Ouray

By VI | Disclosure: I use affiliate links

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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.

When I like 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.

Tips for getting 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 I like 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

1. Step Into the Past at the Animas Forks Ghost Town

Step Into the Past at the Animas Forks Ghost Town

What is Animas Forks Ghost Town?
- Animas Forks Ghost Town is an abandoned mining town located about 12 miles from Silverton, Colorado. Once a bustling mining community from 1873 to the early 1920s, it is now a collection of old, abandoned buildings.
What structures remain in Animas Forks?
- At its peak, Animas Forks had nearly 50 unique buildings, including:
  - A saloon
  - A post office
  - A general store
  Today, visitors can still see remnants of these historic structures.
Why did Animas Forks become a ghost town?
- The town began to decline when the Gold Prince Mill was dismantled in 1917. Without the mill to support the economy, the town was abandoned soon after.
How can visitors access Animas Forks?
- Animas Forks is accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicles during the summer months. However, vehicles with low clearance may struggle with the rough terrain.

2. Go Underground with the Bachelor Syracuse Mine Tour

Go Underground with the Bachelor Syracuse Mine Tour

What is the Bachelor Syracuse Mine?
- The Bachelor Syracuse Mine was one of the most prolific gold producers during the late 19th century. Today, it serves as a historic site where visitors can explore parts of the old mine.
What can visitors do at the Bachelor Syracuse Mine?
- Visitors can enjoy several activities, including:
  - Guided mine tours – Learn about the mine’s history and hear stories of the miners who once worked there.
  - Gold panning – Try your luck in the mine’s stream and take home a shiny piece of precious metal if you're lucky.
Is food available at the mine?
- Yes! The on-site café serves a delicious breakfast, ensuring visitors have plenty of energy for their adventure.
Where is the Bachelor Syracuse Mine located?
- 95 Gold Mountain Trail, Ouray, CO 81427
How can visitors contact the mine?
- You can reach the mine by calling 970-325-0220.

3. Hike Scenic Cliffs on the Bear Creek National Recreation Trail

Hike Scenic Cliffs on the Bear Creek National Recreation Trail

What is Bear Creek Basin?
- The Bear Creek Basin is home to stunning hiking trails that pass through breathtaking mountain landscapes and lead to historical buildings and old mining sites.
What hiking trails are available in Bear Creek Basin?
- Hikers can choose from different trail lengths, including:
  - Grizzly Bear Mine Trail – A 4.5-mile round trip that leads to an abandoned mine.
  - Yellow Jacket Mine Trail – A more strenuous 8-mile round trip featuring additional historical sites.
What historical sites can hikers see?
- Both trails lead to old metal and wooden structures from the region’s gold mining days. Hikers can also spot:
  - Abandoned mine carts
  - Rusting wheels
  - Various tools left behind by miners
Why is Bear Creek Basin a great hiking destination?
- The combination of rich mining history and breathtaking mountain scenery makes for a truly unique and memorable hiking experience.

If you are a photographer

4. Feel the Power of Nature at Box Canyon Falls Park

Feel the Power of Nature at Box Canyon Falls Park

What is Box Canyon Falls Park?
- Box Canyon Falls Park is a stunning natural attraction where visitors can explore a massive sheer canyon and witness a beautiful cascade waterfall formed by the narrowing of Canyon Creek.
How tall is the waterfall?
- The waterfall at Box Canyon Falls Park has a drop of over 85 feet, with towering canyon walls rising on either side, offering breathtaking views.
Where can visitors view the falls?
- Visitors can enjoy stunning views from both above and below the falls, providing multiple perspectives of the breathtaking cascade.
Are there hiking trails in the park?
- Yes! Box Canyon Falls Park offers several hiking trails that vary in difficulty, making it accessible for all skill levels.
What can visitors find at the visitor center?
- The visitor center features several interactive exhibits and displays about the park’s flora, fauna, and geology, providing a deeper understanding of the area's natural wonders.
Where is Box Canyon Falls Park located?
- Box Canyon Rd., Ouray, CO 81427
How can visitors contact the park?
- You can reach the park by calling 970-325-7080.

5. Chase Waterfalls and Enjoy a Quick Hike at Cascade Falls Park

Chase Waterfalls and Enjoy a Quick Hike at Cascade Falls Park

What is Cascade Falls Park?
- Cascade Falls Park is a scenic natural area where snowmelt from the Rockies gathers in a creek and forms a series of seven stunning cascades and waterfalls.
How can visitors see the waterfalls?
- The Lower Cascade Falls Trail provides access to the waterfalls, offering breathtaking views of the cascades along the way.
Where does the trail begin?
- The trailhead is located at the end of 8th Ave, close to town, making it easy for visitors to find and access.
Is the trail difficult?
- The trail is short and beginner-friendly, but it is quite steep. It is suitable for amateur hikers looking for a scenic and rewarding climb.
What can hikers expect along the trail?
- Hikers will pass through the gorgeous red stone canyons and mountains, offering incredible natural scenery on the way to the waterfalls.
Where is Cascade Falls Park located?
- 598 8th Ave., Ouray, CO, 81427
How can visitors contact the park?
- You can reach the park by calling 970-325-4746.

Romantic Ideas

6. Stroll Through History on Ouray’s Historical Walking Tour

Stroll Through History on Ouray’s Historical Walking Tour

What is the Ouray Historical Walking Tour?
- The Ouray Historical Walking Tour allows visitors to explore the city's rich history by walking its streets and learning about its storied past.
Where can visitors get information for the tour?
- A free pamphlet detailing 24 points of historical interest can be picked up at the Ouray County Museum.
What historical sites are included in the tour?
- The tour highlights a variety of locations, including:
  - Old houses with historic architecture
  - Shops and businesses from Ouray’s early days
  - Churches with historic significance
  - Hotels that have stood for generations
Is the tour only available on foot?
- No! While the tour is designed as a self-guided walking tour, those who are unable to walk the route can also drive to the sites.
Where does the tour begin and end?
- The tour starts and ends at the Ouray County Museum, where visitors can also find more detailed historical information about the sites.
Where is the Ouray County Museum located?
- 420 6th Ave, Ouray, CO 81427

7. Hit the Trails with Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures

Hit the Trails with Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures

What is Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures?
- Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures offers guided Jeep tours and vehicle rentals for exploring the breathtaking San Juan Mountain Range in Ouray, CO.
Where is Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures located?
- The adventure company is based right in the center of Ouray, making it easy for visitors to find and start their mountain exploration.
What types of Jeep tours are available?
- Guests can choose between:
  - Half-day tours – A shorter but exciting journey into the mountains.
  - Full-day tours – A more immersive adventure covering multiple scenic locations.
What locations are covered on the tours?
- The tours travel through some of the most stunning areas in the San Juan Mountains, including:
  - Imogene Pass
  - The Corkscrew
  - Black Bear Pass
  - And more breathtaking mountain passes and trails.
What can guests expect from the guides?
- Expert guides will share insights about:
  - The history of mining in the region.
  - Notable landmarks along the way.
  - Fascinating stories about Ouray’s past.
Can guests rent their own Jeeps?
- Yes! Visitors can rent their own vehicles and explore 500 miles of off-roading trails at their own pace.
Where is Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures located?
- 226 7th Ave, Ouray, CO 81427
How can visitors contact Switzerland of America Jeep Adventures?
- You can reach them by calling 970-325-4484.

8. Treat Yourself to Handmade Sweets at Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee

Treat Yourself to Handmade Sweets at Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee

What is Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee?
- Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee is a specialty shop in Ouray, CO, offering handcrafted Belgian chocolates and freshly roasted coffee, made with the finest ingredients.
What makes Mouse's Chocolates special?
- The shop takes serious pride in its work, using only the finest ingredients to create high-quality chocolates and coffee.
What types of chocolates are available?
- Mouse's offers a variety of decadent Belgian truffles filled with:
  - Nuts
  - Ganache
  - Other delicious fillings
How is the coffee roasted?
- The shop uses an antique roaster to create perfectly roasted coffee beans, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience.
What can visitors find at Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee?
- Guests can enjoy:
  - Handmade chocolates and truffles
  - Freshly roasted coffee
  - Specialty treats for chocolate and coffee lovers
Where is Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee located?
- 520 Main St, Ouray, CO 81427
How can visitors contact Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee?
- You can reach them by calling 970-325-7285.

9. Explore the Wild West of Medicine at the Ouray Alchemist Museum

Explore the Wild West of Medicine at the Ouray Alchemist Museum

What is the Ouray Alchemist Museum?
- The Ouray Alchemist Museum is a fascinating museum showcasing a collection of historic medical and pharmaceutical artifacts, with a focus on Colorado's Wild West history.
What kinds of artifacts are on display?
- The museum features a breathtaking collection of items, including:
  - Historic medical instruments
  - Pharmaceutical artifacts
  - Items dating back to 350 BC
  - Artifacts from Colorado and the Wild West
  - Pieces from other regions and historical eras
Do visitors need to book a tour?
- Yes, guests should call ahead to book a tour, as the stories behind the artifacts are best experienced with a knowledgeable guide.
What can visitors find in the museum shop?
- The shop in front of the museum offers:
  - Antique artifacts and collectibles
  - Jewelry
  - Old-fashioned candy
  - Various items reminiscent of a Wild West general store
Where is the Ouray Alchemist Museum located?
- 533 Main St, Ouray, CO 81427
How can visitors contact the Ouray Alchemist Museum?
- You can reach them by calling 970-325-4003.

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 I Like 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).

My favorite 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.

My favorite 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.