Near the Park

There is no lodging inside the park; the nearest facilities are in Montrose. National chain motels in Montrose include the Best Western Red Arrow, 1702 E. Main St. (tel. 970/249-9641), with rates for two from $70 to $120; Econo Lodge, 2100 E. Main St. (tel. 970/240-8000), with double rates from $50 to $80; Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, 1391 S. Townsend Ave. (tel. 970/240-1800), with rates for two from $98 to $114; and Quality Inn & Suites, 2751 Commercial Way (tel. 970/249-1011), with double rates from $68 to $110.

Rates in Montrose are usually highest in July and August, and lowest November through April.

Looking for something more interesting than the standard chain motel? We like the Uncompahgre Bed & Breakfast, 21049 Uncompahgre Rd., Montrose, CO 81403 (www.uncbb.com; tel. 800/318-8127 or 970/240-4000). This quiet country retreat, housed in a renovated 1914 school building, offers eight spacious guest rooms, tastefully decorated in themes such as wild birds and Spanish flamenco or, our favorite, French country, which has an electric log fireplace and two-person whirlpool tub in addition to the subtle French countryside decor. Rates here are $110 to $150 double from mid-May through October and $90 to $125 double the rest of the year.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.