25 BEST Things To Do In Ouray, Colorado (All Year Round!)

I’ve been lucky enough to explore the San Juan Mountains over a dozen times, and in different seasons, allowing me to compile this list of the best things to do in Ouray. Pronounced you-ray, this charming town packs a lot, and there’s still so much I have yet to see, which makes it so enticing; each visit reveals something new!

I love the San Juan Mountains, and Ouray is the gateway into their beauty!. Drawing on firsthand experience and local insights, I am sharing my favorite ways to enjoy Ouray. Here you’ll find jaw-dropping turquoise lakes, rugged mountain peaks, rich mining history, adrenaline-inducing mountain adventures, and small-town charm.

By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly why I fell in love with Ouray and how to plan a visit that truly captures the heart of this mountain gem. Are you ready? Let’s dive right in!

25 Things To Do In Ouray

Ouray’s unique geographical location as the entrance to the San Juan Mountains makes it an ideal base for exploration, and while the town itself is packed with activities, its surroundings are what make the area so special! To make planning easier, I have categorized activities by regions. Let’s find out what the area offers!

The first 9 activities on this list are based in or accessible from the town of Ouray, including hiking trails, scenic views, and guided tours that start right in town. Perched at 7,800 feet (2,377 m) above sea level, the town sits at a high altitude, adding a unique challenge to any adventure.

1. Explore Downtown, Ouray

Ouray is a super charming, fun, and cozy town nestled in a dramatic box canyon with mountains towering over 5,000 feet (1,500 m) above the valley floor in all directions. The town has one paved road (Main Street) with several smaller side streets. I suggest spending at least an hour, or longer, walking downtown to check out shops and food spots.

Corkscrew Tavern Pizzeria: We went for their Detroit-style “King Kong” pizza, and the thick, crispy crust and melty cheese were so good!

Full Tilt Saloon: I couldn’t pass on the “hangover fries”! The rustic, Old West vibe made it a fun dinner spot with great patio views.

BrickHouse 737: Very much on the pricier side, perfect for those wanting a “fancy” dinner in Ouray. I haven’t eaten here myself.

Maggie’s Kitchen: A fun, down-to-earth spot with budget-friendly burger options.

Mouse’s Chocolates & Coffee: We ordered their Scrap Cookies and German Chocolate Hot Chocolate. If you love chocolate, look no further!

Ouray Ice House Coffee Shop/Ice Cream: Their creamy homemade ice cream made this an easy favorite!

The Imogene Rooftop Bar: The best rooftop patio in all of Ouray, featuring a full bar and yummy fusion food! The only downside is that you won’t find their menu online.

2. Go Rock Climbing!

The nickname “Switzerland of America” comes from the towering, rugged cliffs of the San Juan Mountains, and if you’ve ever imagined seeing the views from one of those walls, then you need to go climbing! Traditional climbing is a very different experience from a via ferrata; instead of pre-set ladders and rungs, you’ll be scaling the actual rock face on established routes.

Though I am a pretty novice climber, I felt confident joining a guided trip with Mountain Trip. Their guides know the area inside and out, making it easy to challenge myself while staying safe within my limits. While the tour is listed as being in Telluride, both the meeting point and the climb itself take place in Ouray.

3. Take A Jeep Tour

A few years ago in Ouray, I overheard a group from Denver raving about the off-roading here. As a Utah local, I had to mention Moab, and they just laughed: “Wait until you see what it’s like out here!”

Dubbed the “Jeep Capital of America,” Ouray proudly shares the spotlight with Moab, and honestly, both are incredible in their own way. The Ouray area is steeped in mining history, and the old mining roads have been transformed into a paradise for off-roaders and overlanders.

I am not one myself (maybe one day), which is why I went with Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours. They offer half-day Jeep tours from Silverton, guiding you through stunning alpine scenery. Note: The meeting point is in Silverton, but it’s 100% worth it! The guides are top-notch, and they customize the route based on your preferences.

4. Hike To The Very Unique Box Cañon Falls

Box Cañon Falls sits in the southwest corner of Ouray and is a unique natural wonder, where Canyon Creek plunges through a narrow quartzite gorge before joining the Uncompahgre River. The result is a powerful thundering waterfall flowing through a stunning gorge.

To reach the trailhead, you will drive to Box Canyon Falls Park, where there is a $5-$7 entrance fee, which helps preserve the area from development and privatization. Check out the visitor center to learn about the area’s history!

From here, I recommend hiking all three trails for the full experience!

Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to deeply explore the park; it is well worth the price of admission and is a place I visit every time I am in Ouray!

5. Hike The Perimeter Trail

In 2023, volunteers from the Ouray Trail Group completed the final section of the Perimeter Trail, officially creating a full loop around the canyon. This is easily the best trail in Ouray, circling the dramatic box canyon that surrounds the town and offering stunning views the entire way.

What’s amazing is that you’ll pass several of the area’s most notable natural features, including the Ouray Hot Springs, Cascade Falls, the Ouray Ice Park, Box Cañon Falls, and countless scenic overlooks. The Perimeter Trail is definitely one of the best things to do in Ouray, and should be on any outdoor adventurer’s list!

6. Hike To The Breathtaking Cascade Falls

I first noticed Cascade Falls while hiking to the bridge above Box Cañon Falls, where you can spot it on the opposite side of the Ouray Box Canyon. From here, the scale is hard to imagine as the waterfall is about 270 feet (82 m) high, making it the tallest in the area!

The hike to the base of the waterfall is short but steep! It is also a great stop for those tackling the full Perimeter Trail. Even though it’s a short hike, wear good hiking shoes and bring trekking poles.

For the more adventurous, consider hiking to Upper Cascade Falls. A little beyond the upper falls, you’ll reach the Chief Ouray Mine, which is also well worth the visit!

7. Take A Soak In The Ouray Hot Springs

After a long day of adventure, nothing beats unwinding at the Ouray Hot Springs Pool. Nestled against snow-draped canyon walls in winter and surrounded by mountain views year-round, it’s a peaceful escape just minutes from town.

The pool is open to all ages from 11 am – 8 pm, and you can enjoy the water slides in the summer (from 12–6 pm), volleyball nets, and even a rock climbing wall. There’s also an adult-only area for those looking to relax.

The water is geothermal, heated naturally by the earth beneath the San Juans. It’s sulfur-free and rich in minerals that feel great on tired muscles. Simple and refreshing, a perfect end to a day in the high country.

8. Take On A Via Ferrata!

The Ouray Via Ferrata is an unforgettable way to experience the dramatic Uncompahgre Gorge. It is open May through October, every day of the week, between 8 am and 4 pm. This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Ouray, and a must-do for adrenaline junkies!

A via ferrata, meaning “iron path” in Italian, is a protected climbing route with steel cables, ladders, and rungs bolted into the rock, letting you safely traverse steep canyon walls while soaking in the incredible views. It’s the perfect mix of hiking and climbing, with enough adrenaline to make it exciting without requiring technical skills.

There are two routes to choose from: the Downstream route and the tougher Upstream route. Each offers sweeping views of the river below and the towering cliffs that make Ouray so iconic. Whether you’re crossing a suspension bridge or scaling a vertical ladder, every section feels like an adventure!

9. Take A Photo With The “Switzerland Of America” Sign

Okay, hear me out, this might sound a bit touristy, but why not? This sign sits just above the town of Ouray and makes a great first stop on your Million Dollar Highway day trip! From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Ouray, the surrounding box canyon, and Uncompahgre Gorge.

Uncompahgre Gorge is the narrow canyon that the Million Dollar Highway cuts through. The box canyon itself is where Ouray sits, surrounded by nearly vertical mountains! Few places in Colorado have this exact geography, which gives Ouray its moniker, “Switzerland of America.”

Things To Do In Winter

Winter in Ouray transforms the town into a snowy wonderland, where snow-covered peaks and cozy mountain lodges create a peaceful alpine escape. With activities like sledding at Vinegar Hill, ice skating at Rotary Park, ice climbing, hiking, and soaking in geothermal hot springs, it’s both a season of adventure and relaxation!

10. Try Ice Climbing

Let’s be honest, ice climbing sounds absolutely terrifying. But with proper gear and guides, it’s an exhilarating experience. And in Ouray? It’s not just thrilling, it’s the Ice Climbing Capital of the World.

Each January, Ouray hosts its annual Ice Climbing Competition, drawing climbers from around the globe. The highlight? Frozen waterfalls: man-made marvels created and maintained by the non-profit organization Ouray Ice Park. These free-to-access ice routes are kept in top shape thanks to donations, making world-class climbing accessible year after year.

Even if you’re not scaling the walls yourself, it’s worth visiting. You can walk along the metal bridges across the gorge and watch climbers chisel their way up the frozen cascades. It’s an awe-inspiring sight.

For those with experience, having a partner and gear opens the door to climb at this world-renowned spot. But if you’re new? Go with a guide! Yes, they’re available (and worth every penny). It’s an experience that’ll make your trip unforgettable.

11. Go On A Hike

Many people assume winter means hiking season is over, but in Ouray, it’s far from it.

Hikes like the Perimeter Trail stay packed down, and boy, are the views stunning in winter! For something more adventurous, the Chief Ouray Mine Trail remains manageable with care, while the Uncompahgre River Walk offers an easy, scenic stroll with beautiful mountain and river views.

Before heading out, check recent conditions on AllTrails or, even better, ask the locals, they are super friendly and knowledgeable! Additionally, check avalanche conditions, especially after a storm, and dress in warm, layered clothing.

12. Soak In A Hot Spring

While the Ouray Hot Springs are open year-round, winter is the best time to enjoy the pools, especially after a long, cold day of adventuring!

For something more unique, check out the Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings, which is famous for its underground vapor cave: a natural geothermal chamber that feels like stepping into another world! They also have a communal hot spring pool and a private hot spring pool called The Lorelei, which requires a reservation.

For scenic views, Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs offers multiple outdoor pools in a relaxed lodge setting. Just a short drive away in Ridgway, Orvis Hot Springs is another popular spot known for its peaceful atmosphere and “clothing-optional” soaking pools.

Lastly, Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs has terraced soaking pools overlooking the mountains, but you need to stay at the lodge to access them, making it the only one of the five options that isn’t open to the public.

13. Go Ice Skating At Rotary Park

Thanks to the hard work of local volunteers, Rotary Park transforms into a charming outdoor ice skating rink during the winter months! This gives visitors a fun way to enjoy Ouray’s crisp mountain air. It’s a simple but magical small-town winter tradition that both families and visitors love.

Ice Skates are generally free to rent at the warming hut near the Ice Rink! For more up-to-date information, call the Visitor Center at 970-325-3954.

14. Go Sledding At Vinegar Hill

Every year, from mid-December to early March, the city closes a one-block section of 5th Street known as Vinegar Hill, which turns into a local sledding hill. This north-facing slope offers a fun, accessible, and free winter activity for everyone to enjoy, regardless of how old you are!

The hill gets its name from Prohibition-era stories of residents secretly making “vinegar” that tasted like wine, a clever disguise, I might say! Just remember to bring your own sled, and for current conditions, call the Visitor Center at 970-325-3954.

Things To Do Along The Million Dollar Highway

The following six activities make excellent day trips from Ouray, featuring hiking and sightseeing at high elevations. They take place above 9,000 feet (2,750 m), so be prepared for thin air and breathtaking views.

15. Drive The Stunning Million Dollar Highway

Often considered Colorado’s most dangerous scenic highway, this drive takes you into the heart of the beautiful San Juan Mountains! I’ve hiked, driven, and explored across the state, and I still believe these mountains are the most rugged in all of Colorado

So, where does the name come from? Officially, it refers to the fact that the road cost roughly $1 million per mile to construct. But here’s my theory, either its mining‑rich history made it “worth a million dollars,” or the views themselves are worth a “million‑dollar”! Which one do you believe?

The highway connects Ouray to Silverton, passing over Red Mountain Pass with jaw-dropping vistas at every turn. There’s no shortage of stops — waterfalls, ghost towns, hot springs — but the real magic happens when you slow down and let it all sink in.

And if you want to go deeper? Grab this audio tour; you can access it through an app on your phone. It’ll guide you through history, geology, and those unforgettable moments between the turns. This isn’t just a drive – it’s an experience!

16. Explore The Charming Town Of Silverton

While Ouray has its charm, Silverton takes that magic to another level. Nestled in a valley at the end of the Million Dollar Highway, this town feels like a town frozen in time: rustic, real, and full of soul. Spend an hour or more wandering Main Street, peeking into charming rustic shops, and soaking in the views!

While Ouray sits just at the entrance to the San Juan Mountains, Silverton lies in their heart and is surrounded by jagged peaks. It’s remote, scenic, and welcoming!

And the food? Amazing.

Coffee Bear – Easily the best coffeeshop in Silverton, with an amazing rooftop patio! Great place for lattes, breakfast burrito, and their homemade carrot cake (I get it every time)!

Rocky Mountain Funnel Cake Factory – Seriously good funnel cakes: golden, crispy, and sweet, perhaps the best funnel cakes in the world! Recently, we tried the Pineapple Upside Down funnel cake, and it was a showstopper. I visit every time I am in Silverton!

Golden Block Brewery – A laid-back local favorite. Grab an IPA or seasonal sour with crispy jalapeño pretzels and beer cheese!

Silverton doesn’t just welcome you, it wins you over. With coffee in hand and mountains all around, it’s hard not to fall for this place.

17. Hike Ice And Island Lakes

This may be the most beautiful lake hike in Colorado! Okay, I know, I will admit I say that about almost every other Colorado lake as well, and while I love all nature equally, this hike really does stand out!

Imagine hiking through a beautiful alpine forest, past a waterfall and turquoise streams, before reaching not one but two stunning alpine lakes. Each lake feels worthy of being its own destination, which easily places this route among the best hikes in the area!

This is a challenging high-altitude hiking adventure, so come prepared with proper gear and sturdy shoes.

18. Hike V2 Peak

From Island Lake, you may spot hikers heading up the steep mountainside to the southwest. This trail leads to a saddle, from which you can hike Vermillion 2 (V2) peak. The final push to the summit involves some rock hopping and Class 2 scrambling, nothing too technical, but enough to feel adventurous.

The views from the top are a dream with a jaw-dropping 360-degree panorama of the San Juan Mountains, plus sweeping views down to Island Lake and Ice Lakes.

The Vermillion Peaks are a group of 13,000-foot (3960 m) summits surrounding the Ice Lake Basin, with V2 being the most accessible. I recommend hiking to Island Lake first, tagging V2, returning to Island Lake, and then continuing to Ice Lake to round out the day.

19. Hike Columbine Lake

Do you remember me saying that I love every hike, and that there are dozens of lakes in Colorado I’d call “breathtaking”? Columbine Lake is one reason why. As the crow flies, Ice and Island Lakes are only 3  miles south of Columbine Lake! It’s amazing that within a few miles you can find three strikingly beautiful lakes.

Its bright blue color is thought to be a result of glacial flour in the water, which absorbs longer red and yellow wavelengths while reflecting shorter blue and green light. That’s why you see so many bright‑blue, emerald, or turquoise lakes in areas with recent glacial history!

I’d have a hard time choosing between Columbine and Ice Lake, as both are breathtaking. Honestly? Hike to both, you won’t regret it. Columbine will deliever similar levels of beauty as Ice Lake with far fewer people.

20. Hike Red Mountain 3

The drive to Red Mountain Pass along the Million Dollar Highway is unbelievably scenic, featuring striking red peaks colored by the oxidation of iron pyrite (fool’s gold) from the area’s volcanic past. They’re visually stunning from the road, but even better from the summit!

If you’re not a peak nerd like me, you may be confused by which Red Mountain to hike. As you approach the pass, you’ll pass the first S-curve and come up to an overlook. From here, you will spot Red Mountain No. 3, the tallest of the trio at 12,890 feet (3,929 meters), and the one you’ll want to summit.

With a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, you can drive to the base of the mountain, but if you’re in a small sedan (like me), you’ll hike the entire way. Trust me, it’s well worth the effort! Many compare the view from the summit to Rainbow Mountain in Peru!

Things To Do Near Ouray

The next two activities take place north of Ouray, while the last three are broader suggestions you can enjoy across multiple areas. There’s simply so much to explore here, which is exactly why I keep coming back, year after year.”

21. Hike Blue Lakes

In all honesty, if this were a ranked list, Blue Lakes would be at the very top. However, I’ve grouped hikes by region, and this trailhead is closest to Ridgeway. That said, don’t trust Google Maps on timing, as this road is very bumpy and slow going. A 4WD vehicle with high clearance is recommended.

Still, the reward is more than worth it: Blue Lakes is perhaps Colorado’s most photogenic alpine lake, set against rugged peaks and glassy turquoise waters. It’s unforgettable, especially during peak wildflower season in late July.

For an even better view, hike to Blue Lakes Pass, where the scenery only gets more stunning. And for the really adventurous, Mount Sneffels is also accessible from here!

22. Explore Ridgeway

Ridgeway is a quaint little town just 15 minutes north of Ouray and is often overlooked by visitors. Nestled in an open valley, it offers stunning mountain views and generally more affordable lodging than Ouray. Downtown Ridgeway is highly walkable and charming, centered on Clinton Street, where you’ll find local shops and tasty eateries.

Don’t miss out on the Orvis Hot Springs just outside of town; they’re well worth a visit. For outdoor enthusiasts, Miller Mesa is a terrific hike just 15 minutes outside of town that leads to stunning 360-degree mountain views! For photographers, just 10 minutes west of Ridgeway, off Highway 62, lies a scenic overlook perfect for sunset.

Water lovers will enjoy Ridgeway State Park, where you can boat, kayak, or paddleboard on the serene reservoir. You might pass through without stopping—but if you do stop, you’ll quickly see why it’s worth the detour!

23. Go Backpacking!

The San Juans are backpacking heaven: remote, wild, and full of high alpine lakes. One of the most popular routes is Chicago Basin, from where you can summit Mount Eolus (which is a 14er).

Day hikes like Columbine Lake, Ice Lake, or Blue Lakes also work well as overnight trips. You can camp by the water, watch the light shift over the peaks, and soak in the quiet.

These mountains are vast and seemingly endless! But with backcountry adventure comes responsibility: know your route, have survival gear, and always follow Leave No Trace principles. These places are fragile and worth protecting.

24. Take On A 14er

Though a subject of debate, it is widely agreed that there are 58 peaks in Colorado above 14,000 feet, and coincidentally, 14 of these “14ers” are in the San Juan Mountains! For peak baggers, chasing all 58 is the ultimate high.

The most well-known and easily accessible is Mount Sneffels, located just 30 minutes outside of Ouray, and accessed via a high-clearance dirt road to Yankee Boy Basin. Don’t be fooled, that hike will humble you with its high altitude, wind, and class 2-3 rock scrambling! Mount Sneffels can also be hiked via the much longer Blue Lakes trail.

Another option is Handies Peak, a solid day hike if you’re up for a 2.5-hour drive (slow going after Silverton).

But here’s the thing: the rest of the 14ers are remote, grueling, and often require multi-day trips, or a long commute from Ouray. This makes them harder to reach, but that’s exactly what makes them more thrilling. Less crowded. Wilder. More real. These mountains will test you, but also pay off in a way that can’t be described by words!

25. See The Fall Colors!

The San Juan Mountains burst into fall colors at the end of September and into October, and what a show it is! While Ouray itself glows with vibrant autumn hues, don’t miss the drive to Silverton along the Million Dollar Highway. With thousands of aspen trees and colorful underbrush lining the road, the scenery is nothing short of stunning.

But one underrated spot for leaf-peeping? Ridgeway. Just outside town, the San Juan Mountains Scenic View offers breathtaking views, especially during peak fall, and has become a favorite among photographers. Don’t miss out on the sunset here!

Colorado boasts some of the best fall colors in the Western U.S, which makes leaf-peeping a must-do activity in Ouray! The rugged mountains contrasted against the autumn leaves are a sight to behold!

Where To Stay

Ouray is a pretty small town, so staying in town offers easy access to its shops and restaurants. But don’t overlook the benefits of lodging just outside of town, for which I will make a recommendation!

📍Budget Option: The Ouray Main Street Inn offers the perfect balance of being close enough to downtown for easy access to restaurants and shops, yet far enough away to enjoy quiet, mountain views in a cozy, romantic atmosphere. The rooms are cozy and modern, with varying options based on your needs.

📍Mid-Range Option: Sitting just a few minutes north of Main Street, The Ouray Riverside Resort – Inn & Cabins is a wonderful stay with cozy rooms and the cutest small cabins! It is a nature-filled escape right by the river, perfect after a long day of hiking and adventure.

📍Luxury Option: Established in 1886 as one of the oldest luxury hotels, Beaumont Hotel and Spa is a fully restored historic property that blends Victorian-era elegance with modern amenities. With just 12 adult-only rooms, an on-site spa, and a prime location in downtown Ouray, it’s ideal for couples seeking timeless mountain luxury.

FAQs

Have some questions about why you should visit Ouray? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers.

What is Ouray famous for?

Ouray is famous for its breathtaking mountain scenery, earning it the nickname “Switzerland of America,” and its world-class geothermal hot springs.

The town is a top destination for outdoor adventurers, offering hiking, ice climbing, rock climbing, and some of the best off-roading on scenic roads like the nearby Yankee Boy Basin. With a rich mining history and charming Victorian architecture, Ouray blends natural beauty, adventure, and small-town charm.

How to spend a day in Ouray?

When I first visited Ouray, I spent less than 8 hours in the town as part of a longer road trip, yet I got to see so much! If you only have one day, start with breakfast and walk through downtown, then hike the entire Perimeter Trail, or hike both Box Cañon Falls and Cascade Falls separately if short on time.

After grabbing lunch, drive the Million Dollar Highway to Red Mountain Pass, stopping at scenic overlooks along the way, and if there’s still time, soak in the Ouray Hot Springs before dinner.

Is Ouray worth it?

Absolutely! Ouray is one of my favorite Colorado mountain towns, as it is nestled in the most rugged and dramatic mountain range in the state.

Unlike the busier ski towns, Ouray offers a peaceful escape with world-class outdoor adventures like ice climbing, off-roading, and scenic hikes without the hustle and bustle of towns like Aspen. The combination of natural beauty, historic roots, and quiet charm makes it a one-of-a-kind destination in Colorado’s high country!

Final Thoughts

Now that you have read about the best things to do in Ouray, I hope you can now see why I fell in love with this place! From the moment you step into town, the towering peaks, fresh alpine air, unique history, architecture, and geography create the quintessential Colorado experience.

Having spent time here through autumn sunsets and summer sunrises, I can confidently say it’s not just a destination, it’s a feeling. And what a feeling it is! Whether you’re chasing solitude on a winter hike, sitting on the edge of a serene blue lake, or unwinding in the geothermal pools with the San Juans glowing behind you, Ouray offers something deeply restorative.

If you can feel Ouray calling your name, then this is it! Pack your boots, fill your luggage, and get ready to fall in love with one of Colorado’s most authentic mountain towns.