Ouray Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the magnificent San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, Ouray is a picturesque town that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich history. Known as the "Switzerland of America," this charming destination is a haven for nature enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and history buffs alike.

Surrounded by towering peaks and nestled in a narrow valley, Ouray is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is renowned for its incredible hiking trails that wind through pristine alpine meadows, dense forests, and breathtaking waterfalls. The Perimeter Trail is a popular option, offering stunning views of the town and the surrounding mountains. For a more challenging adventure, the Bear Creek Trail takes you through a spectacular canyon, leading to a beautiful waterfall.

Aside from hiking, Ouray is also famous for its world-class ice climbing opportunities. As winter blankets the region with snow, frozen waterfalls transform into a playground for ice climbers of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a beginner looking to try something new, Ouray's ice park is the perfect place to test your skills and experience the thrill of conquering frozen walls of ice.

In addition to its natural wonders, Ouray boasts a rich history that can be explored through its charming downtown area. The town is dotted with beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings that house unique boutiques, art galleries, and delicious eateries. Take a stroll down Main Street and immerse yourself in the town's vibrant atmosphere, or visit the Ouray County Museum to delve deeper into the region's fascinating past.

For a truly unforgettable experience, indulge in the relaxing waters of Ouray's famous hot springs. Nestled against a backdrop of towering mountains, these natural geothermal pools offer a soothing retreat for both body and mind. Immerse yourself in the warm waters as you soak up the stunning views, letting the therapeutic properties of the springs melt away your worries and leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Alternative names: Population: 1 thous.Area: 0.88 mi²Elevation: 7776 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 38°1'22"N, 107°40'19"W

Location

ColoradoUnited States

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Ouray Top Attractions

Ouray Attractions - What to See and Explore

Ouray offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Box Canyon, Uncompahgre Gorge, Wright's Opera House, Ouray Public Library. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature • Natural attraction • Canyon
Box Canyon
Nestled within the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains in Ouray, Colorado, Box Canyon is a breathtaking natural attraction that beckons visitors with its unique geological formations and cascading waterfall. This hidden gem is a testament to the power of water...
Natural attraction • Waterfall • Canyon
Uncompahgre Gorge
Nestled in the rugged heart of the San Juan Mountains, the Uncompahgre Gorge is a stunning natural wonder located near the charming city of Ouray, Colorado. This magnificent gorge, carved by the relentless force of the Uncompahgre River, offers visitors a glimpse into...
Concerts and shows • Entertainment • Cinema
Wright's Opera House
Wright's Opera House, sometimes referred to as Wright's Hall, was constructed in 1888 and is located at 472 Main Street in Ouray, Colorado. For many years after the mining bust and subsequent end of performances it was used as a multi-use building for presentations and community events.

Library
Ouray Public Library
The Ouray City Hall and Walsh Library are a pair of buildings in downtown Ouray, Colorado, United States. Located on 6th Avenue between 3rd and 4th Streets, they are together listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Town • Ghost town • Scenic drives
Animas Forks
Animas Forks is a ghost town located twelve miles northeast of Silverton in San Juan County, Colorado, United States. The area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
Historic walking areas • History museum • Museum
Ouray County Courthouse
The Ouray County Courthouse, constructed in 1888, is the seat of government of Ouray County, Colorado. It is located at the corner of 6th Avenue and 4th Street in Ouray, Colorado. This structure is a contributing property of the Ouray Historic District. The courtroom was used in the John Wayne movie True Grit.
Museum • History museum
St. Joseph's Miners' Hospital
St. Joseph's Miners' Hospital opened on August 27, 1887, in Ouray, Colorado. The architectural style of the building is Italianate and it is constructed of native stone. The hospital closed in 1964.
Bars and clubs
Elks Lodge
The Elks Lodge #492 in Ouray, Colorado was built in 1904. It is located in the Ouray Historic District which was listed by the National Register of Historic Places on October 6, 1983. It serves the Elks group in Ouray, founded in 1899.

Day trips

Ouray – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Ouray, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Bridal Veil Falls (Uncompahgre National Forest), Uncompahgre Peak (Uncompahgre Wilderness), Blue Mesa Reservoir (Curecanti National Recreation Area).

8.9 miSW
Nature, Natural attraction, Waterfall
Bridal Veil Falls, Uncompahgre National Forest
Bridal Veil Falls is a 365-foot waterfall at the end of the box canyon overlooking Telluride, Colorado. Hiking and off-road trails pass by the falls and it has a hydroelectric power plant at its top.
12 milesE
Natural attraction, Mountain
Uncompahgre Peak, Uncompahgre Wilderness
Uncompahgre Peak is the sixth highest summit of the Rocky Mountains of North America and the U.S. state of Colorado. The prominent 14,321-foot fourteener is the highest summit of the San Juan Mountains and the highest point in the drainage basin of the Colorado River and the Gulf of California.
40 milesNE
Nature, Natural attraction, Lake
Blue Mesa Reservoir, Curecanti National Recreation Area
Blue Mesa Reservoir is an artificial reservoir located on the upper reaches of the Gunnison River in Gunnison County, Colorado.
30 milesN
Museum, Specialty museum, History museum
Ute Indian Museum, Montrose
The Ute Indian Museum is a local history museum in Montrose, Colorado, United States. It is administered by History Colorado. The museum presents the history of the Ute tribe of Native Americans. It was built in 1956 and expanded in 1998.
33 milesN
Museum, History museum
Montrose County Historical Museum, Montrose
The Montrose County Historical Museum is located in Montrose, Colorado, USA, founded in 1973 by the Montrose County Historical Society. The society's mission is to preserve, display and interpret the historic and cultural legacy of Montrose County and its surrounding region.

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Best Time To Visit Ouray

Learn when is the best time to travel to Ouray weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in September.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in June. Most of it rains in July and August.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Ouray?

The top attractions to visit in Ouray are:

What is the best time to visit Ouray?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in September. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.