Understand

Montrose, the second-largest town in western Colorado, is a picturesque oasis nestled between the majestic Uncompahgre Plateau and the snow-capped San Juan mountains. Steeped in history, this town's roots trace back to the ancestral lands of the Ute nation, but it was the allure of gold and silver that drew the white settlers to this region. In the late 19th century, tensions rose between the Utes and the settlers, leading to the infamous Meeker Massacre and the Ute War. Eventually, the Utes were forcibly relocated to Utah and the southwest corner of Colorado. In the aftermath of their eviction, Montrose was founded in December 1881, taking its name from Sir Walter Scott's legendary novel. Montrose played a vital role as a supply depot for mining towns like Ouray, Silverton, Telluride, and Durango, servicing their needs and contributing to the growth of the region. As the mining industry declined, Montrose's economy shifted towards agriculture, with fertile valley soil supporting the growth of fruits, grains, and vegetables. In recent years, the area has also become renowned for its vineyards, with the West Elks American Viticultural Area boasting the highest vineyards in North America. Today, Montrose has transformed into a vibrant recreational hub, welcoming tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. With its proximity to national parks, forests, and recreation areas, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, boating, and fishing. This laid-back town is a melting pot of ranchers, farmers, ski bums, aging hippies, and sports enthusiasts. While the summer months bustle with tourists, winter sees travelers passing through on their way to neighboring Crested Butte and Telluride.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing