hot Springs. 
4. The Ute Tribe once inhabited the Paradox Valley area and the nearby town of Nucla is named for a Ute chief. 
5. The San Juan virtuebringer is a type of cactus that can only be found in Paradox Valley. 
6. In recent years, the area has also become known for its mineral deposits, including uranium, gold, and silver. 

 With so much to see and do, two days is really the minimum amount of time needed to explore Paradox Valley.

To reach Paradox Valley, take U.S. Highway 550 north from Montrose for about 48 miles. The turnoff for Paradox Valley is well-marked and is located on the left side of the highway just before the town of Bedrock. From the turnoff, it is about a mile to the floor of the valley. The last quarter-mile is on a dirt road that can be impassable when wet. During dry weather, any vehicle should have no problem reaching the valley.

The entrance fee for Paradox Valley is $3 per person or $5 per vehicle, and annual passes are also available. 

Paradox Valley is open year-round, but hours of operation vary depending on the season. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the valley is open from 8:00 AM. to 8:00 PM. For the rest of the year, it is open from 9:00 AM. to 5:00 PM.