"It is a peaceful proposal," said Montrose, smiling, "such as it should be, coming from one whose actions have always been more peaceful than his measures." - Page 65, A Legend of Montrose, Sir Walter Scott
By its sound, Montrose (elevation 5,806) would seem like a descriptive name for Western Colorado's second largest city, where there are mountains and wild roses. With the town comfortably nestled between the Uncompahgre Mountains on the west, the San Juan Mountains on the south and the smaller but equally impressive Grand Mesa on the north, it would be easy to assume that Montrose's name was due to its surrounding scenic beauty. In fact, present-day residents have the novelist Sir Walter Scott to thank for their city's name. According to city records, it was the gallant escapades of his protagonist in "Legends of Montrose" that inspired the moniker. Had the Earl of Montrose not swashbuckled his way into the hearts of the Uncompahgre pioneers, their little town might have ended up with a much less creative name, like "Dad's Town" or "Uncompahgre City." Today, Montrose, a teeming city of almost 20,000, is a magnate for recreation enthusiasts. That includes those who want convenient access to Colorado's "fourteeners," those mountains that have an elevation of greater than 12,000 feet and offer the benefits of year-round activity on some of the sunniest playgrounds the West has to offer.
Recreational Bliss
"It is a peaceful proposal," said Montrose, smiling, "such as it should be, coming from one whose actions have always been more peaceful than his measures." - Page 65, A Legend of Montrose, Sir Walter Scott
By its sound, Montrose (elevation 5,806) would seem like a descriptive name for Western Colorado's second largest city, where there are mountains and wild roses. With the town comfortably nestled between the Uncompahgre Mountains on the west, the San Juan Mountains on the south and the smaller but equally impressive Grand Mesa on the north, it would be easy to assume that Montrose's name was due to its surrounding scenic beauty. In fact, present-day residents have the novelist Sir Walter Scott to thank for their city's name. According to city records, it was the gallant escapades of his protagonist in "Legends of Montrose" that inspired the moniker. Had the Earl of Montrose not swashbuckled his way into the hearts of the Uncompahgre pioneers, their little town might have ended up with a much less creative name, like "Dad's Town" or "Uncompahgre City." Today, Montrose, a teeming city of almost 20,000, is a magnate for recreation enthusiasts. That includes those who want convenient access to Colorado's "fourteeners," those mountains that have an elevation of greater than 12,000 feet and offer the benefits of year-round activity on some of the sunniest playgrounds the West has to offer.
Things to Keep In Mind Before the Move
Recreational Bliss
Montrose is surrounded by federal lands, much of which can be traversed by car, foot or bike. The Black Canyon, Gunnison River, Grand Mesa National Forest and Uncompahgre National Forest are just a few summer destinations. Ski resorts within a couple of hours' drive include the Powderhorn on the Mesa and Telluride, off U.S. 550.
Getting Places
Think of Colorado as one big mountainscape. Anywhere you go outside of this scenic valley, you'll likely encounter inclines and winding roads with amazing views. Take your time, and enjoy the scenery as it was meant to be enjoyed. Plan accordingly, though, as speed limits are often lower to account for deer -- of which there are lots -- and other wildlife.
Altitude Changes
If you've never lived higher than sea level, give yourself a few days to kick back, see the city by foot and adjust to the altitude change. It can take up to a week to adjust if you are really a neophyte at mountain living. Experts advise no alcohol or skiing for the first day or two, but that does seem a bit drastic, doesn't it?
Seasonal Quirks
Generally speaking, at an elevation of 5,000+ feet, there's no such thing as a snow-free-season. While snow is unlikely during summer, it's happened. A tidy emergency pack with extra clothing, a flashlight, water and some nutritious munchies is a standard car accessory for travel in Colorado -- though you'll probably never have to use them. Remember -- while snow shoes aren't generally needed in the city, you'll want to dress smartly for those occasional chillier-than-normal winter days.
Neighborhoods
U.S. Route 50 cuts through the center of Montrose and intersects with U.S. 550. This acts as a pretty good dividing line, with the city's primary neighborhoods are located on either side of U.S. 50, which runs southeast until it reaches Montrose, then turns due east toward the city of Gunnison. Within the city, the north-south route is called Townsend Avenue. The west-east route that heads to Gunnison is called E. Main Street.
Montrose's 2010 city Zoning Resolution has fairly strict restrictions that are intended to separate commercial and residential areas, but rental housing, including two bedroom apartments, are still available outside of those zoned areas.
Downtown Montrose: For commercial reasons, city founders positioned the city so that the railway and other forms of commerce would stop in Montrose. So, it's no surprise that the main thoroughfare cuts directly through the downtown quarter. Residential structures, including the occasional duplex for rent, can still be found throughout the downtown Montrose area.
West Montrose: Pockets of residential areas with attractive, tree-filled cul-de-sacs can be found on the west side of Townsend Avenue. Some are situated next to a small industrial area. Most of the houses here are newer and are part of the city's new zoning designation. They also afford fairly easy access to downtown. There's a well-designed, shaded home park located between the Uncompahgre River and Townsend Avenue, too.
East Montrose: Residential areas, including housing units with two bedroom apartments and apartment homes, are scattered across the eastern section of the city. Some are conveniently located near commercial areas along E. Main Street. Neighborhoods just south of E. Main are still under development, with some newer high-end homes near a golf course. There are also some older sections close to Townsend Avenue.
