Chimney Rock From Deb’s Meadow
Chimney Rock From Deb’s Meadow
Near Ridgway, CO
Chimney Rock is a well-known rock formation found along Cimarron Ridge near Ridgway, Colorado. This famous landmark is featured in one of John Wayne's most iconic Western scenes: the shootout with Robert Duvall in Deb's Meadow from the original movie, True Grit.
As you stand in this small meadow, it's fascinating to think that back in 1969, two of the greatest Western stars were yucking it up right where you are now. The place is the exact spot where John Wayne was sitting on his horse when he called out to Robert Duvall:
John Wayne: "I aim to kill you in one minute, Ned, or see you hanged in Ft. Smith at Judge Parker's convenience. Which will it be?"
Robert Duvall: "I call that bold talk for a one-eyed fat man."
John Wayne: "Fill your hands, you Son of a B…..."
And then the iconic shootout began.
Images and location summary by Tim Wier
Trail Difficulty - MODERATE
I would rate the difficulty of this trail between 2 and 5 on a scale of 1-5 (with 5 being most difficult). The location is an easy 50-yard walk from Deb’s Meadow parking. You will need to either cross the small creek (there is usually a set of boards to use) or walk from the upper parking area. The drive to the location is up a rocky/dirt road that is bumpy, with a few rocks and holes along the way.
GPS Coordinates & Elevation
9,914 ft. Elevation
Download KMZ Trail File
Photography Tips
This shot is straightforward. Position yourself near the small creek at the edge of Deb’s Meadow and find the right composition. This shot was taken just after sunset, capturing the golden glow of the fading sun.
Directions
CLICK HERE to get driving directions to the Deb’s Meadow.
From Ridgway - travel north on US 550 for 1.7 miles until you get to CO RD 10 (a gravel road leading to Owl Creek Pass).
On US550 from Ridgway, turn right on CO RD10 for 4.0 miles until you get to the fork for CO RD8, and turn right on CO RD8 for 9.1 miles, and you will see a sign for Stealey Mtn. TRAILHEAD. From the Stealey Mtn. TRAILHEAD continue on the dirt road (CO CR8) for 1.9 miles, and you will see an open field (Deb's Meadow) on the left side. There are parking spots at both this location and just around the bend (100 yards). The second parking area is larger.
From Deb's Meadow, walk west toward the Aspen trees across the Meadow. The shot was taken by the small stream at the end of the Meadow.
View In Google earth
EXIF Data
Focal Length – 33 mm
Exposure – 3 sec @ f 8.0
ISO – 100
Date – Sept 28th
Time – 6:28 pm
Best Time of Day to Shoot
The best time to photograph this location is at sunset (or just after), as the late sun illuminates the Chimney Rock.
The image above was taken at 6:28 pm.
Best Time of Year
This location can be photographed at any time of year. However, this location is best in the Fall when the surrounding aspens are golden.
The image above was taken on September 28th.
Lens(es) Needed
The lens depends on your composition. The image above was taken at 33mm.
Birds-Eye View
Permits
There are no permits required in the area.
Direction of the Shot
The direction of your shot is south @ 180°.
Equipment Needed
A sturdy tripod, a camera, and a smile are all you need to capture this great location.
Number of Other Photographers to Expect
Deb's Meadow is a favorite for photographers in the Fall. However, at sunset, there usually are not too many folks there.
Weather
The weather in Colorado usually is mild in the summer and cold (lows in the 20s) in the spring and Fall.
Cell Service
I use Verizon, and cell service at this location is spotty. Better cell service is found as you drive down the mountain toward Ridgway.
Nearby Restaurants
Ridgway is a GREAT little town to stay at, visit, and eat. When in town, I always try to visit Kate's Place and the Grit Café.
Kate's Place has a GREAT breakfast/brunch, and I always try to stop there after my morning shoot. True Grit Café has a nice selection of cold adult beverages and a good menu. Ridgway was the location of the original True Grit movie with John Wayne, and the True Grit Café was part of the opening scene.
I have also enjoyed a delicious pizza and a cold brew at the Colorado Boy, and one of the very best taco around can be found at Gnar.
Nearby Restaurants - click on the restaurant below for Yelp review
Kate’s Places
(970) 626-9800
615 W Clinton, Ridgway, CO
Gnar
(970) 626-9715
630 Sherman St, Ridgway, CO
Colorado Boy Pub & Brewery
(970) 626-5333
602 Clinton St, Ridgway, CO
Area Guides and Workshops
None