Craving alpine adventure in a charming mountain town? Head to Ouray, Colorado! Known as the "Switzerland of America," Ouray is surrounded by towering peaks, waterfalls, and hot springs. Whether you're into hiking, jeeping, or soaking in geothermal waters, Ouray is a high-altitude haven for outdoor lovers.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ouray is from late spring through early fall (June–September) for hiking and off-roading, or winter (December–February) for ice climbing and snowy scenery. Fall brings beautiful foliage and fewer crowds.
How to Get There
- By Car: Ouray is accessible via U.S. Highway 550 (the Million Dollar Highway), about 1 hour from Montrose and 2.5 hours from Durango.
- By Plane: The nearest airport is Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), with rental cars available for the scenic drive to Ouray.
- By Shuttle: Mountain shuttles and private transportation operate from Montrose and Telluride to Ouray.
Where to Stay
- Beaumont Hotel & Spa – Historic luxury hotel with mountain views and a full-service spa downtown.
- Ouray Chalet Inn – Family-owned hotel with cozy rooms and a walkable location near shops and restaurants.
- Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs – Comfortable lodging with private hillside hot spring tubs and scenic views.
Top Attractions
First: Step Into the Past at the Animas Forks Ghost Town
Second: Go Underground with the Bachelor Syracuse Mine Tour
Third: Hike Scenic Cliffs on the Bear Creek National Recreation Trail
Fourth: Feel the Power of Nature at Box Canyon Falls Park
Fifth: Chase Waterfalls and Enjoy a Quick Hike at Cascade Falls Park
Sixth: Stroll Through History on Ouray’s Historical Walking Tour
Seventh: Hit the Trails with Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures
Eight: Treat Yourself to Handmade Sweets at Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee
Ninth: Explore the Wild West of Medicine at the Ouray Alchemist Museum
If you are a first time visitor
- Ouray Hot Springs – Soak in natural mineral pools surrounded by mountain peaks.
- Box Canyon Falls Park – Short trail and steel bridge views of a dramatic 285-foot waterfall.
- Perimeter Trail – Hike this loop trail for panoramic vistas, waterfalls, and local geology.
- Ouray Ice Park – World-renowned climbing park with manmade ice walls (open in winter).
- Downtown Ouray – Explore Victorian-era architecture, shops, galleries, and eateries in this charming historic district.
Where to Eat
- BrickHouse 737 – Farm-to-table cuisine with an upscale mountain atmosphere and craft cocktails.
- Maggie’s Kitchen – Hearty burgers and casual eats with local charm and outdoor seating.
- Buen Tiempo – Mexican food and margaritas served in a lively space with a rooftop patio (seasonal).
If you are interested in local events
- Ouray Jeep Jamboree (Summer) – Group rides and off-road adventures along alpine passes and ghost towns.
- Ouray Ice Festival (January) – Celebrate the ice climbing season with clinics, competitions, and gear expos.
- Fourth of July Celebration – Traditional small-town celebration with parades, water fights, and fireworks.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Ouray, Colorado
- Ridgway (15–20 min) – Chill town with art galleries, local breweries, and the Dennis Weaver Memorial Park.
- Silverton (30 min via Hwy 550) – Drive the dramatic Million Dollar Highway to this historic mining town.
- Yankee Boy Basin (30 min by 4WD) – Scenic alpine basin filled with waterfalls, wildflowers, and rugged terrain.
- Red Mountain Pass (30 min) – Iconic scenic drive with pullouts for photos and historic mine sites.
- Orvis Hot Springs (25 min) – Clothing-optional natural hot springs in nearby Ridgway with a relaxed vibe.
FAQ
-
What makes Ouray, Colorado, a great place to visit?
- Ouray is one of the best destinations in Colorado, offering visitors a unique mix of fascinating history and breathtaking mountain scenery.
-
How large is Ouray?
- Ouray is a small county with a population of just a few thousand people, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
-
What attractions can visitors explore in Ouray?
-
Ouray offers a variety of attractions, including:
- Hiking trails – Explore scenic mountain paths with breathtaking views.
- Old mines – Learn about the area's rich mining history.
- Ghost towns – Visit historic abandoned towns for a glimpse into the past.
- Waterfalls – Discover stunning cascading falls hidden in the mountains.
-
Ouray offers a variety of attractions, including:
-
What can visitors expect from a trip to Ouray?
- A trip to Ouray offers a perfect blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Colorado.
At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Cool temperatures with fewer crowds before summer.
Beaumont Hotel & Spa – A historic luxury hotel in downtown Ouray.
Hike to Box Canyon Falls – See a stunning waterfall surrounded by towering cliffs.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor adventures.
Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs – A comfortable stay with access to natural hot springs.
Drive the Million Dollar Highway – Experience one of the most scenic mountain drives in the U.S.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and golden aspen trees.
Ouray Inn – A cozy, family-owned hotel with stunning mountain views.
Explore Yankee Boy Basin – Witness breathtaking fall foliage and rugged peaks.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and magical, great for winter sports.
Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs – A warm and inviting retreat with private outdoor hot springs.
Visit the Ouray Ice Park – Experience world-class ice climbing in a natural gorge.
Map:
Plan Your Trip
