Ouray, Colorado

Year-round Activities:

1. Hot Springs:
Indulge in the rejuvenating experience of Ouray's sulfur-free hot springs, a perfect retreat after a day of hiking, skiing, or exploring the town. The Ouray Hot Springs, surrounded by towering mountain peaks, features five pools, water slides, a playground, and even a climbing wall for a family-friendly soak.

2. Box Canyon Falls Park:
Embark on a journey through Box Canyon Falls Park, where three main trails lead you to the mesmerizing 85-foot waterfall of Canyon Creek. The Falls Trail offers easy access to the waterfall, while the High Bridge Trail rewards hikers with breathtaking views from the top of the canyon.

3. Ouray Alchemist Museum:
Explore the unique Ouray Alchemist Museum in downtown Ouray, showcasing a rich collection of pharmaceuticals and artifacts dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. The museum's penthouse suite is also available for short-term rentals, providing a historic and immersive stay.

4. Ouray County Museum:
Step into history at the Ouray County Museum, housed in a Miners’ Hospital since 1887. With 27 rooms displaying artifacts on mining, ranching, railroading, and daily life in Ouray, this museum offers a comprehensive glimpse into the region's past.

5. Visit Local Breweries:
Savor the flavors of Ouray's four local breweries, such as Red Mountain Brewing and Ouray Brewery. Enjoy local craft beers, delectable food, and scenic rooftop patios, making it a delightful experience for beer enthusiasts.

6. Wright Opera House:
Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Ouray at the historic Wright Opera House. Dating back to the nineteenth century, this architectural gem hosts live music, theater, movie screenings, talks, and lectures throughout the year. The venue is also available for event rentals.

Summer Activities:

1. Scenic Drive along San Juan Skyway/Million Dollar Highway:
Embark on the 235-mile San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, offering breathtaking views of the San Juan mountains. The Million Dollar Highway, part of the route, leads to Silverton and Telluride, providing stunning vistas along the way.

2. Hiking Yankee Boy Basin:
Explore the magnificent peaks surrounding Yankee Boy Basin, filled with summer wildflowers, including the state flower, the Columbine. Accessible by medium or high-clearance vehicles, this basin is a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

3. Biking Ridgway Area Trail System:
Experience the thrill of the Ridgway Area Trail System, a network of over thirty miles of single-track mountain biking trails. From beginner-friendly trails to expert-level routes, this system caters to bikers of all levels.

4. Ouray Perimeter Trail:
Embark on the unique six-mile Ouray Perimeter Trail, tracing the city's outline with stunning views, four waterfalls, and an elevation gain of 1,600 feet. Perfect for beginners, the trail offers numerous access points and captivating vistas of the San Juans.

5. Ouray Via Ferrata:
Climb along the cliffs of the Uncompahgre Gorge on the Ouray Via Ferrata. Spanning 0.8 miles, this route features rock ledges, bridges, and traditional European rungs. Proper equipment, including a climbing harness and helmet, is essential for this thrilling experience.

6. 4×4 and OHV driving on the Alpine Loop:
Embark on the Alpine Loop, a 63-mile mountain track connecting Ouray, Lake City, and Silverton. Clear of snow from June to September, this off-road adventure offers panoramic views, visits to ghost towns, and a memorable exploration of the San Juans.

Winter Activities:

1. Ouray Ice Park:
Marvel at the Ouray Ice Park, an expansive ice climbing park set in the Uncompahgre Gorge. Featuring over 100 ice climbs, this world-class park is open to the public, offering a three-mile vertical climbing terrain for ice climbers of all levels.

2. Skiing and Sledding Adventures:
Hit the slopes at Lee’s Ski Hill or enjoy sledding at Vinegar Hill during the winter months. Lee’s Ski Hill offers a small ski area with a rope tow and 75 feet of vertical slope, while Vinegar Hill transforms into a sledding haven for kids and adults alike.

3. Ouray Nordic Council Cross Country Ski Trails:
Experience the winter wonderland of Ouray through the groomed cross-country ski trails maintained by the Ouray County Nordic Council. Ski the Ironton Park Cross-Country Ski Area, located just seven miles south of Ouray, for a scenic journey to the abandoned ghost town of Ironton.

Pack your bags and immerse yourself in the diverse and captivating activities that Ouray, Colorado has to offer throughout the seasons. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or winter delights, Ouray is a destination that promises unforgettable moments.